Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike Review

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike and the VeloCore IC16 have the same features except the former has a larger console. So, if you are interested in the Bowflex IC series and you want a bigger console, the Velocore IC22 is the way to go.  

It has a 22’’ console that is the size of a mini-TV with lots of workout features. Clearly, it is the latest of the series at the time of this review.  

Click right here to have a peek at the best price of the Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike. 

The Frame and Construction 

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike has a heavy-duty commercial-grade and nicely welded steel frame that supports a maximum user weight capacity of 325 lbs./147 kg. Therefore, even though it is not a commercial designated indoor cycling bike it could withstand hard use.  

Other parts are made of durable plastic and these include the drive train covers.  

Also, the frame is designed to be switched from a stationary mode to a leaning mode, and vice versa. In other words, it could be ridden like every other standard stationary indoor cycling bike or be switched to a leaning mode that allows you to lean side-to-side as you mimic the curves of a scenic trail.  

The bike has good stability that will support every cycling style you may choose to engage in regardless of your weight.  

The base has solid stabilizers that also have adjustable levelers for superlative stability. Moreover, the bike’s assembled weight of 158.3 lbs./71.8 kg keeps it rooted.  

Understandably, a bike of this weight might be challenging to relocate. However, there are transport wheels at the front base and a lifting handle at the rear that were meant to help during a relocation process around the room.  

Because of the bike’s unique structure, it is larger than most average cycling bikes (the same size as VeloCore IC16 but larger than IC7).

The assembled dimensions are 59.8’’ long by 24.1’’ wide by 55.3’’ high. Thus, it requires an area with measurements of 4’98’’ (151.89 cm) by 2’ (61.21 cm) for workouts execution. Although, it has always been the norm to provide extra clearance of at least 2’ around it for safety and easy access.  

The Seat of the Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike 

The Bowflex IC series have identical seat that is cushioned and covered with vinyl material. However, not enough to provide long-lasting comfort. This is the reason why users have opted to use either a gel seat cover or have the seat replaced completely.

The seat is 4-way adjustable; meaning, you can adjust it vertically (upward/downward) or horizontally (fore/aft). Consequently, users of different heights and sizes can adjust it when necessary for a perfect fit.

There are levers and even distinct calibrations on the post that enable easy and quick adjustments.  

The Handlebar 

The handlebar is the same as the one on the Bowflex VeloCore IC16. It is multi-grip designed to offer a variety of grips for a standard ride, a hill-mountain climb ride, a cruise ride, and more.  

You can ride safely and comfortably without the need for gloves because the handlebar is well coated with soft anti-slip rubber foam.  

Unlike the seat, the handlebar is 2-way adjustable; it can only be vertically adjusted. However, this complements the bike’s overall customizability.   

There are no HR EKG sensors on the handlebar, but you don’t have to worry about keeping an eye on your heart rate data because a Bluetooth HR armband is included in the package.  

The Pedals 

The pedals that come with the bike are dual-sided. Simply put, they can be ridden with a pair of regular gym shoes or a pair of special spin shoes. They are safe and comfortable, regardless of which side you wish to use for workouts.  

The Drive 

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike is a belt-driven exercise machine with a rear-mounted flywheel.  

Its operation is smooth and quiet, making it suitable for home use. It is also maintenance-free since no post lubrication or adjustment is needed.  

The belt drive system comprises a strong and durable anti-stretch belt, pulleys, 170 mm crank-arms, solid crankset, and 33 lbs./14.96 kg flywheel.  

It is possible to pedal in reverse; meaning you can pedal forward and backward.  

For safety reasons, it is imperative to gradually slow down whenever you are about to stop pedaling in order to prevent a potential injury to the ankle.  

The Resistance 

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system with100 adjustable resistance levels.  

It is common knowledge that a magnetic resistance system is smoother, quieter, and effective when applied. Thus, the bike’s operation remains silent and smooth at all times.  

The reason for this is because no friction occurs during the process of generating resistance. Resistance is generated when the dual magnetic brake pads emit magnetic fields on the flywheel, and the intensity increases or decreases when they are closer or farther away from the flywheel. 

To increase or decrease the resistance levels, simply turn the tension knob on the main frame tubing clockwise or counterclockwise, respectively.   

Interestingly, the resistance levels are distinguishable because they appear on the display.  

The 100 resistance levels offer workout difficulties for warm-ups, weight loss, muscle group toning, and improvement of strength and endurance.  

The Console 

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike incorporates a 22’’ smart console that features a high-definition display. This right here is one of those features that keep you focused and motivated during a workout session.  

The console is Bowflex JRNY app compatible, and it also allows you to connect to third-party apps such as Peloton and Zwift. Therefore, if you hook up with any of them you will have access to a variety of workout resources.  

For instance, the Bowflex JRNY app has a library where private coaching videos, spin class workout videos, visual terrain videos, and much more can be accessed. Moreover, the console is capable of creating workout videos that are tailored just for you based on your workout history, i.e the programs you used and your fitness level.     

This is done to save you the trouble of having to decide which program to use out of the avalanche of programs in the app.  

Nevertheless, it is up to you to decide whether to use the curated programs or the ones in the library.  

There are also built-in entertainment apps such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Videos. They are obviously designed to make each of your workout sessions fun-filled and productive.  

