Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3

So, let’s compare the Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3.

These awesome spin bikes are designed to work seamlessly with streaming apps, making your workouts super fun and interactive.

Now, these two bikes share some similarities. They both have heavy flywheels, which provide a smooth and realistic riding experience. Plus, they come from well-known brands, so you know you’re getting quality.

But, they also have their fair share of differences which means that its well worth doing a Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3 comparison.

We’ll dive into all the important details, comparing their specs and features side by side. This way, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on which bike is the perfect fit for your home.

By the time you finish reading this Echelon EX3 vs Schwinn IC4 review, you’ll have a much clearer picture of which indoor cycle suits your needs and preferences. Let’s get this show on the road!

By the end, you’ll feel confident in selecting the right option for your home.

Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3 – Quick Verdict

The Schwinn IC4 is the clear winner.

The IC4 boasts a heavier flywheel, a more advanced resistance system, includes a console, offers a much better warranty, and is even priced slightly lower than the EX-3.

It also offers far greater versatility when it comes to streaming workouts.

There is no inbuilt screen but you can use your phone or a tablet with the Peloton app which matches the 100 resistance levels of the IC4.

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

Unlike the EX3, the IC4 also works as a standalone bike if you don’t want to pay for online classes.

With the IC4 bike, you are sure to hit your fitness goals without hitting your wallet too hard.

Schwinn IC4 and the Echelon EX-3

Let’s talk about the Schwinn IC4 and the Echelon EX-3, two impressive indoor cycles.

I’m sure you’ve heard of Schwinn before; it’s a highly reputable brand known for its bicycles, but they also offer a range of other fitness equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, and even a rower.

On Schwinn’s website, you’ll find two indoor cycles: the IC4 and the IC3. The IC4 is a bit more expensive but is also the one I recommend out of the two Schwinn Bikes.

Now, let’s shift our focus to Echelon.

Although they may not be as familiar to you, they have been in the fitness industry for quite some time. In fact, they were among the first companies to challenge Peloton on their own turf.

Echelon’s approach was to offer more affordable bikes that didn’t come with built-in consoles.

Instead, you could use your own phone or tablet to access their streaming app. It’s a clever idea that has now caught on with several other brands.

Echelon’s product lineup has expanded significantly over the years. They started with just a few bikes, and now they offer a variety of options, including four bike models, rowers, a treadmill, and even an exercise mirror.

Among their offerings, the Echelon Smart Connect Exercise Bike EX-3 stands out as their entry-level indoor exercise bike.

It’s a great option to consider if you’re looking for an immersive and cost-effective workout experience.

I hope this provides you with a clearer understanding of the Schwinn IC4 and the Echelon EX-3

Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3 – Flywheel

Let’s delve into the important aspect of flywheels when it comes to indoor cycles.

The flywheel weight is a crucial part of an indoor exercise bike, in most cases, a heavier flywheel tends to provide a smoother workout experience.

Now, let’s compare the flywheels of the Schwinn IC4 and the Echelon EX-3.

The Schwinn IC4 boasts a 40 lb flywheel, while the Echelon EX-3 comes with a 28 lb flywheel.

Personally, I consider both of these to be sufficiently heavy. However, it’s quite evident that the IC4 has a significantly heavier flywheel than the EX-3.

Based on weight alone, the advantage goes to Schwinn.

Echelon EX3 vs Schwinn IC4 – Resistance

But let’s dive deeper and consider the resistance systems used by each bike.

Both the IC4 and the EX-3 utilize magnetic resistance systems, so there’s no immediate advantage in that regard.

However, when it comes to the number of resistance levels, there’s a notable difference.

The IC4 offers 100 levels of micro-adjustable resistance.

This feature, popularized by Peloton, allows for precise and incremental resistance adjustments throughout your workout.

It’s worth pointing out that you can use the Peloton app without one of their bikes.

As the IC4 has the same number of resistance levels as a Peloton it is very easy to use the Peloton app with the IC4.

Peloton workouts for a bargain price!

Adjusting the resistance on the IC4 is also convenient since you can simply turn a knob.

On the other hand, the EX-3 provides 32 levels of magnetic resistance, which is still quite substantial compared to many other indoor cycles, but clearly less than the IC4’s 100 levels.

It’s important to note that while the IC4 has more resistance levels, it doesn’t necessarily mean it can offer more overall resistance.

It simply means you can make finer adjustments between the minimum and maximum resistance settings. However, a heavier flywheel often enables the bike to provide a bit more total output as well.

Considering the IC4’s heavier flywheel and greater number of resistance levels, it’s quite evident to me that Schwinn takes the lead in this category.

Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3 – Frame

When considering a spin bike, it’s not only important to think about the weight of the flywheel but also the sturdiness of the frame.

A robust and heavier frame provides a more stable base, reducing the likelihood of wobbling or shaking during workouts.

To assess the durability of a bike’s frame without trying it out, you can look at the assembled weight and weight capacity. Higher numbers in these specifications indicate a more heavy-duty machine.

The Schwinn IC4 boasts an assembled weight of 106 lb and a maximum weight limit of 330 lb, which are quite impressive for a bike in this price range.

On the other hand, the Echelon EX-3 has an assembled weight of 104 lb and a weight capacity of 300 lb.

While these two bikes are very close in weight, technically speaking, the IC4 weighs slightly more. Additionally, its weight limit is significantly higher.

