Smart bikes might require monthly subscriptions, especially when it comes to on-demand training and cycling classes. Peloton may be the most popular stationary bike, but it’s far from the only option when it comes to at-home cycling. Stage & Totals – Stage measurements can be reset during a ride, making it easy to track multiple in-class segments for time, and distance. We bring a proven, unparalleled education program that includes expert coaching techniques and top tier class design.
You get a flywheel, crankset belt, and resistance elements attached to the frame. Parts that need to be attached are the seat, bases, handlebars, pedals, and the fitness unit. The back lit LCD display is simple, like what you would find on the Rogue Echo Bike. If you want to view a class with a compatible app, you must utilize your own device. This is obviously different from bikes like Peloton that have an included screen for programming. Once you have your chosen device hooked up to the bike, I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything without an included screen.
As with most fitness machines, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is,” says Quayed. You’ll need to supply your own phone, iPad, or smart-TV hookup to stream classes. (I use an old, cracked iPad.) There’s a built-in holder on the handlebars, a USB outlet for charging, and an arm-strap heart-rate monitor. Several years ago, a company named Gates introduced a concept never before seen on outdoor bikes – a belt drive that performed like a chain. Their innovative system – called Carbon Drive™ – features a carbon fiber reinforced belt with teeth for maximum durability and true bike performance. The Schwinn IC4 ride experience requires some steps, but I still had a solid ride on the bike.
Best of all, every bike in Schwinn’s catalog costs less than $1,000, so you can get a good workout without giving your wallet one too. To use it, simply place your order and you will be able to choose store credit as the payment method when it comes time to pay for your order. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The Schwinn IC4’s cushioned seat is typical for an exercise bike – it isn’t the most comfortable if you aren’t used to it. Luckily, you’re able to easily swap the seat out for a different one if you find it too uncomfortable to use. On the plus side, the seat is adjustable both side to side as well as up and down. The bike can accommodate riders between 4’6”and 6’6” without issue.
Bluetooth connectability isn’t as ideal as having a screen with wifi-capabilities, but it gets the job done for half the price. Once your preferred compatible app is connected to the bike via Bluetooth, the app auto-adjusts your resistance. You’ll be able to enjoy a hands-free workout without worrying about adjusting your resistance. If you’d rather manually input your own levels, you’re able to do that as well. The automatic adjustment makes this bike more technologically connected and immerses you in your chosen ride.
The IC3 is somewhat bare-bones compared to the IC4, but for us, the extra features were not worth the extra $300. Like the IC4, the IC3 has double-sided pedals so you can use sneakers or clips, and it’s fully adjustable. One big difference between the two is that, instead of magnetic resistance, the IC3 uses flywheel resistance. It’s louder, but not so loud that it’s a distraction, and I actually kind of like the feedback of the slight whirring sound it makes when you really push yourself.
This comes in handy depending on what type of workout you’re doing- for example, when standing you’ll likely want to use a farther, wider grip. If you are too close or too far away from the pedals and handlebars, unwanted strain is going to occur in your back, hips, and knees. Having the fully adjustable seat will make sure you get a proper fit and reduce your chances of injury. Schwinn currently produces 3 different indoor cycles, with the AC Performance Plus being their highest-end model. The IC2 and the popular IC3 are also generally well reviewed for their respective price ranges.
Magnetic resistance requires little to no maintenance or replacement. If you’re looking to replicate a spin class from the comfort of home, the IC4 indoor cycling bike is the best choice. The bike comes with 16 resistance levels, 13 programmed workouts, Bluetooth connectivity, adjustable handlebars, a padded contour seat, media rack, and LCD screen.
You can switch it out for another bike seat easily though, if you have a favorite seat you’ve used in the past. When it comes to indoor cycles, the flywheel weight is usually the mongoose bicycles first thing people ask about, so we should probably start here. The general consensus is that heavier flywheels are preferred because they provide a smoother ride experience.