The 11 Best Peloton Bike Alternatives of 2024

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    A quick look at the best Peloton Bike alternatives

  • Best overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike | Skip to review
  • Best overall runner-up: Echelon Connect Bike EX5 | Skip to review
  • Best for beginners: Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike | Skip to review
  • Best under $500: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1995 Fitness Pro II Bike | Skip to review
  • Best for core workout: Bowflex VeloCore | Skip to review
  • Best for serious studio riders: Stryde Bike | Skip to review
  • Best for streaming: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 | Skip to review
  • Best for full-body workouts: BODi Bike Studio | Skip to review
  • Best for workout data: Keiser M3i Indoor Bike | Skip to review
  • Peloton is a fitness equipment brand that makes stationary bikes favored by fitness enthusiasts for its:

  • ergonomic design
  • live classes
  • convenient built-in screen
  • Despite the brand’s popularity, its bikes may not fit everyone well.

    For one, the Peloton Bike only works with the Peloton’s All-Access membership, which costs $44 per month (unless you select “Just Ride” through the bike’s system).

    If you already have a subscription to a different fitness app or would prefer to stream classes using your own device, you may want to consider an alternative.

    Some indoor cycling bikes offer a similar set of features to the Peloton Bike and Bike+ for a much more affordable price. Others also have additional features, including dual-sided pedals and rotating touch screens.

    This guide explores the best Peloton alternatives, offering comparable features at various price points.

    Peloton Bike alternatives comparison

    Product, pedalsand priceScreenSaddleResistanceApp subscription
    NordicTrack s22i Studio Bikedual$$$22-in (56-cm) rotating HD touch screenergonomic padded seat• 24 levels• magnetic$39/mo(30-day free trial)
    Echelon Connect Bike EX5 dual$$$vented competition-style seat• 32 levels• magnetic16- or 22-in (40.6- or 56-cm) HD touchscreen
    Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike dual$$LCDvented racing-style seat • 100 levels• magnetic$12.42/mo(1-year free trial)
    Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1995 Fitness Pro II Bike cages$LCDpadded standard seatfriction
    Bowflex VeloCore dual$$$16- or 22-in (40.6- or 56-cm) HD touch screenstandard seat• 100 levels• magnetic$12.42/mo(1-year free trial)
    Stryde Bikedual$$$22-in (56-cm) HDcompetition-style seat• 100 levels• magnetic$29/mo
    ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 cages$$$22-in (56-cm) HD touch screenpadded ergonomic seat• 24 levels• magnetic$39/mo(30-day free trial)
    BODi Bike Studio dual$$$21.5-in (54.6-cm) touch screen standard seatfriction$39/mo
    Keiser M3i Indoor Bike dual$$$M Connect Displaysaddle seatmagnetic

    Dual = dual-sided (SPD clips/toe cages), Cages = toe cages

    How we chose the best Peloton Bike alternatives

    We chose these bikes based on the following factors:

  • Product specs: We considered each bike’s adjustability, pedals, resistance, space requirements, streaming capabilities, and more.
  • Extra features: We looked for smart bikes that not only offer very similar features to the Peloton Bike but also something that sets them apart.
  • Quality: We considered the warranties that come with each bike and the reputation of each brand. Whenever possible, we’ve also included links to our in-depth single-brand reviews of many bikes on our list.
  • Customer reviews: The bikes included here have mostly positive customer feedback.
  • Price: We selected bikes to suit a variety of budgets.
  • Vetting: All the bikes on our list have been vetted to ensure they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.
  • Here are our picks of the nine best Peloton Bike alternatives.

    A note on price

    General price ranges with dollar signs ($ to $$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is lower cost, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.

    Generally, list prices range from $325 to $2,460, but this may vary depending on available discounts and where you shop.

    Pricing guide

  • $ = under $400
  • $$ = $400 to $1,000
  • $$$ = over $1,000
  • Healthline’s picks for the best Peloton Bike alternatives

    Best overall

    NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

    4.7 (124+) from NordicTrackNordicTrack New S22i Studio Bike with touch screen
  • Item dimensions: 55 × 29.1 × 56.9 in (139.7 × 73.9 × 144.5 cm)
  • Pedal type: dual-sided with SPD clips and toe cages
  • Resistance: 24 levels, magnetic resistance
  • Subscription required: yes
  • Price: $$$
  • SHOP NOW AT NORDICTRACK

    Healthline's review

    The NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle is our pick for the best Peloton Bike alternative overall. It’s a great bike for people who want to bring the experience of a boutique fitness studio into their living room.

