Even though the Peloton’s popularity may have declined in recent years, many people are still absolutely bonkers for the trendy exercise bike, which has become a household name in the world of exercise bikes. We don’t blame them; the company has stellar interactive programming and a trendy bike to match, featuring an HD touchscreen and plenty of at-home workouts to enjoy.
However, there are great alternatives to the infamous indoor exercise bike, whether you’re looking for a more durable bike, need something a little more affordable, or want more features.
We’ve tried out dozens of the best exercise bikes for home gyms in the quest to find the best Peloton alternatives, and we’re ready to share our top picks.
GGR Gold Pick – Best Best Peloton Alternative
The NordicTrack X24 is our pick for the best overall Peloton alternative, earning 4.6 out of 5 stars overall. We love the large touchscreen, impressive library of streaming options, incline and decline settings, and automatic resistance changes this stationary bike features.
Best Peloton Alternatives
- Best Peloton Alternative Overall – NordicTrack X24 Bike
- Best Peloton Alternative With Leaning Mode – Bowflex VeloCore
- Best Budget Peloton Alternative – YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike
- Best Peloton Bike+ Alternative – Echelon Smart Connect EX-3 Bike
- Best Adjustable Peloton Alternative – CAROL Bike
- Best Peloton Alternative for Studio Classes – Schwinn IC4
Current Top Deals
- NordicTrack X24 Bike
- Bowflex VeloCore – Get up to $700 off
- YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike – Use code FEDSPRING10 to save 10%
- Echelon Smart Connect EX-3 Bike – FREE $100 Amazon gift card with purchase of select products
How We Selected the Best Peloton Alternatives
When you invest in a piece of equipment, you want it to last, so our durability rating helps score each bike based on its overall construction, as well as its stability while testing it. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, we want to see little to no shaking during a ride, a weight capacity of at least 275 pounds, and a flywheel between 18 to 20 kilograms (roughly 30 to 45 pounds).
For this category, we’re looking at how many options you have to customize your riding experience, mainly considering the available resistance levels. We give 3-out-of-5-star ratings to bikes that have at least 12 resistance levels, with higher scores going to those with upgraded features, like incline and decline options or digital resistance adjustments.
Most bikes have some sort of built-in workout options, which is especially important for those searching for a Peloton alternative. For a 3 out of 5, we want to see at least a handful of workouts that you can easily start by pushing a few buttons, or by using a cycling app on your phone. Higher scores are given to bikes with options like virtual outdoor rides, on-demand workouts, live classes, and more.
Before we review any exercise bike, we follow a careful, thorough testing process. We take each machine through a variety of workouts, testing the resistance, programming options, and more. After testing, we score each one using our bike testing methodology, which rates each bike on a scale of 1-5 for a variety of categories, like ergonomics, conveniences, and tech capabilities.
The GGR team is made up of certified personal trainers, triathletes, CrossFit enthusiasts, gym owners, and more. We’ve spent years testing all kinds of fitness gear, and we understand what makes a great exercise bike.Many of us have owned various exercise bikes in our homes, too.
Latest Updates
In June 2026, we reviewed our list of the best Peloton alternatives and made a few changes based on our latest testing. The NordicTrack X24 now earns our top recommendation, and we swapped out picks that didn’t hold up in durability, programming, or value. New additions—like the Schwinn IC4—stood out for their high scores in these categories.
Best Peloton Alternative Overall: NordicTrack X24
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The X24 Bike is NordicTrack’s latest exercise bike offering an impressive incline range between -10% and 20% alongside iFIT compatibility for engaging on-demand workout programming. This all-new stationary bike also comes with two 3-pound dumbbells, which are ideal for taking part in iFIT’s library of non-cycling modules as well.
If you want a premium, virtual cycling experience that’s a little different from the usual Peloton offerings, we think the NordicTrack X24 is the best Peloton bike alternative on the market. In addition to a gorgeous 24” pivoting touchscreen that offers thousands of on-demand workout options, the bike itself is well-built.
It features plenty of customization options, including both incline and decline settings, and earns 5 out of 5 stars for customizations.
Durability: 4.5/5
Customizations: 5/5
Tech Capabilities: 5/5
Why We Like the NordicTrack X24
One of our favorite features of the NordicTrack X24 is its seamless iFIT integration. Like Peloton programming, iFIT is a paid subscription that unlocks classes, virtual rides, and more, and it earns a strong 5-out-of-5-star rating for dynamic programming from Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, former GGR Everything lead reviewer.
