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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 be a good fit for everyone.
For one, Peloton bikes work only with Peloton’s All-Access membership, which costs $44 per month.
If you already have a subscription to a different fitness app or would prefer to stream classes using your own device, you may want to consider an alternative.
Some indoor cycling bikes offer a similar set of features to the Peloton Bike and Bike+ for a much more affordable price. Others also have additional features, including dual-sided pedals and rotating touch screens.
We chose these bikes based on the following factors:
Product specs: We considered each bike’s adjustability, pedals, resistance, space requirements, streaming capabilities, and more.
Extra features: We looked for smart bikes that not only have very similar features to the Peloton Bike but also offer something that sets them apart.
Quality: We considered the warranties that come with each bike and the reputation of each brand. Whenever possible, we’ve also included links to our in-depth single-brand reviews of many bikes on our list.
Customer reviews: The bikes included on our list have mostly positive customer feedback.
Price: We selected bikes to suit a variety of budgets.
Vetting: All the bikes on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.
Here are our picks of the 11 best Peloton Bike alternatives.
A note on price
General price ranges with dollar signs ($–$$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.
Generally, list prices range from $325–$2,460, but this may vary depending on available discounts and where you shop.
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 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 in this resistance style. 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.
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 clip-in pedal, these use a three-hole design to hold your shoes in contact with the pedals. You’ll 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 clip-in 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 clips on one side and toe cages on the other, allowing you to choose whether you want to invest in cycling shoes.
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 Peloton Digital 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.
Therefore, 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.
For starters, because you don’t have to worry about the weather or time of day, a stationary bike can offer you a way to get consistent exercise conveniently.
Cycling can help strengthen your leg muscles without placing a lot of pressure on your joints. In combination with a nutrient-rich diet, regular exercise on a stationary bike can also help:
Exercising on a bike can even help improve your mood and ease feelings of:
stress
depression
anxiety
According to a 2018 study of more than 1.2 million U.S. adults, regular exercise of any kind is associated with improved mental health — and team sports, cycling, and aerobic and gym activities seem particularly beneficial (4).
Smart bikes have the added benefit of making it easier to:
track your performance over time
follow along with trainer-led classes from the comfort of your home
join a virtual fitness community
Exercising with others and being able to record your progress can help boost motivation and enjoyment (5, 6).
The best Peloton Bike alternative for you depends on several factors, including your:
budget
desired features
workout goals
available workout space
While the NordicTrack S22i is our pick for the best overall Peloton alternative, the Echelon Smart Connect EX5 is worth considering if you’re looking to spend less than $1,000, and it’s often on sale for less. The Stryde Bike is also highly comparable and offers high quality studio classes.
On the other hand, the Bowflex VeloCore costs about the same amount as the Peloton Bike+ but features a unique leaning design to engage your core as you ride.
What is a cheap alternative to the Peloton?
Several indoor cycling bikes are high quality and similar in price to the Peloton bikes.
For example, the Schwinn IC4 and Echelon Connect EX5 are priced at less than $1,500 but still offer a high quality ride. They’re also equipped with Bluetooth capabilities and device holders for streaming classes on your device.
If you’re looking to spend less than $500, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1995 Fitness Pro II Bike and Cyclace Exercise Bike are your best bets.
Which spin bike is closest to the Peloton?
With its 21.5-in (54.6-cm) screen and extensive library of fitness classes, The MYX II Bike is similar to the Peloton bikes. The bikes even have very similar prices, meaning choosing between them is a question of preference.
What stationary bikes are similar to the Peloton?
All the smart bikes in this article share key features with the Peloton Bike, such as integrated class apps and touch screens. Some examples of exercise bikes with similar levels of technology are the NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle and the Bowflex VeloCore.
What is Peloton’s biggest competitor?
There are numerous indoor cycling bikes on the market. However, Peloton’s biggest competitors currently are NordicTrack and MYXfitness.
Like Peloton, both companies offer bikes designed to integrate with streaming apps, providing:
live and on-demand classes
track performance metrics
competition with others using leaderboards
Can you use a non-Peloton bike with the Peloton app?
Yes! Peloton offers a Peloton Digital membership, which allows you to access Peloton’s full library of classes on any smartphone or tablet. In fact, for a hands-on review of enjoying the Peloton app with an alternative bike, you can read Healthline Multimedia Editor Kristin Currin-Sheehan’s DIY Peloton hack here.
In the digital app, you can:
select classes based on various filters, such as:
instructor
class duration
music type
mood
body focus
difficulty
popularity
see milestones
track your workout streak
bookmark and preload classes to take at a later time
However, unlike Peloton’s All-Access membership (reserved for those using Peloton equipment), the Digital membership doesn’t keep track of your performance over time.
Although the Peloton Bike and Bike+ are two of the most popular indoor cycling bikes on the market, they may not work for everyone.
If you’re looking for something different, there are alternative exercise bike options for home workouts. Some of these bikes are less expensive, and others provide features not offered on either Peloton bike.
When selecting a stationary bike, you can check the available features carefully and look for a product that suits your height, weight, budget, and exercise goals.
Last medically reviewed on April 20, 2023
How we reviewed this article:
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Current Version
May 18, 2023
Written By
Catherine Crider, Laura Williams Bustos, MS, ACSM EP-C
