Horizon 5.0 IC Indoor Cycle Review: Durability & Comfort Test
If you’re searching for a beginner-friendly indoor bike, Horizon Fitness offers a compelling option with the 5.0 IC Indoor Cycle. As an avid fitness enthusiast and experienced reviewer, I can confidently say that the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC Indoor Cycle stands out as a noteworthy choice at $500 price tag.
In terms of performance, this indoor bike excels in various categories. With a 47-inch length and 21-inch width, it takes up significantly less space compared to the Echelon EX5, making it easier to maneuver and clean. The adjustable seat post and handlebars accommodate users of various heights, ensuring a comfortable and personalized riding experience. Additionally, the bike features cage pedals with adjustable straps, making it suitable for riders wearing sneakers. However, for those who prefer SPD or Look shoes, replacing the pedals with 9/16″ dual-sided pedals is necessary.
What sets the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC apart from its competitors is its tablet mount. By leveraging existing tablet or iPad ownership, you can gain access to a vast array of virtual workout types through specialized apps, surpassing the limited options provided by indoor bikes with built-in screens. Instead of being locked to only Peloton app, you can use the bike with any application you like. That’s the beauty of Bluetooth FTMS transmitter that comes with the Horizon 5.0 ic indoor cycle.
Based on my own extensive search and experience, the 5.0 IC offers stability, consistency, and comfort—essential attributes for an indoor bike. Its compact design ensures it doesn’t occupy excessive space in your home. Furthermore, the ability to enjoy Netflix or YouTube during workouts adds to the overall appeal.
However, it’s important to note that the saddle provided with the bike, despite being advertised as a racing-style road saddle, is disappointingly uncomfortable. Thankfully, it’s easily replaceable with a more suitable alternative such as the Wittkop trekking style seat, resulting in a significantly improved riding experience.
The 5.0 IC features a 28.6-pound flywheel operated by a magnetic resistance system. Controlling the resistance is straightforward, with intuitive up and down arrows below the console replacing traditional knobs. The resistance levels range from 1 to 100, and I found that a setting around 20 provided a comfortable experience for casual rides. However, venturing into higher levels, such as 50, simulates the challenge of riding up a steep hill, ideal for climb training. Notably, the flywheel operates quietly, outperforming most other automatic resistance indoor bikes tested this year in terms of noise reduction.
Horizon Fitness recommends using Zwift for a comprehensive connected experience. This enables you to synchronize a heart monitor and the bike itself with the app, facilitating performance tracking. Zwift costs $11 per month and offers a virtual riding experience, allowing you to explore various locations globally and engage in solo or competitive rides.
Additionally, you can utilize popular training apps like Peloton or enjoy your favorite movies while monitoring your health data on platforms such as Strava, Fitbit, and Apple Health. For optimal synchronization, I recommend using the QZ app as a bridge application to connect all statistics including controllable to Zwift, not just speed.
If you’re seeking a high-quality indoor bike that maximizes space efficiency without compromising on performance, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC Indoor Cycle remains a top contender in its price range. Before going any further into this Horizon Fitness 5.0 ic indoor cycle review, I will explain how this bike was evolved and what are its similarities and differences with the other Horizon indoor cycle.
Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC vs 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle: Which One to Pick
The Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor cycle is the very first indoor bike offered by Horizon Fitness, so there was no previous model before it.
The Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC stands as an impressive entry into the indoor cycling market by this brand and it’s a great value option but the Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC is the more improved version that has a range of superior features and improvements that make it a compelling choice for anyone who can spend $200 more.
To start with, the 5.0 IC doesn’t allow vertical handlebar adjustment while the Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC allows both horizontal and vertical handlebar adjustment options so you can achieve a more customized and comfortable riding position.
Moreover, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 has a smaller 2×2″ display while the 7.0 IC has a larger 3×3 inch display, equipped with built-in programs which provides better visibility and structured workout options.
Additionally, the Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC included a heart rate monitor to make sure you can track your heart rate accurately during exercises. On to of that, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC support only up to 250-lbs while the Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC supports up to 300 lbs, making it suitable for a wider range of individuals.
In terms of convenience, the dual bottle holders on the Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC allow users to stay hydrated without interruptions, and the presence of a USB charging port enables the charging of devices during workouts.
On the other hand, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC, priced at $499, provides essential functionality without the added extras. With a weight capacity of 250 lbs, it remains a reliable choice for users on a budget.
Despite their differences, both Horizon Fitness indoor cycling bikes share similarities such as a 28.6 lb flywheel, 100-level electronic magnetic resistance, and compatibility with fitness applications via FTMS Bluetooth.
