Schwinn IC3 vs Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike

November 30, 2020July 6, 2023 yumito

When looking for a good quality but also a relatively affordable indoor cycling bike, the Schwinn IC3 and Schwinn IC4 are two excellent options we recommend. The Schwinn IC3 is known for its simplicity and lightweight design. It is a basic, functional bike without fancy high-tech features, making it very affordable compared to similar ones in its class. On the other hand, the Schwinn IC4 is an upgraded and smarter version of the IC3, offering more features including app connectivity with popular fitness apps like Zwift, JRNY, and Peloton, and a more solid frame.

SCHWINN IC3	SCHWINN IC4

The IC3 is a fantastic option for those who do not want an high-end bike with App Sync and prefer a simple, sturdy bike for a great cardio workout. It is very lightweight, easy to use, and comes with a built-in water bottle and media holder.
It can support users up to 300 pounds. The Schwinn IC3 uses a friction-based belt drive resistance system with a 40-pound flywheel. The IC3 can sync with wireless heart rate monitors, but it does not come with one, so you have to buy one separately.

In contrast, the IC4 is slightly bulkier, but it is designed to support up to 330 pounds, making it more suitable for a heavier users. The IC4 also provides a smoother and quieter ride due to its magnetic resistance and has 100 adjustable resistance levels. It also has a 40-pound flywheel. The magnetic resistance on the Schwinn IC4 makes it a better option as it provides a smoother, quieter, and more durable riding experience compared to friction-based system on the IC3. The IC4 can sync with a heart rate monitor for advanced health tracking during workouts and comes with a Bluetooth heart rate armband monitor. It also has a media holder, dual water bottle holders and dumbbell holders ( 3 lb. dumbbells included).

If you prefer interactive workouts, the Schwinn IC4, again, is a better option as it integrates with popular fitness apps and offers interactive programming. However, one thing we don’t like is that, the IC4 does not have workouts on the console, so you would need a tablet or similar device to for app connectivity when you want to use a training program. The Schwinn IC3 can’t directly connect to smart training apps, so if you don’t require the tech features (app sync, interactive workouts), you may find better value in the IC3’s simplicity and lower price point.

IC3 vs IC4, Key Differences:

The IC4 has a 40-pound flywheel with magnetic resistance for a smoother ride, while the IC3 uses a friction-based resistance system with a 40-pound flywheel.
The Schwinn IC4 offers app connectivity with popular fitness apps, while the IC3 does not.
The IC4 has 100 adjustable resistance levels, while the IC3 has infinitely variable resistance.
The IC3 has a smaller frame and lighter design, making it less suitable for larger users compared to the IC4.
The IC4 is more expensive due to the additional features it offers, whereas the IC3 is more affordable and simple.
The IC4’s seat adjusts both vertically and horizontally and is designed to accommodate a wider range of users compared to the IC3’s seat.
The IC3 is more focused on basic functionality while the IC4 offers more advanced features, making it suitable for tech-savvy users.

So, the Schwinn IC3 is ideal for those seeking a basic, budget-friendly indoor bike for a solid cardio workout. If you desire more advanced features, app connectivity, and a sturdier build that accommodates a broader range of users, the Schwinn IC4 would be the better choice.

Schwinn IC3 Indoor Cycling Bike vs Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike Features Overview

Here we list both bikes spec summary before getting into our detailed side by side comparison.

Infinite levels of Belt Drive Flywheel Resistance

LCD display

300 lbs user weight capacity

Has flywheel (40 lbs)

100 levels of Magnetic Resistance

Full Color LCD display

330 lbs user weight capacity

Has flywheel (40 lbs)

Schwinn IC3 Indoor Cycling Bike Specs vs Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike Specs

	Schwinn IC3 Indoor Cycling Bike Specs	Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike Specs
Resistance Type	Belt Drive Flywheel	Magnetic
Resistance Levels	Infinite	100
Foldable
Display	LCD	Full Color LCD
Heart Rate Monitor	Telemetry Enabled	Bluetooth Heart Rate Armband Included
User Weight Limit	300 lbs	330 lbs
Transport Wheels
Assembled Dimensions	49″ x 23″ x 45″	51.8″ x 21.2″ x 48.7″
Folded Dimensions	N/A	N/A
Weight		106 lbs
Flywheel Weight	40 lbs	40 lbs
Seat Handle
Incline
Decline
	See Price at Amazon	See Price at Amazon