Bowflex C7 IC Bike | Offers 100-Level Magnetic Resistance System

The Bowflex C7 IC Bike has a standard spin bike construction without the side-to-side leaning feature of the VeloCore bikes. In addition, it comes with a smaller  7″ console than the ones included with the VeloCore models. However, its console has the same features and apps pre-installed.

Smooth, 100 magnetic resistance levels mean you can ride day or night – in total quiet. Crank up the resistance for the perfect lung-quaking challenge, or dial it back for optimal cruise control. You’ll focus on the day’s deed and your body’s needs with so many resistance levels.

A JRNY Membership (19.95 monthly) unlocks the ability to binge your existing Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ accounts from the adjustable HD touchscreen. Can’t decide between workouts and entertainment? Don’t. You can do both at once.

Variety is the fruit of life. If you’ve got Peloton and Zwift subscriptions, you can connect and view from your smartphone, tablet, or smart TV. Then, bend the rules by streaming thousands of live and on-demand classes from an immersive experience.

Learn more in my complete review below!

Product: Bowflex C7 IC Bike

Price: For a great deal on this bike, merely go here to Amazon.com

Warranty: Frame 3 years / Parts 3 years / Electronics 1 year / Labor 1 year

My rating: is 8/10

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in this post. Full disclosure

Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 48.1L x 24.1W x 52.6H inches (122L x 61.2W x 133.6H cm)
• Assembled weight: 111.1 lbs (50.4 kg)
• Flywheel weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
• Supported weight: 330 lbs (150 kg)
• Seat: 4-way adjustable
• Drive system: Belt
• Resistance: Magnetic, 100 levels
• Console: 7″ display, wireless connectivity, multiple apps pre-installed
• Extras: Device holder, bottle holders, dumbbell set
• Warranty: Frame 3 years / Parts 3 years / Electronics 1 year / Labor 1 year

C7 Frame Construction

The Bowflex C7 IC features a triangular frame with a slightly curved top tube, while the longitudinal base tube welds to the front and seat tube bases. The bike’s steel tubing frame offers superior sturdiness, designed to support any spin workout.

All the steel bars in the bike’s construction come double-coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish, black. Of course, the bike also integrates several plastic parts. The most notable ones are the cover of the drivetrain and the cover of the brake.

The bike is relatively heavy. It weighs approximately 111 lbs (50.4 kg) with all the parts assembled. Thus, two people should transport the packaged bike or use a hand cart. However, once completed, one person can quickly move the bike as its front base stabilizer features two transport wheels.

The bike is pretty stable due to its low center of gravity. So you can be sure it won’t wobble or rock under you even if you engage in a high-intensity spin workout. Plus, both base stabilizers incorporate adjustable levelers.

Last but not least, the Bowflex C7 is not a large fitness machine. It is approximately 48.1″ (122 cm) long and 24.1″ (61.2 cm). Therefore, it is advisable to allow a clearance of at least two feet around it for safe usage and easy access.

Seat and handlebars

The Bowflex C7 IC has a saddle designed for superior comfort; its top section integrates a foam cushioning layer. In addition, it has contoured with a median groove for improved breathability.

It also has a standard collar-type attachment system. Thus, you can easily remove it if necessary, and compatible options are widely available.

The seat assembly is four-way adjustable (front, back, up, down). The upright post offers multiple adjustment positions, and its horizontal slider adds a few extra inches for front-to-back adjustment.

Therefore, the bike comfortably accommodates users up to 6’5″ (196 cm) with no problem. Taller persons can still use the bike but may not benefit from a complete leg extension. Also, the bike’s maximum user weight capacity is 330 lbs (150 kg).

The bike comes equipped with a multi-grip handlebar. It makes available six grips, including a climbing grip, a cruise grip, a close grip, a standard grip, a parallel grip, and an aero grip. It is fully rubberized for an improved grip. However, it does not integrate pulse sensors, but the console has Bluetooth connectivity and does read pulse from a wireless transmitter.

Unlike the handlebars of the VeloCore bikes, the handlebar of the Bowflex C7 offers four-way adjustability. Its horizontal slider provides approx. 3″ (7.6 cm) of front-to-back adjustment while its vertical post has multiple adjustment positions.

C7 Resistance system

The Bowflex C7 IC  bike comes equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system similar to the ones of the VeloCore bikes. However, it is not motorized, so it cannot adjust the resistance automatically. In addition, the included adapter is only for powering up the console.

The bike’s resistance system consists of a magnetic brake connected to the main tube of the frame and the tension knob on top of the frame. Unfortunately, the magnets hug the flywheel covering a more significant portion of it if you turn the knob clockwise, which increases the pedaling difficulty.

There are 100 distinct resistance levels on this bike. Also, the resistance system connects to the console to see the current resistance level on display. The first levels deliver a light workout load that is great for warming up or muscle toning. Conversely, even for the most seasoned cyclists, the highest tension levels are challenging.