In particular, Lindsay appreciated iFIT’s outdoor workout options.
“Unlike Peloton’s studio-based classes, I think iFIT really shines with outdoor experiences where you can ride all over the world,” she explains. “All of their cycling programs are like guided tours—bike rides through different places like China, Australia, New York City, Chicago—you name it, iFIT has gone there.”
It’s also one of the few bikes that offers both incline and decline training, which simulates real-world cycling. Not to mention, the resistance and incline settings can automatically change if your instructor wants you to have more or less resistance, so you don’t need to manually adjust things during live classes.
Lindsay gave the bike 4.5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics, saying, “Even at resistance level one, the 20% incline got my heart rate up—it felt more like a true outdoor experience, and the 10% decline made it feel like I was going down a big hill.”
There are so many options for workouts to choose from with the iFIT programming. Plus, the machine will automatically adjust the intensity of your workout and did so so easily that I didn’t even notice until it got harder or easier, depending on what the class was doing.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
What We Didn’t Like About the NordicTrack X24
We love most things about this bike, but it’s not perfect. For starters, the X24 is bigger than most, with dimensions of 56.4 inches long by 21.8 inches wide by 62.7 inches high. Moving it between uses may be difficult, so it only earns 3 out of 5 stars for portability.
At $1,999, it’s also somewhat expensive. We think the value is still high given its excellent features, and we rate it a 4 out of 5 for value, but that price point may not fit everyone’s budget.
For a more affordable option, we recommend the Echelon Smart Connect EX-5.
Testing Breakdown
Even though it’s large and bulky, the X24 still receives high marks across the board, which is why it’s one of our favorite Peloton alternatives.
Vs. The Average
The X24 is more expensive than the average exercise bike, with a larger footprint, but it offers much better adjustability with its incline and decline settings, and features a 350-pound weight capacity.
| NordicTrack X24 | Average Exercise Bike | |
| Price | $1,999.99 | $1,409 |
| Product Weight | 205 lbs | 129 lbs |
| Dimensions | 56.4” L x 21.8” W x 62.7” H | 55″ L x 22.3″ W x 52.5″ H |
| User Weight Capacity | 350 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | 5-year frame, 2-year parts |
For more, be sure to read our in-depth NordicTrack X24 Bike review.
Best Peloton Alternative With Leaning Mode: Bowflex VeloCore
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
We were very impressed with the Bowflex VeloCore. It’s a durable, innovative exercise bike that will appeal to a lot of people. We would consider adding it to your fitness equipment repertoire.
What our tester says:
“Nothing feels cheap on this bike. It all feels intentional and quality-made.”
The Bowflex VeloCore costs about the same as a Peloton Bike plus, so you may be asking yourself why you should choose the VeloCore over the Peloton exercise bike. Let me answer that for you: the extremely fun leaning mode. The leaning mode is easy to activate. With the push of a button, you’re able to rock side-to-side like you’re on a carnival ride. It mimics the feel of taking turns on the road, which engages your core, providing more of a full-body workout than most standard exercise bikes.
Not only does the leaning mode make your rides enjoyable, but it also increases stability and core engagement, which is why this bike earns 4.5 out of 5 stars for ergonomics from our tester, Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1.
Durability: 4.5/5
Customizations: 4.5/5
Tech Capabilities: 5/5
Why We Like the Bowflex VeloCore
While the leaning mode offers a fun riding experience, that’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the great features on this bike.
To start, it earns 5 out of 5 stars for dynamic programming, thanks to its integration with the JRNY app.
“The programming has different workouts for a variety of fitness levels, and there is an initial fitness assessment that will determine what classes JRNY recommends for you to try based on your level,” Caroline explains. “There are also options to ‘explore the world’ by biking around different destinations.”
We also appreciate the bike’s construction, and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars for durability. It has a 325-pound weight capacity and 33-pound flywheel, but Caroline docked half a point, saying, “The screen shakes slightly when in use, but it generally feels pretty sturdy.”
Additionally, it earns 5 out of 5 stars for its tech capabilities, which include a touchscreen to display a wide range of workout metrics, WiFi integration, and speakers to listen to the wide range of classes offered through JRNY. However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to use a heart rate monitor, as the VeloCore can’t read your heart rate from an Apple Watch or Garmin. As of our latest update, the VeloCore comes with a Bluetooth-enabled arm band heart rate monitor.
