Schwinn IC3 Spin Bike Review And Specs
Overview
Whether you are a current spin bike user or someone getting ready to dip a toe into the world of indoor cycling, the Schwinn IC3 indoor cycling bike is a well-designed mid-range spin bike which offers many desirable qualities. The IC3 does not sacrifice quality for mid-range cost, so even at it’s considerably cheap price it can still hold its own in comparison to other bikes. Schwinn’s IC3 is a suitable bike for those new to indoor cycling or those who are simply looking for an affordable newer model.
As one of the smallest bikes from the Schwinn lineup, you’ll find the IC3 is perfectly accommodating of all space restrictions which may be limiting your spin bike search. The IC3 is also well-built, featuring a strong steel frame designed in such a way so as to last after many years of use. These features make the Schwinn IC3 a great option for anybody who is searching for a spin bike in the hopes of finding something accessible. The importance of having a personal space in which you can exercise in comfort cannot be understated; however, not everyone is able to afford the financial costs or allocate space for the necessary equipment. Through low costs and a small, space-conscious design the IC3 is the perfect answer to this call. Costing a mere $600, and, as with all many of their products, Schwinn offers payment plans to ease the financial burden, the IC3 is a highly affordable exercise bike which would make a welcome edition in any home gym, studio, or workout room.
However, the strong build and small space commitment are not the only benefits that Schwinn has to offer with the IC3. The IC3 is also a product which, through the use of basic yet functional spin bike technology, will grant you a high intensity workout every time. One of these features that the IC3 offers is a 40 lb fixed flywheel which uses magnetic resistance to allow for variable micro adjustable levels of resistance. Schwinn series bikes also all feature belt drivetrains, which means that the IC3 will always offer a clean and quiet ride. Some other features present on the IC3 bike are a water bottle holder built right into the ergonomic handlebars for ease of access, adjustable toe cages on the foot pedals, and both a horizontally and vertically adjustable saddle and handlebars, allowing for maximum customization so that you are able to work out however you see fit.. These good-quality offerings add up to make the IC3 a quite respectable option in the middle price range for indoor cycling bikes, and one that anyone looking for a more affordable option would not be making a mistake purchasing.
Schwinn IC3 Spin Bike Review And Technical Information
Cycle Specifications:
- Width: 23”
- Length: 45″
- Height: 49”
- Bike Weight: 114 Pounds
- Steel Frame
- Max User Weight: 300 Pounds
- Transportation Wheels
Very Simple Digital Monitor:
This low tech Schwinn IC3 bike features a simple and high performing cycle monitor that stands out for being simple, affordable, and built right into your bike for maximum efficiency and feedback. The electronic console turns on easily and the LCD screen offers clearly visible feedback for every ride, powered by two included AA batteries. The direct power measurements achieved through high tech tracking built into the cycle include track time, distance, scan, speed, calories burned, and pulse.
There is no Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity, so tracking and saving cycle data to apps like Zwift, Peloton, or any other leaderboard system. You can track heart rate as well through the console and connected telemetry pulse sensors, another helpful tool when it comes to monitoring your performance throughout the ride. A built-in tablet mount holds phones or tablets for easy entertainment while riding, so you can turn on an episode of your favorite show or movie or follow along to a spin class for maximum power and convenience during your rides.
Non-SPD Pedals:
- Non-SPD pedals are equipped with an adjustable toe cage
- Q-factor of 200 mm
A recent trend among exercise bike users has been the rise of SPD cleats, used to “clip in” to the pedals of a stationary bike. The use of SPD cleats make pedaling more stable and efficient for the rider, hence their rise in popularity. The Schwinn IC3 unfortunately does not have SPD compatible pedals. This will certainly be a barrier for more serious cyclists who are more likely to prefer to use SPD cleats if at all possible. What the pedals offer instead are adjustable toe cages, which allow for you to comfortably ride the IC3 in common running shoes. Toe cages are a nice feature to include, but not having SPD compatibility does damage the quality of the IC3, especially when other models in the Connect line feature them alongside toe cages.
The Q-factor of the Schwinn IC3 spin bike is 200mm, which places the IC3 on the wider side of indoor cycles which are currently available. Narrower stances are often preferred by experienced riders because they permit for the most ergonomic placement of one’s feet and knees, promoting a comfortable and productive workout through the reduction of strain on muscles and joints, making this a less than ideal q-factor.
