Bowflex C7 Review | 1 Year Later, Here is What We Think

The Bowflex C7 is a rather interesting indoor cycling bike, as it is not promoted on the Bowflex site and receives nowhere near the same sort of attention as the Bowflex C6 or the Velocore indoor cycling bike. Yet, despite this ignoring by the company, it still manages to provide many of the similar quality features of the other bikes from Bowflex.

Whether it is the JRNY Membership that you can purchase in addition to or the Bluetooth connections that the monitor offers, there is a good deal of modern technology involved in this bike. There are also plenty of other core elements of the Bowflex C7 spin bike that act as solid elements.

Whether it is the magnetic resistance or adjustable handlebars and saddle, there is plenty here to examine more closely. However, there’s also a bit of information missing, which is a bit of a concern. We shall go into more detail of these elements below.

Bowflex Indoor Cycling Bikes Comparison

There are several Bowflex indoor cycling bikes to choose from depending on your needs and budget. The Bowflex C7 is the second model with a 7-inch touchscreen while the Bowflex C6 is the first model with a LED screen.

The Bowflex Velocore 16 and Bowflex Velocore 22 come with state of art leaning mode to mimic road cycling. All four models offer adjustable seats and handlebars to fit a range of users, as well as good quality built.

The touchscreen models also include multi application compatibility and heart rate monitoring, while the LED model which is the Bowflex C6 includes a handy tablet holder.

So, whether you’re looking for a basic model or one with all the bells and whistles, Bowflex has an indoor cycling bike that’s perfect for you. Here is a comparison table to help you better understand the differences between the Bowflex indoor cycling bikes.

Compare Bowflex Indoor Cycling Bikes With us

Name	Image	Price	Display	Statestics	Leaning	Lock	Connectivity	Applications	Notes
Bowflex Velocore 22		$2200	22" HD touchscreen	Time, distance, calories, burn rate, heart rate, RPM, resistance, lean, and watts	Yes	With Flywheel Lock	Bluetooth and WiFi	Netflix, Youtube, Zwift, Peloton, and More	Third-part apps work on the screen if you are subscribed to JRNY ($20 monthly)
Bowflex Velocore 16		$1900	16" HD touchscreen	Time, distance, calories, burn rate, heart rate, RPM, resistance, lean, and watts	Yes	With Flywheel Lock	Bluetooth and WiFi	Netflix, Youtube, Zwift, Peloton, and More	Third-part apps work on the screen if you are subscribed to JRNY ($20 monthly)
Bowflex C7		$999	7" HD touchscreen	Time, distance, calories, heart rate, RPM, intervals, and resistance,	No	No	Bluetooth and WiFi	Netflix, Youtube, Zwift, Peloton, and More	Third-part apps work on the screen if you are subscribed to JRNY ($20 monthly)
Bowflex C6		$699	LED Console	Time, distance, calories, heart rate, RPM, and resistance,	No	No	Bluetooth	Peloton and Zwift	LED console, apps can't be installed on the bike's console

Bowflex C7 Alternatives

After doing an in-depth search on the market, I was able to compare the Bowflex C7 indoor cycle with similarly priced bikes to let you know if this one worths your investment. Currently priced less than $900, the Bowflex C7 is with no doubt, one of “the best value spin bikes” on the market. For this price, there is no other indoor cycling bike that offers a 7″ touch screen, Bluetooth, USB charging, and so many app compatibilities.

The fact that it allows you to watch your favorite show or use the cycling app of your favorite unlike Echelon bikes that only allow you to use their own app. Plus, everything on the Bowflex C7 works perfectly even without a paid subscription, so you are not forced to continuously pay in order to use the bike’s monitor features or its resistance.

Therefore, I strongly recommend our readers to consider the Bowflex C7 exercise bike if their budget falls below $1000. That said, there is only one catch with this indoor bike which explains why Bowflex is selling it for lower price. It only allows you to use third-part apps on the screen of the bike, if you are subscribed to JRNY application. The JRNY app costs $19 per month and unfortunately doesn’t have live classes.

let me be clear, the Bowflex C7 works without paid subscription. The monitor turns on and displays your stats. However, the minute you decide to go online with the “bike’s monitor”, you are are going to need a paid JRNY subscription. If you decide to use your own tablet or laptop to go online and do Zwift or Peloton riding, you don’t need the JRNY subscription. The bike use Bluetooth and connects to your device.