Having said that, to be able to utilize any of the aforementioned apps, you are required to subscribe monthly. But if you can’t do that, the bike is still operable because the standard mode of the console offers preset interval programs, heart rate programs, calorie-burning programs, and one or two scenic videos, and much more.  

The display tracks workout stats such as Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, Burn Rate (Calories Per Minute), Heart Rate, Cadence, Resistance, and Lean & Core engagement. The speed and the distance measurement units can be toggled between mph/km/h and miles/km, respectively.  

For your heart rate data to be read, you must use the included Bluetooth HR armband.  

Accessory 

There are a couple of extras that are incorporated into the Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike.  

These extras include a USB charging port for your phone, a tablet holder that holds your device within reach, water bottle holders for proper hydration purposes, and 3 lbs./1.36 kg dumbbells and holders for light arm strength training.   

Storage 

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike assembled dimensions are 59.8’’ length by 24.1’’ width by 55.3’’ height, and it weighs about 158.3 lbs./71.8 kg.  

So, a storage area with measurements of 4’93’’ (151.89 cm) L by 2’ (61.21 cm) can accommodate it; and since there are transport wheels attached to the front base and a lifting handle at the rear, moving the bike around the room won’t be a problem.  

Pros/Features Overview 

• Sturdy and stable 
• Holds up to 325 lbs./147 kg maximum user weight 
• The design is elegant 
• The frame could be switched between stationary and leaning mode 
• The operation is smooth and quiet 
• Manual magnetic resistance system offers 100 adjustable resistance levels 
• The console is 22’’ and Bowflex JRNY app compatible; and third-party apps such as Peloton and Zwift could be connected 
• Entertainment apps such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Vidoes are pre-installed 
• The smart high definition display tracks workout stats such as Time, Distance, Speed, Resistance, Heart Rate, Cadence, Calories, Burn Rate, and much more 
• The console’s standard mode offers workout progams, preset interval programs, heart rate programs, scenic trails, and more 
• A wireless HR armband is included 
• Countdown goal setting for Time, Distance, or Calories is possible 
• The handlebar is coated with anti-slip rubber foam for secure and comfortable grips, and there are multiple grips for different workout postures 
• The pedals are dual-sided; one side has toe cages with adjustable safety straps for standard gym shoes and while the flip side has SPD for special spin shoes 
• The bike is customizable; thus, users as tall as 6’5’’ can be accommodated 
• Transport wheels and a lifting handle are integrated for easy relocation process 
• USB charging port integrated 
• Water bottle holders included 
• A tablet holder included 
• 3 lbs./1.36 kg dumbbells and holders 
• Easy to maintain 
• Assembly not complicated 

Cons 

• The seat is not entirely comfortable 
• Apps need monthly subscription 

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Warranty  

• 2 Years on Frame 
• 2 Years on Mechanical and Electronic Parts 
• 1 Year on Labor 

Product Dimensions & Specifications 

• Length: 59.8’’ 
• Width: 24.1’’ 
• Height: 55.3’’ 
• Shipping dimensions: 51’’ L x 37’’ W x 19’’ H 
• Net weight: 158.3 lbs./71.8 kg 
• Gross weight: 186 lbs./84.36 kg 
• Flwheel weight: 33 lbs./14.96 kg 
• Drive: Belt 
• Resistance system: Manual magnetic with 100 adjustable resistance levels 
• Seat: 4-way adjustable 
• Handlebar: 2-way adjustable 
• Pedals: Dual-sided (toe cages with adjustable safety straps & SPD) 
• Console: 22’’ HD smart touchscreen 
• Bowflex JRNY app compatible 
• Third-party app compatible (Zwift & Peloton) 
• Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video apps pre-installed 
• Bluetooth HR armband included 
• USB Charging port: Yes 
• Water bottle holders: Yes 
• Tablet holder: Yes 
• Transport wheels and a lifting handle included 
• 3 lbs./1.36 kg dumbbells and holders included 

Shipping 

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike ships in a box that weighs 186 lbs./84.36 kg and it has dimensions of 51’’ long by 35’’ wide by 19’’ high.  

Delivery will be made in a couple of days upon ordering.  

Assembly 

This bike is seemingly difficult to assemble but it is not. On the contrary, it is easy and straightforward because the difficult parts are pre-installed. 

Therefore, you are to only attach the stabilizers, the seat/post, the handlebar/post, the pedals, and the console. It takes about an hour, more or less to complete this task.  

A detailed and graphic instruction manual is included to help guide you through the assembly process. Also, the required tools for the assembly accompany the package.  

Maintenance 

The maintenance of the Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike is not complicated. 

Simply make sure that it is kept clean after every workout session, and do not expose it to excessive sunlight or heat. Store it in a cool and dry area to avoid console malfunction.  

As a safety measure and as well as maintenance, make sure to examine the bike before usage to ascertain every part is in good condition.  

Conclusion 

The Bowflex VeloCore IC22 Indoor Exercise Bike is a high-end fitness machine that delivers. It does provide aerobic and cardiovascular workouts that burn tons of calories, tone muscles, and improve strength and endurance.  

It supports a maximum user weight capacity of 325 lbs./147 kg, and it integrates a 22’’ HD smart touchscreen monitor that is compatible with several apps including the Bowflex JRNY app.  

The bike’s operation is smooth and silent thanks to its belt drive system.