Schwinn IC3 Spin Bike Flywheel:
- 40 lb fixed flywheel
- Front-mounted fixed flywheel
- Magnetic resistance works with belt transmission to provide smooth and quiet riding experience
A very important aspect of any indoor cycling bike which must be considered before purchasing is the flywheel. The Schwinn IC3 is equipped with a 40 lb magnetic flywheel, which is quite heavy duty and will provide the rider’s cycling with a smoother pedaling motion. Despite its heavy weight the IC3’s flywheel is still perfectly capable of preventing any undesirable slowing down and speeding up during the pedaling motion. The magnetic resistance which the IC3’s flywheel utilizes also contributes to a smoother riding experience, allowing for contactless braking, which has the added benefit of preventing wear and tear which accumulates on friction braking systems.
The Schwinn IC3 features a belt drivetrain and not a chain. Schwinn does not specify the belt that they use, though it is our assumption that they likely utilize the Poly-V, which is the most commonly used belt among bikes which use a belt drivetrain. The combination of a belt drivetrain with magnetic resistance allows the IC3 to offer a sleek and near silent riding experience. The low placement and lack of covering on the flywheel mean that there is a possibility of accidents occurring, so it would be wise to store this away from pets or small children.
Schwinn IC3 Indoor Bike Resistance:
The Schwinn IC3 indoor spin bike is equipped with robust magnetic resistance, offering variable different levels of resistance for the user
The resistance knob can be used before or during rides, allowing riders to train with their desired resistance levels at all times
The Schwinn IC3 features a magnetic resistance system, utilizing the best in flywheel technology to offer users the choice between infinitely variable levels of resistance. This degree of variability allows the rider to decide the intensity of their workout. The IC3 has a resistance knob which is located on the downtube, allowing easy access on or off the bike. Additionally, the knob makes it easy to switch your resistance level, so if you desire to adjust your resistance during your ride it will not be a struggle to do so while maintaining your motion. This provides capability for several different possibilities including the replication of terrain, HIIT, endurance workouts, etc.
Handlebars and Seat:
- Outward curving ergonomic handlebars, which are vertically and horizontally adjustable
- Vertically and horizontally adjustable saddle
The Schwinn IC3 features ergonomic handlebars which can be moved both vertically and horizontally to meet your specifications. This allows for different riders to all use the bike and still be able to ride in comfort. The handlebars are adjusted using a similar knob to the one used to adjust resistance. Placed in between the handlebars there is a simple media rack which can be used to place a tablet on as well as a built in water bottle holder. The IC3 has fairly basic handlebars, lacking any particularly special features, but the ability to both adjust vertically and horizontally is an appreciable feature which multi-user customers will benefit from.
Similarly to the handlebars, the saddle of the IC3 can also be adjusted both vertically and horizontally, meaning that the IC3 can be used comfortably by people of many different heights and body types. The IC3’s saddle is also wider than the standard road cycles, which will make it a comfortable fit for most all users. The amount which the saddle and handlebars of the IC3 can be adjusted make it a particularly apt choice for customers who anticipate that they will have multiple people using the bike.
Belt Drivetrain:
All of the bikes in Schwinn’s Connect series feature a belt drivetrain as opposed to a train, and the IC3 is not an exception to this rule. It’s safe to assume that they use Poly-V belts, which are the most commonly found belt in indoor cycling bikes which do not use a chain. The benefit of using a belt over a chain is that belts provide a slicker and quieter cycling experience than chains are able to. By constructing their bikes with both a belt drivetrain and a moderately heavy flywheel, the IC3 provides cyclists with an exceptionally smooth workout every time, free from any of the jolting and clunkiness which can come with a chain.
One of the most impressive benefits of the Schwinn IC3’s belt transmission is the near silence with which it enables the bike to perform. This is aided by the IC3’s rigid steel build which withstands workouts of the highest intensity without any give. Finally, the magnetic resistance system maintains quiet rides, granting the IC3 the ability to provide you with a ride that is near silent. For any customer who may need a quieter bike for whatever reason, this attribute of the IC3 is phenomenal.
Price and Warranty:
- The Schwinn IC3 spin bike is currently priced at $600
- The Schwinn IC3 bike’s warranty includes ten years on the frame, three years on most parts, and one year on labor and installation, if you choose to purchase that service
To make your warranty valid and active or claim your warranty, you can contact the Schwinn/Nautilus customer service at (800) 605-3369 or visit “www.nautilus.com/warranty” to register your Schwinn IC3.
One of the best budget indoor cycles on the market, the price of this bike in comparison to the range of features it offers and the range of other bikes available is pretty impressive. These are decent bikes for those who are just starting out in cycling and not ready to commit to a higher-end machine but do want to get in the game and start with a lighter and cheaper machine for a very affordable price and with a lot of included extras. The warranty is fairly extensive, justifying your initial investment and protecting your bike from issues for years to come. You’ll quickly find that your bike proves itself worth the cost of saved gym membership fees and other expenses.
