The IC4 has an included heart rate monitor band and 3 pound dumbbells, which the IC3 does not. The IC3 uses friction pads versus the IC4, which uses magnetic resistance and is generally quieter. The Peloton bike has both a larger footprint and overall weight compared to the IC4. However, the IC4 only has Bluetooth connectivity compared to the Wi-Fi capabilities of the Peloton.
Compared with the Echelon EX-3, the IC4 is slightly larger, though it offers a higher weight capacity. While all the bikes are similarly priced, the Schwinn IC4 is the only option that includes free shipping. It also offers the greatest number of resistance levels and longest warranty period. Still, the IC4 comes with plenty of extras, including a pair of 3-pound (1.4-kg) dumbbells, a Bluetooth heart rate armband, dual water bottle holders, ergonomic handgrips, a USB charging station, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Schwinn IC4 is the newest indoor cycling bike offered by Schwinn Fitness.
The IC3 is somewhat bare-bones compared to the IC4, but for us, the extra features were not worth the extra $300. Like the IC4, the IC3 has double-sided pedals so you can use sneakers or clips, and it’s fully adjustable. One big difference between the two is that, instead of magnetic resistance, the IC3 uses flywheel resistance.
However, some taller users report having difficulty riding the bike, even with the adjustable seat. Measurement is one of the most useful tools gaining momentum in cycling rooms. With the new mongoose bicycles Echelon2G Console, riders get the most detailed and accurate metrics to date, offering motivating rider feedback and fundamentally changing the way members ride and how classes are coached.
The large, rubber-coated multi-position handlebar also provides a huge range of hand positions to suit your riding style or preference. I’ve been spinning since the small gym I went to got its first Schwinn Johnny G spin bike in the mid-’90s. I’ve ridden bikes to nowhere an average of twice a week ever since, from schwinn spin bike rusty old ones in church basements to the bikes in $40 SoulCycle classes. Pre-pandemic, I was doing most of my spinning on a free communal Peloton bike in my building’s workout room. When that was no longer an option, I tried a handful of apps and streamed classes in things like strength training and yoga.
The app (which costs an additional $39 per month) also streams classes from PURE Yoga, Precision Run, and Equinox for a well-rounded fitness experience. You don’t have to live near a SoulCycle studio to reap the rewards of the high-intensity, interval-based class anymore. While there’s no screen attached to the bike, you can use your smartphone, tablet, or even TV to stream Peloton’s live and on-demand classes or compete in Zwift’s virtual world.