Peloton Bike+ Review: Is This Premium Indoor Bike Worth the Hype?

When it comes to transforming your home fitness routine, the Peloton Bike+ stands out as a top contender in the world of indoor cycling. This isn’t just a stationary bike—it’s a fully immersive fitness experience that combines sleek hardware, a vibrant community, and a vast library of live and on-demand classes. If you’re considering investing in a premium exercise bike to elevate your cardio workouts, the Peloton Bike+ might be the game-changer you need. Its rotating touchscreen, auto-resistance technology, and seamless integration with strength and yoga classes make it a versatile addition to any home gym. Ready to take the plunge? Click the button below to check the latest deals on Amazon and see if this bike fits your fitness goals.

Buy on Amazon: Peloton Bike+

Why the Peloton Bike+ Stands Out in the Indoor Cycling Market

Indoor cycling has exploded in popularity, and for good reason—it’s low-impact, highly effective, and fits into busy schedules. But with so many options, from budget-friendly spin bikes to high-end smart trainers, why does the Peloton Bike+ consistently steal the spotlight? It’s not just about the bike itself; it’s the ecosystem. Peloton has mastered the art of blending cutting-edge hardware with a subscription-based content platform that keeps users engaged. The Bike+ takes this a step further with features that cater to both cycling enthusiasts and those looking for a full-body workout solution.

In this in-depth review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Peloton Bike+—from its design and setup to its standout features, real-world usability, and how it stacks up against competitors. Whether you’re a fitness newbie or a seasoned athlete, my goal is to help you decide if this bike is the right fit for your home gym. Along the way, I’ll share practical tips, pros and cons, and insights from real-world use cases to give you a clear picture of what it’s like to own and ride this bike.

Key Features of the Peloton Bike+

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s cover the core features that define the Peloton Bike+. These are the elements that set it apart from the original Peloton Bike and other indoor cycling bikes on the market:

23.8-Inch Rotating Touchscreen: A large, high-definition display that swivels 360 degrees, making it easy to transition from cycling to floor-based workouts like strength training or yoga.
Auto-Resistance Technology: The bike automatically adjusts resistance based on instructor cues, allowing you to focus on your workout without manual tweaks.
Premium Audio System: Built-in speakers deliver crisp sound for immersive classes, music, and instructor motivation.
Peloton All-Access Membership: A $44/month subscription (required for full functionality) unlocks thousands of live and on-demand classes, including cycling, strength, yoga, meditation, and more.
Compact Footprint: Measuring 59”L x 23”W x 53”H, it fits comfortably in small spaces, though it’s heavier than most at 140 lbs.
Integration with Wearables: Syncs with Apple Watch, Wear OS devices, and heart rate monitors for real-time performance tracking.
Entertainment Options: Stream Netflix, Disney+, and even read Kindle eBooks during workouts, thanks to a partnership with Amazon.

These features make the Bike+ more than just a cardio machine—it’s a hub for a connected fitness lifestyle. But how do they perform in real life? Let’s break it down.

Setting Up the Peloton Bike+: What to Expect

Getting the Peloton Bike+ into your home is the first step, and it’s a process worth understanding before you commit. The bike arrives in a large, heavy box (around 150 lbs), so you’ll want a friend or professional delivery to help move it. Peloton offers in-home delivery and setup in many regions, which I highly recommend unless you’re confident in assembling complex fitness equipment. The setup process involves attaching the touchscreen, stabilizing the base, and calibrating the bike for your body.

One quirk to note: the bike requires a stable, flat surface, and you’ll need at least a 4’x2’ space with some clearance for the rotating screen. If you’re tight on space, measure carefully—while the footprint is compact, the bike’s heft makes it a semi-permanent fixture. A workout mat (sold separately or included in some bundles) is a must to protect your floors and reduce vibration.

Once assembled, the setup wizard on the touchscreen guides you through Wi-Fi connection, membership activation, and bike calibration. The interface is intuitive, but you’ll need a strong internet connection (at least 10 Mbps download speed) for seamless streaming. If your Wi-Fi is spotty, consider an Ethernet adapter for the touchscreen to avoid buffering during live classes.