There are 100 adjustment levels, but you do have to manually adjust the resistance. There is no incline or decline training, but it is one of the few exercise bikes that can lean from side to side.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1
What We Didn’t Like About the Bowflex VeloCore
The JRNY platform underwhelmed Caroline with its music selection. She said, “I do like that you can completely turn off the music if you’d like to just zone out and follow along with the instructor.”
However, speaking of the JRNY app, you’ll need to pay for a monthly subscription to use most of the VeloCore’s best features, similar to Peloton’s subscription. At $19.99 per month or $149 for the year, it’s significantly more affordable than Peloton All-Access, but we wish both bikes offered more options without a membership requirement.
If you’re looking for a bike that doesn’t require a subscription to unlock the best features, we suggest the Schwinn IC4.
Testing Breakdown
The VeloCore earned high scores for most of our testing categories, with exceptionally high scores for tech capabilities and dynamic programming.
Vs. The Average
The VeloCore costs more than the average bike, though it offers a higher weight capacity, too. It’s also the only one on our list with a side-to-side leaning mode.
| Bowflex VeloCore | Average Exercise Bike | |
| Price | $2,199 | $1,409 |
| Product Weight | 158.3 lbs | 129 lbs |
| Dimensions | 59.8″ L x 24.1″ W x 55.3″ H | 55″ L x 22.3″ W x 52.5″ H |
| User Weight Capacity | 325 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Warranty | 2-year frame and parts, 1-year labor and electronics | 5-year frame, 2-year parts |
For more, be sure to read our full Bowflex VeloCore review.
Best Budget Peloton Alternative: YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
This is a budget-friendly exercise bike that provides a good ride, but lacks long-term durability.
What our tester says:
“I liked riding the YOSUDA bike and could see how many people out there would enjoy it. But it’s certainly one of those pieces of fitness equipment where you get what you pay for.”
One of the biggest drawbacks of the Peloton is the cost, both of the bike itself and the required monthly subscription fees. For those on a budget, the YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike is one of the best alternatives to consider, coming in at under $400, with no subscription fee.
While it’s not as durable as other indoor trainers, which we’d expect at this price point, we still think it’s a great deal for the money, and give it 3.5 out of 5 stars for value. It’s priced to fit most budgets and provides a smooth, quiet ride.
Durability: 2.5/5
Customizations: 3/5
Tech Capabilities: 2/5
Why We Like the YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike
At under 4 feet in both height and length, the YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike should be able to squeeze it into any home gym or apartment, and it’s about 65 pounds lighter than a Peloton.
If your living or workout space tends to need rearranging, you’ll be able to move this bike with ease. It has two front-facing transport wheels so you can easily lift it from the back and wheel it to its new space. Former GGR product tester Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, said it was easy to move and rated it a 4 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
Although this bike is small, it is mighty, and can accommodate a rider up to 270 pounds. That’s a lower maximum weight than the average bike, but this bike is also almost $1,000 cheaper than average. If you’re under the weight limit, we don’t think you’ll have any issues.
Anthony also noted that you can adjust your resistance level using the small, easily accessible knob, located at the base of the handlebars. It allows for micro adjustments so you can truly customize your workout experience, which is why the bike earns 3 out of 5 for customizations. It also has two-way adjustable handlebars and a four-way adjustable padded seat so you can customize the bike to your body size.
There’s honestly a lot to like about the YOSUDA bike, including the steel frame, easy resistance adjustment, affordable price point, and small footprint. I’d recommend this to anyone who needs a simple cardio machine.
Anthony O’Reilly, CPT
What We Didn’t Like About the YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike
Let’s talk about the programming on this bike. Unlike Peloton, the YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike does not have a large display screen, or even Bluetooth connectivity. It does have a tray you can set your tablet or phone on, which Anthony says is a nice feature, but that’s about it. You’ll have to find your own cycling classes online (or download the Peloton app) to follow while on the bike. This bike gets a 2-out-of-5 rating for tech capabilities. “It has a basic LCD monitor that shows stats; it’s nothing fancy,” says Anthony.
Outside of just being small in size, it also has a small price tag. Even though it may be lacking in tech features, we think the price reflects that fairly.
Overall, we feel like this budget bike offers enough to get you by, but it might not last you as long as you’d hope. Anthony rated it a 2.5 out of 5 for durability, saying, “The pedal straps come off easily and the LCD monitor is wobbly.”
