Bowflex C6 vs Schwinn IC4

The Bowflex C6 and Schwinn IC4 are two of the most popular indoor cycles available today.

Now, the burning question is: which one is best?

Well, fear not, because I’m here to help you find the answer in this Bowflex C6 vs Schwinn IC4 comparison review.

In this head-to-head review, I’ll compare these two impressive indoor bikes in terms of their key specifications and features.

Once you’re done reading, you’ll have a clear winner in terms of which is the better investment.

So, Schwinn IC4 vs Bowflex C6 let’s settle this once and for all.

By delving into specific features, dimensions, and subscription plans, we aim to help you determine whether the Bowflex C6 is the right fit for your fitness needs.

Bowflex C6 vs Schwinn IC4 – Quick Verdict

To be honest, these bikes are basically identical. They are both brilliant and a great way to hit your fitness goals.

They are great bikes for the low price.

If you like the idea of streamed workouts, there is no inbuilt screen but you can use your phone or a tablet with the Peloton app to get yourself the same great Peloton workout for a bargain price.

Or you can use whatever program you like best, you aren’t tied into JRNY or iFit or Peloton, etc.

I’ve picked the Bowflex C7 as my favorite. I love Bowflex and I love the look of the C7 but you could go for either

With this bike, you are sure to hit your fitness goals without hitting your wallet too hard.

The Bowflex C6 vs The Schwinn IC4: A Close Matchup

When I mentioned earlier that these two bikes are evenly matched, I wasn’t joking.

In fact, I would even go as far as to say that they are among the most evenly-matched cycles out there.

Not only do both bikes serve the same purpose of connecting with apps like Peloton, but they are also priced identically (at least as of the time of writing this).

To make it even more interesting, both brands are actually owned by the same company – Nautilus, Inc.

That’s right, Bowflex and Schwinn both fall under the Nautilus umbrella, alongside the Nautilus brand itself.

While both Bowflex and Schwinn enjoy solid reputations, it’s worth noting that Bowflex tends to have a slightly higher-end positioning overall.

The Schwinn IC4 stands as one of Schwinn’s top-of-the-line products to date, with only their AC Performance Series cycles costing more.

On the other hand, Bowflex offers several machines that come with a higher price tag than the C6. In fact, when I think about it, the C6 is one of their more affordable offerings.

To ensure the utmost objectivity in this comparison, I’ll be evaluating and comparing the specs and features that these bikes bring to the table.

The bike that emerges victorious across the most categories will be the ultimate winner in this battle.

Let’s kick things off with what I consider the most important spec: the resistance system.

Bowflex C6 vs Schwinn IC4 Resistance: Comparing the Power

Both the Bowflex C6 and the Schwinn IC4 are indoor cycles specifically designed to simulate the feeling of riding a road bike.

Indoor cycles are renowned for their heavy flywheels.

Generally, heavier flywheels are preferred because the added weight generates more momentum, resulting in a smoother pedaling experience.

In my opinion, any bike equipped with a 20 lb flywheel or above can be considered to have a heavy flywheel. However, these days you can find flywheels that weigh as much as 50 lb or even more.

With that in mind, let’s see how the flywheels of these two bikes compare:

The Bowflex C6 boasts a 40 lb flywheel, and guess what? The Schwinn IC4 also features a 40 lb flywheel.

So, in terms of flywheel weight, there’s no advantage either way.

Now, let’s shift our focus to the resistance systems.

Both bikes utilize magnetic resistance systems, which is a great feature. Most high-quality spin bikes opt for magnetic systems because they offer smoother resistance and eliminate the need to replace felt or leather friction brakes.

When it comes to the number of resistance levels, unfortunately, it doesn’t make the decision any easier.

Both bikes offer a whopping 100 resistance levels. And to make it even more convenient, the resistance adjustments are made via a dial, just like on the Peloton.

It’s worth noting that both of these bikes are marketed as more affordable alternatives to the Peloton.

By subscribing to Peloton’s Digital app (around $13/month), you can access all their classes without owning their equipment.

You can use this app in conjunction with either of these budget-friendly bikes to recreate the Peloton experience.

Since both bikes have the same number of resistance levels as the Peloton, following along with Peloton workouts becomes a breeze.

Overall, both the Bowflex C6 and the Schwinn IC4 feature equally heavy flywheels and impressive resistance systems. There’s no advantage to either bike in this category.

Schwinn IC4 Bike vs Bowflex C6 – Frame

Let’s move on to discussing the frames of these two bikes after the somewhat disappointing outcome in the resistance department.

A robust frame is crucial for a spin bike to ensure a stable and secure feel during your workouts. Especially when you’re standing up and tackling those challenging inclines.

To gauge the durability of the bikes, I like to consider the assembled weight and weight capacity as key specifications.

The Bowflex C6 has an assembled weight of 106 lb and a weight capacity of 330 lb.

Similarly, the Schwinn IC4 also has an assembled weight of 106 lb and a weight capacity of 330 lb.