    This high end bike is equipped with:

  • 24 digital resistance levels
  • dual water bottle holders
  • a pair of 3-pound (lb) [1.4-kilogram (kg)] dumbbells
  • a rotating 22-inch (in) [56-centimeter (cm)] smart HD touch screen
  • It’s also one of the few smart bikes to offer motorized incline and decline controls.

    Like other NordicTrack machines, the bike includes iFit integration for streaming live and on-demand classes.

    The app also offers automatic incline and resistance adjustments as well as global workouts, which allow you to travel virtually to destinations around the world.

    NordicTrack includes a 30-day family iFit membership with every purchase, which grants you access to hundreds of classes, including:

  • cycling
  • yoga
  • boot camp
  • strength training
  • After 1 month, you can choose to continue your subscription, which costs $39 per month for a family plan or $180 per year for an individual account, or cancel at any time.

    You can learn more about the bike’s features and how it compares with other smart bike options in our in-depth review of the NordicTrack S22i.

    Pros & cons

  • motorized incline and decline
  • 22-in (56-cm) rotating touch screen
  • wide range of workouts available with the iFit app
  • additional cost for iFit subscription
  • fewer resistance levels than some other bikes
  • motorized incline and decline
  • 22-in (56-cm) rotating touch screen
  • wide range of workouts available with the iFit app
  • additional cost for iFit subscription
  • fewer resistance levels than some other bikes
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (158.7 kg)
  • Training programs: preset workouts, trainer-led workouts
  • Compatible apps: iFIT, Google Maps
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (158.7 kg)
  • Training programs: preset workouts, trainer-led workouts
  • Compatible apps: iFIT, Google Maps
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
  • Best overall runner-up

    Echelon Connect Bike EX5

    4.5 (591+) from Amazon
  • Item dimensions: 58 × 20 × 55 in (147.3 × 50.8 × 139.7 cm)
  • Pedal type: dual-sided with SPD clips and toe cages
  • Resistance: 32 levels, magnetic
  • Subscription required: yes
  • Price: $$$
  • SHOP NOW AT ECHELON

    Healthline's review

    Echelon is one of Peloton’s biggest competitors — and for good reason.

    When considering Peloton vs. Echelon, there are a few unique features of both bikes to keep in mind.

    The Echelon Smart Connect EX-5 is a great option if you want the performance of a Peloton but don’t want to pay for some of Peloton’s high tech features.

    The EX-5 retails for $699 and prices are prone to fluctuate. An Echelon membership is a little cheaper than a Peloton All-Access membership.

    Instead of an integrated touch screen, the EX-5 has a rotating mount for your smart device, allowing you to stream classes using the Echelon Fit app. There are three additional EX-5s Connect models with higher prices that come with built-in screens.

    In addition to offering unlimited live and on-demand cycling classes, the Echelon Fit app keeps track of your performance during your ride.

    Just keep in mind you need an Echelon Fit app membership. There are currently three membership options:

  • $39.99 for a monthly Premier subscription (or $11.99 per month for an off-equipment Fit Pass)
  • $399 for a yearly subscription
  • $699 for a 2-year subscription
  • The bike has 32 resistance levels. It also features adjustable handlebars and a narrow competition seat, which is designed to allow for a wider range of motion.

    To find out more about the Echelon Smart Connect EX-5, check out our comprehensive review.

    Pros & cons

  • rotating device holder
  • wide range of classes available on Echelon app
  • no touch screen
  • additional cost for app subscription that can add up over time
  • narrower seat may not be as comfortable for some users
  • rotating device holder
  • wide range of classes available on Echelon app
  • no touch screen
  • additional cost for app subscription that can add up over time
  • narrower seat may not be as comfortable for some users
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
  • Training programs: live trainer-led classes, trainer-led studio classes
  • Compatible apps: Echelon Fit
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Warranty: 1 year (extended warranties available for an additional fee)
  • Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.1 kg)
  • Training programs: live trainer-led classes, trainer-led studio classes
  • Compatible apps: Echelon Fit
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Warranty: 1 year (extended warranties available for an additional fee)
  • Best for beginners

    Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike

    4.6 (5k+) from Amazon
  • Item dimensions: 47.8 x 21.2 x 51.8 in (121.4 x 53.8 x 131.6 cm)
  • Pedal type: dual-sided pedals
  • Resistance: 100 levels
  • Subscription required: no
  • Price: $$
  • SHOP NOW AT AMAZON

    Healthline's review

    If you’re just getting into indoor cycling and are unsure where to start, check out the Schwinn IC4 Bike, which boasts 100 microadjustable resistance levels.

