Schwinn IC3 vs IC4
It’s worth doing a Schwinn IC3 vs IC4 comparison review because, unlike some successive models within a brand’s lineup, there are quite a few differences that may influence which one is right for you.
Apart from both being Schwinn products, these two affordable exercise bikes have very few similarities.
In this IC3 vs IC4 review, I will provide a thorough comparison of these two spin bikes, examining all the key distinctions between them.
I will also offer my personal opinion on which of the Schwinn IC4 vs IC3 is the smarter purchase.
By the end, you’ll feel confident in selecting the right option for your home.
Schwinn IC3 vs Schwinn IC4 – Quick Verdict
The Schwinn IC4 offers some significant improvements over the IC3. The most important is the 100 levels of magnetic resistance.
This means that you can easily adjust the resistance to a set level for a controlled workout and you can easily use it with the Peloton app.
There is no inbuilt screen but you can use your phone or a tablet with the Peloton app or whatever program you like best, (you aren’t tied into JRNY or iFit or Peloton, etc.)
With this bike, you are sure to hit your fitness goals without hitting your wallet too hard.
IC3 vs IC4 Schwinn Bike Comparison
Schwinn is an enduring and trusted brand with a rich history. They were instrumental in sparking the bicycle craze and played a significant role in the success of home exercise bikes.
While the current trend in home fitness leans towards HD touchscreens and instructor-led streaming, there’s still a place for classic exercise bikes that deliver results.
Schwinn has established itself as a budget-friendly brand for exercise equipment, although they also offer high-end AC cycles through other retailers.
However, the IC3 and IC4 are the only spin bikes they directly offer on their website now.
As mentioned earlier, these two cycles differ in various aspects. So, let’s dive right in and discuss one of the major distinctions: their resistance systems.
IC4 vs IC3 – Resistance
When choosing an exercise bike, the resistance system is the most critical factor to consider.
A smooth and substantial resistance is essential for an enjoyable workout experience.
If your bike fails to provide this, your workouts will suffer, and you may eventually stop using it.
Indoor cycles typically offer two types of resistance systems: friction brakes and magnetic systems.
Friction brakes have been in use for a long time and rely on physical contact between a brake and the flywheel to create resistance.
On the other hand, magnetic systems use magnets placed near the spinning metal flywheel to generate resistance.
The intensity of the resistance can be adjusted by altering the distance between the magnets and the flywheel.
Both systems have their advantages, but magnetic systems are preferred by most individuals (including myself), and tend to offer a smoother feel.
They also eliminate the need to replace worn-out felt pads on the brake.
With this information in mind, it’s worth noting that the IC3 utilizes a friction brake system, while the IC4 employs a magnetic system.
One advantage of the IC3’s friction brake is the ability to fine-tune the resistance according to your preference.
There are no preset resistance levels that limit your options.
However, the downside is that without resistance levels, you have to rely solely on your feel to gauge the intensity of your workout. You can’t simply choose a specific resistance level like “level 5.”
In contrast, the IC4 offers 100 levels of magnetic resistance, providing a high degree of control over your workout intensity.
If you have used or plan to use Peloton’s app, you will appreciate this feature, as they use the same resistance scale.
Schwinn IC3 Bike vs IC4 – Flywheel
Heavier flywheels are generally considered better as they provide a smoother feel during workouts.
But is it preferable to choose a lighter flywheel with a magnetic system or a heavier flywheel with a friction brake?
Fortunately, this is not a concern with the IC3 and IC4, as both bikes come with the same 40 lb flywheel.
This is an excellent size for a flywheel, ensuring a smooth workout experience with either exercise bike.
Schwinn IC3 vs Schwinn IC4 – Frame
It’s crucial to examine the resistance system of any indoor cycling bike, but the frame stability is an important factor too.
Of course, you want to feel secure and stable on the bike during workouts.
Affordable bikes can often be a bit lightweight and somewhat flimsy, which is understandable as it contributes to their affordability.
But, nobody wants a flimsy bike!
The assembled weight of a bike is a reliable indicator of its sturdiness. Heavier bikes tend to provide a more secure feel compared to lighter ones.
With this in mind, the IC3 has an assembled weight of 100 lb, while the IC4 weighs 106 lb.
Both bikes have the same flywheel, so the extra weight of the IC4 likely comes from a slightly more substantial frame. However, a difference of 6 lb isn’t significant.
In terms of dimensions, the IC4 is approximately 3 inches longer than the IC3, but the IC3 is a couple of inches wider.
Therefore, there’s no notable distinction in overall size.
When considering user weight limits, the IC4 holds a slight advantage with a limit of 330 lb compared to the IC3’s limit of 300 lb.
This allows the IC4 indoor bicycle to accommodate larger individuals. However, both bikes boast impressive frame specifications.
