When you think of an at-home stationary bike in today’s fitness landscape, odds are that the Peloton Bike immediately comes to mind. However, in the realm of the best exercise bikes, the competition has caught up to the innovations and design aspects that saw Peloton literally reshape our idea of at-home training in 2020. This begs the question: Is the Peloton Bike still a worthwhile solution for indoor cycling?

From our experience with over 20 exercise bikes (including the Peloton), we’d venture to say that it’s no longer king of the indoor cycling world. Other brands are offering similar resistance systems, competitive digital platforms, and innovative riding experiences like incline and decline adjustments that are on par or overshadow the components featured across the original Peloton Bike. However, there’s still merit to this genericized cardio machine, namely in the high-quality on-demand workouts and engaged community of riders. If you’re someone who thrives in a supportive (albeit virtual) fitness environment, the “Peloton Experience” may be for you.

Main Takeaways

The “Peloton Experience” is one of the most engaging and entertaining fitness platforms we’ve experienced, made possible by a roster of energetic, informative instructors.

You’ll need special footwear in order to comfortably pedal through your cycling classes — the Peloton Bike features pedals designed for Delta-compatible cycling cleats.

According to our tester, adjusting the seat and handlebar settings can be difficult at times.

Peloton Bike Highlights

The Original Peloton Bike features a footprint measuring 59 inches in length and 23 inches in width — or 9.42 square feet. For reference, that’s smaller than your typical loveseat, which carries a footprint of 15.31 square feet. (1) 

This can be great for athletes tight on space, but according to the brand, you may want to extend your planned dimensions. Peloton recommends an extra 24 inches on all sides of the Bike to make getting into and out of the saddle as easy as possible. However, we’ve found that these recommendations are just that — recommendations.

In terms of weight, the Peloton Bike clocks in at 135 pounds. While that may seem heavy at first glance, our tester, a certified personal trainer, noted that maneuvering this cardio machine into place was easy thanks to the included wheels across the front base. Plus, most of the weight is stationed near the flywheel and display, so once you get the backend off the ground, it can be easy to move.

Speaking of the display, the Peloton Bike features a 21.5-inch 1080p HD touchscreen, which can provide clean and crisp visuals for all your Peloton workouts. Our tester appreciated the layout of the tracked metrics during training, too, as well as the leaderboard at the side that offered a unique sense of motivation.

The rear-facing speakers featured on the Peloton Bike display

The display module also boasts two rear-facing stereo speakers that deliver your playlists and instructor’s callouts forward instead of right in your face, as well as a front-facing camera that can be used for tandem rides with your friends and family. It can also be used when you need to reach out to Peloton’s support team for any issues that pop up with your equipment. Admittedly, though, we’ve found that the camera quality is lacking, so we haven’t used the embedded tech very often.

Moving back toward the saddle, the Peloton Bike features vertical adjustments for the bullhorn-style handlebars and both horizontal and vertical adjustments for the seat. While the seat settings can help you achieve a comfortable riding experience, we do wish that the same X- and Y-axis adjustments were available across the handlebars (more on that later).

The Delta pedals featured on the Peloton Bike

The pedals are also a component of note with this stationary bike. Unlike other bikes we’ve tested that feature a toe cage for better foot security, the Peloton Bike features Delta pedals that require compatible footwear. These Delta-compatible cycling cleats can help you improve your power and cycling economy as your foot placement never changes throughout your strokes. (2) That said, this is an extra expense — Peloton offers compatible cycling shoes starting at $125.

[Related: Best Exercise Bikes with Virtual Courses]

Lastly, the magnetic resistance showcased across the 38-pound flywheel can make for a quiet yet challenging workout experience. The intensity is controlled through a resistance knob near the center of the Peloton Bike, which can be helpful when toggling through the 100 available resistance levels.

Training With the Peloton Bike

For the trial runs (err, rides) with the Original Peloton Bike, our tester logged multiple sessions with a handful of rostered instructors, getting a feel for what each brought to the table in terms of energy, motivation, and expertise. Additionally, we also looked beyond the Peloton app’s cycling sessions, taking advantage of a workout library that includes modules for strength training, HIIT, yoga, and more.