With that out of the way, if you are able to spend more than $1000, I would recommend you to take a look at the Nordictrack S15i. It’s an awesome indoor bike that was recently upgraded with a pivoting higher definition screen and a really fan automatic incline/decline system to mimic going uphills and downhills.

Another good Bowflex C7 alternative is the Schwinn IC4. I owned it for a while, it was a really nice spin bike that synched seamlessly with Peloton and Zwift applications. It’s also often $200 cheaper than Bowflex C7 so you can save that money to buy indoor cycling clothing, cooling fan, and other accessories.

Another alternative to Bowflex C7 would be the ProForm Studio Bike Pro. It comes with a 3-inch bigger screen than C7 (10″ vs 7″), but its handlebars doesn’t adjust horizontally and bottle holders are not built into the handlebars for easy reach. Plus, it only works with iFit application and there is no tablet holder. So, I would say it’s a good bike but probably not a good alternative to Bowflex C7. Here is a chart to show you how Bowflex C7 compares with other spin bikes we have tried.

-41%

Schwinn Fitness IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike

$699.99 $1,199.00

BUY THIS ITEM

Amazon.com

ProForm SB Pro 10 Indoor Cycling Bike

$719.99

BUY THIS ITEM

Amazon.com

Sole Fitness SB900 Indoor Cycling Bike

$819.99

BUY THIS ITEM

Amazon.com

Bowflex Fitness C7 Indoor Cycling Bike

BUY THIS ITEM

Amazon.com

Bowflex C7 Review, Pros, Cons, and Verdict:

Specifications:

• Width: 21.2“ / 54 cm
• Height: 52.3” / 133 cm
• Length: 50.7” / 123 cm
• Bike Weight: 115 lbs / 53.5 kg
• Max User Weight: 330 lbs / 150 kg

The technical specifications of the Bowflex C7 spin bike are fairly straightforward. The C7 doesn’t take up all that much space, but is still built large enough to hold people of most sizes. The weight capacity of 330 lbs makes sure of that.

The bike itself weighs a decent chunk, but it doesn’t break the floor under it, which is nice. The C7 also takes the taller approach rather than the longer one. Once again, this reduces the general footprint that the bike will have on the home. In particular, this is useful for smaller homes or apartments.

The Bowflex C7 Monitor

• The Bowflex C7 features a 7 inch LCD monitor.
• The bike can track and display RPM, speed, distance, heart rate, resistance level, intervals, and calories.
• The Bowflex C7 comes with Bluetooth connectivity.
• The Bowflex C7 can subscribe to the JRNY Membership offered for the monitor.
• Aside from the Bowflex app, you can use the Zwift and other apps to watch videos or track workouts.
• Note! In order to connect the bike to Zwift, Train Road, and Peloton, you need your own tablet/phone because the bikes’ monitor doesn’t allow downloading those applications unless you are subscribed to JRNY application which costs $19 per month.

One of the biggest selling points about the newer Bowflex spin bikes are their monitors and the JRNY Membership that comes with them. Let’s start with that membership. The JRNY Membership is a service that gives you the ability to stream services like Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime Video directly to your bike. Although JRNY doesn’t offer online live spinning classes like the Peloton, Echelon, or iFit, it has the ability to create adaptive workouts and give a more personalized challenge to the cyclist.

The monitor itself offers the ability to connect to a variety of different popular apps (if you are subscribed to JRNY) like Netflix and Hulu, Zwift, TrainerRoad, Peloton, or Google Fit. This is very nice, as it allows you to keep track of variety of different statistics.