Size-wise, both bikes are quite similar, occupying a footprint of approximately 48″ x 21″.

However, when it comes to determining which indoor cycling bike is more heavy-duty, I would once again lean towards the IC4.

Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3 Comparison Table

	Schwinn IC4	Echelon EX3
Flywheel	40 lb	28 lb
Resistance	100 levels	32 levels
Frame	Assembled weight: 106 lb Weight capacity: 330 lb	Assembled weight: 104 lb Weight capacity: 300 lb
Warranty	10 year frame 3 year parts 1 year labor	1 year all-inclusive
Features	LCD console Bluetooth compatible with several apps Arm band heart rate monitor included Fully adjustable seat Dual-compatible pedals	No console (works with phone/tablet) Heart rate monitor compatible (not included) Not compatible with other apps Fully adjustable seat Dual-compatible pedals
Price	$999	$999

IC4 Bike vs EX3 Bike – Features

Now, let’s shift our focus to the different features offered by each bike. As mentioned earlier, both bikes are designed with streaming in mind.

The Echelon EX-3 does not come with a console.

Instead, you need to use your phone or tablet to access your workout metrics and even view the resistance level.

This means that if your phone or tablet is not working or unavailable, you won’t be able to see any statistics.

On the other hand, the Schwinn IC4 includes an LCD screen that displays all your workout metrics.

In terms of streaming capabilities, the IC4 is Bluetooth compatible, allowing you to connect with any fitness app that offers spinning classes, including the Peloton app.

The EX-3 is also Bluetooth compatible, but only with the Echelon smart connect app, which requires a membership subscription ($39.99/month).

While you have the option not to sign up for a membership, doing so means you won’t have access to any workouts, and your workout history won’t be saved.

In freestyle mode, you can only see your resistance level and real-time stats.

The EX-3 cannot connect to the Peloton app or any other fitness apps, only the Echelon connect app which offers on demand classes to go with Echelon workout equipment.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a more versatile bike in terms of connecting to fitness apps, the IC4 is the better choice.

The IC4 is compatible with telemetry heart rate monitors, and an armband is even included with the purchase.

The EX-3 Echelon bike is also compatible with Bluetooth monitors, but you’ll need to use your tablet for that, and no monitor is included.

In terms of pedals, both exercise bikes come with dual compatible pedals that can be used with SPD cleats or sneakers.

Additionally, both indoor cycling bikes feature fully adjustable seats in terms of height and fore/aft positioning.

The IC4 comes with a pair of 3 lb dumbbells, a media rack, and 2 water bottle holders included. On the other hand, the EX-3 comes with a dumbbell rack, but the weights need to be purchased separately.

Schwinn IC4 Bike vs Echelon EX3 – Warranty

Now, let’s move on to warranties.

I understand that discussing warranties might not be as exciting as talking about flywheel weight or resistance, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most crucial specifications to consider before making a purchase.

A generous warranty not only provides peace of mind but also often indicates a superior product.

The Schwinn IC4 offers the following warranty:

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

In comparison, the Echelon EX-3 provides only a one-year all-inclusive guarantee.

It’s quite evident that Schwinn’s warranty is superior in this case.

To be honest, the EX-3 warranty leaves much to be desired. I don’t mean to criticize the brand, but for a bike in this price range, it’s one of the least favorable warranties I’ve come across.

Schwinn’s guarantee, on the other hand, is outstanding, particularly for a spin bike in this price range. In terms of warranties, the IC4 is the clear winner.

Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3 – Price

Now, let’s talk numbers.

Both of these indoor cycling bikes fall within the same price range, and I would consider both to be budget-friendly, considering that luxury spin bikes can cost over $2000.

Specifically, the Schwinn IC4 and the Echelon EX-3 both have a retail price of $999.

It’s important to note that if you choose the EX-3, you will also need to pay an additional $39.99 per month for the Echelon streaming app.

With the IC4, you have the flexibility to decide whether or not to subscribe to a streaming app—it’s entirely up to you.

Although both bikes have the same retail price, I’ve seen the IC4 listed on Amazon for as low as $800. Similarly, I’ve come across the EX-3 priced slightly cheaper at around $950.

Consider these factors when making your decision on which stationary bike to choose.

Schwinn IC4 vs Echelon EX3 – Final Thoughts

And there you have it, a comprehensive comparison of the IC4 and EX-3.

Based on the features and specifications we’ve discussed, it’s clear that these two bikes approach the streaming aspect from different perspectives.

For Schwinn, the focus seems to be on the bike itself. It can be paired with any app, and you have the option to use it without relying on a streaming app.

Echelon, on the other hand, prioritizes their own app and encourages users to sign up for memberships, as that’s where they likely generate significant revenue.

Without a membership, the EX3 bike has limited functionality.

Considering everything we’ve covered, it should come as no surprise that the winner of this IC4 vs EX3 competition is the Schwinn IC4.

The IC4 boasts a heavier flywheel, a more advanced resistance system, includes a console, offers a much better warranty, and is even priced slightly lower than the EX-3. Additionally, it offers greater versatility.

To be honest, it’s challenging to envision a scenario where choosing the EX-3 over the IC4 would make sense, perhaps except for a strong preference for the Echelon streaming app or if you can find it for a really good price.

In conclusion, when it comes to these two spin bikes, the Schwinn IC4 is the one to go for. In fact, it stands out as one of the best options in its price range.