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Bowflex is a fitness brand that has been manufacturing high quality exercise equipment for over 30 years.
The company offers several types of cardio machines, including indoor cycling bikes.
Compared with traditional stationary bikes, indoor cycling bikes are designed to resemble road bikes, with lower handlebars and seats that adjust both vertically and horizontally.
Many also feature micro-adjustable resistance levels, cradles for free weights, and built-in workouts or streaming capabilities.
Bowflex currently offers several indoor cycling bikes, including the C6 and VeloCore. While both are high quality machines, they differ in price, special features, and training options.
This article provides a comprehensive review of both models to help you decide which one is right for you.
| Bowflex C6 | Bowflex VeloCore | |
| Price | $999 | 16-inch (40.6-cm) console: $1,699 22-inch (56-cm) console: $2,199 |
| Warranty | 10-year frame 3-year parts and electronics 1-year labor |
2-year frame and parts 1-year electronics and labor |
| Size | 48.7× 21.2 × 51.8 inches (123.7 × 53.9 × 131.6 cm) | 16-inch (40.6-cm) console: 59.8 × 24.1 × 52.6 inches (151.8 × 61.2 × 133.6 cm) 22-inch (56-cm) console: 59.8 × 24.1 × 55.3 inches (151.8 × 61.2 × 140.3 cm) |
| Pedals | – dual-purpose pedals – can be used with SPD clips or athletic shoes |
– dual-purpose pedals – can be used with SPD clips or athletic shoes |
| Height/weight capacity | Minimum: 4’6″ (137 cm) Maximum: 6’6″ (183 cm) or 330 pounds (149 kg) |
Minimum: 5’1″ (155 cm) Maximum: 6’5″ (196 cm) or 325 pounds (147 kg) |
| Display | LCD display | 16-inch (40.6-cm) or 22-inch (56-cm) HD touchscreen |
| Training options | – 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels – media rack – Bluetooth capabilities – performance tracking – Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband – set of 3-pound (1.4-kg) dumbbells |
– 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels – stationary and leaning modes – built-in JRNY compatibility – performance tracking – Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband – set of 3-pound (1.4-kg) dumbbells |
- Price: $999
- Specs and size: 48.7 x 21.2 x 51.8 inches (123.7 x 53.9 x 131.6 cm)
- Pedals: dual-link (can be used with either SPD clips or regular athletic shoes)
- Display: LCD
- Training options: 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels, media rack, Bluetooth capabilities, performance tracking, Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband, and set of 3-pound (1.4-kg) dumbbells
The Bowflex C6 is an affordable indoor cycling bike made for recreational and serious cyclists alike.
The machine offers 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels and a magnetic flywheel system for a smooth and quiet ride.
While it doesn’t include programmed workouts, the C6 has a media rack and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing you to use your device to stream hundreds of live and on-demand classes from popular fitness apps like JRNY and Peloton.
The Bowflex C6 vs. the Bowflex C7
You can also upgrade to the C7 model which is a step below the VeloCore. It comes with an attached 7-inch touchscreen and Wi-Fi, and also allows you to track heart rate through the touchscreen. The only other difference between the C6 and C7 is the size. The C7 is ever-so-slightly larger at 48.1 x 21.3 x 57.5 inches (122.2 x 54 x 146 cm).
The C6 bike also comes with a pair of 3-pound (1.4 kg) dumbbells for incorporating upper body exercises, as well as an LCD display for tracking workout metrics, such as the distance, time, and calories burned.
As it’s equipped with dual-link pedals, the bike can be used with either SPD clips or your regular athletic shoes.
What’s more, the handlebars and padded saddle adjust vertically and horizontally to accommodate users that are 4’6″ to 6’6″ (137–183 cm) tall.
Other notable features include:
- a USB charging port
- an AC adapter
- a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate monitor
- transport wheels
- two water bottle holders
- a 40-pound (18.2-kg) flywheel
The C6 has a maximum weight capacity of 330 pounds (149 kg), measures 48.7 × 21.2 × 51.8 inches (123.7 × 53.9 × 131.6 cm), and requires a minimum ceiling height of the user’s height plus 16 inches (40.6 cm).
Pros
- excellent value for the money
- easy assembly
- compact design for small spaces
- offers Bluetooth capabilities for streaming workout classes, moves, and TV shows
- includes a Bluetooth heart rate armband
- comes with a 10-year warranty on the frame
Cons
- doesn’t offer built-in workouts
- features a basic LCD screen rather than a touchscreen
- requires a tablet or smartphone with cellular data or an internet connection to access apps and classes
Price and warranty
The Bowflex C6 costs $999 and includes free shipping within the contiguous United States.