At the end it all comes down to how much you can spend. So, it is important to consider your budget, desired features, and specific needs when choosing between the two. The Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC offers a more comprehensive and customizable exercise experience, while the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC delivers value and functionality at a more affordable price point.
| Features | Horizon 7.0 IC | Horizon 5.0 IC |
|---|---|---|
| Handlebars | Horizontal & vertical adjustment | Only vertical adjustment |
| Console | 3×3 LCD with built-in programs | 2×2 without programs |
| HRM | Heart rate monitor included | Heart rate monitor not included |
| Price | $799 | $499 |
| Support | 300 lbs | 250 lbs |
| Holder | Dual bottle holders | Single bottle holder |
| USB | Yes | No |
| Resistance | 100-level electronic magnetic | 100-level electronic magnetic |
| Weight | 87 lbs | 85 lbs |
| Flywheel | 28.6 lbs | 28.6 lbs |
| Applications | FTMS Bluetooth for all apps | FTMS Bluetooth for all apps |
| Data | Cadence, Calories, Distance, Heart Rate, Resistance Level, Speed, Time, Watts | Cadence, Calories, Distance, Heart Rate, Resistance Level, Speed, Time, Watts |
Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC Comparable Alternative Indoor Bikes
If you’re in the market for a compact yet high-quality indoor cycling bike, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC offers excellent value in its price range. However, it’s always beneficial to explore alternative options that may better suit your specific needs or circumstances. Let’s take a look at two comparable indoor cycling bikes and discuss their advantages in different scenarios.
For those seeking a Peloton or Zwift-like auto-resistance experience, the Echelon EX-3 Smart Connect exercise bike is a strong contender. While it lacks a built-in display like the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC, it boasts several superior features.
Firstly, its flywheel is positioned at the back, which not only enhances overall quality but also reduces maintenance requirements. Secondly, the adjustable tablet holder offers better screen visibility compared to the fixed media shelf on the Horizon 5.0 IC.
Thirdly, the Echelon EX-3 seamlessly integrates with popular applications like Peloton, Zwift, and Kinomap, automatically adjusting resistance based on the chosen program.
Lastly, the dual-sided pedals accommodate both sneakers and clip-in SPD shoes, unlike the Horizon 5.0 IC’s caged pedals. Considering these advantages, and if you have a tablet or iPad for fitness monitoring, the Echelon EX-3 is a compelling alternative worth considering.
For budget-conscious shoppers, the Niceday Indoor Stationary Exercise Bike presents a viable option. While it lacks the automatic resistance feature found in the Horizon 5.0 IC, its manually adjustable magnetic resistance still provides a smooth and satisfactory experience. Furthermore, the Niceday bike offers several advantages despite its lower price point.
Firstly, its handlebar is both horizontally and vertically adjustable, allowing for a more customized fit. Secondly, it includes a dumbbell holder and dual-sided pedals, providing versatility for using specific cycling shoes or sneakers.
Thirdly, the Niceday bike boasts a nearly 20-pound heavier flywheel at 45 pounds, delivering increased momentum and resistance. Lastly, its angle-adjustable screen offers improved visibility compared to the fixed screen on the Horizon 5.0 IC. If you’re on a budget and prioritize these features, the Niceday Indoor Stationary Exercise Bike may be the best alternative for your needs.
Remember, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC remains an excellent choice in its price range. However, considering these alternative options based on specific requirements and preferences can help you make a well-informed decision.
Amazon.com
Horizon 5.0 Bike Technical Information:
- Horizon 5.0 spin bike specification
- Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC computer
- 5.0 Indoor Cycle Pedals and Q-factor
- Horizon 5 indoor bike flywheel
- Horizon 5.0 resistance system
- Belt drive system
- Handlebars and seat
- Value for money and warranty
- Shipping and assembly
Horizon Fitness 5.0 Indoor Bike Specification:
- Height: 47″
- Width: 20″
- Length: 47″
- Bike Weight: 85 Pounds
- Max User Weight: 250 Pounds
- Inseam Capacity: 5′ to 6’3″
- Transport Wheels: Yes
- Tablet Holder: Yes
- Base Adjustment Levelers: Yes, 4
- Water Bottle Holder: Yes, 1
- Power Requirement: 110 Standard Power Outlet
The Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC magnetic spin bike is designed with durable construction that can support just about any type of spin workout. Materials used on the fitness cycle bike and the triangle type frame decide the durability and the actual spin bike weight.
With a high-quality metal frame, it can hold 250-lb load weight. It is a lightweight bike that weighs 85 pounds with the frame fully assembled and can be easily moved from one place to another inside the house.