This is important: Although the “bike’s monitor” doesn’t allow downloading the Zwift, Peloton or any other third party application unless you are subscribed to JRNY app, the bike itself does send the statistic to your Bluetooth devices. So, if you happen to be a fan of Zwift and don’t want to pay the JRNY monthly fee, you will need to download the Zwift app on your tablet or phone and then connect your device to the bike via Bluetooth.

It might not be a game-changing or revolutionary difference, but it is a nice addition and Bowflex should be praised for making the monitor compatible with so many different fitness apps. I just wish they didn’t try to rip me off with the JRNY app to allow me to use the monitor to surf online or download third-party apps.

Thankfully, if you want to use the bike’s screen without connecting it online, you can do it without any type subscription and you will be able to turn on the bike and see all your stats clearly on a 7-inch HD monitor. Also as an additional bonus, it will allow you to keep track of your heart rate through a heart rate armband monitor that can be bought separately.

Q-Factor and Pedals:

• The pedals of the Bowflex C7 are Dual Link with Toe Cages included;
• The Q-Factor of the Bowflex C7 spin bike is unknown;

The pedals of the Bowflex C7 are dual link. This means that they are double sided, allowing the user to use either side of them if they prefer. This dual-sided ability gives them compatibility with SPD cleats for those who want to use such footwear while they ride. For those who would prefer not to do that or do not have such cleats, the pedals also have toe cages included with them. This allows for those who prefer to cycle in regular athletic shoes to do just that without any sort of fear that their feat might slip off of the pedals.

The other element of examining the pedals of a spin bike is that of a Q-Factor. For those who are unaware, the Q-Factor of the bike is the distance between the two pedals. It is widely considered that the narrower this distance is, the better. After all, if the legs are spread too wide, they can become rather uncomfortable while they cycle. On the flip side, if the distance between these pedals is too narrow, then it can cause discomfort or even injury. The issue with the Bowflex C7’s Q-Factor is that… it just isn’t listed anywhere. Thus, if you have a burning desire to know if this Q-Factor will be comfortable enough, you’ll have to find one and measure it yourself. Certainly not ideal.

Bowflex C7 Flywheel:

• The Bowflex C7 has a 40 lb flywheel.
• It is fixed and bidirectional (not free-wheel for casting).
• C7 Bowflex indoor cycling bike has flywheel sweat resistance guard (lower maintenance and cleaner bike).

The Bowflex C7 flywheel that is reported to be about 40 lbs. This is a good weight for a spin bike, compared to many other spin bikes in this price tag.The heavy flywheel could lead to more intense levels of resistance, especially when you start pedalling.

This bike has a fixed flywheel which means you won’t be able to coast on the bike. But it does help you burn more calories as it won’t allow you to take breaks during the ride. So, what seems like a weakness of the Bowflex C7 actually turns out to be a pretty nice strength.

Bowflex C7 Resistance:

• The Bowflex C7 has a magnetic system of resistance.
• The Bowflex C7 comes with 100 different levels of magnetic resistance.
• C7’s resistance is adjusted manually (not electronically) therefore there is no automatic resistance adjustment when reaching uphills/downhills on Zwift or other indoor cycling apps.

The resistance of the Bowflex C7 is that of the magnetic kind. This mode uses a series of magnets that surround the flywheel in order to either increase or decrease the resistance of the bike. This, compared to the friction resistance of many older bikes, which use pads in order to physically pressure the flywheel and provide resistance that way. Magnetic resistance is the common method of resistance that is used by most modern spin bikes, so it is unsurprising to see that the Bowflex C7 spin bike has gone this way.

What is not as common is the pick of the bike to have 100 different levels of resistance. This is actually rather impressive, as it gives a whole host of options for the cyclist to choose from in order to get the ideal workout in. Whether they just want to go for a light ride or press against a brick wall on each foot, the Bowflex C7 gives them such an option. We always say that the more options, the better for the consumer. Fair to say, the Bowflex C7 gives quite a few options in regards to the resistance.