We used a multi-point methodology to rate the Peloton Bike in categories such as dynamic programming, adjustability, conveniences, and more, scoring on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). For further information on how we trial and test products for our online content, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology page.

Engaging On-Demand Classes

While we don’t think the Peloton Bike is the greatest exercise bike on the market, the biggest reason we’d recommend this spin bike over another is the level of quality across the available live and on-demand fitness classes. Every instructor brings a unique sense of energy to the screen, and we think just about any Peloton newbie will be able to find a trainer that makes them want to tune in for a sweat session day in and day out.

Our tester, who routinely turned to live classes led by Alex Toussaint, commented, “It’s a tough job delivering the energy required to motivate athletes virtually, but I always felt like Alex could push me through my workouts with key callouts and an inviting tone. I also loved the shout-outs that are peppered in throughout the sessions, which can help reassure you that your progress and performance isn’t going unnoticed.”

[Related: Best Fitness Apps]

We also rated the Peloton Bike’s dynamic programming library at a 5 out of 5 given that the workouts don’t stop at just cycling intervals. The All-Access membership costing $44 monthly also gives you options for off-bike training, too, with categories including HIIT, yoga, running, strength training, and more.

Our tester setting up the Original Peloton Bike for a workout

Plus, you can utilize the Peloton Bike’s 21.5-inch display to follow along to your on-screen instructors, although finding that ideal setup can be difficult given the limited adjustments at the hinge point. Unlike other exercise bikes offering off-bike workouts, the Peloton Bike display does not rotate 360 degrees for easier viewing. This means that any bodyweight circuits or yoga flows will need to be conducted at the rear of the machine if you want to keep your on-screen cues in sight.

Equipment Setup

While our tester had no issues regarding connectivity when getting into their Peloton classes, the same cannot be said for the more utilitarian requirements before their workouts. They noted that while the saddle adjustments were fine via the horizontal and vertical settings, they would have appreciated the same setup in regard to the handles.

The horizontal and vertical seat adjustment range of the Original Peloton Bike

 “I’ve commonly found exercise bikes offering horizontal settings for the handles, so I was surprised to see this option left off the Peloton Bike profile,” our tester noted in relation to their 4 out of 5 adjustability rating. ”I definitely struggled to find that optimal setup at times, particularly when hopping on for a ride after my husband had just used the machine.”

In addition to the ride positioning, we also wanted to make note of the clipless pedal design. Do not expect to hop onto this Peloton Bike with your favorite pair of cross-training shoes, as the pedals are designed for cycling-specific footwear. This does mean that in order to get the most out of your engaging workout experience, you’ll need to pay a little extra for a pair of Delta-compatible cleats, which Peloton sells for $125. Speaking of add-on purchases…

Accessory Add-Ons

We rated the Peloton Bike’s included conveniences at 4 out of 5 thanks to the inclusion of dual water bottle holders at the front and dumbbell cradles underneath the saddle. However, we found that in order to get the most out of your “Peloton experience,” you’ll need to shell out a little more coin than the listed $1,445 for the exercise bike alone.

In addition to the aforementioned Delta-compatible cycling shoes, we also recommend purchasing a bike mat that sits underneath the Peloton Bike during use. This can help prevent any unwanted scuffs and scrapes across your floor, and also giving your bike a more stable platform to rest upon as you pedal through grueling sessions. 

Also, if you plan on taking part in Peloton’s off-bike courses, you’ll likely need extra accessories, including resistance bands, a foam roller, or free weights — all of which are not included in the base package.

Peloton does offer bundled accessories kits to help you get started, but the packages start at $240. When you add in the cost of the original Peloton Bike and the $44 monthly charge for the All-Access membership, you could be stretching your budget further than you initially planned.

What to Consider Before Buying the Peloton Bike

According to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, “Cycling brings an impressive collection of health benefits to the table: cardiovascular health, endurance, stamina, muscular endurance are all improved with cycling, to name a few.” As such, there are a few considerations that need to be had before you think about adding the Peloton Bike (or any exercise bike, for that matter) to your home gym setup.