Pro Tip: Adjust the saddle, handlebars, and screen tilt before your first ride. Peloton includes video tutorials to help, but take your time to get the fit right—small tweaks can make a big difference in comfort, especially for long rides.

Riding the Peloton Bike+: A First-Hand Experience

The moment you clip into the Peloton Bike+ (it uses Delta-compatible cleats, so you’ll need specific cycling shoes), you’ll notice how smooth and quiet the ride is. The magnetic resistance and belt drive system deliver a near-silent operation, making it ideal for apartments or shared spaces. Unlike cheaper spin bikes that can feel clunky or noisy, the Bike+ feels premium, with a sturdy carbon steel frame that stays rock-solid even during intense sprints.

The standout feature here is the auto-resistance. During instructor-led classes, the bike adjusts resistance automatically to match the instructor’s cues. For example, when the instructor calls for a “heavy climb” at 80 resistance, the bike shifts gears for you, letting you focus on pedaling and staying in the zone. This is a game-changer for beginners who might struggle to gauge resistance manually or for anyone who wants a seamless, studio-like experience.

The 23.8-inch touchscreen is another highlight. It’s bright, responsive, and tilts smoothly, so you can follow along with floor-based workouts like strength or yoga without awkward repositioning. The built-in speakers are surprisingly robust, delivering clear audio for instructor cues and music playlists. However, if you prefer privacy or live in a noise-sensitive environment, Bluetooth headphones pair easily.

One thing to keep in mind: the saddle takes some getting used to. Like most spin bikes, it’s firm, and new riders might experience discomfort for the first few weeks. A padded seat cover or cycling shorts can help, but give your body time to adapt. I found that after a few rides, the saddle became less of an issue, especially when I dialed in the perfect seat height and angle.

The Peloton Ecosystem: Classes, Community, and Content

The real magic of the Peloton Bike+ lies in its ecosystem, powered by the All-Access Membership. Without it, the bike is essentially a pricey paperweight, as most features (live classes, on-demand library, metrics tracking) require the subscription. Here’s what you get:

Live and On-Demand Classes: Peloton offers 14+ live classes daily and a library of over 10,000 on-demand sessions, covering cycling, strength, yoga, meditation, and even outdoor running. Classes range from 5 to 60 minutes, with options for beginners, intermediates, and advanced users.
Instructor-Led Motivation: Peloton’s instructors are a big draw, with charismatic personalities like Cody Rigsby, Robin Arzón, and Jess King bringing energy and humor to every session. They’re like your personal cheerleader, pushing you through tough intervals or keeping you engaged with themed rides (think ’80s pop or Beyoncé artist series).
Community Features: The leaderboard lets you compete with friends or strangers in real-time, while high-fives and badges add a gamified element. You can also join “tribes” based on shared interests, like working parents or marathon runners.
Workout Variety: Beyond cycling, the Bike+ supports strength training, yoga, Pilates, and meditation, thanks to the rotating screen. This makes it a versatile hub for cross-training, unlike traditional spin bikes that focus solely on cardio.

One downside? The subscription cost adds up, and it’s required to unlock the full experience. If you’re sharing the bike with family or roommates, though, one membership covers everyone in the household, which adds value. Another minor gripe: while the class library is vast, filtering options could be better. It can take some scrolling to find the perfect workout, especially if you’re picky about instructors or music genres.

Comparison Note: If you’re looking for a treadmill to complement your cardio routine, check out my in-depth NordicTrack T Series Treadmill Review for a solid alternative that also offers interactive classes.

Performance Tracking and Metrics: Data for Fitness Nerds

If you love data, the Peloton Bike+ delivers. It tracks key metrics like cadence, resistance, output (watts), heart rate (with a compatible monitor), and calories burned. These stats display in real-time on the touchscreen, and post-workout summaries break down your performance, including personal bests and progress over time. The integration with Apple Watch or Wear OS devices is seamless, letting you monitor heart rate zones without extra accessories.