Handlebars and Seat:

• The handlebars of the Bowflex C7 are adjustable both vertically and horizontally
• The saddle of the Bowflex C7 is adjustable both vertically and horizontally

The handlebars of the Bowflex C7 don’t have any fancy names to come with them. However, they don’t necessarily need such fancy titles, as they do the job required of them without any issues. They are comfortable to hold and will adjust both vertically and horizontally. This allows for a greater range of people to fit comfortably onto the C7. At the top of the handlebars, there’s a media tray, which allows for entertainment from the phone or tablet to keep you busy while you ride. This is a good alternative to the JRNY experience if you are simply using that for entertainment purposes. There’s also a water bottle holder underneath the handlebars, allowing for some additional hydration during any exercise sessions.

The saddle of the Bowflex C7 is a racing style saddle according to the descriptions listed on all of the places offering it. It is similar to the handlebars in the fact that it can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally. Once again, this helps it be more accommodating to riders of all different shapes and sizes. The seat itself is comfortable enough, though after longer workout sessions it can become a tad more uncomfortable. There’s an additional bonus of having 3 lb dumbbells and the appropriate holders with them on the back of the seat. This is a nice little addition for anyone who might want to start getting some upper body workouts in while they continue their cycling.

Drivetrain and Gear Ratio:

• The Bowflex C7 has a poly-V belt as the drivetrain
• The Bowflex C7 does not have a listed gear ratio.

Here is where we have a complaint with the Bowflex C7. It is confirmed that it has a poly-v belt as the drivetrain. This is a much quieter and smoother drivetrain compared to a traditional chain drivetrain. It also requires significantly less maintenance than a chain drive. All nice and swell. Good on them for having a modern drivetrain that only the more traditional (or significantly cheaper) spin bikes have.

However, the gear ratio is not listed whatsoever. This is unfortunate. The more information about the various indoor cycling bikes on the market that we have, the better we can judge them against their fellows and their price points. However, there isn’t any listed gear ratio for the Bowflex C7 or even any of the other Bowflex spin bikes. For those who are unaware, the gear ratio of a spin bike is related to how many times a smaller pulley belt pulls a big ring. These bikes have such small pulley belts and a bigger belt ring that connects to the flywheel. So if a bike had a gear ratio of 5:1, for every turn of the big wheel, the small pulley will turn 5 times.

Bowflex C7 Price and Warranty:

• The Bowflex C7 original price is around $1,200 (currently available for less than $900)
• The Bowflex C7 JRNY experience costs either $20 a month or $150 for an entire year
• The Bowflex C7 has a warranty that includes:
  2 years on the frame
  3 years on the mechanical parts
  3 years on the electrical parts
  3 months for the labor

Now we come to one of the most important parts when considering the purchase of an indoor cycling bike. The price and warranties can make or break the recommendation considering how much is on offer. The base price of the Bowflex C7 is around $1200, which is a pretty fair price. What one has to keep in mind is that in order to get the “full” experience of this bike, you will have to continue paying for the JRNY membership. If you are willing to pay for a year-long time, the cost isn’t that so bad. $150 is certainly not that bad. However, if you are actually paying the $20 per month, it quickly becomes quite expensive and the worth becomes much more questionable.

The other major aspect of the costs are the warranties that come with the bike. You want to know that these expensive bikes will last. Nobody wants to have the piece of equipment that they just dropped over $1000 on to break after 3 months only to find that it isn’t covered for that long. Fortunately, the warranties that come with the Bowflex C7 are pretty solid. The frame comes with a 2 year guarantee on it, which is less than some other spin bikes on the market. However, the 3 year warranty that comes with the parts (both mechanical and electrical) is also better than many others. The labour warranty is not great, coming in at only 3 months, though that is often the smallest warranty – so no real surprise here.

C7 Assembly and Shipping:

• The Bowflex C7 does not come fully preassembled (arrives 60% assembled).
• Shipping should take 1-2 weeks, though there are a variety of factors that could affect that.
• All the needed assembly tools are included with the Bowflex C7 exercise bike.

The Bowflex C7 does not come completely preassembled like some other modern spin bikes. However, this does not necessarily take away from the Bowflex C7 indoor bike. It comes with a manual on how to assemble it and the actual process should not take too terribly long. The parts that come assembled are flywheel, transmission, and the crank arms (the most difficult parts. You will need to assemble the feet, seat, handlebars, pedals, and the monitor. It shouldn’t take more than 40 to 60 minutes but it’s wise to do it in two people.

