Sunny SF-B1805 vs Schwinn IC4 / Bowflex C6: A Detailed Comparison

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Intro

Working out from home has been increasingly popular, and with the state of the lockdowns worldwide and many gyms being closed, people are looking for alternative ways to stay fit.

Today, we look at the Sunny SF-B1805 vs Schwinn IC4 and the Bowflex C6. Fitness and conditioning bikes have seen a tremendous boom in popularity since the start of the pandemic, and these three bikes have been receiving rave reviews.

Let’s get started.

Quick Look Comparison Table

Bowflex C6 Bike
4.5

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®.

Buy from Bowflex Holiday Sale ▶▶
Sunny Health Magnetic Bike SF-B1805
4.2

Priced usually under $600, this model offers users an experience often reserved for higher-priced options. This quiet belt-driven model includes a heavier front flywheel weighing in at 44 pounds.

Amazon Reviews

Struggling for time and would like to get a quick feel for which of these bikes is for you? I’ve done the homework for you and taken the guesswork away so that you can purchase with confidence.

Sunny SF-B1805Bowflex C6 / Schwinn IC4
Price$608.00$999.00
ResistanceThe latest in magnetic resistance technologyMagnetic resistance with 100 levels
Weight Capacity300lbs or 136kg330lbs or 150kg
ConnectivityNoYes
PedalsToe CagesToe cages and SPD compatibility  
ScreenNo State-of-the-art LCD Screen
AppNoYes
Dimensions48L x 23W x 45H in48.7L x 21.2W x 51.8H

Sunny SF-B1805 Review 

Sunny Health Magnetic Bike SF-B1805
4.2

Priced usually under $600, this model offers users an experience often reserved for higher-priced options. This quiet belt-driven model includes a heavier front flywheel weighing in at 44 pounds.

Amazon Reviews

Specifications

  • 44 lb chromed solid flywheel for stability
  • Adjustable magnetic resistance 
  • 300 lb weight capacity
  • Smooth and reliable belt drive system
  • Dimensions: 48L x 23W x 45H in

Things I liked:

  • Durable and affordable
  • A no-frills fitness bike perfect for beginners
  • High-quality build with a maximum users weight of 300lbs or 136kg
  • No screen allows the user to sync the app of their choice

Things To Consider:

  • Although I do like the fact that the Sunny has no screen, it would be a pleasant addition and make the bike more popular in my opinion.
  • It’s not the most stylish bike on the market

The Sunny SF-B1805 has quickly become one of the most highly rated home fitness bikes on the market. 

Seen as a no-frills alternative to other costly conditioning bikes, the Sunny SF has tapped into the market of users who are after an affordable bike that offers outstanding durability. The Sunny SF is perfect for those just starting to dip their toes in the home fitness niche and equips people with limited budgets to jump on the fitness bike bandwagon.

The Sunny SF-B1805 uses the latest in magnetic resistance technology. It provides the users with a smooth, seamless, and relatively quiet riding experience. Its durable frame and high-quality construction allow users to go hard without worrying about the bike tipping or swaying. With a max user weight capacity of 300lbs or 136kgs, the Sunny SF provides users peace of mind. 

The bike does not come equipped with all the fancy tech, such as 22″ LCD touch screens, live and on-demand workouts, and access to unlimited training programs and staff support. But I appreciate that; I like that this bike allows you the option to use your own third-party app. You can also link your own sensors, such as cadence and speed. 

The Sunny SF lets you experience cardio workouts, and your imagination only limits the training programs you can perform. Because of the bike’s durable and robust frame, HITT or High-Intensity Interval Training makes for an excellent option. 

The caged pedals are also well made and give the user confidence when smashing the pedals. The flywheel is weighted at an astonishing 44lbs. It helps facilitate enhanced physical performance while offering the rider a low-impact workout.

The Sunny SF- B1805 has fully adjustable handlebars, which allow users of all shapes and sizes to find a comfortable riding position. The seat also offers a comfortable and solid riding experience. 

Want to watch youtube or Netflix while working out? Simply place your tablet or device in the device holder and get fit and have fun at the same time. 

Schwinn IC4/ Bowflex C6 Review 

Bowflex C6 Bike
4.5

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®.

Buy from Bowflex Holiday Sale ▶▶
Schwinn IC4 Bike
4.5

Comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to link to several apps such as Peloton® and Zwift®. The Schwinn really does offer excellent quality at a very affordable price.

Buy from Schwinn Holiday Sale ▶▶

Specifications

  • 40 pounds (18.1 kg) flywheel for stability
  • Adjustable magnetic resistance with 100 levels
  • 330 lb weight capacity
  • LCD Screen
  • Dimensions: 48.7 × 21.2 × 51.8 inches

Things I liked:

  • Inexpensive and jam-packed with features]
  • 100 levels of magnetic resistance
  • Fully adjustable saddle
  • The latest in touchscreen technology
  • Solid and robust 40lb drivetrain

Things To Consider:

  • The monthly fees will need to be taken into consideration
  • Several other bikes in the same price range all offer similar quality and features

When it comes to both these bikes, the Schwinn IC4 and the Bowflex C6 are similar in many ways. One of the significant advantages they hold over other brands is they are owned by Nautilus, the industry leader in fitness equipment for decades.

The additional notable advantage of these bikes is that they won’t break the bank and leave you thousands of dollars out of pocket. They are reasonably priced and, in my opinion, offer outstanding affordability, particularly for the number of jam-packed features included. 