One unique feature is the “Strive Score,” a metric that measures your effort based on heart rate data. It’s a great way to gauge intensity across different workout types, whether you’re cycling or doing a strength session. The leaderboard adds a competitive edge, showing how your output stacks up against others in the class. If you’re not into competition, you can hide it and focus on your own metrics.

However, the bike doesn’t support advanced power meter protocols like those used by serious cyclists (e.g., Zwift or TrainerRoad). If you’re a data-obsessed cyclist looking for precise power zones, you might find the Bike+’s metrics sufficient for fitness but lacking for competitive training. For most users, though, the tracking is more than adequate to monitor progress and stay motivated.

Comparing the Peloton Bike+ to Alternatives

To help you decide if the Peloton Bike+ is the right choice, let’s compare it to some popular alternatives in the indoor cycling market. I’ve included key competitors based on their features, price points, and target audiences.

Peloton Bike+ vs. Original Peloton Bike

The original Peloton Bike is a more budget-friendly option, but it lacks some of the Bike+’s premium features. The key differences:

Screen: The original has a fixed 21.5-inch screen, while the Bike+’s 23.8-inch screen rotates for off-bike workouts.
Auto-Resistance: The original requires manual resistance adjustments, which can disrupt your flow during classes.
Audio: The Bike+ has superior speakers, making it better for immersive audio without headphones.
Versatility: The Bike+ is designed for full-body workouts, while the original is primarily a cycling machine.

If you’re focused solely on cycling and don’t mind manual adjustments, the original Peloton Bike is a solid choice that saves you money. However, the Bike+’s rotating screen and auto-resistance make it a better pick for those who want a versatile fitness hub.

Peloton Bike+ vs. NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle

The NordicTrack S22i is a direct competitor, offering a 22-inch rotating touchscreen and iFit classes that rival Peloton’s. Here’s how they stack up:

Classes: Peloton’s library is larger and more polished, with a stronger community vibe. iFit focuses on scenic rides and global workouts, which appeal to those who prefer a less studio-like experience.
Auto-Resistance: Both bikes offer auto-resistance, but Peloton’s feels more responsive and seamlessly integrated with instructor cues.
Subscription: iFit’s subscription is slightly cheaper, but Peloton’s content feels more premium and varied.
Build Quality: The Peloton Bike+ has a sleeker, more durable design, while the S22i is bulkier but still sturdy.

If you love outdoor-inspired rides and don’t need the community aspect, the S22i is a strong alternative. For a studio-like experience with top-tier production, Peloton wins.

Peloton Bike+ vs. Bowflex VeloCore

The Bowflex VeloCore adds a unique “leaning” mode that mimics outdoor cycling, making it a fun option for dynamic workouts. Here’s the comparison:

Features: The VeloCore’s leaning mode is novel, but the Bike+’s rotating screen and auto-resistance are more practical for most users.
Content: Bowflex uses JRNY, which offers adaptive workouts but lacks Peloton’s instructor charisma and community features.
Price: The VeloCore is generally cheaper, especially if you catch a sale, but its subscription is separate and less comprehensive.

The VeloCore is great for those who want a unique cycling experience, but the Peloton Bike+ offers a more polished and versatile package.

Strength Training Note: If you’re pairing your bike with strength equipment, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are a space-saving option for home workouts, complementing the Bike+’s floor-based classes.

Peloton Bike+ vs. Budget Spin Bikes (e.g., Sunny Health & Fitness)

Budget spin bikes, like those from Sunny Health & Fitness, are significantly cheaper and can be paired with the Peloton App for a similar class experience. However, there are trade-offs:

Build Quality: Budget bikes often feel less sturdy and lack the premium finish of the Bike+.
Features: No auto-resistance or integrated touchscreen, so you’ll need a separate tablet or phone to stream classes.
Experience: Manual resistance adjustments and less precise metrics make it harder to follow instructor-led classes.

If you’re on a tight budget, a Sunny bike with the Peloton App ($12.99/month) is a cost-effective workaround. But for the full immersive experience, the Bike+ is unmatched.