For relocating the bike after each spinning workout, the front base is equipped with two large durable transport wheel wheels. As for dimensions, this Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor cycling bike is relatively compact and doesn’t need too much space.
Thanks to its 4 adjustable stabilizer feet, you can perfectly level the bike on any type of surface including uneven floors. Additionally, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC spin bike features a durable powder coating that provides a nice shiny exterior as well as protection against rust and scratch.
Horizon Fitness 5.0 ic Computer:
- Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC spin bike comes with a backlit 2×2″ display.
- It has Bluetooth FTMS transmitter for connecting online.
- You can connect the bike to Zwift, Peloton, Kinomap, and QZ apps.
- You can track the workout progress including watt, speed, cadence, resistance, distance, time, heart rate, and calories.
- Receives heart rate from standard Bluetooth heart rate monitors.
As someone who has extensively used a variety of spin bikes, including the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC, I can confidently say that its monitor is a standout feature that enhances the overall cycling experience. It’s not as large or bright as Horizon 7.0’s monitor but it’s still better than other competitors.
The backlit 2×2-inch display is not only clear and easy to read, but it also provides you with all the essential workout data you need at a glance. From wattage and speed to cadence, resistance level, distance, time, heart rate, and calories burned, the monitor keeps you informed and motivated throughout my rides.
One aspect that sets the Horizon 5.0 IC apart is its Bluetooth FTMS transmitter, which allows seamless connectivity to a range of online platforms and fitness apps. Personally, I love connecting the bike to popular apps like Zwift, Peloton, Kinomap, and QZ.
The ability to immerse myself in virtual cycling experiences, participate in interactive training sessions, and explore scenic routes from around the world adds an exciting dimension to my indoor workouts. The Bluetooth connectivity is reliable and ensures a smooth experience, enabling you to fully enjoy the benefits of these platforms and take your cycling to new heights while competing with other indoor cycling enthusiasts online.
In terms of heart rate monitoring, the Horizon 5.0 IC’s compatibility with standard Bluetooth heart rate monitors is a game-changer. I always find it incredibly valuable to track my heart rate during workouts directly into the bike’s console along with other stats, as it allows me to gauge my intensity levels and make necessary adjustments to optimize my training.
This feature helps you stay within you target heart rate zone and ensures that you are getting the most out of every session. Having accurate and real-time heart rate data at your disposal adds a new level of insight and control to my workouts.
The main things that I don’t like about Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC’s monitor is its lack of angle adjustment. It’s fixed in place doesn’t allow adjusting the view angle for better viewing of the screen. The same thing goes for its tablet holder, I don’t who designed it but probably he should have tried to use the bike for a while to see why it’s important to add angle adjustability to Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC’s monitor and tablet tray.
Horizon 5.0 IC Pedals and Q-factor:
- This Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC bike features adjustable toe caged pedals.
- They don’t have elements to clip in specific cycling shoes.
- The pedal thread on Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC is the standard 9/16″.
- The q-factor distance on Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC is 175mm.
The Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC cycle has durable steel toe-caged pedals. They are designed with adjustable straps and buckle to fit for different size feet and keep them in place safely.
Unfortunately, unlike the Horizon 7.0, the pedals on the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC are not SPD compatible which means if you want to ride the bike with the clipping spinning shoes, you will need to replace the pedals. But it’s not a deal-breaker because the Horizon 5.0 IC indoor cycle comes with 9/16″ thread size and the SPD replacement pedals are widely available for as little as $40.
The Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC Indoor Cycle features a q-factor of 175mm, which is a generally acceptable measurement that should accommodate the majority of riders. Unless you’re an elite road cyclist who typically opts for higher-priced, advanced spin bikes like Tacx Neo, this q-factor should be suitable for indoor cycling enthusiasts.
For those unfamiliar with the term, the q-factor refers to the distance between the pedals on a bike. A narrower q-factor is generally considered better as it helps maintain proper alignment between your feet, knees, and hips, reducing stress on these joints.
Just remember that q-factor is the not the distance between feet when standing but it’s the distance between feet when walking. The 175mm q-factor of the 5.0 IC strikes a good balance between comfort and efficiency for most riders.
Additionally, the bike is equipped with a 3-piece crank that incorporates sealed bearings. This design not only enhances the bike’s overall durability but also contributes to a quieter operation. The sealed bearings require less maintenance compared to open bearings, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free cycling experience.
Horizon 5.0 Indoor Bike Flywheel:
- The Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor bike flywheel weighs 28.6 pounds to deliver a low-impact natural pedal stroke.
