Although my house is starting to look like a fitness facility, I love having the BODi bike and Bowflex C6. I purchased the Bowflex C6 two years ago and have enjoyed using this model, primarily with the Peloton digital app. Over the past year, I have also tested the BODi MYX II Bike with the original OpenFit app and now with the BODi app. Riding these models extensively has allowed me to evaluate these bikes.
Key Differences between Bowflex & BODi MYX II Bike
The Bowflex C6 and BODi MYX II are fantastic models but offer different riding experiences. One of the most significant differences between these two indoor cycles is the resistance systems used. The C6 features a magnetic resistance system in contrast to the friction system used by the MYX II. Another difference between these models is the connectivity that they offer. The BODi bike includes a large monitor that provides connectivity to Beachbody’s BODi platform. However, the C6 doesn’t offer a platform that automatically connects to the bike. On the other hand, the C6 does integrate with various apps, including Peloton.
Used in elite cycling studios and gyms, MYX comes with a monthly membership that gives up to 5 people access to the widest range of workouts available.
The BODi Bike is a fantastic friction-resistance bike. This bike features a 41-pound flywheel, a belt-drive system, and a large touchscreen that swivels 360 degrees. The Beachbody’s BODi bike is $1,399. This stationary Star Trac frame is built to last through the thousands of on-demand and live classes offered through Beachbody’s platform. Unlike any other bike on the market, the BODcast feature allows riders to feel as if they are live in a studio taking classes since the instructor can interact with them in real time.
Pros
Beachbody On Demand Interactive
BODCast camera
360 degrees swiveling 21.5″ touchscreen included
Upgraded sensor
Inability to max-out resistance
Cons
Speakers are located on the back of the monitor (this might be a pro for some riders)
Monthly BODi membership is required to enjoy all bike features
Friction resistance systems require a slight increase in upkeep in comparison to magnetic models
An excellent alternative option to Peloton or other streaming bikes. A quiet magnetic resistance bike, proficient enough to link with the many available streaming devices such as Peloton® and Zwift®.
The Bowflex C6 includes 100 levels of magnetic resistance and a belt system. Retailing for $799, this bike from Nautilus includes a 40-lb flywheel, and the backlit LCD console easily tracks many metrics. This model also includes 3-lb weights located under the handlebars for easy access. Although this model doesn’t link to a specific platform, it does integrate with multiple cycling applications. With the purchase of the C6, riders will also enjoy a free arm heart-rate monitor.
Pros
Affordable
Whisper quiet
Multiple app integrations
Cons
No monitor
Only 100 levels of resistance
C6 & BODi Handlebars
Detailed Comparison of Bowflex C6 & BODi (MYX II)
Bowflex C6 Bike Detailed Specifications
Construction Quality: Built to withstand the most vigorous rides, the Bowflex C6 features a steel frame, padded handlebars, and sweat guards to protect the metal flywheel and drive system. In addition, levelers and stabilizers help to keep this bike in place.
Resistance & Smoothness of the Ride: The 40-pound flywheel and belt drive system creates a smooth and silent ride. In addition, this model offers 100 levels of magnetic resistance. When riding a magnetic resistance bike, you will find that your mileage will be higher as this type of bike considers how much resistance is being used when completing the distance calculation.
Console: The backlit LCD console displays heart rate, cadence, distance, calories, speed, duration, and resistance. All the metrics are readily displayed on the console. However, some people struggle to know their cadence since a number line style is used. However, the cadence display is easy to use after a bit of practice. Attached to the console is a tablet rest that makes watching a show or using an app on your smartphone or tablet extremely easy. The console also includes a USB port for easy charging of your device.
Pedals: The C6 accommodates both street shoes and cycling shoes. However, it is essential to note that an SPD cleat will be needed.
Instructor Tip: If you use a toe cage with your street shoes, make sure not to place your shoe as far to the front as possible. Instead, ensure that the ball of your foot is on the pedal.
Seat and Seat Cushion: The competitive style saddle is ideal for rides in and out of the saddle. The slender design helps to maximize each pedal stroke.
Portability: Two wheels are located at the front of the bike for easy portability. In addition, since this bike does not include a large monitor, it is easy to move around.