    In addition to being easy to use, the bike is priced under $1,000, so it’s a great option if you’re not ready to invest in a higher end model.

    The IC4 features a 40-lb (18-kg) flywheel and dual-sided pedals, which allow you to use SPD clips or your standard athletic shoes.

    It also boasts:

  • a ventilated race-style seat
  • padded handlebars
  • an LCD console that displays metrics like speed, number of calories burned, time, and distance
  • Plus, it comes with a Bluetooth heart rate monitor armband.

    While it doesn’t offer a built-in screen like the Peloton Bike, it’s Bluetooth enabled and can provide a media rack so you can use your device to access fitness apps — including the Peloton digital app.

    Purchase of the bike includes a free 1-year subscription to the JRNY app, which offers on-demand studio classes and virtual rides to destinations around the world.

    Once your trial is up, the JRNY app costs $149 per year, which is about $12.42 per month.

    You can learn more about how the Schwinn IC4 compares with competitors in our full review.

    Pros & cons

  • budget-friendly
  • dual-sided pedals
  • free 1-year JRNY subscription trial
  • longer warranty
  • no touch screen or built-in exercise programs
  • budget-friendly
  • dual-sided pedals
  • free 1-year JRNY subscription trial
  • longer warranty
  • no touch screen or built-in exercise programs
  • Product details

  • Training programs: scenic workouts and preset workouts
  • Compatible apps: Peloton, Zwift, Explore the World, JRNY
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 330 lb (149.7 kg)
  • Training programs: scenic workouts and preset workouts
  • Compatible apps: Peloton, Zwift, Explore the World, JRNY
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 330 lb (149.7 kg)
  • Best under $500

    Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1995 Fitness Pro II Bike

    4.5 (1.5k+) from Amazon
  • Item dimensions: 49.5 × 20 × 49 in (74.9 × 50.8 × 124.4 cm)
  • Pedal type: caged
  • Resistance: friction
  • Subscription required: no
  • Price: $
  • SHOP NOW AT AMAZON

    Healthline's review

    This simple, no-frills stationary bike is our pick for the best Peloton Bike alternative under $500. The Fitness Pro II is a great option for people on a tight budget who want to get an effective workout at home.

    It has a resistance knob to modify the intensity of your workout and a four-way adjustable seat to maximize comfort.

    The bike also features a pulse sensor to track your heart rate and a digital monitor that displays the metrics of your ride.

    While it doesn’t include programmed workouts or a touch screen, the Fitness Pro II has an integrated device holder for streaming classes on your smartphone or tablet.

    You can also access workouts through the SunnyFit app, which offers roughly 500 free classes for subscribers. These don’t integrate with your bike the way smart bike classes do, but it’s nice to have the option for free, high quality classes.

    Pros & cons

  • budget-friendly
  • can connect to Sunny Bike Cadence sensor to track workout data
  • free SunnyFit app
  • no touch screen
  • no preprogrammed workouts
  • no dual-sided pedals
  • uses friction resistance, which may require more maintenance than magnetic resistance
  • budget-friendly
  • can connect to Sunny Bike Cadence sensor to track workout data
  • free SunnyFit app
  • no touch screen
  • no preprogrammed workouts
  • no dual-sided pedals
  • uses friction resistance, which may require more maintenance than magnetic resistance
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 275 lb (124.7 kg)
  • Training programs: none
  • Compatible apps: SunnyFit
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 275 lb (124.7 kg)
  • Training programs: none
  • Compatible apps: SunnyFit
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • Best for core workout

    Bowflex VeloCore

    Bowflex VeloCore
  • Item dimensions: 59.8 × 24.1 × 55.3 in (151.8 x 61.2 x 140.4 cm)
  • Pedal type: dual-sided with SPD clips and toe cages
  • Resistance: 100 levels, magnetic
  • Subscription required: no
  • Price: $$$
  • SHOP NOW AT BOWFLEX

    Healthline's review

    While it’s similar in price to the Peloton Bike+, the Bowflex VeloCore features a unique design you won’t find in other smart bikes: It leans from side to side.

