Bowflex Velocore vs. Bowflex C6 vs. Schwinn IC4: Detailed Comparison

By Nick Benhoff, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Pn L1 Nutrition Coach.

Quick Summary

The Bowflex Velocore is one of the highest quality bikes on the market right now. They offer everything that companies like Peloton put into their bikes, but they add more. With the immersive technology Bowflex provides in their Velocore model, you’ll forget you’re even riding in your home. 

The Bowflex C6 and Schwinn IC4 may be more introductory bikes, but don’t let that sway you from one of the best decisions you’ll make. These bikes have some of the best specs and come from reputable companies that provide fantastic customer service and premium builds. 

In today’s article, we’re going to be going through the differences between these three indoor cycles. The C6 and IC4 are so similar that they’ll be compared together. Although this looks like an easy win for the Velocore, you’ll be surprised at how ready the C6 and IC4 are for the challenge.

Stick around and see which of these bikes you’ll be adding to your home gym!

Key Differences

When looking at the differences between these bikes, the first thing you’ll notice is the Velocore bike has a large console instead of a tablet holder like the C6 and IC4. The Velocore bike gives you the choice of either a 16″ console or 22″ console with a variety of additional streaming options. 

Both the C6 and IC4 have a backlit LED console that will connect to various apps that show your metrics, but you’ll still need a tablet or phone to enjoy the classes offered. 

The main differences when looking at the bikes include

• The Velocore bike has the look and feel of a premium indoor cycle. The sturdy yet sleek design of the Velocore is not matched by the design of the C6 or IC4.
• The Velocore bike comes with a handle attachment, which makes moving the bike much more manageable.
• The Velocore bike comes with Leaning Mode giving riders a more immersive experience.
• The HD console on the Velocore bike is on a separate attachment on the bike, allowing more room on the bike itself.
• Stream your favorite apps right from the center console on the Velocore bike.
• The C6 and IC4 have a better warranty of 10 years for the frame, three years for parts and electronics, and one year for labor. The Velocore bike only gives users two years mechanical, two years electronic, and one year labor.
• The Velocore bike will take up more room in your home, allows 325lbs of max user weight vs. 330lbs for C6 and IC4, and weighs an additional 70lbs when assembled.
• The main difference is cost. The Velocore bike will cost you an additional $800-$1,300.Line 1

Although the Velocore bike is the premium option, it’s important to note that you’ll have to use Bowflex’s JRNY membership to use the bike to its full potential. Unlike the C6 and IC4, which allow you to connect to any tablet, the Velocore bike makes it mandatory to have their membership to use. If you’re not looking to pay for an extra membership you may not use, this is an essential distinction between bikes. 

The C6 and IC4 are your traditional indoor bikes. If this is all you’re looking for, you’ll want to stick with one of these. However, if you’re looking for something more, the Velocore bike is the immersive option for you. With its interactive JRNY experience paired with the Leaning Mode option, you’ll experience indoor cycling like never before. 

There are a few differences between these three bikes. When comparing the C6 and IC4, we’re looking at the same bike. The Velocore bike is still the premium option, but that doesn’t mean it’s without flaws. You may just be looking for a bike you can use with your tablet, so the C6 and IC4 will be more than enough. 

Key Similarities

As I said above, the C6 and IC4 are the same bikes. They have the exact dimensions, weight, and max user weight. Although they may be missing some of the premium features that the Velocore bike has to offer, there are quite a few similarities you’ll find when comparing these bikes. 

The main similarities include 

• All three give you the availability to stream other services like the Pelton app, Zwift, and Explore the World. Unfortunately, with the Velocore, you’ll have to stream these from a phone or tablet, but the Bluetooth will still track your metrics. 
• All the bikes come with an adjustable seat and dual-link pedals with toe cages. 
• All three will provide you with up to 100 resistance levels and ensure you have a smooth and quiet riding experience. 
• A media rack is included on all of the bikes for your phone or tablet. 
• Tone your arms with the 3lbs dumbbells included. 

As I said, there are a bunch of similarities in these bikes. They’ll offer you all of the same services, giving you great workouts. Both companies will provide you with free shipping and the ability to add in-home assembly for just a few hundred dollars. This is an excellent option if you live by yourself. 

Bowflex C6 & Schwinn IC4 Detailed Review

Bowflex C6 Bike

4.8

The perfect Peloton alternative. The connectivity with many apps (including Zwift), sturdy frame, and great price make it a top choice in the market.

Price & Reviews Discount Check

Schwinn IC4 Bike

4.8

Thanks to the magnetic resistance with 100 levels, the ride is quiet and smooth via a 40lbs flywheel. It comes with a beautiful backlit display screen.

Price & Reviews Discount Check

These are excellent options for your home gym. They have superb build quality, offer all the amenities and services you may want, and look fantastic. 

• Many reviewers have mentioned how these bikes’ assembly is relatively easy and doesn’t require any additional tools. The Bluetooth connects very quickly, and there are no problems with various devices. This makes riding the bike the same day you get it seamless and painless!
• A few users have complained about the seats and the fact that you can’t adjust the handlebars. Although this is a minor flaw, it will sway some people, especially if you have broader shoulders.

The Bowflex C6 and the Schwinn IC4 have many great things going for them without any negatives. You can enjoy multiple platforms, including the Peloton, Zwift, and Explore the World, which allows you to test yourself on various workouts.

With an excellent LCD monitor and steel fan, you’ll get a killer workout and be able to track everything you need.

Bowflex Velocore Detailed Review

Bowflex VeloCore Bike

4.9

The Bowflex Velocore bike has all of the features you’re looking for – magnetic resistance, toe slips, a large HD display, and a Bluetooth heart rate monitor! It comes with Leaning Mode, a feature that makes it stand out among the rest of these indoor bikes.

Pros:

• Leaning Mode
• HD Touch Screen with two different sizes
• Magnetic flywheel
• Explore 25 different destination rides
• Workouts get more challenging as you get stronger
• Download streaming services to watch while you ride

Cons:

• Weight Choices – Only one set of 3lbs dumbbells
• Radio Station – Music is separate from the instructors
• Assembly – It could take two people to assemble

Price & Reviews Discount Check

The Bowflex Velocore is one of the highest quality indoor bikes on the market. The bike comes with a sturdy and sleek design representing a premium product, and the specs are no joke either. This bike will cost you, but you do get what you pay for with this bike. 

The JRNY subscription isn’t going to be the best option for everyone; however, using outside subscriptions gives this bike a bonus. Keep track of your family’s metrics and enjoy one of the best bikes on the market. 

What’s the Verdict? Which Bike is Best for Me? 

You can’t go wrong with any of these bikes. If you’re someone who has the cash to spend on a premium bike, I’m going to recommend the Bowflex Velocore every time. If you’re strapped for cash, you can’t go wrong with the C6 or the IC4. They don’t have all of the features that the Velocore has, but they are excellent choices for indoor bikes. 

When it comes down to making the best choice, take everything we’ve laid out into consideration. I can’t choose for you, but with the provided information at your disposal, we hope we’ve made a choice easy for you. 

Nick Benhoff

Nick, is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA and a Pn L1 Nutrition Coach. He has over 10 years in the fitness world including training, coaching athletes, and working 1 on 1 with clients in the gym.