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Schwinn IC3
VS
Schwinn IC4
Contents - Schwinn IC3 Vs IC4
| Schwinn IC3 | Schwinn IC4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Image |   |   |
| Weight | 100 pounds | 106 pounds |
| Max User Weight | 300 pounds | 330 pounds |
| Min User Height | 5 ft. 1 ins | 4 ft. 6 ins |
| Max User Height | 6 ft. 0 ins | 6 ft. 6 ins |
| Resistance Type | Friction | Magnetic |
| USB Charging Port | No | Yes |
| Dumbbell Holder | No | Yes |
| Water Bottle Holder | Single | Double |
| Power | Electric Plug in | Manual (2x AA batteries for LCD monitor) |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Introduction – Schwinn IC3 Vs IC4
The gym is definitely not for everyone. The good news is that there are options available if you aren’t a gym bunny and prefer working out in the comfort of your own home. The Schwinn brand has been making quality bicycles since the late 1890s.
From the early 1900s, Schwinn became one of the most innovative companies in the industry, developing mudguards, the Fore-wheel brake, and the cycle lock. During WWII, Schwinn heeded the call for innovation and delved into creating bicycles, equipment, and other features that would eventually become the company’s trademark.
In 1949, Schwinn introduced the Black Phantom bicycle with chrome fenders, head, taillights, and white tires became the standard features of the Schwinn bikes. Today Schwinn bikes still carry the same excellent quality, and their brand of exercise bicycles is no exception.
The Schwinn IC3 and IC4 are great exercise bikes that you can get at a reasonable price. The shelf life is generally good (3-5 years), and the build has been touted as one of the best in the market.
However, there are some tiny differences between the two models that can be useful to know if you want to get the best value out of your exercise. So we at Sky Liners decided to give you a side-by-side comparison of the Schwinn IC3 and IC4.
Buyers Guide - Important considerations when buying an exercise bike
Now that we have looked at the major differences between the two products let’s discuss other vital facts. We at Skyliners think that it’s also crucial for you to have some information about the essential features you should look for in an indoor exercise bike.
Your exercise goals
The first factor to consider is your exercise goals before you go and purchase an indoor exercise bike. Try to look at your lifestyle and work out how often you will use it. It is pretty common for people to get excited and look for a top-of-the-range indoor bike with many features and accessories. Not only is this a waste of money, but it’s also a waste of the bike’s usefulness.
Essential features
Regardless of the type and price of the indoor bike you get, there are some must-have features you should never compromise on. The most important being resistance. Ensure that the resistance of the indoor bike includes several levels and can be easily adjusted. Magnetic resistance systems tend to be more durable and less noisy.
Also, consider the comfort level of the seat and the handles. There is nothing as annoying as a hard and uncomfortable bicycle seat. It might even discourage you from using the bike if you don’t feel comfortable.
Stability
You also need to check the weight and the weight limit of the bike because this directly impacts its stability. The heavier the indoor bicycle is, the more stable it is. A rocky bike can be pretty frustrating at best and a safety hazard at worst.
How to know if an indoor exercise bike is for you?
Okay, so now you have all this information, but you might still be on the fence regarding whether the Schwinn IC3 or IC4 indoor exercise bike is for you? The Sky Liners team has gathered some reasons why you should consider purchasing either model. We understand how important exercise is to your overall health. Exercise bikes are one of the best ways to achieve your health goals. This is because exercise bikes offer several benefits, all without leaving your home. For example, exercise bikes:
- Are a form of low-impact exercise that will not add pain or make an old injury worse.
- Increase muscle endurance.
- Offer a chance to burn over 600 calories in an hour, depending on the program you choose.
- Are a form of stress release.
- Are a great way to get your cardiovascular training in.
An indoor exercise bike might be a good idea if the following scenarios apply to you:
- You want to increase your physical and sports performance as well as your physical health.
- You thoroughly enjoy road bike cycling outdoors or spinning classes.
- You find it easier to use indoor cycling bikes when standing up and pedaling during higher intensity or uphill-simulating workouts.
- You like the idea of online workouts in the comfort of your own home.
Schwinn IC3
This bike is considered to be one of the best middle-range exercise bikes on the market. It comes with several great features that provide a sturdy and consistent workout. It has a 40 lbs flywheel, a belt-drive, and friction resistance.
It features a straightforward LCD console where you can monitor your progress and duration of the workout. The bike has a very solid base that allows you to comfortably train in and out of the saddle, so you can stay focused and balanced even during high-intensity workouts.
It has an adjustable racing seat and padded handlebars that you can move up, down, forward, and backward. This also adds comfort during your workout, so you get the best fit. The double pedals allow you to use athletic shoes, indoor cycling shoes, or any type of exercise shoe you have.