If you’re looking for something that’s much more durable, but want to keep it under $1,000, the Schwinn IC4 is another great option.
Testing Breakdown
While it’s not the most durable bike and doesn’t have many tech features, this bike still received an overall score of 3.3 out of 5 stars, and for this low of a price, it’s hard to beat.
Vs. The Average
The bike is significantly cheaper and lighter than the average exercise bike, though it’s not as durable as we’d like to see.
| YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike | Average Exercise Bike | |
| Price | $359.99 | $1,409 |
| Product Weight | 68 lbs | 129 lbs |
| Dimensions | 40.16” L x 21.65” W x 46.06” H | 55″ L x 22.3″ W x 52.5″ H |
| User Weight Capacity | 270 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 5-year frame, 2-year parts |
For more, be sure to read our full YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike review.
Best Peloton Bike+ Alternative: Echelon Smart Connect EX-5
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
This is a high-quality exercise bike with plenty of tech features, though it lacks a built-in monitor.
What our tester says:
“The grip is great with a nice textured finish, and the different positions you can place your hands provide for an enjoyable ride.”
Echelon’s Smart Connect Bike series has always been one of the best alternatives to Peloton.You really can’t go wrong with any model, but the Echelon Smart Connect EX-5 is one of our favorites.
It doesn’t have a built-in screen, which helps keep it affordable, but you can use your own phone or tablet to enjoy Echelon’s programming. We were impressed with this bike during our testing, and it earns 4 out of 5 stars for dynamic programming from Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, former GGR Everything lead reviewer.
Durability: 4/5
Customizations: 4/5
Tech Capabilities: 3.5/5
Why We Like the Echelon Smart Connect EX-5
The EX-5 offers smooth and quiet magnetic resistance, and has great workout programming to keep you motivated to reach your fitness goals. You get to choose from dozens of daily live classes, as well thousands of on-demand ones.
Lindsay said, “The Echelon app is super user-friendly and there are many options to choose from. I like that it has a leaderboard so you can see how you stack up to other people,” she said.
One of the biggest draws of the Echelon Smart Connect Bikes is that they’re more budget-friendly than Peloton. The EX-5 sells for around $1,499, but we’ve seen it on sale for as little as $899. Although it is much lower in price than a Peloton and has a lot of great features, we’re only giving it a 4 out of 5 for value since it doesn’t have a built-in monitor.
It does have a sturdy device holder capable of holding smartphones or tablets of various sizes (the EX-5 can hold devices from 5.5 inches to 12.5 inches). We found that no matter how hard we pedaled, our smartphone stayed in place for the duration of the ride, which helps the EX-5 earn 4 out of 5 stars for conveniences.
As far as durability goes, I give this an A+. I never felt unstable while riding at high speeds or while I was off the seat in a standing ride position.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
What We Didn’t Like About the Echelon Smart Connect EX-5
The EX-5’s flywheel is lighter than the Peloton’s, so it isn’t quite as smooth a ride. But for most home gym owners, we don’t think this will be a problem—especially if you’ve never used a Peloton before, or it’s been a while. (You may not even notice the difference.)
You’ll also need an Echelon Premier membership to take full advantage of Echelon’s streaming classes. This costs $39.99 monthly or $399 per year, which can add up over time.
If you prefer a bike with a built-in screen, we recommend the NordicTrack X24 instead.
Testing Breakdown
This bike impressed us and received high scores across the board, including a perfect 5-out-of-5 star rating for adjustability and ergonomics.
Vs. The Average
This Echelon Bike costs slightly more than the average bike, but offers a significantly larger frame and plenty of great smart features.
| Echelon Smart Connect EX-5 | Average Exercise Bike | |
| Price | $1,499 | $1,409 |
| Product Weight | 106 lbs | 129 lbs |
| Dimensions | 58″ L x 20″ W x 55″ H | 55″ L x 22.3″ W x 52.5″ H |
| User Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 5-year frame, 2-year parts |
To learn more, read our in-depth Echelon Connect EX-5 review.
We also have a video comparing the Echelon Connect EX-8, the EX-5’s older brother, to Peloton.
Best Adjustable Peloton Alternative: CAROL Bike
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The CAROL Bike is a high-tech exercise bike that uses AI-powered resistance to make short cardio sessions seriously challenging. It’s pricey, but we like it for home gym owners who want efficient, hands-free resistance adjustments instead of long studio-style rides.