    In addition to providing a more realistic biking experience, the bike’s swinging motion offers a serious core workout.

    The bike also has 100 levels of magnetic resistance to help create a smooth, quiet, and adjustable ride.

    As a bonus, the bike includes a Bluetooth heart rate armband and a pair of 3-lb (1.4-kg) dumbbells. Your purchase also includes a 1-year JRNY membership, which you can continue for $149 per year after your trial ends.

    The Bowflex VeloCore features dual-sided pedals and an adjustable seat. Just keep in mind that the seat doesn’t have much padding. You can buy a more comfortable seat cover if you prefer.

    It’s also important to note that the HD touch screen is available in two sizes: 16 or 22 in (40.6 or 56 cm). The 22-in (56-cm) model costs about $400 more, but it comes with free shipping.

    Pros & cons

  • leans from side to side
  • multiple screen sizes
  • can use touch screen to stream entertainment from Netflix, Hulu, and more via JRNY app
  • has a less padded seat than some other bikes
  • takes up more space than several other bikes on our list
  • leans from side to side
  • multiple screen sizes
  • can use touch screen to stream entertainment from Netflix, Hulu, and more via JRNY app
  • has a less padded seat than some other bikes
  • takes up more space than several other bikes on our list
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 325 lb (147.4 kg)
  • Training programs: trainer-led studio classes, scenic workouts
  • Compatible apps: JRNY
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 325 lb (147.4 kg)
  • Training programs: trainer-led studio classes, scenic workouts
  • Compatible apps: JRNY
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Best for serious studio riders

    Stryde Bike

    4.7 (495+) from Stryde BikeStryde Bike
  • Item dimensions: 24 × 50 in (61 cm × 127 cm)
  • Resistance: 100 levels, magnetic resistance
  • Subscription required: no
  • Price: $$$
  • SHOP NOW AT STRYDE

    Healthline's review

    Like Peloton, Stryde is a studio-first company. Stryde teamed up with some of the best indoor cycling studios across the country to provide home cyclers with studio-style classes.

    The Stryde bike is a high quality, sturdy indoor cycling bike with a 22-in (56-cm) HD screen. It integrates with the Stryde app, where users can access hundreds of on-demand studio cycling classes from various high quality studios and instructors.

    Keep in mind that you need an app membership to access the Stryde workouts. It’s not required to use the bike, but it’s the ticket to getting the most out of your bike. The app costs $29 per month and includes up to four profiles to track workout history and other performance metrics.

    To find out more about the Stryde Bike, check out our comprehensive review.

    Pros & cons

  • built-in touch screen and Bluetooth speakers
  • wide range of classes on the Stryde app
  • 350-lb (159-kg) weight capacity
  • additional cost for app subscription that can add up over time
  • narrower seat may not be as comfortable for some users
  • no live classes on app
  • built-in touch screen and Bluetooth speakers
  • wide range of classes on the Stryde app
  • 350-lb (159-kg) weight capacity
  • additional cost for app subscription that can add up over time
  • narrower seat may not be as comfortable for some users
  • no live classes on app
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (158.8 kg)
  • Training programs: preset classes
  • Compatible apps: allows users to download many apps directly
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (158.8 kg)
  • Training programs: preset classes
  • Compatible apps: allows users to download many apps directly
  • Bluetooth: yes
  • Foldable: no
  • Best for streaming

    ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22

    ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
  • Item dimensions: 56.5 × 21.9 × 54 in (143.5 × 55.6 × 137.2 cm)
  • Pedal type: toe cages
  • Resistance: 24 levels, magnetic
  • Subscription required: no
  • Price: $$$
  • SHOP NOW AT PROFORM

    Healthline's review

    If you want a bike with a large touch screen for streaming workouts, the ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 is a great option.

    The 22-in (56-cm) HD touch screen can rotate, so you can see your workout easily whether you’re on the bike or doing a strength workout on the floor.

    The bike features 24 levels of resistance, which iFit instructors can adjust automatically during classes.

    Purchase of the bike includes a 30-day iFit membership, which costs $39 per month after the trial ends.