The shipping process should also not be terribly complicated. It normally takes about 1-2 weeks depending on a couple of factors. Location, weather, human mistakes or a worldwide pandemic can all play a factor in how quickly this bike could arrive. Another possibility is how available the bike is. As mentioned, it isn’t actually displayed on the Bowflex main site, so you will have to rely on third party sellers in order to acquire one of these bikes (at least for now).

Bowflex C7 Indoor Cycling Bike Pros:

The Bluetooth Connection Abilities:

Far too many Bluetooth connections of bikes these days are only able to connect to one or two fitness apps. That issue is not present with the Bowflex C7. You are able to connect to all sorts of different fitness apps. Zwift, Peloton, MyFitnessPal and others are all available for connection and will help you keep track of the statistics during the workout session. Because the monitor itself doesn’t actually seem to have this capability, it makes it all the more important that it can connect to these apps that do so.

Customizable and Quality Resistance:

The magnetic resistance that is offered by the Bowflex C7 is a quality system. Thanks to the belt drivetrain and magnetic system, you will hardly notice any sort of noise coming from the noise. The 100 levels of magnetic resistance means that the user will be able to finely tune their workout experience to whatever intensity they are feeling for that session. Whereas other bikes might not have a flexible resistance system, the Bowflex C7 takes the opposite approach and allows the user to choose whatever challenge they desire. All the while, it’s nice, smooth and quiet.

Bowflex C7 Indoor Cycling Bike Cons:

The Handlebars and Seat are OK at Best:

This isn’t so much as a negative as it is a disappointment compared to the rest of the Bowflex C7. Whereas there was so much effort put into the monitor and connections that come with it, the actual elements of the bike that you grab onto and are sitting on are simply underwhelming. It isn’t so much that they are bad. They just aren’t as good as some of the other elements of the bike and that leads to an overall lesser experience of the Bowflex C7. It’s rather unfortunate, as with some improvements in this area, there would be very little wrong with the Bowflex C7.

Resistance is not Automatic:

The Bowflex C7 is an indoor bike that uses manually adjustable magnetic resistance. Unlike some other models on the market like Nordictrack S15i or Peloton Bike+, the Bowflex C7 indoor cycling bike does not have automatic resistance adjustment. This means that when you are following an online spinning class, the instructor’s instructions for increasing or decreasing resistance will need to be manually carried out by the user. While this may not seem like a big deal, it can actually be quite inconvenient and even disruptive to your workout. If you are in the middle of a particularly intense session, having to let go off the handlebar grips and adjust the resistance can disrupt your flow and make it difficult to get back into the groove.

Can’t use third-party apps without JRNY subscription:

It’s not secret that Bowflex tries to rip you off by telling you that you can use third party apps on the bike’s screen. But, in order to use these apps, you must subscribe to Bowflex’s JRNY app, which costs $20 per month. This is one of the Bowflex C7 issues and an unnecessary expense, as there are many free and equally effective apps available. Bowflex’s attempt to force customers into subscribing to their app is dishonest and frustrating. If you’re considering the Bowflex C7 bike, be aware that you will need to pay extra for access to third-party apps on the bike’s screen. That said, you can always ignore the bike’s monitor and avoid subscribing to JRNY by using your own screen such as Tablet, TV, or Laptop or Phone to connect with the bike’s Bluetooth.

No live spinning class on JRNY app:

Bowflex C7 exercise bike is a great option for those looking for a quality workout at home in an affordable price range. However, in order to use the bike’s screen “online” (or with any third party application), you must subscribe to Bowflex’s JRNY app. The bad news is that JRNY does not even offer live spin bike classes. So, if you want live classes of Peloton application to be displayed on the bike’s monitor, you would have to pay $20 for JRNY + $39 for Peloton which in total becomes $59. And even then, the Bowflex C7 spin bike still will not be able to automatically change resistance like the Peloton Bike+ does. So, for those who can afford to pay the Peloton application fee, they are just better off buying a Peloton bike+ that works with the app without any issue.