- The flywheel is fixed and bi-direction which allows pedaling both directions with resistance.
- There is a sweat protection guard to keep the liquid off the flywheel.
- Flywheel doesn’t have full cover which makes it less safe for households with kids.
The flywheel is a fairly heavy one, weighing 28.6 pounds, designed for a more natural ride and consistent momentum. It’s fixed and bi-directional, which means you can pedal in reverse as well as forward.
The benefit of fixed-wheel (fixed-gear) is that you can double the number of workouts and by pedaling reverse simulate different muscle groups. A disadvantage of fixed-gear is that you can not take a two-second break or immediately dismount the bike in case of emergency.
The flywheel is connected with the pedals so you will have to wait until the flywheel and pedals stop before you can get off the bike. There are a few indoor cycling bikes with smart release (free-wheel) system. But they cost more than $2000.
Unlike some other model like Echelon EX15 that have a protection guard all around the flywheel, this bike’s flywheel is exposed. It’s not a big deal if you know your kids won’t play around the bike. But if you need to play the bike in your living room and you have a child who might want to run around the bike, then it’s probably not the safest bike for you because the edge of these spin bike flywheels are pretty sharp.
Overall the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC exercise bike produces a smooth pedaling experience thanks to the combination of the magnetic system, belt and heavy flywheel resulting in extra stability and smoothness for the pedaling motion.
Horizon 5.0’s Resistance System:
- This Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC cycle has 100 level of magnetic resistance to provide a smooth responsive ride.
- There are two sets of strong magnets that apply from both sides of the flywheel to create a challenging spinning exercise.
- Resistance is electronically adjustable through buttons located on the bike’s display.
- It has the press down emergency braking system allows for a quiet and safe stop when the flywheel is spinning very fast.
The selling factor of this Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor cycling exercise bike is its silent magnetic resistance system. Unlike competitors with a limited range of resistance, the Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC magnetic indoor cycling exercise bike has two sets of high quality magnets to provide a challenging and smooth responsive ride by increasing the magnetic field resistance.
As I mentioned earlier in this Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor cycling bike review, this bike is equipped with an electronically adjustable magnetic resistance system. So, the resistance is automatically controlled by programs and terrains and also manually via buttons on the console.
You don’t need to twist a traditional knob, you just push the buttons to increase and decrease. The only issue is that it requires to be plugged into the power outlet to work. But other than that, it’s a superior system.
In addition to quiet operation, the Horizon 5.0 IC spin bike resistance is also virtually maintenance-free because unlike bikes with friction wool pad resistance, the magnets and the flywheel do come in contact.
Therefore, the resistance does not wear out and you won’t have to go through the hassle of changing the brake pad like you would for friction indoor bikes.
For beginners, you wouldn’t be going above 50-60 level because it gets pretty challenging and mimics uphills but if you want to push yourself a bit further, you can go as far as 100-level. The good news is that its resistance is always display on the console so you know exactly your gear level.
Lastly, the resistance also serves as an emergency brake; by pressing it down you can immediately stop the flywheel, which may be necessary in case of emergency or if you want to alternate normal with reverse pedaling sessions.
Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC Indoor Cycle Transmission:
- Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor cycle features belt-drive design for a quiet and smooth workout.
- This bike has the fixed-gear single belt direct drive mechanism with sealed bearings.
In addition to a magnetic system, one of the aspects that I like about Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor cycling bike is the belt drive. In fact, it is the combination of the belt with magnetic resistance that makes this cycle stand out from the crowd.
Featuring a high-quality belt drivetrain comes with several advantages. For example, it doesn’t require lubing so you wouldn’t have to deal with the mess that oil could make on your floor.
The other benefits include low-maintenance because the belt is one piece unlike chain with 100+ little pieces. And last but not least, the belt does not generate as much vibration as the chain does, resulting in an extremely quiet and smooth spinning exercise.
Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC indoor cycling bike is made for indoor cycling workout for all fitness levels therefore, it has durable and solid crank arms. It can support the rider in all cycling positions include off the seat full body high-intensity workouts.
Horizon 5 IC’s Handlebars and Seat:
- Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC handlebars are 2-way adjustable.
- A table holder is built-on the handlebars and its fixed.
- The seat is 4-way adjustable with safety holes on the vertical post for safe exercise.
- Its seat is narrow and has less than 1″ of paddings without centre cut to allow airflow.
- The seat and handlebar posts are not stainless steel.
- For vertical adjustment this indoor bike has two knobs (not levers).
