Bowflex C6 Review: The (Almost) Perfect Budget Exercise Bike

Dimensions/Storability

The C6 bike does not fold up and has dimensions of 48.7″ L x 21.2″ W x 51.8″ H. There are wheels under the front stabilizer so you can tip the bike and gently roll it out of the way. Remove any weights before doing this! We made the mistake of rolling the bike without removing the weights first, and they came tumbling down towards the screen and our toes.

We also recommend removing your tablet before you tilt and roll the bike. A bike mat under the bike will keep it secure on the floor (so it doesn’t walk) and reduce floor vibration and noise as well.

Onboard Workouts & Apps

Pre-programmed workouts

There are no pre-programmed workouts on the C6. The console displays real-time metrics but doesn’t offer any programs or training plans.

Subscription Options

Bowflex has a couple of fitness apps (Explore the World and JRNY), but these aren’t any better than any other external cycling app you may enjoy. Explore the World app allows you to ride landscape videos all over the world with breathtaking views and videography.

You can purchase a subscription to all the Peloton classes (both live and on-demand) via the $13/month digital online app. However, community functionality is reduced in this version. You won’t show up on the Leaderboard or get Shout Outs if you are not on a Peloton bike. (The Peloton app is now available on Apple TV as well)

Pairing with the Peloton app is easy. Simply turn on the bike and begin to pedal so the screen is active. Press the Bluetooth button on the C6 LCD console. Open the Peloton app and launch a class. Once you have started a class, select the Bluetooth option on the Peloton screen. It will bring up the option of HR Strap or Cadence.

Under the box that says cadence, you should see ‘ICBike.’ This is your Bowflex bike. Select it, and your cadence should appear on the Peloton screen so you can see it while watching the program. Your LCD console on the bike still works, so you can get metrics from it, too. The Peloton app won’t output metrics for speed or calories, but you can see cadence.

The Bowflex C6 works great with Zwift workouts

Zwift is a very popular virtual reality cycling app that allows you to compete with and against other riders on a virtual course. Zwift allows friends (and competitors) to ride at the same time, even if they are across the country. The Bowflex C6 syncs with Zwift for interactive training.

Console

The bike computer displays time, calories, speed, distance, cadence (RPM), levels, and pulse (heart rate).

You can select Miles or Kilometers on the console. To switch units between kilometers and miles before a workout, push the Increase and Decrease buttons at the same time and hold for 3 seconds. Then, push the Increase/Decrease button to change the units (km/mi). Once the desired unit of distance is displayed, push any other button to save your preference.

One thing we noticed is there is one external cord that extends from the back of the console and drapes into the head tube. Occasionally, we found this got in the way of either the weights or the water bottle cage. We recommend tucking this cord back out of the way so you don’t catch it when grabbing your weights or water bottle.

The console is well within reach and visibility.

Tablet Holder

Above the console computer is a tablet holder that should hold most devices securely. It is not adjustable, so you may need to remove any protective covers that are thick or heavy in order for your tablet to fit. The tablet holder does not pivot or swivel. The tablet holder and Bluetooth connection built into the bike enhance functionality significantly.

Bluetooth/Cadence Sensor

Since the bike is Bluetooth enabled, it will sync with any number of external fitness apps that can be viewed on your tablet. Sometimes, your workout metrics may be a bit off based on disparities between your weight and how the app calculates calories or wattage, but this can be adjusted by playing with your personal metrics in the app.

We love the streamlined functionality here, as the bike is designed to work with any number of apps. If the app syncs via Bluetooth and can interpret the cadence sensor, you should be able to get some of your ride info to stream to the bike. Bike metrics will be in real-time; app metrics may be slightly delayed.

Apps that are supported (as listed by Bowflex) include Explore the World, Peloton, Zwift, Sufferfest, Rouvy, FulGaz, Tacx, TrainerRoad, and MyFitness Pal.

Accessories

Two front-mounted weight cages (3-lb weights included). We like the weights at the front of the bike, tucked up under the water bottle cages and handlebars. This way, you can reach them when necessary, but they’re not in your way either.

There is a chance that your knees could possibly contact the weights — especially for taller riders — so we recommend making sure your handlebars are raised enough that you don’t contact the weight or water bottle cages with your knees when riding out of the saddle.

