Here's the Gist
I'm Katie Pierson, a cycling instructor and Bowflex C6 owner who recently tested out the Peloton bike during a leisure trip. In this review, I break down how the hardware, comfort, and platform compare to using a non-Peloton indoor cycle.
- Ride feel and noise are virtually identical to my C6, with the primary hardware difference being Peloton's integrated touchscreen instead of a personal tablet.
- Peloton requires Look Delta cleats for cycling shoes rather than the SPD cleats standard on most indoor bikes and studio equipment.
- The handlebars move vertically to help shorter riders, but they lack four-way adjustability, and the saddle felt less comfortable than my C6.
- Rear-mounted weight holders keep dumbbells safely away from the front flywheel, preventing the accidental drops I occasionally experience on my Bowflex.
- Peloton leads in instructor talent and production quality, but full bike metrics require a mandatory $44 per month All-Access membership.
- Riders have flexible access options rarely offered by competitors, including monthly bike rentals, refurbished equipment, and 0% down financing for 12 to 36 months.
When I first purchased the Bowflex C6 years ago, I was tempted by the Peloton bike due to the convenience of their online community. The fact that I could access it at numerous hotel gyms during my business travels was a major draw. Recently, I had the opportunity to use the Peloton bike during a leisure trip, and I’m here to share my insights on how it compares to my non-Peloton cycle.
My Verdict & Pros/ Cons
The Peloton bike offers many unique features that enhance the overall Peloton experience. However, it does come with a higher price tag in the form of a monthly membership fee. On the bright side, Peloton provides a rental option, a feature not commonly found with other brands, in addition to the opportunity to purchase refurbished bikes, treadmills, and rowers for a discounted price.
Pros
· Instant access to the Peloton platform
· Access to the leaderboard and metrics
· Allows users to own or rent the bikes
Cons
· Uses Look Delta cleats instead of the standard SPD
· Requires an expensive membership
· More expensive than other similar cycles on the market
First Impression
When examining the bike itself, not the platform that is included, the Peloton bike is extremely similar to the vast majority of the bikes on the market. The largest difference between a Peloton and other models is that it offers a Delta cleat option in contrast to the traditional SPD most commonly used for indoor cycling bikes.
Peloton Bike Specs
Footprint: 4’ x 2’
User Height Range: 4’11” – 6’5”
User Weight Limit: 297 pounds
Dimensions: 59″ L x 53″ H x 23″ W
Total Weight: 135 pounds
Peloton Bike Components
Frame: The frame is crafted from welded steel and includes a powder coating. The powder coating helps to minimize sweat erosion and rust.
Resistance: The Peloton includes 100 magnetic resistance levels that allow this bike to challenge even the strongest riders.
Drive: This brand of indoor cycling bikes offers a Poly V® power transmission belt drive for maximum performance.
Seat: An ergonomic sports saddle offers a slim seat profile for pedaling efficiency.
Pedals: Whether you prefer to ride in your cleats or street shoes, this model features dual aluminum pedals. Just be aware that a Delta cleat is needed if you want to ride in cycling shoes.
Instructor Note: Most outdoor riders use a Look Delta pedal, while many indoor cycling studios include an SPD.
Katie Pierson
Peloton Detailed Comparison
When comparing the Peloton to my current, here is how the Peloton stacks up.
Riding Experience & Performance
The Peloton’s riding experience and performance level are very similar to my current bike. The smoothness of the ride and the noise emitted are about the same, with no clear winner. The most significant difference is that Peloton has a screen that links directly to the platform, whereas, on my C6, I must access the Peloton app on my phone and view the class from that screen or Smartcast it to my television.
Construction Quality & Durability
I appreciate that the designers kept us shorter riders in mind when designing the Peloton. While the frame is more of a V-shape, unlike other V-shape frames, the handlebars do not follow the frame shape. This means that while traditional V-shaped frames move the handlebars farther away from the rider when being lifted to a higher riding position, shorter riders have an easier time finding a comfortable position since these handlebars move vertically.
Peloton designed their bikes to have the hand weights behind the saddle, which I feel is the best location, depending on where the flywheel is. My C6 has the weights located in front, where the flywheel is also located. They fall out sometimes when I am riding a little more aggressively, which makes me nervous that they might damage the flywheel.
Comfort & Adjustability
I actually prefer the seat on the C6 over the seat available on the Peloton. While they both feature a competitive-style saddle, the C6 saddle is more comfortable. Unfortunately, due to the monitor, the Peloton handlebars do not offer 4-way adjustability. For shorter riders like myself, 4-way adjustability provides a greater chance of finding the perfect riding position for your frame and limiting the chance of saddle soreness.