Footprint

As with any piece of home gym equipment, you’ll need to ensure that your available space matches the dimensions of the Peloton Bike. Whether setting up for training in a dedicated garage gym or trying to make the most of your living room arrangements, be sure that your floor plan has the required 9.42 square feet of space needed to house this connected stationary bike.

A good practice is to plan for a loveseat (15.31-square-foot footprint) rather than an exercise bike. (1) If your available space can house an extra piece of furniture, you can house a Peloton Bike with extra room to get into and out of the saddle with ease.

Additionally, we also recommend paying attention to your Wi-Fi strength when it comes to choosing a room for your new Peloton Bike. You don’t want to be mid-session only to have your service lag or cut out entirely. It can be an overlooked factor, but an important one nonetheless when deciding on if this spin bike is right for your setup.

Dynamic Programming

In addition to the required space, you should also ensure that the available programming suits your training preferences. Peloton offers a boutique-style library that mimics your traditional spin class in addition to scenic rides that can take you through real world locations as if you’re pedaling outdoors. The app also offers non-cycling workouts that can cater to multiple disciplines, including bootcamp workouts, strength training, HIIT, yoga, and more.

Our tester gripping the bullhorn-style handlebars of the Peloton Bike

While this may sound like the Peloton platform caters to virtually every taste and training preference, some may not enjoy the trainer-led experience and instead want a more simplified training plan to power their weekly workouts. Be sure to take your personal wants and needs into consideration before locking into a machine that operates primarily through a specific programming style.

Subscription Costs

When looking to purchase a connected exercise bike, you’ll also need to account for any membership fees that grant you access to the available workout library. These subscriptions are typically structured with a monthly billing cycle, although some brands do offer yearly packages that can potentially cut down the overall costs.

[Related: Best Exercise Bikes Under $1,000]

For Peloton, the monthly membership costs $44, meaning you should expect to pay an additional $528 yearly on top of the $1,445 for the Bike alone. This also doesn’t account for any cycling shoes ($125) or other accessories you pick up to further your training experience, so be sure to think long and hard about your finances and whether you’re capable of taking on the cost. 

It can be helpful, too, to compare the total cost of the Peloton with what you’d expect to pay with a normal gym membership. This way, you can truly gauge whether at-home cycling is the right fitness discipline for your situation.

Height and Weight Capacities

Finally, while all of the tech components and features can be great for building a convenient, engaging workout experience, the digital aspects can be proven mute if your bike isn’t capable of housing your physical frame. Always look at the listed weight and (when available) height capacity of your exercise bike to ensure the framing and components can comfortably support your body throughout training.

According to the brand, the Peloton Bike can support athletes up to 297 pounds in weight and 6 feet 4 inches in height. While larger athletes may find these metrics lacking, this should indicate a sturdy enough build quality for most.

Peloton Bike Vs the Competition

In testing over 20 different exercise bikes, we’ve found a number of different silhouettes that can make at-home training a treat rather than a chore. While we don’t think the Peloton Bike leads the category in terms of performance and value anymore, we still think it’s a worthwhile option for some athletes. However, we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t offer some alternatives, so here are three different stationary bikes we think compare nicely to the Peloton Bike — the Peloton Bike+, NordicTrack Commercial S22i, and Schwinn IC4.

One of the easiest comparisons to the Peloton Bike is the brand’s other cycling silhouette, the Peloton Bike+. This upgraded profile costs over $1,000 more than the base model, with the main separating feature being its larger 23.8-inch HD touchscreen. This monitor also rotates 360 degrees for better off-bike viewing, which can be ideal for cross-trainers looking to take advantage of the full Peloton workout library.

The Bike+ is also compatible with Apple’s GymKit, which can sync your workout progress to your iPhone or Apple Watch for more streamlined data monitoring. However, we don’t think a slightly larger screen and Apple integration justifies a price hike of more than $1,000. After all, the Peloton Bike is still compatible via Bluetooth with many of the best heart rate monitors, so there’s still potential for more informed training feedback.