Bowflex also provides in-home assembly for an additional $129.
The warranty for the C6 is as follows:
- 10-year warranty on the frame
- 3-year warranty on parts and electronics
- 1-year warranty on labor
Verdict
The Bowflex C6 is a fantastic option for riders who want a high quality bike at an affordable price.
In addition to being beginner-friendly, it’s easy to assemble, doesn’t take up much space, and includes an extensive warranty.
Plus, with 100 levels of resistance and Bluetooth capabilities for streaming workout classes, the bike suits a variety of fitness levels.
However, unlike similar products on the market, the C6 doesn’t include built-in workouts or a touchscreen. Instead, it offers a basic LCD screen, media rack, and USB port for charging your devices.
Also, keep in mind that you’ll need a tablet or smartphone with cellular data or a reliable internet connection to stream classes, which may make it difficult to use the bike in remote locations.
If you really like the Bowflex C6 but are concerned about its LCD screen limitations, Bowflex has released a C7. Similar in style to the C6, this bike costs $300 more but offers an HD touchscreen and adaptive workouts with JRNY.
- Price: 16-inch (40.6 cm) console: $1,699; 22-inch (56 cm) console: $2,199
- Specs and size: 16-inch (40.6-cm) console: 59.8 x 24.1 x 52.6 inches (151.8 x 61.2 x 133.6 cm); 22-inch (56-cm) console: 59.8 x 24.1 x 55.3 inches (151.8 x 61.2 x 140.3 cm)
- Pedals: dual-link (can be used with either SPD clips or regular athletic shoes)
- Display: 16-inch (40.6 cm) or 22-inch (56 cm) HD touchscreen
- Training options: 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels, stationary and leaning modes, built-in JRNY compatibility, performance tracking, Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband, and set of 3-pound (1.4 kg) dumbbells
Offering two riding modes (leaning and stationary), the Bowflex VeloCore is a heavy duty indoor cycling bike that’s designed to simulate biking outdoors.
While the stationary mode provides a standard cycling workout, the leaning mode offers a unique riding experience, as it gently shifts from side to side, allowing you to feel as though you’re riding on curvy roads.
Not only does the leaning mode make exercising more interesting but tilting your body in this way also activates your arms, core, and leg muscles for a full-body workout.
In addition to the two modes, the bike includes a height-adjustable padded saddle, dual-link pedals with toe cages and SPD clips, and 100 resistance levels to vary the intensity of your routine.
The VeloCore is also equipped with an HD touchscreen for streaming TV shows and workout classes using apps like JRNY, Peloton, Netflix, and Hulu.
In addition to streaming, the touchscreen also displays performance metrics, such as the time, distance, and calories burned.
There are currently two screen sizes available, including a 16-inch (46.6-cm) and 22-inch (56-cm) screen, with the latter being more expensive.
As with the C6, the Bowflex VeloCore operates with a magnetic flywheel system, so you can ride smoothly with almost no sound.
Additional features include:
- a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate band
- handlebars with six hand positions
- a pair of 3-pound (1.4 kg) dumbbells for upper body workouts
- a media rack
- transport wheels
- two water bottle holders
The 16-inch console version of the VeloCore measures 59.8 × 24.1 × 52.6 inches (151.9 × 61.2 × 133.6 cm) and requires a minimum ceiling height of the user’s height plus 16 inches (40.6 cm).
It also has a max weight capacity of 325 pounds (147 kg) and is recommended for riders 5’1″ to 6’5″ (155–196 cm) tall.
Pros
- easy assembly
- HD touchscreen
- unique leaning mode builds stability and upper body strength
- its solid, durable design prevents shifting
- supports a variety of high intensity workouts
- includes a Bluetooth heart rate armband
- rides smoothly and quietly
- compact design for small spaces
Cons
- expensive
- short warranty period
- leaning mode may be too difficult for some users
Price and warranty
The VeloCore costs $1,699 with a 16-inch (40.6-cm) console and $2,199 with a 22-inch (56-cm) screen.
Bowflex also offers free shipping within the contiguous United States and in-home assembly for $199.
The warranty of the VeloCore is as follows:
- 2-year warranty on the frame and parts
- 1-year warranty on electronics and labor
Verdict
The VeloCore offers a leaning mode that allows you to target different muscle groups while still providing the option for a classic indoor cycling bike experience.
