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

By
  • Kaleigh Ray
    Kaleigh Ray
    X
    Kaleigh Ray
    Kaleigh Ray

    Kaleigh received a master’s in Biomechanics from the University of Northern Colorado in 2022. She is a runner and competed in Division 2 cross country and track. Since college, she has competed in trail and road races from the mile to marathon distance. Kaleigh is certified as an exercise physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine and has worked as both a personal trainer and a running coach. At TRG, Kaleigh combines her expertise in biomechanics with over a decade of running experience to review and test treadmills and other fitness equipment.

    See full bio
August 15, 2024
Connect or disconnect with the Bowflex C6. Your training is all your own.

August 15, 2024
  • Kaleigh Ray
    Kaleigh Ray
    Product Reviewer, Content Writer, Biomechanist

“Budget” is a tricky word to use when talking about quality exercise equipment. We know the Bowflex C6 is much more expensive than an off-brand Amazon bike. However, it is an excellent option for someone who wants quality similar to a Peloton, NordicTrack, or other premium bike brand for less. The Bowflex C6 strips the high-ticket features to keep the price more reasonable.

I own about five smart screens: a phone, a tablet, two TVs, and an e-reader. Almost every one of those devices supports Peloton, iFIT, JRNY, or another indoor cycling platform. I live in an apartment, but I could set up my portable surround sound system and smart TV for the ultimate at-home studio cycling experience every time I wanted to exercise in less than 10 minutes.

So, why would I pay for another screen, speakers, and other inferior tech features?

I’m not going to. The Bowflex C6 is compatible (enough) with the training content I want. It’s half the price, and only one feature irritates me. I can overlook this annoyance–I didn’t notice it until another reviewer pointed it out–but you should read on in this review to find out if you can do the same.

Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike

Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike Review: Bottom Line

  • Star Rating
  • PriceMSRP: $799
  • ManufacturerBowflex
  • TypeStudio Cycle
Best Price at Bowflex
84
The Bowflex C6 does not require a training subscription and has a simple console that optionally pairs with cycling apps on your phone or tablet.
Rating MatricOur Rating
  • Workout Experience
    8
  • Specs / Features
    6
  • Dimensions / Storability
    9
  • On-Board Workouts & Apps
    5
  • Build Quality
    8
If your top pain point when shopping for an exercise bike is wanting a premium bike like the Peloton Bike+ or the NordicTrack S27i and being unable to justify the cost, check out the Bowflex C6. It is stripped down to the most essential features while keeping a build you can trust. Then, you connect to your favorite cycling app, throw on your headphones, and clip in.

The Bowflex C6 can be a bore on its own, but if you are the kind of indoor cyclist who wants to just ride–no judgment. I like to connect the C6 to Zwift or the Peloton app via Bluetooth. There’s a tablet rack, which makes the whole process super easy.

One last thing before we get into the nitty gritty: the Bowflex C6 is a better pick for anyone who needs to move their exercise bike around. Screens are bulky and cumbersome. So, without further ado, let me take you through my experience on the Bowflex C6, where I reveal what irked me and what sold me on a simple exercise bike.

What We Like
  • Use your favorite app with the C6 for a customized riding experience on an affordable bike
  • The C6 bike is virtually silent; the flywheel does not generate any noise; there is no impact noise while riding
  • This bike is lightweight and takes up less space than a treadmill, rower, etc.
  • Get a great, low-impact cardiovascular workout.
  • Any rider can use the C6 since it has hybrid pedals that will support an SPD shoe or any athletic shoe.
  • Sturdy and well-built, the C6 feels a step up from entry-level bikes with the functionality of high-end studio cycles.
  • Sleek black and red styling will look chic in your home or workout space
  • Four adjustment points enable riders of all sizes to find the right fit
Areas for Improvement
  • The bike is relatively new on the market, so there is limited information on long-term durability
  • Independent 3rd party apps all require their own subscription.
  • A tablet screen is typically smaller than the screens on the Peloton and Nordictrack bikes.
  • The tablet holder does not swivel and does not have an adjustable clip. You may need to remove any protective cover on your tablet for it to fit correctly.

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Bowflex C6 Video Review


We Are Cycling, Pedaling, and Biking Our Way Through These Reviews

Our reviewers spend a lot of time reviewing and testing exercise bikes. Even though we’re called Treadmill Review Guru, we test all kinds of fitness equipment and products. This includes exercise bikes.

When testing, we use all of the bike’s functions and assess things like the flywheel, resistance, pedals, handlebars, console, and saddle. An exercise bike should be functional, quiet, sturdy, and comfortable to use.

Editor’s Note, 8/15/2024: We updated this Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike to reflect our latest findings because our review process is ongoing.