    The bike also features a water bottle holder, a pair of 3-lb (1.4-kg) dumbbells, and an adjustable seat and handlebars.

    However, because the max user weight is lower than that of many other options on the market, this bike isn’t a good fit for all users.

    Pros & cons

  • compact frame size
  • large swiveling touch screen
  • not the most budget-friendly option — and app subscription cost adds up
  • doesn't have dual-sided pedals
  • lower maximum user weight
  • compact frame size
  • large swiveling touch screen
  • not the most budget-friendly option — and app subscription cost adds up
  • doesn't have dual-sided pedals
  • lower maximum user weight
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 250 lb (113.4 kg)
  • Training programs: live trainer-led classes, trainer-led studio classes, scenic workouts
  • Compatible apps: iFit
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 250 lb (113.4 kg)
  • Training programs: live trainer-led classes, trainer-led studio classes, scenic workouts
  • Compatible apps: iFit
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • Best for full-body workouts

    BODi Bike Studio

    BODi Bike Studio
  • Item dimensions: 54 x 21 x 47 in (137 x 53 x 119 cm)
  • Pedal type: dual-sided with SPD clips and toe cages
  • Resistance: magnetic
  • Subscription required: yes
  • Price: $$$
  • SHOP NOW AT BODI

    Healthline's review

    Do you like biking but also want to do cross-training exercises? The BODi Bike Studio (also known as MYX II Plus) provides everything you need.

    In addition to the MYX II Bike, this package includes:

  • 5 sets of dumbbells
  • a kettlebell
  • a 24-in (61-cm) EVA foam roller
  • a resistance band
  • a heart rate monitor
  • an exercise mat
  • a bike mat
  • Because the touch screen can swivel, it’s possible to do exercises both on the bike and while standing on the exercise mat nearby.

    Another thing about the BODi Bike Studio’s MYX II bike is that it uses friction resistance, which is slightly louder and requires more maintenance than magnetic resistance.

    Wondering how to choose between the MYX II and the BODi Bike Studio (also known as MYX II Plus)? See whether Healthline writer SaVanna Shoemaker felt the BODi Bike Studio was worth the higher price tag in her hands-on review.

    Pros & cons

  • includes extra workout equipment (10-piece weight set, kettlebell, EVA foam roller, resistance band, heart rate monitor, and exercise mat)
  • has a swivel touch screen
  • additional cost for BODi app subscription
  • uses friction resistance, which may require more maintenance than magnetic resistance
  • includes extra workout equipment (10-piece weight set, kettlebell, EVA foam roller, resistance band, heart rate monitor, and exercise mat)
  • has a swivel touch screen
  • additional cost for BODi app subscription
  • uses friction resistance, which may require more maintenance than magnetic resistance
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (113.3 kg)
  • Training programs: trainer-led workouts
  • Compatible apps: BODi
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (113.3 kg)
  • Training programs: trainer-led workouts
  • Compatible apps: BODi
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • Best for workout data

    Keiser M3i Indoor Bike

    Keiser M3i Indoor Bike
  • Item dimensions: 49 x 26 x 51 in (124.5 x 66.1 x 129.6 cm)
  • Pedal type: dual-sided with SPD clips and toe cages
  • Resistance: magnetic
  • Subscription required: no
  • Price: $$$
  • SHOP NOW AT KEISER

    Healthline's review

    Does your workout data matter to you? If so, you’ll want to make sure the numbers are accurate and the information is stored so you can access it later. The Keiser M3i stands out in both these areas.

    The M3i passed the EN957-10 European Standard for accuracy and safety because its power meter is so accurate.

    Keiser’s M Connect display can be used with a wide range of popular apps (including Peloton’s) as well as free Keiser apps. It tracks your:

  • speed
  • power
  • calories
  • heart rate
  • ride time
  • The M3i can also transmit to multiple Bluetooth devices at once. This means you can transmit your workout data to your cellphone or tablet at the same time the information is going to any other Bluetooth device you want.

    The bike comes with the M Connect display, a tool kit for assembly, and a floor mat. There are also additional optional accessories, like a Polar heart rate monitor.

    Keep in mind, this technology comes with a higher cost and the M3i does not include a touch screen.

