The Schwinn IC3 Indoor Cycling Bike Review - Nice Upgraded Model

The Schwinn IC3 is a relatively new indoor cycling bike from Schwinn, an upgrade of the popular IC2 base model with more features and capabilities.

Still quite affordable at under $650 on sale, it has a heavier flywheel for smoother, quieter operation and a heavier, more durable frame than the IC2.

Let's get into our review to see what this new bike is all about...

Schwinn IC3 - The Bike

The IC3 is is sleek and modern looking, all black with red accents.  It has a nice sized LCD display showing you all of the important workout feedback, plenty of adjustability for a comfortable ride and unlimited resistance levels to make your ride as challenging as you'd like.

Here are some of the most appealing specs...

• 40-pound flywheel
• Infinite resistance levels
• Multi-position handlebars
• Pedal toe cages/SPD clips
• 300-lb user weight capacity
• Wireless heart rate monitoring
• Water bottle holder
• Dimensions/Wt: 45"L x 23"W x 49"H / 100 pounds
• Warranty: 5 years frame, 2 year parts/electronics, 1 year labor

The Buzz

The new Schwinn IC3 is a welcome addition to the lineup, giving users another option when it comes to indoor cycling bikes.

Although the base IC2 has been a good seller for the company, it is very basic and is not really meant for anything more than very light usage.

That's not to say that the IC3 is a commercial-grade bike by any stretch...but it's certainly a step up, and a better option for those that plan on using the indoor exercise bike on a regular basis.

If you want something even more advanced you can check out the Schwinn IC4, which has Bluetooth capability allowing you to tap into JRNY and other fitness apps.

Let's take a look at the best features....

The Pros

You get an impressive 40 lb. flywheel, which is 9 lbs. heavier than the one on the IC2.  A heavier flywheel means the bike will operate more smoothly, which makes for a more enjoyable workout.

The Schwinn IC3 has a larger display as well, which makes it easier to see all of your workout information: it adds heart rate beats per minute on top of the time, RPM, speed, distance and calorie feedback.

Another upgrade is the ability to choose which pedals you want to use...either the toe cages or SPD clips...the base model doesn't give you this capability.

You can measure your heart rate wirelessly, which tends to be more accurate than grip pulse.  You do need to purchase the chest strap separately, as it's not included with the bike.  

Some of the extras include a water bottle holder, tablet shelf, transport wheels, levelers for stabilization and a ventilated racing seat.

You get a lot of great features with the Schwinn IC3, especially given the very affordable price tag.

So there's a lot of good....anything bad we uncovered during our reviews?

The Cons

There's not a lot of bad when it comes to the new IC3.  It's hard to really complain when you're paying under $650 for an indoor exercise bike with a lot of capability.

Still, if we had to point out something it would be the warranty, which is one of the low points of most of the Schwinn exercise bikes and other cardio equipment that they offer.

Although the coverage is more comprehensive than on the base IC2, you only get 5 years on the frame, 2 years on parts and 1 year on labor.

It would be nice to get a stronger warranty, as many other manufacturers give you more coverage than this, even on similarly priced exercise bikes.

That's really our only gripe, and hopefully something the company addresses at some point in the near future. They do offer a 3 year and 5 year Schwinn Protection Plan, so those would definitely service you well...just for peace of mind.

Schwinn IC3 vs IC4 - Which is Better?

You may be wondering how the Schwinn IC3 compares to the new IC4 model. Let's take a closer look at that...

The Schwinn IC4 is about $300-$350 more expensive than the IC3, depending on the current sale. But it does give you a lot more functionality.

With its Bluetooth capability you're able to access the company's JRNY program (interactive on-demand workouts), as well as Peloton, Zwift and other fitness apps.

The IC4 also comes with a USB charging port, 3-lb dumbbells, a heart rate armband, more advanced display, an additional water bottle holder, higher 330 lb. max weight capacity and a stronger warranty.

So if you have the budget for it, you're definitely getting a lot more capability from the IC4 vs the IC3.

IC3 Exercise Bike Review - Bottom Line

If you're looking for an indoor cycling bike that's a step up from your typical entry level model, the Schwinn IC3 is definitely worth considering.

It gives you a heavy flywheel, smooth motion, unlimited resistance levels and wireless heart rate monitoring, as well as plenty of adjustability for the perfect fit, and pedal options.

The only real drawback is the warranty, which could definitely be stronger.  But other than that this is a decent choice for your home gym.

If you want to save a little money, look at the base IC2 as well...and if you want something more advanced, take a look at the IC4.