Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike Review
Schwinn IC4 Overview
Straightforward yet versatile, the Schwinn IC4 indoor exercise bike is a sleek bike that offers high-quality performance on a beginner level bike. From the industry-leading Schwinn biking brand, the new Schwinn IC4 Indoor Exercise and Spin bike is a streamlined and simplistic spin bike that offers all the benefits of a powerful spin cycle without fancy extras or trappings that drive up the price.
The Schwinn IC4 indoor exercise bike is designed and made for an entry-level cyclist, providing customizable intensity and a stable platform on which to practice low and high impact spinning. Easily moved, compact, and lightweight, this bike is built for efficient yet productive training and at-home work, meaning that you can easily catch up to any spin workout or class from the comfort of your own home. Priced at $900 new but available on sale in some locations, this is a middle-of-the-line purchase that performs very well for its price point and one of the best spin bikes under $1000.
The performance functions of the Schwinn IC4 indoor bike are relatively straightforward, yet still high-tech and well-performing. Built with a 40-pound flywheel that uses a magnetic resistance system to generate resistance with each push of the pedals and an included performance monitor that tracks your rides for quick integration into your fitness routine, the Schwinn team’s developed an affordable but high-performing fitness experience that will push you hard without putting undue stress or strain on your body.
With an adjustable frame, simple chain system, and weighted/fixed flywheel, this indoor cycling bike was made to create high-energy, low-impact workouts. The race style bike seat is designed for both air flow and maximum comfort during rides, while the seat and handlebar units are infinitely adjustable to accommodate a variety of cycle users. The bike measures 48.7” L x 21.2” W x 51.8” H with a maximum user weight of 330 lbs.
Schwinn IC4 Comparison
| Name | Monitor | Extras | Verdict | Applications |
| Schwinn IC4 | LED backlit | 40 lbs flywheel, SPD and cage pedals | It is the newest version in the Schwinn IC Series with Bluetooth. IC4 offers more value than competitors. I highly recommend it for $799. | Zwift, Peloton, JRNY |
| Schwinn IC3 | 2 No backlit | 40 lbs flywheel, SPD and cage pedals | IC3 is the old version before Schwinn IC4 and has outdated friction resistance without Bluetooth connectivity. Wouldn’t recommend it for $499. | None |
| Bowflex C7 | 7″ HD touch | 40 lbs flywheel, SPD and cage pedals | It’s the latest version in the Bowflex C cycling Series and has better features than the old model, Bowflex C6. But poor costumer support for $899. | Zwift, Peloton, JRNY |
| Asuna 6100 | 2″ No backlit | 37 lbs flywheel, SPD and cage pedals | Monitor is extremely basic and at this price, it is really overpriced compared to IC4 and IC7. Sunny warranty is also too short for $899. | None |
| Proform CX | 1″ No backlit | 29 lbs flywheel, SPD and cage pedals | Handlebars don’t adjust forward and backward, plus bike’s console is too small and dark to see workouts in the dark. I wouldn’t recommend it for $500. | iFit |
Schwinn IC4 Review And Specifications:
Cycle Specifications:
- Width: 21.2”
- Length: 48.7″
- Height: 51.8”
- Bike Weight: 106 Pounds
- Max User Weight: 330 Pounds
- Transportation Wheels
One of the top spin bikes on the market, the Schwinn IC4 is both compact and powerful. Thanks to its simplistic flywheel and drive system and streamlined frame, it balances out high-energy workouts with low-impact exercise. The belt and flywheel work in tandem to create a smooth ride that feels like you’re pedaling on air, and the lightweight bike and included transport wheels mean it’s easy to move from plae to place without having to worry about its bulk. From its portability to its streamlined yet intensive design and performance, the Schwinn IC4 spin bike brings speed and power together in a more affordable way than ever.
Digital Monitor:
- The Digital Monitor LCD display on the Schwinn IC4 powers on through a power adapter that plugs into your wall
- Measures resistance level, time, speed, calories, pulse, RPM, and cadence
- Offers Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
- Measures telemetry heart rate with included heart rate strap
The digital monitor that comes with the Schwinn IC4 indoor cycling bike is one of the best Schwinn offers as built in, offering a ton of phenomenal technology aspects and instant feedback. The tracking modes help you pace yourself before and during your ride while keeping your feedback clear and straightforward. Offering resistance level, time cycled, speed, calories, and heart rate, the monitor tracks your physiological performance as well as your cycling performance with the cadence and RPM functions.