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike Review: Bottom Line
  • Bowflex C6 Video Review
    • We Are Cycling, Pedaling, and Biking Our Way Through These Reviews
  • Bowflex C6 vs. Similar Exercise Bikes
  • Dimensions/Storability
  • Onboard Workouts & Apps
    • Pre-programmed workouts
    • Subscription Options
    • Console
    • Tablet Holder
    • Bluetooth/Cadence Sensor
    • Accessories
  • Build Quality
    • Frame
    • Geometry
    • Pedals
    • Plug
    • Flywheel
    • Saddle
    • Incline / Decline Range
    • Resistance Levels
    • Resistance Knob
  • Should You Buy the Bowflex C6
  • Bowflex C6 Q&A / FAQ
    • Can you use the Bowflex C6 without a subscription?
    • Do I need special shoes for the Bowflex C6 bike?
    • Is the Bowflex C6 the same as the Schwinn IC4?
    • Is the Bowflex C6 belt driven?
    • Category Posts

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike Review: Bottom Line
  • Bowflex C6 Video Review
    • We Are Cycling, Pedaling, and Biking Our Way Through These Reviews
  • Bowflex C6 vs. Similar Exercise Bikes
  • Dimensions/Storability
  • Onboard Workouts & Apps
    • Pre-programmed workouts
    • Subscription Options
    • Console
    • Tablet Holder
    • Bluetooth/Cadence Sensor
    • Accessories
  • Build Quality
    • Frame
    • Geometry
    • Pedals
    • Plug
    • Flywheel
    • Saddle
    • Incline / Decline Range
    • Resistance Levels
    • Resistance Knob
  • Should You Buy the Bowflex C6
  • Bowflex C6 Q&A / FAQ
    • Can you use the Bowflex C6 without a subscription?
    • Do I need special shoes for the Bowflex C6 bike?
    • Is the Bowflex C6 the same as the Schwinn IC4?
    • Is the Bowflex C6 belt driven?
    • Category Posts

Bowflex C6 vs. Similar Exercise Bikes

Check out this quick comparison chart to see how the Bowflex C6 compares to other exercise bikes.

Bowflex C6 Exercise BikeBowflex C6Schwinn IC4 Exercise BikeSchwinn IC4Peloton BikePeloton BikeEchelon EX-5s-22 Exercise BikeEchelon EX-5s-22NordicTrack S22i Studio BikeNordicTrack S22i
Price (MSRP)
Star Rating
Bottom LineThe Bowflex C6 has a simple, compact, yet sturdy design that you can pair with your phone or just hop on and ride.This is an uncomplicated exercise bike that lets you pedal for miles while connecting to your favorite apps.The Peloton Bike has earned its place as one of the most notorious exercise bikes with premium training content from the best instructors backed by playlists you’ll love.A rear flywheel paired with a large touchscreen to take studio trainer-led workouts makes this bike less prone to sweat damage.FIT and the inclining and declining frame make this an extremely interactive and fun exercise bike.
Awards Earned
Check PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
ProductBowflex C6Schwinn IC4Peloton BikeEchelon EX-5s-22NordicTrack S22i
Workout Experience
8
8
8
8
9
Specs / Features
6
6
8
8
9
Dimensions / Storability
9
9
7
6
8
On-Board Workouts & Apps
5
6
9
7
9
Build Quality
8
8
8
8
8
Overall Score
84
84
84
79
90
# of Onboard Workouts11122
Paid Programming - CostN/AN/A$44/monthEchelon - $39.99/monthiFIT - $39/month
Netflix / 3rd Party AppsN/AN/ANetflix, Disney+, Max, YouTube TV, NBAN/ANetflix, Prime Video (Beta Testing)
DisplayBacklit LCDLCD22” touchscreen22” rotating HD touchscreen22” rotating HD touchscreen
Dimensions (In Use)54.6" L x 30.7" W x 51.8" H48.7” L x 21.2” W x 51.8” H59” L x 23” W x 53” H58” L x 20” W61” L x 22” W x 58” H
Pedal TypeHybridHybridDeltaHybridHybrid
# of Adjustment Points44343
Bike Weight113.6 lbs106 lbs135 lbs124 lbs205 lbs (in box)
Weight Capacity330 lbs330 lbs297 lbs300 lbs350 lbs
Flywheel Weight40 lbs40 lbs30 lbs29 lbs32 lbs
Max Resistance100 levels100 levels100 resistance levels32 levels24 levels
Resistance TypeMagneticMagneticMagneticMagneticMagnetic
Warranty10-year frame, 3-year mechanical parts, 1-year labor10-year frame, 3-year parts, 1-year labor5-year frame, 1-year parts and labor1-year10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Additional FeaturesIncluded 3 lb dumbbells, included Bluetooth heart rate armband, connects to Peloton and Zwift appsBluetooth enabled, syncs with JRNY, Peloton, and Zwift apps, includes two 3 lb dumbbells Leaderboard, live and on-demand classes, Lane Break gameRear flywheel, resistance knob, two cup holders20% incline and -10% decline, two 3 lb weights included, storage tray
Show full specification detailsHide full specification details

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.

Bowflex C6 Zwift

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.

Bowflex C6 Console

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.

Bowflex C6 Bike Frame

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.

Bowflex C6 Stabilizers

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.

Bowflex C6 Pedals

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.

Bowflex C6 Flywheel

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.

Bowflex C6 Seat

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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