Last Word on the Bowflex C7

The Bowflex C7 is a strange bike. This is thanks to it’s strange marketing and hidden elements that one would think to make it one of Bowflex’s premier bikes. The monitor and technological elements are quite well done and will entertain just about anyone who decides to hop on one of these bikes and get cycling. The JRNY Membership in particular is made for entertainment. Meanwhile the Bluetooth connections allow for stat tracking with regular fitness apps.

The physical elements of the Bowflex C7 spin bike are fine, though one might expect a little bit more from a bike of such a price. Despite this relatively high price, the warranties that come with it are fairly generous (especially compared to some competition on the market). This makes that price more justified for the user, which is always a good thing. For those with smaller homes, the Bowflex should fit well enough, though it certainly isn’t the smallest bike available.

It is hard not to recommend this bike in its current state. It offers many of the aspects of smart spin bikes while even having the “worst” elements of it being at least acceptable in terms of quality. It would be nice to know more elements about it like the Q-Factor, but at the end of the day it isn’t like Bowflex is actively hiding the resistance type of how the bike actually works. It’s just unfortunate that the Bowflex C7 spin bike appears to have been left on the side of the road when it comes to the public getting a good look at it.

Bowflex C7 Frequently Asked Questions

Bowflex C7 vs Schwinn IC4?

Bowflex and Schwinn are two of the most popular manufacturers of exercise bikes, and the C7 and IC4 are two of their most popular models. So, which one is right for you? Although the Bowflex C7 comes with a better 7-inch touchscreen, it is a more affordable option because the company is hoping to convince you to subscribe to JRNY subscription to pay an extra $20 every month.

The IC4, on the other hand comes with a 2-inch LED screen but it is a more expensive option, because its screen is not meant to trap you with paid subscription. So, you see why the price of Bowflex C7 with a 7-inch screen is cheaper than the Schwinn that comes a basic LED screen. Other than that the size of the screen and the price, Bowflex C7 and Schwinn IC4 are the same bikes.

Ultimately, the choice between the C7 and IC4 comes down to your budget and your needs. If you’re looking for a basic exercise bike that won’t break the bank and don’t want to use the bike’s screen to surf online, the C7 is a good option. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for the same bike that its screen functions 100% without any paid subscription, the Schwinn IC4 is for you.

Is Bowflex C7 compatible with Peloton?

Yes it is, however in order to install the Peloton app on the Bowflex C7 screen, you will first need to subscribe to JRNY app. There is also a way around subscribing to JRNY app which includes using your own tablet or computer instead of the bike screen.

By doing this you have more control of what you’re watching and don’t have to worry about the $20 month expense that comes with JRNY.

While it’s great that Bowflex C7 is compatible with Peloton, it would be nice if there was an easier way to access the Peloton app without having to go through another subscription.

Hopefully in the future there will be a simpler solution for those who want to use the Bowflex C7 with the Peloton and other third party applications.

Bowflex C6 vs Bowflex C7?

Bowflex C6 vs Bowflex C7 – what’s the difference? The Bowflex C6 comes with a basic 2-inch LED screen while the Bowflex C7 is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen monitor.

As for the price, the Bowflex C6 is priced around $700 while the Bowflex C7 is priced around $999. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Bowflex C6 is the way to go. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for added features and functionality, the Bowflex C7 may be a better option.

Where to buy Bowflex C7?

If you’re looking for a quality exercise bike, the Bowflex C7 is a great option. It offers a wide range of features and is very user-friendly. The best place to buy the Bowflex C7 is online.

There are a number of reasons for this. First of all, you’ll be able to find the best prices online. Secondly, it’s very convenient to shop online – you can do it from the comfort of your own home.

And finally, you’ll have a much wider selection of products to choose from when you shop online. So if you’re looking for the best place to buy the Bowflex C7, the answer is online.

Bowflex c7 vs Velocore?