The monitor’s true strength lies in its Bluetooth connectivity options. Despite the monitor being relatively low-tech in that it doesn’t offer built-in workouts or an LCD screen for maximum performance (or ANT+ compatibility), you can easily connect to apps like Zwift and Peloton. The monitor can broadcast biometric data and ride statistics with ease, so leaderboard apps and class functions like Spinner, Peloton, iFit, and can keep pace with your performances with ease. For a brand that’s historically committed to providing high-quality fitness and performance, this monitor is a refreshing and high-tech addition to your fitness experience.
Foot Strap Pedals and Q-Factor:
- Pedals have straps that lock your feet in (somewhat)
- Pedals have toe clips but not full SPD compatibility
- Average Q Factor (no specific measurement given directly)
The pedals included on the Schwinn IC4 bike are fairly standard: simple dual link bike pedals with included straps to keep your feet from slipping off the pedal mid-stride. They also feature a basic toe clip on the front side, and these pedals are double-sided and offer thorough SPD compatibility. According to the Schwinn manufacturers, the Q factor, or the distance between pedals, is inspired by outdoor and road bikes, making it a natural, ergonomic, and smooth ride. It also allows for the highest efficiency when pedaling, which is a plus for riders looking to maximize their workout without experiencing leg or foot pain associated with the pedal positioning.
However, the actual Q-factor is not explicitly provided by the company, meaning you will have to take a bit of a guess when determining whether it will fit for you. Our guess based on the standard Q-factor for outdoor-inspired bikes would be that these have a narrow (approximately 140-170mm) q-factor, but that can’t be confirmed unless the company decides to publish that measurement.
The biggest bonus of these pedals is their thorough safety and SPD measures. Having a toe cage on the spin pedal is a matter of safety: if you don’t have your foot pushed in securely it can be really hard to safely push yourself without flying or sliding off the pedal. The dual-link SPD clip options are also essential for many cyclists, including those who are working with spin classes directly or using bikes to train for outdoor cycling events. Most SPD pedals are double-sided – that means you can clip into either side of the pedal, which makes starting from a stationary position (not pedaling) a lot easier.
As far as the stationary pedaling, some riders prefer the additional security that comes from knowing that you need to push hard to move the wheel, but if you’re just starting out you may want less tension. For beginning riders, being able to train with SPD compatibility is a huge benefit especially if you’re looking to increase your spinning abilities.
Schwinn IC4 Flywheel:
- 40 lb fixed flywheel
- Durable and stable
- Uses sleek magnetic resistance system to create resistance and drag
- Durable and resistant heavy long-term
Unlike bikes with traditional tension-based chain systems, this Schwinn IC4 indoor spin bike relies on a combination of magnetic resistance and a smooth belt to create a natural drag that builds resistance. The magnetic deterrents are arranged underneath the flywheel, creating a proportional resistance by clinging to the flywheel and requiring your effort to separate the magnets and push the flywheel away. The front fixed flywheel works to generate internal traction that propels the pedals forward as you push, meaning you work hard with every stride to earn a good workout. Getting a good burn going is easy with Schwinn’s signature magnetic drive and you’re sure to find a good workout almost right away.
The flywheel itself is relatively protected due to a heavy-duty aluminum frame that protects the wheel and resistance system from bumps, dents, or average wear and tear. The flywheel is also guarded by a protection guard that wards off front bearings, sweat, and other elements. The flywheel is able to withstand years of use, and your magnetic resistance system won’t wear out or need to be replaced or maintained often like other chain or friction-based resistance systems.
Schwinn IC4 Resistance:
- The Schwinn IC4 features an adjustable magnetic resistance
- Incremental adjustment knob cranks up resistance before or during rides
Regarded as one of the best magnetic spin bikes, the Schwinn IC4 bike is similar to other high-quality indoor cycles in its approach to adjusting resistance. Instead of having a set amount of resistance levels like many similar exercise bikes, the incremental and variable adjustment knob allows a rider to adjust the resistance settings with the twist of a knob, which then gradually applies pressure to the magnets that in turn press to the flywheel and slows down the wheel rotation. A slower wheel rotation requires more effort to push to move, which is how your workout is generated.
While this does help the rider customize their intensity more specifically to their needs, it lacks the third-party or electronic resistance options that more advanced bikes offer, like resistance levels that simulate specific terrain or target specific workout types. Interval workouts are hard with knob adjustments, so most bikes with variable knob adjustments are better suited for long cardio-based style rides than regular interval intensity changes such as hill or terrain training.
However, this knob offers 100 resistance settings, creating a more refined adjusting and allowing yourself to push yourself as hard as you might on a higher-end model without needing to pay a premium price. Working sleekly in tandem with the flywheel, you can actually achieve a moderate strength workout on this flywheel, and a push-down brake provides an immediate emergency stop in case you need extra assistance.
