The Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike is a top-quality, esthetically pleasing spin bike that offers some functions and features usually associated with models that have a far higher price tag.
This review covers everything you need to know to help you decide if it’s right for you, including its specs, an overview, its pros, cons, and more.
Exercising at home is convenient.
With your own fitness equipment, you won’t have to miss your workout because it’s raining, snowing, or too hot.
And you will also save time as you won’t have to travel to and from the gym.
Owning equipment is more cost-effective, too. And with COVID-19 still a big concern, it will enable you to get or remain fit in the safety of your home.
If you haven’t decided which home equipment to buy, click here to read some useful tips, including articles detailing the benefits of various types of cardio equipment.
If you’ve already made up your mind and are in the market for a first-class spin bike, this model could be for you. To find out more, please keep reading this Schwinn Fitness IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike review.
Table of Contents
Who does it suit?
This model suits people of any fitness level and most heights and weight seeking a bike with lots of extras offering a superior workout experience.
It accommodates people of most heights, and it has a higher than average weight capacity. This versatility, and the dual pedal option, make it an excellent choice for families or housemates to share.
Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike Specs
Dimensions – The Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike measures 51.8 (H) x 21.2” (W) x 48.7″ (L)
Handlebar adjustment – The handlebars have approximately 7″ of upright adjustment and about 3″ of fore and aft adjustment
Clearance – For unhindered workouts, keep a free space of 1′ to the sides of the bike, and 2′ to the front and rear
Weight – The bike weighs 106 lbs
Flywheel weight – The flywheel weighs 40 lbs
User weight – The maximum load for this model is 330 pounds
User height – The manufacturer recommends this model for people from 4′ 6″ to 6′ 6″ tall
Color – It is available in dark gray with black and red details
Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike Overview
Drive –
The Schwinn IC4 uses a Poly V belt and a magnetic resistance drive. This system does not require lubrication. It also eliminates wear and tear due to friction, so it’s improbable you will ever need to replace the brake pads.
The durable crankset has solid steel arms.
Finish –
The bike’s frame comprises solid steel tubes double-coated in scratch, chip, and corrosion-resistant paint. Other components – except for the seat – are ABS.
Stability, Smoothness, and Noise Level –
This model’s main and base tubes are curved for extra stability. Front and rear non-marking stabilizers adjust to prevent wobbling if your floor is uneven.
The bike’s belt, magnetic resistance system, and heavy bi-directional flywheel ensure smooth and consistent super-quiet sessions. Your workouts will not disturb others who are nearby.
Resistance –
This model offers 100 levels of micro-adjustable magnetic resistance that you can select by turning a knob.
When working at the lowest levels, you will feel almost no resistance. Each additional level slightly increases the challenge.
The highest levels should be efficient for all but highly experienced cyclists.
The resistance knob also acts as a brake, which is useful if you want to get off the bike quickly or change your pedaling direction. Press down hard on the knob, and the bike’s flywheel and pedals will immediately stop turning.
Console –
The console has a backlit LCD screen that is easy to read, even in a room with dim lighting.
Stats displayed include Time, Speed, Calories Burned, Distance Covered, Resistance Level, and your Pulse Rate when utilizing the included armband.
All of the metrics are shown on the screen simultaneously to give you a good overview of each session.
There are goal-setting functions that focus on time, distance, and calories burned.
Your speed and distance covered can be viewed in a metric or English format.
While a power outlet isn’t necessary to use the bike, you will need one to read your metrics and use apps.
Heart Rate Monitor –
A blue-tooth enabled heart rate armband enables you to track your pulse rate during workouts so you can stay in a zone that will get you the best result.
Seat –
The ergonomic race-style saddle of the Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike comprises padded vinyl with a center cut-out for ventilation.
Most buyers who posted reviews stated that it is comfortable.
Comfort does, however, vary from person to person. Some reviewers consider the saddle uncomfortable, especially those new to cycling. This is a common complaint about stationary bikes.
Placing a cushion or folded towel on the seat can help, as can using a bicycle seat cover.
One recommended for this model is the Zacro Gel Bike Seat Cover, which is sweat-resistant and comes in a choice of seven colors.
Changing the seat is another option, with the Bikeroo Oversized Comfort Seat being a popular choice.
The seat offers 4-way adjustment at the turn of a knob, with higher, lower, and fore and aft changes available.
To alter the seat’s position, loosen the knob and shift it towards you. This will release the safety pin, which you can then slide to the desired setting.
Push the pin into one of the pre-set holes, tighten the knob to lock in the new position, and you’ll be good to go.
Pedals –
The Schwinn Fitness IC4 has double-sided ergonomic pedals that feature toe cages with safety straps on one side and clips on the other. Both options provide secure, slip-free workouts, whatever your shoe size.
Two Standard 2-Hole MTB SPD Cleat Mounts are included. If desired, these can be attached to SPD spin shoes, then clipped to the pedal.
Or, if preferred, you can use the toe cages with sports shoes.
The pedals are aluminum alloy with standard 9/16′ threads.