Adjustability: A wide range of riders can ride the C6 bike comfortably due to its adjustability. This includes 4-way adjustability for both the handlebars and saddle.
C6 & BODi Side-by-Side
Unique Features of Bowflex C6
1. Handlebars: Many cycling bikes offer only one water bottle holder, but the C6 offers two convenient water bottle holders under the handlebars.
2. Weights: Included in the purchase are a set of 3-lb dumbbells. The weights are located under the water bottle holders for easy access.
3. App Connectivity: Although the C6 does not come with a platform built into the bike‘s technology, this model offers integration with other applications. Riders can enjoy using digital cycling applications such as Peloton, Zwift, and Rouvy. Please see the table below for the complete list.
Power
Distance
Speed
RPM
Heart Rate
Operating System
Peloton
X
iOS
Rouvy
X
X
X
X
X
iOS & Android
Zwift
X
X
X
iOS & Android
Sufferfest
X
X
X
X
iOS
TrainerRoad
X
X
iOS & Android
Fulgaz
X
X
iOS
TracX
X
X
iOS & Android
C6 & BODi View from the Back
BODi Bike Detailed Specifications
Construction Quality: The BODi bike features a Star Trac frame. This sturdy frame is secured with two stabilizers and four leveling feet to ensure a stationary riding experience without unwanted swaying from side to side.
Resistance & Smoothness of the Ride: A friction resistance system and belt drive provide an incredibly smooth ride. Although friction resistance systems can require more maintenance than their magnetic resistance counterparts, this type of resistance system is impossible to max out. This means that even the strongest riders can find a challenging resistance level. Also, since pads come in contact with the flywheel to control the resistance, a slight whooshing sound is heard while riding.
Monitor: The 21.5-inch monitor swivels 360 degrees. The touchscreen makes using the BODi platform incredibly easy. Also included in the monitor is a small camera used for the BODcast feature we will discuss in greater detail under unique features.
Pedals: This model features dual-sided pedals. So whether you are looking to ride in your regular shoes or want to click in with an SPD, the BODi bike has you covered.
Seat and Seat Cushion: The sleek design of the competitive style saddle allows for maximum pedal output but might be uncomfortable for some riders. If you struggle with finding a comfortable riding position, ensure that you have the proper bike set-up.
Portability: Wheels are located on the front of the bike for easy portability. In addition, the wheels are helpful when moving the 160 lb bike.
Tip: I will say that I found it a little tricky to move around due to the placement of the monitor and my shorter height of 5’4″. Taller riders might be able to move this bike easier.
Adjustability: Both the saddle and handlebars offer 4-way adjustability. These bike components can move both up and down and forward and aft.
C6 & BODi Flywheels
Unique Features of MYX II Bike
1. Heart Rate Training: Heart Rate training is at the center of the MYX II BODi bike training model. Before taking the first full ride, riders are prompted to take a specific class designed to help determine their three heart rate zones. The zones established in this first ride will help guide them while riding in various classes. After a few weeks, riders will be prompted again to test their zones to see if they have changed. This type of training helps to customize the workouts for each rider. For the heart rate training and testing to take place, included in the purchase of the BODi bike is a Polar OH1 Heart Rate Monitor. This arm-band monitor is easy to use, and charging is a snap since a convenient charger is located at the back of the monitor.
2. Live and On-Demand Capability: After consolidating streamlining platforms, the BODi bike now offers the Beachbody On Demand platform. This platform provides live classes and a digital library, including cycling, yoga, strength, kickboxing, Barre, HIIT, and meditation classes.
3. BODcast: If you have ever desired to feel a fitness class environment without leaving your own home, then you are in luck with the fantastic BODcast option from the BODi bike. This model includes a camera in the monitor and is the first on the market to do so. The camera allows people to join classes, like taking a ZOOM call at home (but better), where the instructor can see and interact with the selected participants. The interaction and real-time instructor feedback sets this bike apart from competitors in the indoor cycling market.
The BODcast of the MYX II BODi bike is my favorite feature. I loved the interaction and the ability to see other riders when taking live classes. Seeing other riders working hard made me want to work harder and gave me a taste of the feeling of riding in a studio.