This indoor cycling bike lacks in 4-way handlebar adjustment and its seat doesn’t go all the way down like Peloton Bike does. Basically this means some users may not be able to fit the bike correctly for their height. Currently, the only spin bike with magnetic resistance, 4-way handlebars adjustment that allows a wider range of vertical seat adjustment under $500 is the Niceday which I added its link in the comparable section.
If you are shorter or taller than average, I strongly advise you to go with the Niceday model. The 4-way adjustment allows a perfect indoor bike setting and provides a safe and comfortable ride for all your family members.
Although as I said, there is no horizontal handlebar adjustment, there is a multi-grip dipped handlebar design so when riding for long periods of time you can change use different cycling hand positions. The aero bar adds several grip possibilities and allows you to change arm positions to engage different upper muscles and prevent wrist and arm aches and fatigue.
The media holder on the Horizon 5.0 ic is a good addition to the bike because there are many that don’t come with this accessory. Plus, it’s large and can even fit a laptop but the main issue is that it is fixed and doesn’t adjust so you can get the perfect screen angle when watching Netflix movie or spinning video on YouTube or other apps.
The seat provided with the Horizon 5.0 ic exercise bike is really one of my least favourite features of the bike because it’s not well padded and there is no cut in the centre to allow airflow. I had to change mine after a few rides to a more comfortable exercise bike seats.
For me the Velmia Touring and Wittkop Trekking seats work great because I am average and don’t do aggressive cycling positions to lean too much on the handlebars. If that’s your style to lean too much forward, you probably want to get the MTB and Racing models. The Wittkop has several layers of soft padding and has 5-concept zone that considerably improve its overall cushioning and comfort.
Value for Money and Warranty:
- The Horizon 5.0 spin bike is sold and shipped by Amazon which has great benefits when it comes to support and returning the product.
- This Horizon 5.0 IC indoor cycle has lifetime frame and 1 year at home labour warranty.
- To order parts for this Horizon Fitness bikes under warranty, you can reach the company directly on their websites (horizonfitness.com).
- They are based in North America and offer a decent support US and Canada customers.
Considering all the features including the tablet holder, high-quality seat, magnetic resistance, belt system, and 1-year warranty, the Horizon 5.0 indoor cycling bike trainer is a good value for the money.
For around $500 you are buying what a fancy fitness equipment brand would have easily priced it $700 or $800. And the fact that Horizon Fitness is covering this auto-resistance exercise bike for one year in your home is a good indication of its quality and value.
The first thing I learned about companies offering such generous warranties, is that it’s a proof that they are not selling some cheap product and will last longer than competitors like Sunny Health and Fitness with a 90-day warranty. As for the parts under warranty or any other information in that manner, you can contact the seller on Amazon or the email address provided in the manual.
Just keep in mind that Horizon’s warranty doesn’t cover ordinary wear and tear or damage caused by improper use or accidents subject to the terms of our limited warranty which is common among all brands that make spin bikes.
Shipping and Assembly:
- Horizon Fitness 5.0 IC spin bike comes mostly assembled.
- The bike comes in one packages that measures 44L x 32W x 13D inches.
- Although the bike weighs 85-lbs, the package weighs 103-lbs.
- The box includes all the needed installation tools and the manual.
This Horizon Fitness 5 indoor cycle comes with the required installation tools and assembly instruction to make the assembly process a piece of cake. So, you wouldn’t need to spend another $80 for that.
Most of the bike comes already assembled. The flywheel, the drive belt, the crank assembly and the resistance mechanism are already attached to the main frame.
Therefore, in terms of assembly, all you need to do is attach the front and rear base bars to the main-frame, install the seat and handlebar posts and finally the console and the pedals.
This shouldn’t take more than 30-40 minutes. The Horizon 5.0 indoor cycle manual will also guide you through the assembly steps and thankfully the tools required for it are all included.
Note: Please pay attention to the pedal assembling, the left pedal needs to be screwed in counter-clockwise. As for the maintenance, a periodic check for loose bolts and parts is recommended.
The transmission is a belt (not a chain) so it does not require any lubrication. Other than this, wipe the sweat off the bike with the towel after the workout.
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.
We just picked this off of Amazon for $269.99. It is everything the review says it is. I’m not the sinner that my wife was at one time. She is looking I to getting back into it but we will both be using the bike this winter. We bought the 3-year extended warranty and we’ll see if we can wear it out or break something that shouldn’t have.
Hi Norm, thanks for stopping by
It is a good spin bike at a good value. For the price, I am not sure if there is a better spin bike on the market. Hopefully, you will enjoy the bike for years to come. Please keep our readers updated regarding your experience with this magnetic exercise bike.
Thanks again
YEB Team