Reverse as well as forward pedaling is possible courtesy of the bi-directional flywheel. You can also pedal while standing to target different muscles.
Handlebars –
The bike’s ergonomic multi-grip padded handlebars provide comfort and a secure grip, even if your hands sweat a lot.
You can change the angle of the handles, with backward, forward, higher, and lower adjustments available.
The changes are implemented the same way as for the saddle.
Transport Wheels –
Transportation wheels in the base facilitate moving the bike by tipping it forward then rolling it.
Assembly –
The Schwinn Indoor Bike IC4 will arrive partially assembled, with the drive and frame already intact.
Completing the job is a straightforward process that involves attaching the stabilizers, pedals, support posts, seat and slider, handlebars, console, and accessories.
This should take about an hour, or a little less if you have someone help you. The tools you will need are supplied.
Accessories –
The Schwinn IC4 comes with a range of useful accessories to enhance workouts, including the following:
– A USB port for charging electronic devices is located to the side of the monitor.
– There’s a Bluetooth-enabled arm strap for tracking your heart rate. It comes with a rechargeable lithium battery and a wire used for charging it by plugging it into the USB port.
– Dual water bottle holders beneath the handlebars provide access to hydration. With two holders, you won’t run out of water mid-workout, and with no clips to contend with, the bottles are easy to remove from the holder and replace.
– A media tray located at the front of the bike has two hooks to hold a phone and a large tablet or iPad.
– A pair of SPD cleats lets you choose between using clips or toe cages.
– Included is a pair of 3 lb urethane-coated dumbbells with holding cradles conveniently located on the bike’s frame at the front for easy access.
– You can connect to cycling apps including Peloton, Zwift, Explore the World, Google Fit, Apple Health, Sufferfest, Rouvy, FulGaz, Tacx, TrainerRoad, and MyFitness Pal. You won’t need all of these, of course, but it’s good to have various options.
Apps such as Explore the World allow you to virtually cycle past famous landmarks, famous streets, and in some of the world’s most beautiful and scenic locations, including plains, deserts, woods, and mountain trails.
– The Schwinn IC4 also offers the option of participating in online fitness classes. You can interact with other cycling enthusiasts and train with or compete against cyclists from all around the globe.
Warranty –
The warranty for this model covers 10 years for the frame, 3 years for parts and electronics, and 1-year for labor. And, as with all of Schwinn’s bikes, the Schwinn IC4 comes with a 6-week money-back guarantee.
Next, in this Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike review, we will look at its pros, then its cons.
Schwinn Fitness IC4 Assembly
Pros
- The Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike is of excellent value considering the inclusions
- It has a generous user-weight limit
- The bike’s robust and durable construction has a chip and corrosion-resistant finish
- A weighty flywheel, stabilizers, belt drive, and magnetic resistance offer smooth, stable, whisper-quiet sessions.
- The ergonomically designed seat, handlebars, and pedals are fully adjustable
- 100 micro-adjustable magnetic resistance levels allow you to precisely increase the challenge as you become fitter and do interval training
- An easy-to-read LCD monitor with backlighting shows your workout metrics
- At 40 lbs, the solid flywheel is heavier than most home-use stationary bikes
- The bike’s multi-grip handlebars offer comfort and allow you to target more muscle groups
- There are two pedal options to choose from – standard toe cages or SPD clips
- You can reverse as well as forward pedal and also cycle while standing
- Bluetooth connectivity enables you to track your pulse and stream media
- You will be able to connect to popular cycling apps like Peloton, Zwift, Explore the World, and many more.
- The Schwinn Indoor Bike IC4 comes with a broad range of accessories, including a USB port, two media holders, two water bottle holders, cleats, and a pair of 3 lb hand weights.
- This model is low maintenance with no lubrication top-ups needed
- The warranty is excellent
Cons
- The Schwinn Indoor Bike IC4 doesn’t offer pre-set programs, but there are goal setting functions for time, distance, and calories burned
- To access the interactive online training, you will need a paid subscription
- You will need to use the bike near a wall adapter if you want to view your workout stats, and you may need an extension cord as the power cord is rather short
- The USB port works for recharging purposes but not for data transfer.
- This model does not fold to store
- There’s no cooling fan
- The bike does not have speakers
Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike Summary
If you’re looking for a bike with high-end features without an over-the-top price tag, the Schwinn Fitness IC4 will not disappoint.
While the bike has some negatives and limitations, these are relatively minor.
On the plus side, it is robust and durable, fully customizable, and it offers quiet, smooth workouts and an incredible range of resistance levels. And, it is suitable for users of most heights, weights, and fitness levels.
It comes with more accessories than many bikes that cost considerably more, and it is compatible with a wide range of fitness apps. You’ll even receive a pair of hand weights so you can work your upper as well as your lower body!
If the IC3 appeals, but you don’t need as many accessories and you’d like to save some money, check out this review of the Schwinn IC3 Indoor Cycling Bike.
You may also like the YOSUDA Indoor Stationary Bike Stationary, which has some excellent features and a lower price tag.
To read reviews of other popular upright and spin bikes, click here.