This bike has excellent resistance that is provided through the felt pad on top of the flywheel. There is a level that you can control using a red tension knob. For a more strenuous workout, you turn it clockwise. This increases the tension and simulates going uphill. To release the tension, you can turn the knob in the opposite direction. Unfortunately, the resistance level is not displayed on the console.
If you have an uneven surface in your home, there are levers located in the end caps of the support that you can use to stop the bike from rocking while you work out. Additionally, the 40 lbs belt drive offers a smooth and quiet training.
The IC3 is a great buy, but what we love the most about it are the low prices and overall durability. It is extremely low maintenance and comes with a 5-year warranty on the frame. However, for mechanical or electrical issues, the warranty is 2 years and 1 year for labor.
Unfortunately, one significant drawback is that it cannot be used with any fitness apps like Peloton. However, we at Sky Liners still believe that the Schwinn IC3 is a worthwhile investment. If you have no use for all the bells and whistles and just need a bike you can use for years at a reasonable price, then this model is a perfect choice.
Standout Features Schwinn IC3
- Dual SPD pedals come standard with toe cages and clips.
- Durable and suitable for all cyclists regardless of level.
- Water bottle and mobile device holder.
- Quality exercise bike at an affordable price.
- Adjustable, well-ventilated seat.
Schwinn IC4
The Schwinn IC4 indoor cycling bike comes with a lot of extra features. It comes with Bluetooth connectivity, magnetic resistance, belt drive, and so much more. These additional features and price place it alongside some of the top-of-the-range bikes.
The design is quite simple and easily accommodates all fitness levels. It also features a 40 lbs flywheel and adjustable seats, and padded handlebars for extra comfort while you work out. Like the IC3, the IC4 also has a steel frame and solid stabilizers that keep the bike in place even during high-intensity workouts.
The Schwinn IC3 and IC4 indoor cycling bikes feature a very user-friendly and adjustable resistance knob that also acts as an emergency push-down brake. This puts you in total control so you can work out at your own pace.
The IC4 has the exact same basic features as the IC3, with a few added improvements. One of them is its ability to connect to apps like Zwift, Peloton, Strava, FullGaz, GoogleFit, AppleHealth, TrainerRoad, and more. This is definitely a perk because you can stream several classes directly into your home and compete against others in a virtual world without ever stepping outside.
We at Skyliner’s think that this bike is highly durable, and the 10-year warranty on the frame confirms our conclusion. This bike promises a lot, especially if you are serious about working out. The ic4 is as close as you can get to high-quality without having to break the bank.
Standout Features Schwinn IC4
- Customizable dual-link SPD foot pedals and toe cages. These can be switched out for clips.
- Color backlit LCD console which monitors heart rate, speed, time, distance, calories, and RPMs.
- Access to the Explore the World app and get access to virtual races, exotic locales, and stunning trails from around the globe.
- Bluetooth and app connection
- Magnetic resistance
- Dual water bottle holders
Detailed Comparison – Schwinn IC3 VS IC4
For you to get a better understanding of the two products, the Sky Liners team has compared and rated the performance of the Schwinn IC3 and the Schwinn IC4. Here are some comparisons and differences.
Console
Both models have an easy-to-use LCD screen, although the IC4 is more advanced. However, you will get data such as time, distance RPM, calories, heart rate, speed, and time. The average RPM is displayed at the top with a set of arcs that light up when you pedal faster.
Readings for current RPM are displayed every 3-4 seconds because this feature shares the screen with the speed reader. The IC3 model allows you to set personal targets such as distance, calories, and time. The console counts down and tells you when you’ve completed your workout.
The IC4, on the other hand, has a more detailed console that shows resistance levels from 1 to 100. Like the IC3, it also shows time, speed, calories, distance, and RPM. The RPM level is displayed using a bar that lights up as you pedal faster. You can also set up targets, but there aren’t any in-built workouts.
The IC4 also has a full-color backlit display which means you can use it in low-light settings or at night. The IC4 also uses electricity, unlike the IC3, which is battery-powered. Both models do not come with a feature that measures power output, but if you buy the IC4, you can calculate how much power you use using the Zwift or Kinetic Apps.
Bluetooth & App Connectivity
Only the Schwinn IC4 is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity that allows you access to apps. These apps monitor and record your workouts automatically. At the same time, you might need to register your workouts manually if you are using the IC3. However, should you choose to buy the IC3, you can add Bluetooth-compatible sensors so you can track your workout more efficiently. The IC4 gives you access to the Peloton, which you get at a fraction of the price for the Peloton bike.
Heart Rate Monitor
Both models have a heart rate monitor feature, but the difference is that on the IC3, you will have to buy a 5 kHz heart rate strap so you can use the function. On the IC4, the heart rate monitor is included with the purchase.
Other Extra Features
Who doesn’t love extras? On the IC3, you will get a single water bottle holder and one media device holder, and cleats. Schwinn seems to have gone all out on the ic4 because it comes equipped with two water bottle holders, one media device holder, a USB charging port, and a pair of 3 lbs dumbbells.