The machine also includes 100 levels of resistance and an HD touchscreen with streaming capabilities to keep you challenged and entertained throughout your workout.
Plus, the bike is easy to assemble, takes up minimal space, and provides a smooth and quiet ride.
While the leaning mode distinguishes the VeloCore from other bikes on the market, there are potential downsides of this feature as well.
For example, some users may find it too challenging or a bit superfluous. Additionally, none of the third-party workout apps currently offer classes that incorporate this model.
Also, keep in mind that the VeloCore has a relatively short warranty given its higher price point. However, Bowflex does offer extended warranties for an additional cost.
The C6 and the VeloCore include a 1-year membership to Bowflex JRNY — a fitness app with hundreds of on-demand workout classes, real-time coaching, curated music playlists, and destination workouts, which allow you to virtually explore more than 50 locations from around the world.
The app also creates individualized workouts that are tailored to fit your needs and fitness goals.
Memberships cost $19.99 per month or $149 per year, which is cheaper than many similar fitness apps on the market.
However, if you choose not to renew your subscription, you can still access other streaming apps while using either biker.
The Bowflex C6 and Bowflex VeloCore are high quality indoor cycling bikes that offer a variety of customizable workout options and extra features to keep you motivated and challenged.
The C6 is affordable, well-built, and suits most fitness routines, making it ideal if you’re looking for a classic indoor cycling workout. It also comes with a more extensive warranty than the VeloCore.
Just keep in mind that it doesn’t include built-in workout programs, and you’ll need to provide your own device and internet connection to access classes.
In contrast, the VeloCore is more expensive. However, it’s worth the investment if you’re looking to make your workouts more exciting.
The bike’s unique leaning mode engages your core and upper body to increase muscle strength and boost the intensity of your workout. However, some people may find this feature to be too difficult or complicated.
The VeloCore also comes equipped with an HD touchscreen for streaming TV shows, movies, and live and on-demand workout classes.
If you’re interested in an indoor cycling bike, there are several products to consider.
For example, one of the most popular and expensive options is the Peloton Bike+.
- Similar to the Bowflex VeloCore, the Peloton Bike+ features a built-in touch screen and sport series saddle, built to optimize comfort and performance.
- The Peloton Bike+ is more expensive, as it costs $2,495 and requires a monthly subscription to the Peloton app.
- As the Peloton bike doesn’t include pedals with toe cages, you’ll also need to purchase a set of Delta-compatible cleats.
Another popular option is the NordicTrack Commercial S15i Studio Cycle, which costs $1,599 plus $199 for delivery.
- While it’s slightly more expensive than the Bowflex C6, the NordicTrack Commercial S15i Studio Cycle is a good alternative if you have a higher budget and aren’t interested in the VeloCore’s leaning mode.
- The S15i Studio Cycle features 50 programmed workouts, built-in speakers, an auxiliary port, and a 14-inch (35.6-cm) touchscreen, which allows you to stream classes using the iFit app.
- The bike can also be used with regular athletic shoes and has a padded saddle designed for comfort.
Which Bowflex bike should I buy?
Determining which bike you want to buy will likely come down to the amount of money you wish to spend and the features that matter most to you. While the C6 is more affordable with longer warranties, if you desire the leaning features of the Bowflex VeloCore, you may be willing to spend the extra money.
Which is better, Bowflex or Peloton?
Whether you prefer a Bowflex or Peloton bike will depend on the classes you want and how much money you want to spend. The Bowflex C6 is a more affordable bike option and the Bowflex VeloCore a more realistic outdoor ride, but the instructors and community of Peloton offer a popular workout studio-style experience.
Can you use a Bowflex bike without a subscription?
Yes, a Bowflex bike can be used with a subscription, but the experience will be greatly enhanced with a JRNY membership, so you can access all the classes.
How much does each Bowflex bike cost?
The Bowflex C6 costs $999, while the C7 retails for $1,299. The 16-inch version of the Bowflex VeloCore is $1,699 and the 22-inch version costs $2,199.
Bowflex is a well-known brand that manufactures quality exercise products, including the C6 and VeloCore indoor cycling bikes.
Both bikes provide a variety of training options and special features, with the VeloCore offering a leaning mode for a truly unique riding experience.
As you can’t go wrong with either option, deciding which bike to choose comes down to how much you’re willing to spend and the features that are most important to you.
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