4. Advanced Sensor: The BODi bike has always used heart rate tracking for its advanced program customization. However, the BODi Bike II offers an updated tracker that promises 10% more accuracy than any other tracker currently on the market. The advanced sensor tracks speed, cadence, and distance.
Inside Tip: If your metrics suddenly stop showing on the monitor, a quick reset of the tracker will fix this issue.
Bowflex C6 & BODi Alternatives and How They Compare to Them
Maybe the most popular indoor cycle, and for a good reason. Excellent quality with an excellent app for beginners and experts. The only downside it that users cannot change resistance when using apps like Zwift etc.
The Peloton bike offers one of the most exciting platforms on the market due to the collection of high-energy instructors, captivating community, and quality-designed models, making Peloton the bike choice for many. This bike includes a thirty-pound flywheel, a belt drive system, and 100 levels of magnetic resistance.
The bike itself is an incredible machine and has an incline and decline feature, which means when you ride, a motor will raise and drop the front of the bike. The screen is 22” HD and uses an application called iFit for all your live and pre-recorded classes.
The NordicTrack S22i features automatic resistance, incline, and decline adjustments to mimic ridden terrain. In addition, the S22i includes a 22″ rotating touchscreen and a one-year membership to iFit. The iFit trainer helps to adjust your bike up to 20% incline and a -10% decline. In addition, the updated 2022 console now features a fan located between the speakers compared to older models.
Provides the rider with an incredibly realistic riding experience, closely simulating riding outside on roads or up and down your favorite mountain climb.
The Bowflex VeloCore includes perhaps the most innovative frame design for indoor cycling models on the market. Two riding modes are available on the VeloCore: upright and “Lean Mode.” The “Lean Mode” allows for the frame of the VeloCore to move from side to side to mimic riding outdoors. This design earned the VeloCore the CES 2021 Innovation Award. This model also includes magnetic resistance and access to Bowflex’s JRNY app.
The App takes the cycle to another level, and with compatibility and connectivity, the bike offers all of the latest conveniences the digital age has to offer.
The Keiser M3i features a V-shaped frame that accommodates riders up to 7′ tall. The flywheel is located at the aft of this bike, only weighs 8 pounds, and includes 24 levels of magnetic resistance and a Poly V-belt drive. The Keiser M3i is compatible with various cycling apps, including Sufferfest, Fulgaz, Zwift, and mPaceline. In addition, Keiser offers a free M Series App for its M3i Bike, M5i Strider Elliptical, or M3i Total Body Trainer. The Keiser M3i is an excellent indoor cycling bike option, but it might not be affordable to many budgets.
C6 & BODi Wheels
Who Should Purchase the Bowflex C6 Bike?
The Bowflex C6 is an excellent bike for riders looking for a quality magnetic resistance bike at a reasonable price. In addition, since this bike doesn’t require a specific fitness application to operate correctly, this gives versatility in the programs that can be enjoyed while riding.
Who Should Purchase a BODi MYX II FitnessBike?
People who love taking cycling classes will enjoy the BODi MYX II FitnessBike. The BODi platform offers many different formats that can be completed on and off the bike. Along with the BODcast capability, this in-home interactive experience can’t be matched. A simple way to find out if the BODi bike is for you is to sign-up for the free BODi app trial. This will give you a great idea of whether or not you will enjoy the classes that work with the BODi MYX II bike.
C6 & BODi Pedals
FAQ
Is the MYXBike Quiet?
The MYXbike is quiet even though it uses a friction resistance system. However, a light “whooshing sound” can be heard.
Is Bowflex C6 the Same as Schwinn IC4?
Nautilus owns both the Bowflex C6 and Schwinn IC4. Although they might have different color schemes, these two models are mechanically identical.
The BODi Bike and the Bowflex C6 are both excellent models. When deciding between these two options, it comes down to personal preference, as the decision between friction or magnetic resistance can be a big selling point to some. We recommend you try to test drive these two models if possible.
Katie Pierson CPT
Katie has been a certified fitness professional for twenty years and holds ten fitness certifications, including Spinning Elite and Personal Training. She has shared her expert knowledge in many fitness outlets like Bicycling & Verywellfit.