Drive system

Unlike the VeloCore bikes, the Bowflex C7 features a front-drive system. Thus, its flywheel integrates into the front section of the frame and is a lighter flywheel. It only weighs 10 lbs (4.5 kg). It features a thin edge to pass easily through the magnets of the brake. However, it does have some extra weight incorporated into its median area for improved momentum.

The flywheel is bi-directional; therefore, you can pedal in reverse if you want. However, coasting is impossible since the pedals continue to spin for as long as the flywheel is spinning. Also, when pedaling in reverse, the resistance remains constant, given by the selected tension level.

The bike comes equipped with a belt drivetrain. It integrates a high-performance poly-v belt. This type of transmission comes with a few advantages. First of all, it delivers an extraordinarily smooth pedaling motion. And second of all, you don’t have to worry about its lubrication.

The crankset features a set of durable steel arms. The pedals are also a durable metallic alloy. Thus, the bike withstands the user in a standing-up pedaling position. Also, the pedals integrate SPD clips for spin shoes on one side and toe cages on the other. Plus, they have standard (9/16) threads, so you should be able to find compatible pedals in any bike shop.

C7 Console

The console included with the Bowflex C7 IC bike is similar in terms of features to the consoles included with the VeloCore bikes. However, it is smaller; its display is only 7 inches diagonal. In addition, it is a smart console that requires a WiFi connection so you can use the pre-loaded apps. It also has Bluetooth connectivity.

The console is pre-loaded with multiple apps, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu. In addition, it has various music apps and is compatible with the Zwift and Peloton apps. It also has the Bowflex JRNY app, which makes multiple coaching videos, spin class videos, and scenic rides on virtual trails worldwide.

Since the console connects to the bike’s speed sensor, if you follow a JRNY scenic ride, the console will match the speed of the video to your pedaling speed. But, of course, the JRNY app and the other apps require a paid subscription.

The console also has its standard workout mode. Therefore, it provides a wide array of standard features and programs that don’t require a subscription. It offers programs for calorie burning, interval programs, programs with a random layout, and more. It will assess your fitness level during the first use and will provide a few programs that are more appropriate to your level.

The console has an excellent metrics display interface that tracks time, distance, calories, heart rate, cadence, resistance, and burn rate. The speed and distance can either be English or metric units. For the heart rate reading, a Bluetooth armband comes with the bike. It also has a USB port which you can use to charge your phone or tablet.

C7 Assembly and Maintenance

The bike’s body comes pre-assembled. So, all the drive and resistance elements are already installed. The rest of the parts do require user assembly, though. So, you will have to attach the two base bars, the seat post, the saddle, the pedals, the handlebar post, the handlebar, the bottle holders, the dumbbell holders, and the console.

Therefore, it may take more than an hour of your time, but the task is not too difficult. Plus, the manual provides clear assembly instructions, and all the tools required for the job come with the bike.

Once assembled, maintenance doesn’t require much. The drive mechanism does not require lubrication. So, you only have to keep the bike clean, periodically check for loose bolts and parts, retighten them as needed, and keep liquids away from the console.

Pros

• Sturdy construction – can hold users up to 330 lbs;

  

• Aesthetic design;
• Heavy frame, low center of gravity, excellent stability;
• Transport wheels on the front base;
• Adjustable levelers on both bases;
• 4-way adjustable seat;
• 4-way adjustable handlebar;
• Multi-grip ergonomic handlebar;
• Balanced flywheel for a smooth pedaling motion;
• Heavy-duty crankset made for standing-up spin workouts;
• Dual-sided pedals, with toe cages on one side and SPD clips for spin shoes on the other;
• Frictionless, wear-free, magnetic resistance with 100 levels;
• Poly-v belt drive for a smooth pedaling motion;
• Multi-function smart console featuring a 7″ LCD;
• Multiple apps pre-installed, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Hulu;
• Compatible with the Peloton app and Zwift app;
• Pre-installed JRNY app for private coaching videos and scenic rides around the world;
• Standard workout mode with multiple workout programs;
• Workout target function;
• Workout history tracking;
• Wireless heart rate detection – Bluetooth armband HR strap included;
• USB charging port;
• Bottle holders included;
• Dumbbell holders and 3 lbs dumbbells included;
• Easy to assemble;
• Little maintenance is required;
• Decent warranty.

Cons

• The JRNY app requires a monthly membership.

Bowflex C7 IC Bike Summary

The Bowflex C7 IC is an indoor cycling bike designed for home use. It features a 100-level magnetic resistance system, a balanced flywheel, superior micro-adjustability, and an impressive 330 lbs weight capacity. In addition, it comes with a smart 7-inch display console with multiple pre-installed apps and an excellent standard workout mode with many pre-set workout programs.

Moreover, it’s an excellent exercise bike for high-intensity cardio training, interval training, stamina and strength development, and weight loss.

I hope you found this article helpful and informative. Would you please speak up if you have anything you’d like to share or any opinions about my website? I look forward to your comments, questions, and the sharing of ideas.

Please note you should consult your physician to determine if you have any medical or physical conditions that could put your health and safety at risk or prevent you from using the equipment properly. In addition, your physician’s advice is essential if you are taking medication that affects your heart rate, blood pressure, or cholesterol level.