The Peloton Bike’s 38-pound flywheel

The Commercial S22i from NordicTrack is possibly the biggest challenger to Peloton’s reign. Available for roughly $500 more, this NordicTrack offering comes equipped with a larger 22-inch HD touchscreen that rotates 360 degrees for off-bike viewing. Additionally, the iFIT platform — the digital workout service compatible with NordicTrack equipment — costs $39 per month as opposed to Peloton’s $44 monthly subscription fee.

However, some may find that the iFIT instructors do not align with their training goals, so it can be a subjective debate as to which service is best for your needs.

Additionally, the Commercial S22i features AutoAdjust technology that automatically toggles your resistance in-tune with your on-screen instructor. This can make for a more convenient workout experience that allows you to focus more on your performance than your bike’s settings. This NordicTrack offering also features both incline and decline adjustments between -10 and 20 degrees, which can better replicate on-road conditions.

[Related: NordicTrack S22i Exercise Bike Review]

Lastly, the Schwinn IC4 operates under the same quiet magnetic resistance system as the aforementioned bikes. It’s also far cheaper than the original Peloton Bike at $999. However, you do not get an integrated display with this Schwinn offering. Instead, you’ll need to bring your own device in order to stream workouts via the JRNY app.

[Related: Schwinn IC4 Exercise Bike Review]

Places to Buy the Peloton Bike

The Peloton Bike is available for purchase on the brand’s direct-to-consumer site, as well as via third-party retailers like Amazon and DICK’S Sporting Goods.

Customer Experience

The delivery window for your Peloton Bike can vary depending on how busy the brand is, which we found out firsthand after waiting nearly one month for our exercise bike to arrive. However, Peloton is offered through third-party retailers like Amazon and DICK’S Sporting Goods, so you could have a quicker experience depending on your shop of choice.

In terms of assembly, the Peloton Bike can be quick to put together — even more so if you opt for the brand’s white glove delivery, in which professionals take care of the (literal) nuts and bolts. After getting your device connected to your Wi-Fi network, you can be well on your way to enjoying your trainer-led workouts.

Warranties

BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, recommends paying close attention to your exercise bike’s warranty to ensure the available coverage is worthwhile. “Look for at least five years on the frame, two years on parts, and one year for labor,” she adds. Unfortunately, the package offered for the Peloton Bike is slightly below this recommended timeframe, with five-year coverage supporting the frame and 12 months on the touchscreen, components, pedals, and labor.

Company Information

Peloton, as a brand, started in 2012 with the goal of bringing the atmosphere and community of boutique fitness classes directly into the home. While Peloton has essentially become the genericized term for any connected stationary bike with a large display, the brand also offers treadmills, rowing machines, and AI-powered personal trainer devices — all of which are synced to the Peloton app and its thousands of live and on-demand courses. 

To reach Peloton, you can call the listed number (1⁠-⁠866⁠-⁠679⁠-⁠9129) or start a live chat directly on the brand’s web page. Representatives are available between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. ET, seven days a week to answer inquiries.

In Conclusion

While Peloton may have lost its “trending” status as other companies have caught up to their offerings, the Peloton Bike can still be a suitable solution for at-home training. The instructors create some of the liveliest workout experiences we’ve seen in testing, and the machine itself is still plenty durable provided you’re not looking for automatic resistance adjustments or incline and decline settings to mimic on-road training.

In addition to the cycling aesthetic, the Peloton Bike can also be worthwhile for those interested in cross-training thanks to the companion app’s abundance of off-bike workouts. Granted, you’ll need to spend some cash for the required accessories and ensure your setup is within view of the non-rotating screen, but the roster of training sessions does make the $44 monthly charge all the more digestible. Over time, innovators often get passed over, but thankfully, there’s still plenty of get-up across this innovative indoor spin bike.

FAQs

References

Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/

Lisbin, T. (2024, January 10). What is clipping in and why is it beneficial?. Ride Shimano. https://ride.shimano.com/blogs/blogs-and-news/what-is-clipping-in-and-why-is-it-beneficial-1 

The post Peloton Bike Review: More Middle of the Bunch than Leader of the Pack appeared first on BarBend.