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Build Quality

Frame

The Bowflex C6 consists of a steel frame with welded junction points, front-mounted wheels, a plastic drive cover, and steel handlebars coated with a spongy grip material. The bike feels stable when you are riding.

We are impressed with how sturdy this bike feels, especially considering how affordable it is.

There are also adjustable levelers under the front and rear stabilizers so you can make sure the bike doesn’t rock on your floor.

Each leveler can be individually adjusted via the notched knob on the side.

Each leveler can be individually adjusted via the notched knob on the side.

There are four points of adjustment. The seat raises up and down as well as forward and backward. The handlebars move up, down, forward, and backward.

Geometry

The Bowflex C6 bike is designed like a road bike with the saddle roughly in line with the handlebars so riders hinge at the hips and lean forward. The saddle also sits directly above the pedal cranks, and the handlebars are just above the flywheel.

This “square” design makes for a very evenly spaced fit that feels much like an outdoor road bike. Other bike manufacturers (Keiser, Echelon) use a V-shaped design where the saddle and handlebars are in line with each other, but the flywheel is tucked back adjacent to the pedals underneath the saddle. The Bowflex C6 has a very traditional feel and design.

Pedals

We are impressed with the Bowflex C6 pedal. Unlike other spin bikes that use plastic pedals, these are made of aluminum and have rubber grips along the perimeter for strength. These are dual pedals: one side has SPD clips, and the other is a flat pedal with an adjustable cage on top that will support any athletic shoe.

The toe cages are adjustable to hold your feet securely in place.

We love that Bowflex has opted for quality pedals that most riders can use. Rather than the Peloton pedals, which will only work with Delta LOOK cleats, the C6 pedals support SPD shoes (your standard spin bike shoe) and regular athletic shoes. This means riders of all experience levels can enjoy the C6. You don’t have to have a separate pair of cycling shoes for every rider.

The pedals are replaceable with any 9/16″ pedal. Pedal cranks are 170mm long.

Plug

The Bowflex C6 includes an AC power adapter that plugs into the left side of the front stabilizer. Power is required to operate the console. However, the resistance knob is magnetically calibrated, so it does not require a power source. If you want to ride without power, the bike will function — you just won’t get any data from the console. Bluetooth also requires power.

Flywheel

Flywheel weight matters. When using an indoor bike, you don’t have the benefit of external momentum to keep your wheel spinning. For this reason, exercise bikes are designed to have weighted flywheels that gain and maintain inertia as they spin. This keeps the flywheel motion smooth and fluid.

The front-mounted flywheel is smooth and adds to the overall construction.

If a flywheel is underweight, it can lag on the backend without enough momentum to pull it through the full rotation. Less expensive bikes typically have lighter flywheels, which may translate into a jerky pedal motion. We love that the Bowflex C6 uses a 40-lb flywheel. This is heavier than both the Peloton and NordicTrack flywheels (at roughly 30 lbs each).

Saddle

The Bowflex C6 saddle is lightly padded and moderately comfortable. We say moderately because no bike saddle is really very comfortable.

The red seat coordinates with the color of the bike.

In fact, wide-padded saddles can lead to an increased risk of saddle sores and raw spots. A slim saddle with minimal padding is actually preferable for long rides or consistent use as it reduces friction points on the inner thigh and groin area and reduces sweat and/or moisture build-up.

If you are new to indoor cycling, the saddle may feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but after a few rides (and increased glute definition), you will get used to it.

The saddle cannot be swapped out for a different seat, but you could add a gel seat cover if desired. If you do this, make sure to adjust the height of your seat stem, as many gel covers add a few inches of depth.

You can raise and lower the saddle as well as move it forward and backward. Ideal positioning keeps a gentle 25-35 degree bend in the knee with the foot flat in the pedal. Seat adjustment is adequate. There are measurements on both the seat tube and saddle carriage, so you can find the right setting each time. This is especially helpful for households with multiple riders.

Bowflex indicates the bike can be adjusted to fit riders between 4’6″ and 6’6″.