App Experience & Content
This category is where Peloton sets itself apart from others on the market. Due to its massive success, many other companies have attempted to model their platforms after the Peloton platform. I have not yet found a platform with the same production quality. I also feel that the number of really outstanding instructors is higher than most other platforms. Remember that instructor preference is highly personal, so your opinion might vary from mine.
Katie’s Tip: If you are looking for challenging Peloton Instructors, I recommend Olivia Amato or Kendall Tool. They are my favorite for when I want to really push myself.
Membership Options
While there are various Peloton membership options, only the All-Access Membership is available if you own a piece of Peloton equipment.
| Membership Type | Free | App One | App+ | All Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | Free | $12.99 | $24 | $44 |
| Exercise bike, treadmill, & rower workouts | Only free classes are provided, not always in English | 3/Month | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| No Peloton equipment needed | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Classes can be accessed on a bike or app. |
| Strength, yoga, outdoor running, HIIT, and more | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Stream classes on mobile, tablet, web, and TV apps | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Step-by-step gym workouts | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Activity tracking outside of Peloton workouts | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Performance Metrics Tracked | ✅ | |||
| Programs and challenges | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
| Smart Watch® & heart rate monitor connection | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Real-time cycling metrics using a cadence monitor | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | |
| Exclusive classes with special guests and themes | ✅ | ✅ | ||
| Leaderboard access | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Exclusive Classes | ✅ | ✅ |
Connectivity
The Peloton now connects with a variety of non-Peloton heart rate monitoring devices, including:
- Samsung® Galaxy Watch (Watch 3 or earlier)
- Garmin® Smartwatches & HRM Dual
- Fossil Smartwatches
- FitBit® Devices
- Scosche Rhythm+, Rhythm 2.0, & Rhythm 23
- Wahoo Tickr X, Tickr Fit
The Peloton Entertainment feature allows riders to watch their favorite streaming service if they are all-access members.
Financing Options
Peloton offers a wide variety of price points and options for riders. They offer 12, 24, and 36 months 0% down monthly payment options and the opportunity to purchase refurbished bikes for a discount or even rent them instead of buying them. They are one of the few cycling companies that allows bike rental instead of purchase.
Warranty
Peloton’s warranty is standard for the industry and includes a 12-month limited warranty with the option to extend it for as long as 48 months. Peloton also offers a one-year warranty for its refurbished bikes.
Value for Money
The Peloton has decreased its price over the last few years, making this bike more affordable than it once was. However, compared to my current bike, it is much more expensive when you also factor in the mandatory $44/month all-access membership to use all of the bike’s functions.
The Bottom Line
Maybe the most popular indoor cycle, and for a good reason. Excellent quality with an excellent app for beginners and experts. The only downside it that users cannot change resistance when using apps like Zwift etc.
While the Peloton is an excellent model, many offer comparable riding experiences and pair with the Peloton app, but lack the ability to track performance metrics. If you have your heart set that the Peloton platform is the only one you want to use, then purchasing or renting a Peloton is a good idea. However, I suggest expanding your search if you would like some versatility in your riding programs.
Quick Answers
What shoes or cleats do I need for a Peloton bike?
The Peloton bike features dual aluminum pedals, allowing you to ride in regular street shoes. However, if you prefer to clip in with cycling shoes, you must use Look Delta cleats instead of the standard SPD cleats typically found on other indoor cycling bikes.
How much does the Peloton membership cost if you own the bike?
If you own a Peloton bike, you are required to have the All-Access Membership, which costs $44 per month. This tier provides complete access to all classes, performance metric tracking, and the leaderboard.
How does the Peloton ride compare to the Bowflex C6?
In my experience, the riding performance, smoothness, and noise levels are very similar, with no clear winner. The biggest difference is that Peloton features an integrated screen connecting directly to the platform, whereas on the C6, I have to run the Peloton app on my phone or Smartcast it to a TV.
Are Peloton handlebars 4-way adjustable?
No. Due to the attached monitor, the Peloton handlebars do not offer 4-way adjustability. However, unlike traditional V-shaped frames that move the handlebars farther away as you raise them, Peloton handlebars move vertically, making it easier for shorter riders like me to find a comfortable reach.
Can you rent a Peloton bike instead of buying one?
Yes, Peloton provides a rental option, which is not commonly offered by other indoor cycling brands. In addition to renting, you can also purchase discounted refurbished bikes with a one-year warranty, or finance a purchase with 12, 24, or 36 months 0% down payment plans.