Assembly and Shipping:
- Shipped in a single box, with minimal assembly required
- Takes about 1 week to arrive normally, though there are a variety of factors that could affect that especially as distributors adapt to COVID concerns
- Depending on where you purchase from assembly services can be purchased as an add-on
- Assembly tools are included for free
Assembling your Schwinn IC3 is extremely simple. The complicated parts, such as the flywheel and the chain system, come pre-assembled, so you really only need to fit the smaller pieces togther. Two people following the detailed yet clear assembly diagrams can certainly assemble this in about an hour, with the biggest concern being the weight of the larger pieces as you move to put them together. However, if you’re on edge by the idea of assembly, you can purchase labor services to come to your home and assemble the bike depending on your location. Shipping timeframes will depend on the carrier, but if you have concerns about getting it into your house you can call ahead and arrange assistance with your local delivery system.
Schwinn IC3 Indoor Spin Bike Pros:
Sleek and Simple:
The Schwinn IC3 indoor cycle exhibits a tough all-steel build combined with an ergonomic modern aesthetic. This makes the IC3 is both easy to use and perfectly capable of withstanding the most intense needs of all spin cyclists. The IC3 also allows for many degrees of variation, enabling it to cater to all your needs. As the IC3 is also the smallest of Schwinn’s bikes, it is also easy to allocate space for it, even further increasing the ease with which this bike can be incorporated into your daily life.
Silent Belt Drivetrain and Front-Fixed Magnetic Flywheel:
The combined belt drivetrain and magnetic resistance flywheel ensures that the Schwinn IC3 gives you an almost silent riding experience every time. The fluid no-contact brakes and the use of a belt instead of a clunky chain add up to a slick cycling experience. The magnetic flywheel offers variable levels of resistance, which just offers another layer of customization to the IC3, letting its rider personalize their workout to best fit their needs and desires.
Well-Constructed Steel Frame and Adjustable Handlebars and Saddle:
Schwinn’s IC3 is a true example of powerful craftsmanship, built with a robust steel frame that will stand up to whatever you demand of it. The strong build of the IC3 means that you can put this indoor bike through the ringer without fear of it giving out or feeling unsafe. One of the greatest advantages of picking the Schwinn IC3 is the high degree of adjustability which it features, and this is exemplified by the vertically and horizontally adjustable saddle and handlebars. The high degree of flexibility exhibited by the saddle and handlebars ensure that anyone who purchases the IC3 will always be riding in comfort.
Schwinn IC3 Indoor Exercise Bike Cons:
Non-SPD Compatible Pedals:
The IC3’s pedals are not SPD compatible. While this is not an overall dealbreaker, it will put off more experienced spin cyclists who know the drawbacks of riding with anything less than SPD compatible pedals. However, for the less experienced rider the adjustable toe cages will be perfectly adequate to allow the user to ride in maximum comfort.
Wide Q-Factor:
The wider Q-factor on the Schwinn IC3 is probably one of the biggest setbacks. You rarely find a q-factor larger than 185mm, so to see one that’s close to 200 is almost unthinkable. It can be a really uncomfortable fit for many riders. For riders who prefer a narrow and ergonomic drive from pedal to push, and frankly, any rider who doesn’t have very long or wide-set legs, this bike is not the best fit for you.
Underperforming Monitor:
The digital monitor on this device is less than ideal. Though it’s marketed as generous and thorough, it’s pretty simplistic and does not feature Bluetooth connectivity or additional support. The monitor’s metrics are not based on cadence or pulse tracking, so they can be inaccurate, and overall this digital monitor just doe
Final Thoughts on the Schwinn IC3 Indoor Spin Bike:
With the IC3, Schwinn has produced a high-quality bike as far as the lower price range is concerned. The IC3 has the standard high-quality steel frame that we expect from Schwinn, along with a well-constructed magnetic flywheel and belt drivetrain, ensuring that the IC3 will last as long as you need it to. The IC3 also has a high standard of adjustability, allowing for the saddle and handlebars to be both vertically and horizontally adjusted and offering infinitely adjustable levels of magnetic resistance. This ensures that if you purchase the IC3 your desires will always be met. Yet the IC3 is still held back by its lack of SPD pedals, wide q factor, and specifically controllable resistance levels, as well as its underperforming digital monitor. It’s overpriced, but functional as a beginner bike for new spinners.