Resistance Type
The IC4 comes with magnetic resistance and also displays the resistance level on the LCD monitor. The IC3 has a friction resistance which the Sky Liners team found to be noisy and makes sounds when lubricated or dry. They also need to be replaced frequently because of the constant friction.
The advantage of the IC4 magnetic resistance is that the magnets do not come into contact with the flywheel, so there is no annoying sound. It also means that these magnets are low maintenance because there is hardly any wear and tear.
Flywheel
Both models have a heavy 40 lbs flywheel which provides a consistent pedaling experience. This is a significant improvement from the IC2, which was only 31 lbs. The heavier weight of the flywheel helps to improve form when cycling, and this is especially useful for new indoor cyclers.
Pedals
The pedals on the IC3 and the IC4 are great because they allow you to cycle indoors with any workout shoe that you own. So whether you’re an expert cyclist with special SPD cleats or regular athletic shoes, you can use either of the models.
Both models feature toe cages on one side and SPD fittings on the other. The SPD pedals and shoes help you to develop a more efficient pedal with a strong pull and push connection.
Drive Type
Both models come with a belt drive which is quieter and extremely low maintenance. This is unlike the IC2, which features a chain drive that makes rattling noises and requires regular maintenance.
Price
The IC4 is more expensive than the IC3 because of the additional features that it comes with. Making a choice between the two will depend on your workout requirements and whether you will benefit from using the extra features on the IC4.
Warranty
Another major difference between the two is that the IC4 comes with a 10-year frame warranty, which is double that of the IC3, and 3 years for mechanical and electrical issues.
Conclusion – Schwinnn IC3 Vs IC4
Both these products are a good option for you in terms of their efficiency. They both work pretty well and seem to be made from highly durable and quality material. For the most part, both products seem to be at par with each other.
However, your choice is dependent on your budget and the type of workout experience you need. Not everyone will benefit from having access to online fitness apps. For some people, these programs do nothing to motivate them.
If you fall into this category and aren’t keen on any of the bells and whistles that come with the IC4, you can buy the Schwinn IC3. This earlier model will be a perfect choice if all you need is a simple workout without distractions.
Everything comes down to your budget and the type of experience you are looking for. Not everyone needs the motivation associated with online fitness apps. Believe it or not, some cyclists just want to decompress and spin until their legs go numb.
And if this is the case for you, the Schwinn IC3 is precisely what you need. No complications and no thrills to distract you from your workout. The Schwinn IC3 is also lower in cost than the IC4, and we think it is excellent value for money.
However, we at Sky Liner’s prefer the IC4. Why? Because it’s a better bike that you can use even if you aren’t interested in the online programs. It’s easier to track your progress on the console, and we like the warranty conditions on the product.
Additionally, in 2021, it’s better to purchase an indoor bike that has some connectivity. Both bikes are great for indoor cycling, but the IC4 has higher ratings from users, more features, and magnetic resistance. While you might not be interested in the online programs, the other features and accessories on the IC4 make it the better choice, in our opinion.
Sky-Liners Choice - Schwinn IC3 Vs IC4
Schwinn IC4
FAQ's - Schwinn IC3 Vs IC4
Ensure that after each workout, you use a damp cloth to wipe your machine and the console to remove any moisture. Only use mild dish soap with a soft cloth to clean the console if necessary. Avoid using petroleum-based solvents, automotive cleaners, or any product that contains ammonia.
Yes. The default distance unit is kilometers (km). To switch units between kilometers and miles before a workout, you just push the increase and decrease buttons simultaneously and hold for 3 seconds. Then, press the Increase/Decrease button to change the units (km/mi). Once the desired unit of distance is displayed, push any other button to save your preference.
Yes, you can. The pedals are replaceable with any 9/16” pedal
The Schwinn IC4 does have a cadence sensor, and you can sync it with any of the other external cycling apps as well. The cadence sensors in the pedal cranks will transmit accurate speed and cadence metrics to compatible platforms.
The IC3 is relatively quiet because of the 40 lbs flywheel, which is heavy enough to provide a smooth ride experience. Although there have been some complaints about unwanted noise or clunking, by some buyers. However, it’s not a widespread issue.
No, it’s not. The main bike is already assembled, so all you need to do is attach the handlebars, seat, bottle holder, computer, and pedals.
The IC4 has a similar magnetic resistance to the Peloton, which makes it both quiet and durable. It can measure bike output using cadence and resistance, similar to the Peloton, by sending that information to any device via Bluetooth.
The toe clip-ins that come with the IC4 bike are SPD®-specific, so SPD shoes are the best. However, you can use any regular athletic shoes for the toe cages that come with the pedals.
The Schwinn IC3 resistance is not displayed on the LCD monitor. So, you aren’t able to see the exact level of resistance. But after using the bike for some time, you will get the feel of how many turns on the knob can be your minimum, average and maximum.