Technically, the IC4 wins this category with its heavier frame and higher weight capacity. Nevertheless, the IC3 performs surprisingly well in this regard.
Users generally agree that both bikes provide a stable workout experience.
IC3 vs IC4 – Features
Now, let’s explore the more exciting features that each bike offers.
Let’s start with the IC3.
The IC3 cycle is equipped with a small LCD console that displays all your workout metrics. It’s important to note that the console is not backlit, so it’s advisable to place it in a well-lit area.
While the console lacks advanced features like Bluetooth and USB charging, it is compatible with certain chest strap heart rate monitors (not included).
In addition to the console, the IC3 bike features a fully adjustable seat and handlebars, dual compatible pedals (toe cage and SPD), and an interesting combination of a water bottle holder and media holder attached to the handlebars.
Now let’s move on to the IC4, which comes with some notable upgrades.
The console on the IC4 is brighter and backlit, ensuring easier visibility.
It is also Bluetooth compatible, allowing you to connect fitness apps such as JRNY.
The IC4 goes a step further by including a built-in USB charger, enabling you to keep your devices fully charged during your workouts.
An added bonus with the IC4 is the inclusion of an arm band heart rate monitor and a pair of 3 lb dumbbells, complete with convenient storage cradles.
Like the IC3, the IC4 features a fully adjustable seat and handlebars, as well as dual compatible pedals.
However, the IC4 bike replaces the unique water bottle/media holder combo with two standard water bottle holders located below the handlebars.
Overall, the IC4 boasts an upgraded console, an included heart rate monitor, and a pair of dumbbells, making it a compelling choice in terms of features.
Schwinn IC3 vs IC4 Comparison Table
| Schwinn IC3 | Schwinn IC4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | Friction brake 40 lb flywheel | 100 levels of magnetic resistance 40 lb flywheel |
| Frame | 100 lb assembled weight 300 lb weight limit | 106 lb assembled weight 330 lb weight limit |
| Warranty | 5 year frame 2 year parts 1 year labor | 10 year frame 3 year parts 1 year labor |
| Features | Simple LCD console Heart rate monitor compatible Fully adjustable seat Fully adjustable handlebars Dual compatible pedals Media holder/water bottle holder | Backlit LCD console Bluetooth compatible USB charging port Arm band heart rate monitor included Pair of 3 lb dumbbells included Fully adjustable seat Fully adjustable handlebars Dual compatible pedals Media holder Dual water bottle holders |
| Price | ~$649 | ~$999 |
Schwinn IC4 vs IC3 – Warranty
Now let’s compare the warranties offered by Schwinn for these bikes.
The IC4 indoor cycling bike comes with the following warranty:
- 10 years on the frame
- 3 years on parts
- 1 year on labor
This is a substantial warranty, considering the price of this indoor bike.
Very few brands provide warranties longer than 10 years on the frame, and most limit parts warranties to 2 years. A 1-year labor warranty is standard across the industry.
Moving on to the IC3, Schwinn offers the following warranty:
- 5 years on the frame
- 2 years on parts
- 1 year on labor
Considering the price range of the IC3 exercise bike, this warranty is also quite good.
However, there is a noticeable decrease compared to what they offer for the IC4. The frame warranty is cut in half, and the parts warranty is reduced by a year.
Is this disparity in warranty sufficient to choose the IC4 over the IC3? Probably not, but it is an important aspect to consider when looking at the bigger picture.
Schwinn IC4 Bike vs IC3 – Price
Before we conclude this IC4 vs IC3 comparison, let’s talk about the cost.
Of course, sales happen and prices can fluctuate, but at the time of writing this, the IC3 and IC4 are priced as follows:
Based on these figures, the IC4 is approximately $350 more expensive than the IC3.
Clearly, the IC4 is the superior indoor cycling bike in terms of features and specifications. The real question then becomes whether or not it’s worth the additional investment.
Ultimately, the decision on whether the IC4 is worth the extra money will depend on your individual preferences, budget, and how much value you place on the upgraded features and performance offered by the IC4 compared to the IC3.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, I believe the IC4 is definitely worth the extra.
The magnetic resistance system with 100 levels is a significant upgrade over the friction brake system found in the IC3.
While friction brakes can be effective, many people, including myself, prefer the smoother and hassle-free experience offered by magnetic bikes.
Considering the wide availability of affordable magnetic bikes, it’s harder to justify spending $600 on a friction brake bike nowadays.
Beyond the resistance system, the IC4 boasts other notable features. It comes with a heavier frame, a higher weight capacity, a longer warranty, and the console upgrades mentioned earlier. These factors contribute to an overall enhanced experience.
Taking everything into account, I firmly believe that the IC4 is the smarter choice and is certainly worth the additional cost.
However, it’s always wise to compare prices and look for deals before making a purchase, regardless of which model you decide on.
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