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.
| Bowflex C6 | MYX II BODi Bike | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Tracking | Cadence, Speed, Distance, & Heart Rate | Cadence, Speed, Distance, & Heart Rate |
| Camera | No | Yes |
| Upgraded Tracker | No | Yes |
| Console Display | LED Console | 21.5″ HD Touchscreen |
| Resistance Type | Magnetic | Friction |
| Flywheel | 40 lbs. | 41 lbs. |
| Weight Capacity | 330 lbs. | 350 lbs. |
BODi Bike Review
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.
BODi Bike Specs
- User height range: 4′ 11″- 6’8″
- Height: 47″
- Width: 21″
- Length: 54″
- Item weight: 160 pounds
- User weight maximum: 350 pounds
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.
Bowflex C6 Bike Review
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®.
Bowflex C6 Bike Specs
- User height range: 4′ 6″- 6’6″
- Height: 51.8″
- Width: 21.2″
- Length: 48.7″
- Item weight: 106 pounds
- User weight maximum: 330 pounds
- 100 levels of magnetic resistance
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.
Detailed Comparison of Bowflex C6 & BODi (MYX II)
Bowflex C6 Bike Detailed Specifications
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 |
BODi Bike Detailed Specifications
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.
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 Fitness Bike?
People who love taking cycling classes will enjoy the BODi MYX II Fitness Bike. 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.
FAQ
Is the MYX Bike Quiet?
The MYX bike 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.