Surprisingly, these two bikes have identical frame capacities. I even checked their dimensions, and they are exactly the same as well.

It seems like these two bikes are practically identical, with only a difference in paint job to distinguish them.

Once again, when it comes to the frame, there’s no advantage on either side. They are virtually the same.

Bowflex C6 vs Schwinn IC4 – Warranty

Now, let’s examine the warranties offered by each bike. When all else is equal, it’s wise to choose the option with the better warranty coverage.

Bowflex provides the following guarantee for the C6:

• 10-year frame warranty
• 3-year parts warranty
• 1-year labor warranty

On the other hand, Schwinn offers the following warranty for the IC4:

• 10-year frame warranty
• 3-year parts warranty
• 1-year labor warranty

As expected, these warranties turn out to be identical.

I must say, both warranties are very generous for bikes in this price range, especially considering that some higher-end models come with shorter guarantees.

Once again, there is no advantage for either model in terms of the warranty coverage.

Bowflex C4 bike vs Schwinn IC4 bike – Features

When it comes to performance specifications, there are absolutely no differences between the Bowflex C6 and the Schwinn IC4.

Now, let’s delve into the features offered by each bike to see if any distinctions arise.

Both bikes are equipped with backlit LCD consoles that display all the essential cycling metrics you would expect, such as time, speed, calories, distance, resistance level, and pulse.

Interestingly, neither bike provides an exact cadence reading. However, they both have an RPM meter at the top that offers an estimation of your cadence.

It’s a bit perplexing why neither bike thought it necessary to display cadence directly, considering it’s one of the key metrics you need to follow along with Peloton workouts.

However, when you connect either bike with the Peloton digital app via Bluetooth (as well as a few other apps), your cadence will be visible on the app.

Both consoles allow you to set goals for time, distance, or calories, which will then count down during your workout until you achieve your target.

Furthermore, both consoles are compatible with Bluetooth heart rate monitors, and both bikes include a heart rate armband monitor with the purchase.

Both bikes come with convenient tablet holders and USB charging ports.

Upon closer examination, it becomes quite evident that these two bikes feature the exact same console. I can’t spot a single difference between them, except for the brand name displayed.

In terms of other features, both bikes offer fully adjustable seats, fully adjustable handlebars, and dual-compatible pedals (toe cage and SPD-compatible clip-in).

Additionally, both bikes include a set of 3 lb dumbbells, which prove handy for certain Peloton workouts.

Overall, these two bikes are practically identical. Just to make that even clearer, here’s a table comparing them!

C6 vs IC4 comparison table

	Bowflex C6	Schwinn IC4
Resistance	40 lb flywheel 100 levels of magnetic resistance	40 lb flywheel 100 levels of magnetic resistance
Frame	106 lb 330 lb weight capacity	106 lb 330 lb weight capacity
Warranty	10 year frame 3 year parts 1 year labor	10 year frame 3 year parts 1 year labor
Features	LCD console Bluetooth connection with apps Heart rate monitor included Fully adjustable seat/handles	LCD console Bluetooth connection with apps Heart rate monitor included Fully adjustable seat/handles
Price	$999	$999

Price: A Tie in the Wallet Department

As you may have guessed, these two bikes are also priced identically.

At the time of writing, both bikes have a price tag of $999 (although often on sale, check here.

This price point is roughly half the cost of luxury spin bikes like Peloton or NordicTrack’s Commercial S22i.

One of the advantages of Peloton Digital (the app that anyone can have on their phone/tablet) is its affordable price of around $13/month.

This is a significant savings compared to Peloton’s equipment subscription which costs $40 a month.

It’s worth noting that both exercise bikes can be connected to various fitness apps as well so you can choose the one you like best (iFIT, JRNY, etc.)

Considering the features they offer, such as heavy flywheels, 100 resistance levels, sturdy frames, and good warranties, I believe both the C6 and the IC4 are fairly priced.

Once again, there is no advantage to either of these indoor cycling bikes in terms of price.

Schwinn IC4 vs Bowflex C6 Exercise bike Final Verdict

Alright, it’s time to bring this Bowflex C6 vs Schwinn IC4 review to a close.

At this point, it’s pretty evident that the Bowflex C6 and the Schwinn IC4 are essentially the same bike.

While they may sport different brand names, both brands are owned by the same parent company, and these two bikes are virtually identical in every other aspect.

Even their assembled dimensions are the same.

However, in the showdown between the Bowflex C6 and the Schwinn IC4, I’ll declare Bowflex C6 as the winner.

How did I choose a winner if they’re identical?

Well, it’s largely based on aesthetics—I think the C6 looks way cooler. Plus I am generally a big fan of Bowflex and use their home gyms, Max Trainers and treadmills.

But looks aside, I genuinely don’t see any discernible differences between these bikes. Either one would be a fantastic addition to any home gym and both bikes offer exceptional value.

However, if I had to make a choice, I’d go with the Bowflex C6.