The main differences between the Bowflex VeloCore and Bowflex C7 are the technology, screen size, and the prices. Bowflex’s VeloCore and C7 indoor cycling bikes are two of the most popular options on the market, but they offer different riding experiences.

The VeloCore is the company’s latest model, and it’s available with two different screen options; 16-inch or 22-inch. Velocore also features a unique leaning technology that mimics road cycling. This makes it a great choice for experienced riders who want to get a realistic workout.

The C7, on the other hand, is a more traditional indoor bike. It doesn’t have the leaning feature, but it’s available for $999 and does have a 7-inch screen size.

This makes the C7 a good choice for riders who want to track their progress and see their stats while they ride without breaking the bank account.

Prices start at $2200 for the VeloCore with 22-inch screen, $1999 for the VeloCore with 16-inch screen and $999 for the Bowflex C7.

How to use Bowflex C7 bike?

Bowflex C7 is a spin bike and it’s recommended to be used 4-5 times a week. Every session can be anywhere from 30-60 minutes depending on your indoor cycling workouts and goal.

Although, before using the Bowflex C7 bike, I suggest you to setup the bike correctly to fit you comfortably so you don’t hurt yourself and can ride longer without excessive saddle sore.

Bowflex C7 to Peloton resistance conversion?

Both, Peloton and Bowflex C7 have 100 resistance level so the easiest way is to just convert them equally. However, in reality, Bowflex C7 and Peloton resistance don’t match.

Peloton level 20 is more intense that Bowflex C7 and it’s because of the type and size of magnets used for resistance. I would say, instead of converting resistance, it’s better to watch the RPM and Watts and stay on top of those metrics.

IS Bowflex C7 compatible with Zwift?

Yes, Bowflex C7 is compatible with Zwift application. However, in order to install the Zwift application on the monitor of the Bowflex C7, you will have to first subscribe to JRNY application and then subscribe to Zwift application.

So, in order to install the Zwift app not he Bowflex C7 bike, you will need to spend $35 per month for the JRNY and Zwift subscriptions.

Your other option is to connect your tablet or computer to the bike via Bluetooth and install the Zwift on your own device instead of the C7 screen. In this scenario, you don’t need to subscribe to JRNY application so you only need to pay the Zwift monthly cost.

Bowflex C7 Bluetooth issues?

Bowflex C7 Bluetooth issue is real, unfortunately. In many cases it has been reported that the Bluetooth connection drops and workouts are interrupted.

Not all, but many Bowflex C7 bikes have been reported to come with faulty Bluetooth issues that requires replacement parts which sadly is difficult to get from Bowflex because they have a poor and lousy customer support compared to other known fitness brands on the market.

Bowflex C7 without subscription?

Yes, Bowflex C7 can be used without subscription. C7 requires subscription if you decide to install third-party application or surf on the web using the bike’s screen. If you intend to use the bike offline, you can use the the Bowflex C7 without subscription.

The screen will turn on and the bike will function fully but you won’t be able to save daily workouts on the bike unless you connect online.

What is a comfortable saddle for Bowflex C7?

Based on my experience, the most comfortable saddle for Bowflex C7 is the the Wittkop. It fits the C7 without any issue and comes with an ergonomic design that allows airflow. It also helps to minimise Bowflex C7 saddle sore.

Sayed Hosseiny

Hi there, I'm Sayed Hamed Hosseiny, the founder and one of the authors at yourexercisebike.com (YEB). I am a former indoor cycling instructor and personal trainer with nearly 20 years of experience. With a passion for indoor cycling, I have spent years designing cycling parts, repairing, and importing exercise bikes. All the articles, tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on YourExerciseBike.com (YEB) reflect my personal opinion and expertise in the field. I'm excited to share my knowledge with fellow exercise bike enthusiasts and help people find reliable indoor cycling information and the best exercise bike for their needs.

Related Articles

Echelon EX15 Review | Great But I Found a Better Bike

Keiser M3i Review | Even Better Than I Thought (May 2023)

Life Fitness IC2 Indoor Cycle Review | Get A Better Alternative

The 7 Best Spin Bikes Under $1000 That I Tried