Echelon EX3 vs Schwinn IC4 | Which is the right spin bike for you?
When most people think of home gyms, the first thing that comes to mind is a big, bulky piece of equipment. That’s normal and it takes up huge space in their living room. Yet, the scenario has changed now. In this post, I’ll compare two popular home gym machines Echelon EX3 vs Schwinn IC4 for you to decide which is the right workout equipment.
Introduction of newer and more compact machines in the market. Forget the old options. You have many choices if you’re in the market for a new commercial spin bike. Two of the most popular models are the echelon EX3 and the Schwinn IC4.
So, let’s do their one-on-one comparison.
Note: Both indoor cycling bikes have pros and cons, but ultimately as per my research I think the Schwinn IC 4 comes out on top.
Keep reading to find out why!
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Technical Specifications
Both bikes offer high-quality fitness performance to help you attain your fitness goals. But, after trying them out, I have to say that I prefer the Schwinn exercise bike.
Here’s why:
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Echelon Ex3 vs Schwinn Ic4 – Exploring Its Features
Below I mentioned each feature in detail so you can dig deep into their output.
1. Design & Frame
First of all, both the Echelon ex 3 and the Schwinn ic4 spin bikes have a sleek and modern design. It looks great in any commercial setting. The echelon ex 3 has a slightly more compact frame than the Schwinn IC 4.
However, Echelon EX 3 has a steel frame, while Schwinn IC 4 has an aluminum frame. Both bikes are sturdy, but the echelon may be slightly heavier due to its material. Also, it’s less portable. That’s why it’s a better option as a heavy-duty frame.
Similarly, both bikes have SPD-compatible pedals with toe cages. The SPD pedals are great if you use your bike for racing or triathlons. The maximum weight capacity of IC 4 and Ex 3 is 330 lbs and 300 lbs, respectively.
In terms of overall weight, both bikes have a minimal difference.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
2. Comfort & Convenience
Secondly, Echelon EX 3 and Schwinn IC 4 spin bikes feature cushioned seats and adjustable handlebars for rider comfort. Echelon offers an extra gel seat cover for those who prioritize comfort.
Yet, the Schwinn IC 4 boasts additional features including an LCD console, diverse metric tracking, dumbbells, and 100 levels of magnetic resistance. So, you can experience a smoother ride.
Both bikes allow seat adjustments. The Schwinn IC 4’s handlebars adjust four ways with a urethane coating, surpassing Echelon’s height-only handlebar adjustment.
Also, during workouts, the Schwinn IC 4 often provides superior comfort compared to the Echelon EX 3.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
3. Display
Watching digital content while spin-riding is a new norm. The Schwinn IC 4 has an LCD console, while the Echelon Ex 3 does not. On Echelon, you will find a tablet holder to which you can attach it easily.
Conversely, Schwinn is more advanced as it has a built-in console that displays your workout metrics. Schwinn’s display shows more information, including your heart rate, calories burned, RMPs, and distance pedaled.
That’s why IC 4 outweighs Echelon Ex 3 in this category with its state-of-the-art characteristics.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
4. Flywheel & Resistance Levels
The Echelon EX’s flywheel weighs 28 pounds, lighter for easy pedaling. The Schwinn IC features a 40-pound flywheel for a gym-grade experience. Heavier flywheels are preferred for their smoother motion in tough workouts.
Therefore, both bikes have silent, magnetic resistance. The Echelon has 32 resistance settings. Schwinn IC4 provides 100 settings for detailed intensity control. Given the flywheel weight and resistance variety, the Schwinn IC proves to be the stronger fitness equipment.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
[irp posts=”1573″ ]5. Tech Integration & Other Features
Both exercise bikes are Bluetooth-compatible. But, The Schwinn IC 4 has a few more tech features than the Echelon Ex 3. Schwinn IC 4 connects with many other fitness apps for live and on-demand classes.
For instance, Peloton App, Zwift App, Explore the World Fitness App, and more. On the other hand, Echelon Ex 3 offers Bluetooth connectivity with one fitness app, the Echelon Fit App.
Meanwhile, Schwinn also has a Bluetooth heart rate monitor and an additional armband, while Echelon Ex 3 does not. Moreover, Schwinn IC 4 comes with 3 lb dumbbells, a media rack, and two water bottle holders. Ex 3 comes with a dumble rack, but you will have to get the weights separately.
When it comes to ease of use in workout programs, both bikes are pretty good. Yet, it’s clear that Schwinn has more advanced features. In terms of connectivity with more fitness apps, integrated screens, resistance levels, and tech integration.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
6. Price Factor
The echelon EX-series is also a bit less expensive than the Schwinn IC-series. The echelon costs around $799, while the Schwinn IC-series costs around $879.
So, if budget is a concern, the Echelon Ex 3 might be a better option for you.
Although there’s not much difference, the Schwinn IC 4 is a more expensive model than the Echelon smart connect Ex 3. However, both bikes are comparable in terms of features and quality. If you’re conscious about price then Echelon may be a better option at a very affordable price.
Winner: Echelon Ex 3
7. Warranty Period
One of the key differences between these two indoor cycles is the warranty. The echelon EX-series offers a 12-month limited warranty, while the Schwinn ic bikes offer only a ten-year longer warranty. This could be important if you use your bike heavily or for many years.
Echelon Ex 3 Warranty
- 12 Months Limited (Labor And Parts)
Schwinn IC 4 Warranty
- 1 year electrical
- 90 days labor
- 10 years frame
- 3 years parts
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
[irp posts=”1616″ ]Schwinn Ic4 vs Echelon Ex3 – Who Wins Finally?
The Schwinn IC 4 packs premium features like varied resistance, on-demand classes, and Bluetooth. It also has an adjustable console and toe-cage pedals. If you’re budget-conscious, the Echelon Ex 3 is less expensive.
Yet, Schwinn’s extra features justify its higher cost. For the best in class, Schwinn IC 4 is the top pick.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
Similarities & Differences: Schwinn Ic4 vs Echelon Ex3
Let’s have a quick look at their similarities & differences before I move on to the conclusion:
| Similarities | Differences |
|---|---|
| Magnetic resistance in both bikes | Schwinn ic4 has,large dimension,heavy flywheel more weight and maximum allowed weight |
| Water bottle and blue tooth connectivity is available | Schwinn ic4 has more warranty and different frame material |
| Dual-compatible Pedals | Schwinn ic4 has more resistance level |
| Schwinn ic4 has LCD console whereas Echelon ex3 has 21.5" HD | |
| Schwinn IC4 can be connected with Peloton, Zwift, Explore the World App, and more | |
| Schwinn IC4 is expensive and has dumpbell |