The CAROL bike’s main draw is its AI programming component, which adjusts resistance based on your efforts and your performance over time. It also has a design that will keep you comfortable while in the saddle.
The CAROL Bike utilizes micro-adjustments of the seat and handlebars, which means you can hone in on exactly the right settings to give you an optimally comfortable ride. With the ability to adjust the bike to your own body size and auto-adjusted resistance, GGR founder Coop Mitchell gave it a 4.5-out-of-5 rating for ergonomics and adjustability.
Durability: 4/5
Customizations: 4.5/5
Tech Capabilities: 4/5
Why We Like the CAROL Bike
This bike is fairly small but not necessarily light; it weighs 120 pounds, and for reference, the Peloton weighs 129 pounds. It’s also under 50 inches long, and you’ll only need about 7 square feet of space to accommodate this bike in your home gym. If at any time you want to move it, you can pick up the back end, and move it via the two wheels at the front of the bike. Coop scored it a 4.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
Like Peloton, you’ll need to pay a monthly subscription fee in order to access the programming. Fortunately, the price for the CAROL programming is only $19.99, which is about $30 cheaper than a Peloton subscription. That being said, CAROL programming doesn’t offer live or on-demand classes, though it does include fitness tests and 20 pre-loaded programs.
Certified personal trainer and former GGR product tester Lindsay Scheele took the 2.0 version of this bike for a spin and was shocked by how much she enjoyed it. The programming emphasizes shorter, high-intensity workouts, which have been shown1 to provide similar cardiovascular benefits as longer rides.
Lindsay loved the energy of the programming so much that it made her feel like she was part of a fun in-person class. “It’s like taking a hot yoga class, but on a bike,” she says. The dynamic programming of this bike earns a 4.5-out-of-5 rating from both Coop and Lindsay.
It’s compatible with most popular cycling apps, but you’ll need your own phone or tablet to watch any classes.
Cooper Mitchell, GGR Founder
What We Didn’t Like About the CAROL Bike
While Coop loves this bike, he doesn’t love the price, especially since you won’t have access to a variety of workout programs. At $2,795, it costs significantly more than a Peloton. Although it has some great features, it’s definitely a big purchase, and Coop gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars as far as value is concerned.
Overall, Coop had a lot of great things to say about this bike and recommends it, even though it’s pricey. He’s a big fan of the fact that it allows you to squeeze in quality cardio in a short amount of time. This is the best alternative to Peloton for those looking for those looking for the most adjustable and customizable features.
For another premium bike that’s a bit more affordable while still offering a fantastic ride, we suggest the NordicTrack X24 Exercise Bike.
Testing Breakdown
Even though it’s expensive, the CAROL Bike received high scores for nearly every testing category, which is why it’s one of our favorite Peloton alternatives on the market.
Vs. The Average
Despite the high price tag, we think this bike is well worth the investment given the outstanding tech features and construction.
| CAROL Bike | Average Exercise Bike | |
| Price | $2,795 | $1,409 |
| Product Weight | 120 pounds | 129 lbs |
| Dimensions | 45.5” L x 22” W | 55″ L x 22.3″ W x 52.5″ H |
| User Weight Capacity | 330 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Warranty | 5-year frame, 1-year parts | 5-year frame, 2-year parts |
For more, be sure to read our detailed Carol Bike review.
Best Peloton Alternative for Studio Classes: Schwinn IC4
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
For under $1,000, the Schwinn IC4 is a solid purchase and one of the best exercise bikes if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to Peloton.
If you love studio classes, but want to save money and avoid being locked into any one app membership, the Schwinn IC4 may be just what you’re looking for. It doesn’t have a built-in monitor, so you’ll need to use your own smart device, but that brings the price down to under $1,000.
Plus, this bike offers the ability to connect with just about any interactive programming app (outside of iFIT), including Peloton, Zwift, JRNY, Google Fit, Kinomap, and Explore the World. It earns 4 out of 5 stars for dynamic programming from our former product tester, Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1.
Durability: 5/5
Customizations: 5/5
Tech Capabilities: 4/5
Why We Like the Schwinn IC4
For the price, this exercise bike is extremely sturdy, and Kate said, “This is very sturdy for being so small and lightweight, and it doesn’t shake at all while exercising.”
This is especially impressive considering the IC4 only weighs about 116 pounds. We give it 5 out of 5 stars for durability.