Pros and Cons of the Peloton Bike+

No product is perfect, so let’s weigh the strengths and weaknesses of the Peloton Bike+ based on real-world use.

Pros

Immersive Classes: The combination of live and on-demand classes, charismatic instructors, and a vibrant community keeps you motivated.
Auto-Resistance: A game-changer for seamless workouts, especially for beginners or those who hate manual adjustments.
Versatile Design: The rotating screen makes it a hub for cycling, strength, yoga, and more, reducing the need for multiple devices.
Premium Build: Sleek, sturdy, and quiet, it’s built to last and fits well in small spaces.
Entertainment Integration: Streaming Netflix or reading Kindle eBooks adds value for casual rides or recovery sessions.
Data Tracking: Detailed metrics and wearable integration help you monitor progress and stay accountable.

Cons

High Cost: The bike and subscription are a significant investment, especially compared to budget alternatives.
Subscription Dependency: Without the $44/month membership, the bike’s functionality is severely limited.
Saddle Comfort: The stock saddle can be uncomfortable for new riders, requiring an adjustment period or accessories.
Limited Power Data: Serious cyclists may find the metrics lacking for advanced training compared to platforms like Zwift.
Wi-Fi Reliance: Spotty internet can disrupt streaming, so a strong connection is essential.

Who Should Buy the Peloton Bike+?

The Peloton Bike+ isn’t for everyone, but it’s a fantastic fit for specific users. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Fitness Enthusiasts: If you love studio-style classes and want a premium, all-in-one fitness solution, the Bike+ delivers.
Busy Professionals: The convenience of home workouts, combined with short, effective classes, makes it ideal for tight schedules.
Community-Driven Users: The leaderboard, high-fives, and tribes appeal to those who thrive on social motivation.
Cross-Trainers: If you want a mix of cycling, strength, and yoga, the rotating screen and diverse class library are perfect.

On the flip side, it might not be the best choice if:

You’re on a tight budget and can’t justify the upfront cost or subscription.
You’re a competitive cyclist who needs precise power data for training.
You prefer outdoor workouts or scenic rides over studio-style classes.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Peloton Bike+

To maximize your investment, here are some practical tips based on real-world use:

Experiment with Classes: Try different instructors and class types (e.g., Power Zone, HIIT, or themed rides) to find what keeps you engaged. For example, Power Zone rides are great for structured training, while music-themed rides add fun.
Invest in Accessories: A padded seat cover, cycling shoes, and a heart rate monitor enhance comfort and performance. Peloton’s branded accessories are solid, but third-party options on Amazon can save you money.
Use the App for Previews: If you’re on the fence, try the Peloton App ($12.99/month) with a budget bike to sample classes before committing to the Bike+.
Schedule Workouts: Treat Peloton classes like gym appointments to build consistency. The app’s scheduling feature lets you plan sessions and get reminders.
Maintain the Bike: Regularly check pedal tension and clean the touchscreen to keep the bike in top shape. Peloton’s warranty covers most components, but basic upkeep extends its lifespan.

Final Verdict: Is the Peloton Bike+ Worth It?

After diving deep into the Peloton Bike+’s features, usability, and real-world performance, it’s clear this bike is more than just a piece of fitness equipment—it’s a lifestyle. The auto-resistance, rotating touchscreen, and vast class library create an unparalleled home workout experience that’s hard to beat. Yes, the cost and subscription are steep, but for those who value convenience, community, and variety, the Bike+ delivers in spades. It’s not just about cycling; it’s about building a sustainable fitness routine that fits your life.

Compared to alternatives like the NordicTrack S22i or Bowflex VeloCore, the Peloton Bike+ shines for its polished content and seamless integration. If you’re looking for a budget option, a Sunny bike with the Peloton App is a viable workaround, but it lacks the premium feel and features of the Bike+. For strength training enthusiasts, pairing it with equipment like the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells creates a well-rounded home gym.

Ready to transform your fitness routine? Click the button below to check the latest offers on Amazon and see if the Peloton Bike+ is the right fit for you. Whether you’re chasing personal bests or just want a fun way to stay active, this bike could be your ticket to a healthier, happier you.