    Pros & cons

  • transmits data to multiple devices at once
  • passed EN957-10 Standard for accuracy and safety
  • compatible with a wide variety of fitness apps
  • more expensive
  • no touch screen
  • transmits data to multiple devices at once
  • passed EN957-10 Standard for accuracy and safety
  • compatible with a wide variety of fitness apps
  • more expensive
  • no touch screen
  • Product details

  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (113.3 kg)
  • Training programs: trainer-led workouts
  • Compatible apps: The Ride
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • Maximum weight capacity: 350 lb (113.3 kg)
  • Training programs: trainer-led workouts
  • Compatible apps: The Ride
  • Bluetooth: no
  • Foldable: no
  • How to choose the best stationary bike

    You might consider several factors when shopping for a stationary bike.

    First, because bikes are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, you can select one that’s adjustable and suits your:

  • height
  • weight
  • available space
  • It’s also a good idea to look for a bike with those small transportation wheels at the front or back to make it easier to move.

    Look for a bike that allows you to set different workout levels and easily modify the resistance.

    Finally, you may want to look into the type of:

  • seat
  • pedals
  • streaming capabilities
  • Resistance types

  • Magnetic resistance: Magnets create tension against the flywheel without actually making contact. This resistance style is quiet, doesn’t require much maintenance, and can offer a high degree of resistance with the simple twist of a knob.
  • Friction (contact) resistance: A felt or leather pad applies pressure to the flywheel. Slightly louder than magnetic resistance, friction resistance also requires more maintenance, as you’ll need to replace the pads when they wear down.
  • Air resistance: Bikes with air resistance feature a large fan and are noisier than magnetic or friction bikes. Resistance is created by the blades pushing against the air and depends on how fast you pedal. These are popular for sprint and interval training.
  • Seat types

  • Race-style/competition: These seats are slimmer and allow for a wider range of motion.
  • Oversized: This type provides extra cushioning for a comfortable ride.
  • Gel: With plenty of cushion and padding, these seats help distribute your weight evenly and support your sit bones.
  • Standard: This type of seat has a similar design to a basic road bike seat. Some brands offer standard seats that are slightly more padded than others.
  • Many beginning Peloton riders complain of the seat being uncomfortable and even painful at first. They often get used to it over time, though, usually after 10 to 20 rides during the first couple weeks of regular riding.

    This was the case for our hands-on reviewer Morgan Blount, former RVO Health employee, who said, “I’ve had my bike for 3 years. At first, the seat hurt, but I got used to it.”

    If you’re looking for comfort from the get-go, you may prefer a wider or more padded seat over a standard or competition-style saddle.

    Pedals and cleats

    NOTE: Although cycling cleats link to what are called “clipless” pedals, they can be misleading. To clarify, the shoes are “clip-in” — the pedals are “clipless.”

    Clipless refers to the old-school toe-clip-pedal and shoe-strap combo riders used to leverage to keep feet in place. Here’s a visual of the present-day cleat and pedal options:

    Share on Pinterest
  • SPD pedals: These pedals hold your shoes in contact with the pedal and require compatible two-bolt cleats.
  • Look Delta pedals: Also a type of clipless pedal, these use a three-hole design to hold your shoes in contact with the pedals. You need Delta-compatible cleats, which attach to any pair of three-bolt bike shoes.
  • Toe cages: To avoid buying new shoes, some people prefer bikes with toe cages (or toe straps). Although clipless cycling shoes provide a more balanced and efficient pedal stroke, using your athletic shoes can make indoor cycling cheaper and more convenient.
  • Dual-sided pedals: Several home exercise bikes offer pedals with clipless pedals on one side and toe cages on the other, allowing you to choose whether you want to invest in cycling cleats.
  • Smart bikes

    If you’re willing to spend a bit more, several home exercise bikes offer streaming capabilities for access to live and on-demand workouts.

    While some models have touch screens, others include Bluetooth capabilities and tablet holders, which allow you to stream classes using your own device.

    Unlike bikes that include device holders, smart bikes integrate with at least one fitness app, such as the Peloton App or iFit.

    This is beneficial because app integration allows you to view your performance data, such as the distance or resistance level, on the app as you ride.

    Many apps offer additional features such as automatic resistance control and live leaderboards during classes.

    Just keep in mind that these apps require an additional monthly or yearly fee, though many brands include a free 30-day or 1-year trial with your purchase.

    So if you’d rather watch TV, read a book, or listen to music while you ride, you’re better off buying a less expensive bike without these features.

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