Incline / Decline Range

There is no incline or decline built into the C6 bike. The NordicTrack s22i and some ProForm bikes offer incline and decline, but the Bowflex bike sits firmly on the ground. It will not create any incline while riding.

Resistance Levels

Magnetic resistance creates frictionless resistance against the flywheel. This type of resistance is found on high-end bikes. It is quiet because there are no friction points and less wear and tear on the flywheel and brake pads. Magnetic resistance is also very quiet. Since there is no contact, you don’t feel or hear any squeaking or rubbing noise when pedaling.

The levels don’t line up exactly with Peloton’s 100 levels. Each manufacturer measures and calibrates their resistance differently, so level 20 on the C6 may not feel exactly the same as level 20 on the Peloton bike. Additionally, the Peloton bike seems to have more resistance at higher levels (90-100).

Stronger riders who can push more resistance on the bike may notice that the peak resistance isn’t as challenging on the C6 as on the Peloton bike. However, it is certainly enough to get your heart rate racing. You can also adjust the resistance settings on your C6 if you want more of a challenge.

When following a 3rd party app, you have to adjust your resistance based on direction from the app — the bike doesn’t have automated resistance that will sync with 3rd party apps.

Resistance Knob

The Bowflex C6 uses a resistance knob to adjust different resistance levels. There are both perks and drawbacks to knob resistance.

Knob resistance is easy to use and reach. We love how intuitive it feels to just reach down and tweak the knob gently to add resistance. It is a good size and feels comfortable in your hand.

When you turn the resistance knob, your level of resistance is displayed on the LCD screen. Compatible apps display your cadence as well. When using the Peloton app, the cadence is displayed on the screen, which is very convenient.

The only issue is you can’t quickly jump from one level to another. You need to turn up the dial and kind of guess where it will take you. The LCD display is pretty accurate, but it takes just a few seconds to register your resistance level after turning the knob.

We love the use of magnetic resistance with preset digital levels. If you are using level 44 (my preferred level for a gradual incline), it will be the same every time you get to level 44.

The use of 1-100 resistance levels makes it easy to know exactly where you are. Other bikes have 34, 32, or even 16 levels of resistance which is much harder to determine the breakdown in smaller increments. We like that Bowflex has divided their resistance levels into an easy 100.

Resistance is not automated in any app or program; you will always have to adjust it yourself.

Magnetic resistance is quiet, and the C6 is pretty quiet when pedaling.

Should You Buy the Bowflex C6

The Bowflex C6 exercise bike is my new favorite exercise bike! I love the 40lb flywheel, steel frame, sleek styling, and Bluetooth functionality that allows it to pair with any number of fitness apps. Bowflex has thought through the design of the C6 to provide riders with what they are looking for — a solid bike that syncs with your favorite training program.

You can use any app you want on the Bowflex C6. You aren’t locked into one service. It also reduces the number of electronic parts that could possibly break or become outdated. A screen attached to your workout equipment may become a dated model, and we like the forward-thinking design behind the C6.

The weighted flywheel creates a smooth ride, and the handlebars and four adjustment points keep the geometry comfortable. Both the pedals and saddle on the C6 are very comfortable, and the four adjustment points make it easy for riders of all sizes to use and be comfortable on this bike.

We find the C6 to be a great option for home riders who want to stay active, stay safe, and enjoy the advantages of working out at your personal convenience. If you like using different apps while cycling, the Bowflex C6 is a great indoor bike to consider!

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Bowflex C6 Q&A / FAQ

Can you use the Bowflex C6 without a subscription?

Yes, you can use the Bowflex C6 without a JRNY subscription. The C6 works with a variety of apps like JRNY, Peloton, Zwift, and more. You can also use the Bowflex C6 without any apps.

Do I need special shoes for the Bowflex C6 bike?

The Bowflex C6 works with regular athletic shoes or SPD cycling shoes. It has hybrid pedals.

Is the Bowflex C6 the same as the Schwinn IC4?

Yes, the Bowflex C6 and the Schwinn IC4 are essentially the same bike. There are negligible differences between them. Bowflex and Schwinn have the same parent company.

Is the Bowflex C6 belt driven?

Yes, the Bowflex C6 is a belt-driven exercise bike. It is very quiet and smooth. The resistance is magnetic.

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