Unit | Size | Supported weight | Flywheel weight | Resistance | Console |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bowflex C7 Check Discounted Price | L:48.1" W:21.3" H:57.5" | 330 lbs | 10 lbs | Magnetic, 100 levels | 7" display, Wireless connectivity, Multiple apps, Multiple pre-set programs |
The Bowflex C7 IC features a different design than the VeloCore 22 IC that we’ve already reviewed here. It has a standard spin bike construction without the side-to-side leaning feature. It comes with a smaller console than the ones included with the VeloCore models (only 7″ in diagonal). However, its console has the same features and apps pre-installed.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 48.1L x 21.3W x 57.5H inches (122L x 54W x 146H 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
Frame construction
The Bowflex C7 features a frame design similar up to a point to the Sunny Health & Fitness AeroPro SF-B1711. It’s a triangular frame with a slightly curved top tube while the longitudinal base tube is welded to the front base and to the seat tube base. Needless to say, the bike’s frame is made of steel tubing offering superior sturdiness, designed to support any spin workout.
All the steel bars in the bike’s construction are double-coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for this bike (at least for the moment). 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 fairly heavy. With all the parts assembled, it weighs approx. 111 lbs (50.4 kg). This being said, the packaged unit requires two persons for transport, or at least a box trolley. However, once the bike is assembled, it can easily be moved by only one person as its front base stabilizer features two transport wheels.
The bike is pretty stable as well, due to its low center of gravity. 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 approx. 48.1″ (122 cm) long, and 21.3″ (54 cm) wide. It is recommended, though, to allow a clearance of at least two feet all around it for safe usage and ease of access.
Seat and handlebars
The Bowflex C7 comes with a saddle similar to the one included with the Schwinn IC4. It’s designed for superior comfort; its top section integrates a layer of foam cushioning. It is 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 should be able to accommodate users up to 6’5″ (196 cm) with no problem. Taller persons should still be able to use the bike but they may not benefit from a complete leg extension. Also, the bike’s maximum user weight limit is 330 lbs (150 kg).
The bike is equipped with a multi-grip handlebar. It actually makes available 6 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. 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 upright post has multiple adjustment positions.
Resistance system
The Bowflex C7 indoor cycling bike is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system similar to the ones of the VeloCore bikes. It is not motorized, though, so it cannot adjust the resistance automatically. The included adapter is only for powering up the console.
The bike’s resistance system consists of a magnetic brake attached to the main tube of the frame and connected to the tension knob on top of the frame. The magnets hug the flywheel covering a larger portion from it if you turn the knob clockwise, which increases the pedaling difficulty. Conversely, if you turn the knob to the left, the magnets will cover a lesser portion from the flywheel which leads to a lower workload.
There are 100 distinct resistance levels on this bike. Also, the resistance system is connected to the console, so you can actually see the current resistance level on the display. The first levels deliver a light workout load great for warming up or for muscle toning. Conversely, the highest tension levels provide quite a challenge even for the most seasoned cyclists.
Drive system
Unlike the VeloCore bikes, the Bowflex C7 features a front-drive system. In other words, its flywheel is integrated into the front section of the frame. It is a lighter flywheel as well. It only weighs 10 lbs (4.5 kg). It features a thin edge in order 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; this being said, you can pedal in reverse if you want. However, coasting is not possible. 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 is 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 a very 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 made from a durable metallic alloy. Thus, the bike should be able to withstand 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 if you will ever need to replace them, you should be able to find compatible pedals in any bike shop.
Console
As we’ve mentioned above, the console included with the Bowflex C7 indoor cycling bike is similar in terms of features to the consoles included with the VeloCore bikes. It is smaller, though; its display is only 7 inches in diagonal. 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. It has multiple music apps and is compatible with the Zwift and Peloton apps. It also has the Bowflex JRNY app which makes available multiple coaching videos and spin class videos, as well as scenic rides on virtual trails all around the world. Since the console is connected 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. Of course, the JRNY app and the other apps require a paid subscription.
Nonetheless, the console has its own 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 actually 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. It tracks time, distance, calories, heart rate, cadence, resistance, and burn rate. Speed and distance can be set either to English or metric units. For the heart rate reading, a Bluetooth armband is included. It also has a USB port which you can use to charge your phone or tablet.
Assembly and Maintenance
The bike’s body comes pre-assembled. All the drive and resistance elements are already installed. The rest of the parts do require user assembly, though. 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. This may take more than an hour but the task is not too difficult. Plus, the manual provides clear assembly instructions, and all the tools required for the task are included.
Once the bike is assembled, maintenance doesn’t require much. The drive mechanism does not require lubrication. So, basically, you only have to keep the bike clean, periodically check for loose bolts and parts, and keep liquids away from the console.
The Pros
- Sturdy construction – can hold users up to 330 lbs;
- Aesthetic design;
- Heavy frame, low center of gravity, great 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 display;
- 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 required;
- Decent warranty.
The Cons
- The JRNY app requires a monthly membership.
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, it offers superior micro-adjustability and an impressive 330 lbs weight capacity. It comes with a smart 7-inch display console with multiple apps pre-installed, as well as a great standard workout more with many pre-set workout programs. In all, it’s an excellent exercise bike for high-intensity cardio training, interval training, stamina and strength development, and weight loss.