The IC4 has some great extras for the price. Expect to see two water bottle holders, two 3-pound dumbbells and dumbbell holders, a USB charging port, an included heart rate monitor armband, and of course, a phone or table holder for streaming your favorite studio classes. We appreciate all of the conveniences and rated it 4 out of 5 for that category.
We were also impressed with the range of resistance levels, and gave this bike 5 out of 5 stars for customizations. Kate said, “There are 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels, and you can digitally adjust the resistance level by pressing up or down on the screen.”
This bike is a phenomenal value. It’s less than $1,000 and comes with a ton of tech features and conveniences. It’s a well-built bike that feels sturdy and durable, so you get a lot for what you spend.
Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
What We Didn’t Like About the Schwinn IC4
This bike’s assembly process could have been better, so we docked a point and gave it 4 out of 5 stars for delivery and setup.
“There are only three steps in the manual, because they combine about nine steps into one each time,” Kate explains. “This proves a little tricky with assembling the display monitor and bracket, because there isn’t an order of operations. Also, the screws and parts aren’t clearly labeled. You can use common sense for the most part to put this together, but the directions could have been clearer.”
If you prefer to have a built-in screen, the Bowflex VeloCore is another great bike to check out.
Testing Breakdown
The Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike received high scores in nearly every category, making it a great choice for those who don’t need a built-in screen on their bike.
Vs. The Average
The IC4 offers outstanding durability and adjustability at a low price point, which is why it’s one of our favorite Peloton alternatives for those who don’t need a built-in display.
| Schwinn IC4 | Average Exercise Bike | |
| Price | $999 | $1,409 |
| Product Weight | 113.6 lbs | 129 lbs |
| Dimensions | 54.6″ L x 30.7″ W x 51.8″ H | 55″ L x 22.3″ W x 52.5″ H |
| User Weight Capacity | 330 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 3-year parts and electronics, 1-year labor | 5-year frame, 2-year parts |
Read our full Schwinn IC4 Review to learn more.
Our Testers
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC
Lindsay is the former lead reviewer for Garage Gym Reviews Everything.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1
Caroline is a fitness writer and former NCAA D1 Women’s College Soccer player who also played in the WPSL.
Cooper Mitchell, GGR Founder
Coop is a home gym equipment expert and the founder of Garage Gym Reviews.
Anthony O'Reilly, CPT, CNC
Anthony is a certified personal trainer and former editor at Garage Gym Reviews.
Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
Kate is a fitness expert and the former head of content for Garage Gym Reviews.
Other Peloton Alternatives We Researched
While we narrowed this list down to our top five, there are plenty of great Peloton alternatives on the market. Here are a few other bikes worth mentioning that didn’t quite make the cut.
- Concept2 BikeErg: This is another popular, durable bike that we love, but the air resistance feels different than Peloton’s magnetic resistance, and may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
- Aviron Fit Bike: This is another high-end studio bike with a built-in screen that we really like, but we preferred the NordicTrack X24 slightly more due to its incline and decline capabilities.
- Sole LCR Recumbent Bike: We gave this bike very high scores in our testing, but it’s a recumbent bike with a back rest, which isn’t going to provide the same type of experience as the Peloton.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Peloton Alternatives
After testing the Peloton Bike and the Peloton Bike+, as well as Peloton programming, we had a better idea of the type of bike we were looking for. We then tested dozens of different exercise bikes and scored each against the following criteria on a scale of 1 to 5.
Footprint and Portability
Our footprint and portability rating is based on how much floor space a given bike takes up, as well as any helpful features (or lack thereof), like transport wheels or folding components. For those who don’t have a lot of floor space, this is one of the most important considerations. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, one to two people should be able to easily move the bike around.
Delivery and Setup
This score considers shipping options, assembly time, and how easy (or not) a bike is to set up. To earn a 3 out of 5 stars, threshold delivery should be available, which means the company will bring the bike inside your home, and two people should be able to complete assembly in no more than 1.5 hours.
Durability
Our durability rating is based on the components used in the bike, as well as how stable it feels in use. To earn a 3-out-of-5-star rating, we expect little to no uncomfortable shifting or shaking during a workout, a user weight capacity of at least 275 pounds, and a flywheel weight in the 18 to 20-kilogram range, which is roughly 40-44 pounds.
Customizations
For this category, we’re looking at how much you can tailor the workout experience to your needs. For a 3 out of 5, a bike should offer at least 12 levels of resistance. Higher scores are given to bikes with greater customization options, such as incline and decline settings.
