When most people think of home gyms, the first thing that comes to mind is a big, bulky piece of equipment taking up all the space in their living room. But with the introduction of newer, more compact machines on the market, that’s no longer the only option. In this post, I’ll compare two popular home gym machines – the echelon EX3 and the Schwinn IC4 – to help you decide which is the right workout equipment.
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, which bike is right for you? In this article, I will compare and contrast these two models and help you decide which is best for advanced riders.
Both indoor cycling bikes have pros and cons, but ultimately I think the Schwinn IC 4 comes out on top. Keep reading to find out why!
Specifications:
Both are excellent choices if you’re looking for high-quality fitness equipment to help you reach your fitness goals. But, after trying them out, I have to say that I prefer the Schwinn exercise bike. Here’s why:
Echelon ex3 vs Schwinn ic4; Detailed Comparison
Design and Frame:
The echelon ex 3 and the Schwinn ic4 spin bikes have a sleek, modern design that will look great in any commercial setting. The echelon ex 3 has a slightly more compact frame than the Schwinn IC 4, which may be a consideration if you’re tight on space.
The echelon EX 3 has a steel frame, while the Schwinn IC 4 has an aluminum frame. Both bikes are sturdy, but the echelon may be slightly heavier and less portable. When getting a heavy-duty frame, Schwinn IC 4 is the better option.
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
Comfort and Convenience:
The echelon EX 3 and the Schwinn IC 4 spin bikes are equipped with cushioned seats and adjustable handlebars to ensure a comfortable ride for all users. However, the echelon ex 3 also has an additional gel seat cover available for purchase, which may be worth considering if comfort is a top priority.
The Schwinn Ic 4 has more bells and whistles than the Echelon Ex 3. For instance, with features like LCD consoles, metric tracking options, dumbbells, and 100 magnetic resistance levels – it is more comfortable to run on Schwinn.
Both bikes have fully adjustable seats (height and fore/aft). However, Schwinn IC 4 has urethane-dipped handlebars with a 4-way adjustment option, while Echelon offers only height adjustment of the handlebar.
The Schwinn IC 4 is no slouch regarding comfort and convenience. While workout, it felt more comfortable on Schwinn IC 4 than Echelon Ex 3.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
Display:
Schwinn IC 4 has an LCD console, while 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.
Schwinn IC 4 outweighs Echelon Ex 3 in this category with its state-of-the-art characteristics.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
Flywheel and Resistance Levels:
The echelon EX has a 28-pound flywheel, while the Schwinn IC has a 40-pound flywheel. This makes the echelon bike feel lighter and easier to peddle, while the Schwinn feels more substantial.
However, it is great to have a heavier flywheel for spin bikes as it feels smoother during workouts.
Both bikes have magnetic resistance, which is virtually silent and very smooth. However, the echelon EX has 32 levels of magnetic resistance, while the Schwinn IC4 has 100. This means you can get a wider range of workouts on the Schwinn exercise bike.
As Schwinn has a heavier flywheel and more levels of magnetic resistance, the winning fitness equipment would be
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
Tech Integration and 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, including 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.
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. Echelon Ex 3, on the other hand, 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.
Both bikes work with live and on-demand classes, but, It’s clear that Schwinn has more advanced features, connectivity with more fitness apps, integrated screen, resistance level, and tech integration than Echelon.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
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 price is a major consideration for you, then the Echelon bike may be a better option at a very affordable price.
Winner: Echelon Ex 3
Warranty:
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
Schwinn ic4 vs Echelon ex3; Overall Winner
The Schwinn IC 4 is a great choice for those who want a top-of-the-line recumbent bike with good levels of magnetic resistance, live and on-demand workout programs, Bluetooth connectivity, an adjustable console, and dual-link pedals with toe cages. However, if the price is a concern, the Echelon smart connect Ex 3 may be a budget-friendly option. Whichever bike you choose, you’re sure to get a great workout!
However, in terms of all the perks it has, a little price difference does not matter. Schwinn IC 4 bike justifies the price range as it has many more features that Echelon Ex 3 bike does not have.
Schwinn IC 4 is more impressive in the top categories, so it would stand out as winning workout equipment.
Winner: Schwinn IC 4
Similarities and Differences: At A Glance
Have a quick look at the similarities and differences of Schwinn IC4 and Echelon EX3!
| 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 |
Areej is a health and fitness enthusiast who aims to provide the public with the information they need to make the right health and fitness decisions. She’s passionate about debunking fitness-related myths by presenting evidence-based recommendations and research in a useful way.