Handlebars and Seat:
- Four-way adjustable handlebars
- Four-way adjustable padded seat
Another feature of the Schwinn IC4 magnetic spin bike is the infinite personalization available due to the adjustable handlebars and seat. They offer several positions for customized alignment and riding poses so both riders who normally train indoors and those who ride outdoors can find their preferred arm positions with little to no trouble adjusting and creating a good fit. It also features roughly a foot and a half range of height adjustment, so riders between 5” and 6.5” feet can share a bike without problems.
As a bonus, these handlebars also feature a personal device holder that allows riders to store phones, tablets, or books while they ride. Because the bike has Zwift and Peloton adaptability, this means you can prop up a phone or tablet and follow right along with your class without any issues. There is a dual water bottle holder you can store on the go hydration essentials for, and the bike also features two 3 lb dumbbells and holders built in so you can instantly incorporate weight training into your experience.
Reliable drive train and gear ratio:
- Standard Schwinn belt drive system for silent and powerful rides
- Smooth gear ratio interlocks with resistance system for unnoticeable but powerful resistance transitions
The Schwinn IC4 spin bike features the latest in spin bike transmission innovation. This high-performing and low maintenance belt-driven mechanism works overtime to provide an ideal ride for every user. Belt systems are designed to improve on the standard chain system that road bikes feature, and the Schwinn belts work to take this design to new heights. Forget constant oiling, tightening, stretching, and rust-prevention: these belts stay in top shape for a long time without needing a lot of work. You won’t ever feel your pedals slip, jerk, or catch with this belt drive system, leading to a consistently smooth ride that will feel like you’re pedaling on air.
Another advantage of the Schwinn IC4 is its almost invisible performance. Pedaling this bike is a silent yet powerful experience that maintains a strong drive and tough resistance that will force you to work hard and consistently during any workout without the clanking or creaking you’d expect from a typical chain or a lower quality belt drive. The low-noise component of these belt drives is the best thing about the innovative belt system: when combined with the Schwinn magnetic resistance system this bike rides silently, meaning you can go for a spin anywhere, anytime without worrying about creating a racket or waking up the whole house The gear ratio also contributes to your smooth and quiet ride: the ease of adjustment with the incremental resistance system contributes to the overall silence of your ride and eliminates the loud cranking and creaking that some older spin bikes or outdoor chain bike models are known for.
Schwinn IC4 Price and Warranty:
- The Schwinn IC4 bike is currently priced at between $800-900 USD depending on the seller
- The Schwinn IC4 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 IC4.
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 IC4 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 together. 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 IC4 Indoor Cycle Pros:
Streamlined and efficient:
This is one of the more simplistic indoor exercise bikes out there, but don’t be fooled by its apparent ease of use. It’s sleekly designed and easy to use and store, so people looking for any level of spin exercise will find it perfect. The included front wheels make transport even easier, so you can wheel the bike to wherever you feel like exercising today and then quickly push it back into its storage place until you’re ready to use it again.
High-Resistance Flywheel:
The magnetic flywheel is a major draw, especially when it comes to generating the perfect amount of resistance and drive. The magnetic no contact system protects the rider from jolts or breaks and creates a useful and customizable spin experience no matter your level of experience. It creates both low and high impact exercise, so you can really customize the flywheel to your needs and find the perfect fit for any rider in your home.
Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycle Cons:
Unincluded Information:
When it comes to the Schwinn IC4, the biggest problem here is the information the manufacturers don’t tell you. The q-factor on these bikes is never fully disclosed, so it will be hard to know whether this bike is a good fit for you until you’ve actually ridden it. There’s also some valuable information missing from the monitor readouts, like watt/power output. You could adjust that by purchasing power sensors and attaching them to your bike, but it would be nice if the Schwinn team would include that from the get-go.
Last Word on the Schwinn IC4 Magnetic Spin Bike:
The Schwinn IC4 Magnetic Spin Bike is a powerful middle-of-the-road bike for people looking to purchase a quality spin bike without having to break the bank. High-quality pedals are a huge bonus, and the heavyweight high-resistance flywheel is another major win. The bike features 100 resistance levels for refined and detailed resistance tweaking, the monitor offers detailed performance readouts, and the included personal device holder makes working out with a device easier. The bike functions very well and is a strong contender among others in its class that are available in the marketplace.
At the end of the day, the Schwinn IC4 is a promising and exciting bike that is best-suited for new and experienced spinners as well as people in need of all kinds of impact exercise. It’s very affordable considering the many benefits it does provide, and the magnetic flywheel, infinite resistance, and expansive user ranges make this bike extraordinarily useful for a lot of riders. If you’re a beginning individual or someone who has been cycling for years, this bike is a great investment and a quality purchase that will definitely help you on your way to your spinning dreams.