I love that the Schwinn IC4 and Bowflex C6 come fully equipped with the latest magnetic resistance. This system offers a quiet and smooth ride. With 100 resistance levels of resistance, riders of all levels can find a challenging workout. 

Are you looking for comfort? The Schwinn and the Bowflex have an adjustable race-style saddle, and the handlebars are comfortable while still being sturdy. The frame is designed and manufactured using high-grade materials, turning the bike into an ergonomic fitness machine that users of any body type will find comfortable. 

The dual-purpose pedals and water bottle holder are excellent features that have been placed perfectly and make a noticeable difference to the riding experience. There is also a holder where you can store your weights which is another well-thought-out feature. 

The Schwinn IC4 and Bowflex C6 are equipped with the latest technology, and Bluetooth connectivity makes setting up workouts and music very straightforward. Both bikes are incredibly versatile, and syncing to a heart rate monitor or your favorite app couldn’t be easier.

The LCD touch screen is dust and dirt repellant to top it off, and it provides crucial metrics like speed, calories, distance, time, and duration of the activity.

Sunny SF-B1805 vs. Schwinn IC4/ Bowflex C6: Head-to-Head Comparison

When it comes to comparing the Sunny SF-B1805, the Schwinn IC4, and the Bowflex C6, it’s clear that some glaring differences separate the bikes.

Yet, although there are some differences, there are also some similarities between the bikes. All three of these fitness bikes are very well made, affordable, and offer users a solid experience that provides confidence when working out. Whereas Schwinn was founded over 100 years ago, Sunny Fitness and Health is relatively new to the indoor gym niche. 

Tech

The primary difference between the bikes is that the Sunny SF has no screen and is not equipped with any connectivity, such as wi-fi and BlueTooth. But does that make the Sunny SF a lower-level bike? I don’t think so; the bike is well built, and having no screen allows you to use your own device and the app of your choice.

On the other hand, the Schwinn IC4 and Bowflex C6 come fully optioned with BlueTooth compatibility allowing you to sync or connect to monitors such as heart rate. The Schwinn IC4 can connect directly to the Peloton app, which opens access to many live and on-demand classes designed and delivered by world-class fitness professionals.

Construction 

Although the Sunny SF-B1805 is a plain no-frills bike, the frame itself is incredibly well built. It comes with high-level components that many of its competitors lack. The Sunny SF is a bike for those who love riding and value that more than having the latest gadgets.

The Schwinn and Bowflex are at the other end of the tech spectrum and offer the user a plethora of gadgets. Schwinn is known as the industry leader in bike construction and quality and is known to be durable and robust while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride feel.

Schwinn, Bowflex, and Sunny all use high-grade materials that are tested to the loftiest standard, ensuring a safe and carefree riding experience.

Schwinn offers a ten-year warranty on the frame and three years for mechanical and electrical. In comparison, the Sunny provides three years on the frame and six months on other parts. 

Price

The Sunny SF-B1805 is a very reasonably priced fitness bike and is in the price range for most people looking to get into home fitness. At just over $600.00, the Sunny is much cheaper than most of its competitors, but don’t be fooled by the low price tag as it provides users with a solid workout without the costly price tag. 

On the other hand, the Schwinn and Bowflex are also reasonably priced, especially considering features such as BlueTooth connectivity, magnetic resistance, and the vast library of live and on-demand classes. 

Depending on your price range and fitness goals, these bikes offer an excellent riding experience at an affordable price; you can’t go wrong.

Overall

As with any purchase of high cost, answering specific questions will help you determine which of these bikes is for you. 

Factors to consider are your budget, fitness goals, how often you plan to use the bike, how much space you have, and whether others will be using your bike. Answering these questions will help you make the right choice for you, and as you’ve seen, both bikes offer incredible value.

Who should go for Sunny SF-B1805 & Who for Schwinn IC4/ Bowflex C6 

One of the typical comments that you’ll read in the reviews section is the impact COVID had on people working out at the gym. With most gyms closed, members were forced to take alternative action, and many purchased the SunnySF-B1805 because of its affordability and durability. 

Sarah. S from the USA said, “I bought this as part of my DIY Peloton and have zero complaints about the performance of this bike. It feels rock-solid, which makes me feel like this was a great choice”. Another Review from Diane A from the USA said, “I missed the gym’s spin classes due to COVID. After doing a lot of research, my husband and I decided on this bike because of the reviews and the cost. I LOVE this bike.”

Sunny SF-B1805 is Perfect for

  • Those with a limited budget
  • Users looking for excellent value
  • Users who want a bike with a high weight capacity
  • Those who wish to use the app of their choice
  • Users who have limited time 

The Schwinn IC4 and Bowflex C6 are fundamentally the same bikes, and the features that they provide are almost identical. Both bikes have an outstanding pedigree and come from brands that are two of the most recognized in the fitness bike niche. Both the IC4 and C6 are owned by Nautilus, which is undoubtedly the leader in home fitness equipment. 

IC4 and C6 are Perfect for

  • Those looking for world-class training programs
  • Users who want the best brands 
  • Users who are after dual purpose pedals
  • Those who would like to use the Peloton or Zwift apps
  • Experienced indoor cyclists and fitness buffs 

Wrap up 

It’s clear that when comparing the Sunny, Schwinn IC4, and the Bowflex C6, the bikes differ significantly and are targeted at users at other ends of the spectrum.

The one factor all three bikes have in common, though, is they are incredibly well made, robust, durable, and will provide users with the opportunity to improve their fitness from the safety and comfort of home.

Editorial Team

IF-FIT Editorial Team consists of experienced fitness writers and cyclists. Every article has been deeply researched to educate every bike lover.

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