Adjustability and Ergonomics
To earn a 3 out of 5 for ergonomics, we want to see a padded seat with vertical adjustment and handlebars that also adjust vertically, so the bike can fit most users. High scores are given to bikes with more seat adjustment settings, various pedal options, and other comfort features, like a tilting screen.
Conveniences
For conveniences, we’re looking for the features that don’t necessarily change the quality of your workout, but provide a more comfortable experience. To earn a 3 out of 5, a bike should have at least one water bottle holder, a media shelf large enough to hold a phone or tablet for viewing, an accessible safety stop button, and a noise level quiet enough to use in shared spaces.
Tech Capabilities
This category is based on the various tech features of a bike, such as Bluetooth heart rate monitoring, WiFi compatibility, a touchscreen, speakers, and more. For a 3-out-of-5-star rating, a bike should have a console that displays key metrics like time, distance, and resistance level, some form of animated workout feedback beyond just raw numbers, and contact-based heart rate monitoring. Bonus points are given to those with premium features or integrations with third-party apps like Strava or Apple Health for fitness tracking.
Dynamic Programming
This score is based on the available programming options, including live and on-demand classes, scenic rides, and built-in workouts—an important category when looking for a Peloton alternative. To earn a 3 out of 5, an exercise bike needs at least a handful of built-in workouts that riders can start with minimal setup, with higher scores given to bikes that offer features like streaming classes, live instructors, and more.
Value
For this category, we aren’t only looking at the total cost, but rather, whether we feel the cost is justified for what you’re getting. A given bike may be expensive, but still have a high value score if it has features that are better than competitors on the market. For a 3 out of 5, the bike seems worth the cost, but doesn’t necessarily go above and beyond.
Customer Experience
Our customer experience rating is based on the overall purchasing experience, including financing options, warranty, shipping and return policies, and the general helpfulness of the customer support team. For a 3 out of 5, we want to see at least a 10-year warranty on the frame and one year on parts. We also want to see a return policy of at least 30 days.
Customer Reviews
This number is taken directly from the manufacturer’s page, or third-party retailers like Amazon. Factoring real customer reviews into our rating helps ensure our scores are as unbiased as possible.
Benefits of Peloton Alternatives
If you’re considering a Peloton, we don’t blame you, but it’s worth exploring what else is available on the market. Aside from the health-related benefits of regularly using an exercise bike, here are a few specific reasons you may want to choose a different brand.
Lower Purchase Price
The Peloton is a great bike, but it’s certainly not cheap. The bike itself is expensive, and the membership will cost you money every single month.
Plenty of similar smart bikes have memberships, too, and some cost even more than the Peloton. But for those who want to save money, there are plenty of other options.
“I have the Peloton, but to be honest, I mostly use scenic rides or Netflix for my zone 2 cardio” says Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC. “Other bikes that don’t require a subscription for basic features may be a better choice for those who don’t need all of the live studio classes.”
Lower Subscription Fees
While you can use your Peloton without a subscription, all you can do is see your workout metrics. If you want access to virtual classes, games, or streaming media services on your Peloton screen, you’ll need the All-Access membership, which costs $49.99 per month.
If you don’t want to pay this fee, you have options. Other bikes have cheaper monthly subscriptions, or offer more functionality without a subscription at all. In some cases, you can simply stream free YouTube videos with your phone on the media shelf. .
Access to Instructors
Peloton’s instructors are some of our favorites, especially now that they offer so much more than cycling. With activities like strength, yoga, running, and so much more, we think most people will find an instructor they enjoy.
However, if you don’t vibe with any of the instructors, you may want to try iFIT or the Echelon Fit App. Some may prefer these instructions; for example, we found Echelon Fit instructors weren’t as clear with resistance levels and instructions as the Peloton instructors, but this may be a good thing.
“The Echelon Fit instructors weren’t nearly as clear as Peloton’s, but some people might prefer that,” says Anthony O’Reilly, CPT. “Exercise shouldn’t be an all-or-nothing experience, and doing something that’s challenging for you (even if you’re not hitting a specific number) is better than nothing.”
RELATED: Echelon vs. Peloton
Better Storage Options
The Peloton bike is pretty bulky, and while you can remove the screen, it’s not easy, so we suggest leaving it alone. For those in smaller spaces, the large footprint of a Peloton may not work very well, especially if you need to move the heavy frame between uses.
“I own a Peloton, and while I love it, it’s kind of a pain to move,” says Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC. “The front has transport wheels, but the back seat has an area to store your dumbbells below it, so you can’t really grab the seat to wheel the bike around. It’s awkward and heavy.”
If you have a small living space, you may be better off choosing a smaller, lighter option.
Accessible for All Fitness Levels
According to exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, PhD, RD, exercise bikes can help build cardiovascular endurance, support fat loss, and improve lower body strength, which are powerful health benefits.
He also noted that they’re appropriate for all levels, as most of the bikes on our list can be tailored to any fitness level, explaining, “Beginners can go slow and steady, while those who are advanced can push intensity with intervals or resistance.”
Regardless of your current fitness level, an exercise bike is a powerful tool to improve your health from the comfort of your home.
Provides a Lower-Body Workout
While we love walking, jogging, and running, exercise bikes often feel a bit more challenging on the lower-body muscles thanks to the variable resistance you can use. This is especially true with bikes that offer incline or decline modes, leaning modes, or focus on interval training with high resistance.
If you’re looking to work on both your lower-body strength and your cardiovascular fitness in one exercise, a bike may be just what you need, says Mohr.
“Exercise bikes mainly target the quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves,” he explains. “Plus, your core muscles kick in to stabilize the trunk, especially if you’re riding upright without leaning too heavily on the handlebars.”
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Peloton Alternatives
When choosing your bike, there are a few key considerations you’ll want to think about before making a decision. Here are the most important things we suggest looking for while shopping for an exercise bike.
Budget
Deciding what you’re looking to spend on your bike will help you hone in on options you can afford. You should also consider the monthly or yearly cost of a subscription service for interactive programming. Make sure to calculate your cost for everything before purchasing, including taxes and the cost of delivery..
Interactive Programming
With so many options for interactive programming, it’s up to you to decide what suits you best. iFIT with NordicTrack has a variety of guided outdoor fitness classes while the Peloton app focuses on motivational studio workouts. Some bikes support a variety of different platforms while others stick to only one. Some programs, like Peloton and iFIT, give you leaderboards so you can see how you rank against other people doing the same workouts or races you do.
RELATED: Indoor vs Outdoor Cycling
Resistance Levels And Type
If you’re more of a beginner, you might not need 100 levels of micro-resistance. However, if you’re a more experienced cyclist, you might need to make sure your exercise bike can accommodate the specific level of resistance you need to get a great workout.
Also, consider the type of resistance: The Peloton (and the NordicTrack S22i) have both digital resistance as well as manual resistance. Digital resistance means you push a button to make a change in the resistance level; manual resistance means you turn a knob. One isn’t necessarily better than the other; it just comes down to personal preference.
Monitor
The majority of today’s exercise bikes have some type of monitor. Some are equivalent to the Peloton’s large, 22-inch color screen (like the NordicTrack) while others are more basic like the Keiser. Determining how you prefer to view your interactive programming and data from your rides will help you decide which bike to purchase. Keep in mind that the more advanced the screen is, the more money you’ll have to shell out.
Accessories
Not every Peloton alternative comes with a water bottle holder or media stand. If these are important to you, make sure it’s on the bike of your choice.
Some people like to purchase their own third-party accessories, too, like alternate pedals, seats, media device holders, cycling shoes, and more. If you have something in mind, like a favorite seat you want to use, make sure it’s compatible with the bike you’re considering before ordering anything.
FAQs About the Best Peloton Alternatives
Are there better options than Peloton?
Whether you’re looking for something cheaper, more compact, or prefer different workout programming, there are plenty of great Peloton alternatives on the market. Some of our favorite manufacturers to consider include NordicTrack, BowFlex, Echelon, and Schwinn.
What is Peloton’s biggest competitor?
This depends on what you are hoping to get out of your indoor biking experience. If you want an indoor bike that has a great virtual and boutique-like experience like Peloton offers, then the Echelon Smart Connect EX-5 is worth considering, as long as you don’t mind using your own phone or tablet for a screen.
What’s the best Peloton alternative?
The best alternative depends on what you’re hoping to avoid with Peloton. If you want a more affordable bike, you may want to look at the Schwinn IC4. If you want to have a touchscreen and classes, but don’t love Peloton’s instructors, the NordicTrack X24 may be a better choice.
References
- Moghaddam, M., Cervantes, M., Cheshier, B., & Jacobson, B. H. (2023). Sprint Interval Training on Stationary Air Bike Elicits Cardiorespiratory Adaptations While Being Time-Efficient. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 37(9), 1795–1801. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000004483
