Peloton Bike+ Review
The best connected exercise bike experience — if you can justify the price.
Jake tested the Peloton Bike+ for 8 weeks including daily cycling and off-bike strength classes.
What Sets the Bike+ Apart
The Bike+ adds three significant features over the original Peloton Bike: auto-follow resistance (the instructor's resistance cues automatically adjust your bike during class), a rotating 23.8" screen (usable for off-bike yoga and strength workouts), and Apple GymKit integration. These are genuine improvements, not just spec bumps.
The auto-follow resistance is the most impactful feature. In a sprint interval, the instructor calls "resistance 60" — and the bike adjusts to that resistance automatically. No reaching down to turn a knob. The experience is significantly more immersive and the data accuracy improves because users aren't under-resisting or ignoring cues.
The content quality is unmatched. Peloton's cycling instructors are genuinely excellent. The live class format with a real leaderboard creates accountability that on-demand content alone doesn't match. If you've been considering a Peloton for years and can absorb the cost, the hardware justifies the reputation.
- ✓ Auto-follow resistance is a genuine differentiator
- ✓ 23.8 rotating screen enables off-bike strength workouts
- ✓ Best-in-class live and on-demand class library
- ✓ Apple GymKit integration for seamless HR data
- ✓ Strong community and leaderboard
- × $2,495 + $44/month is a significant ongoing commitment
- × 297 lb capacity lower than some alternatives
- × Requires Peloton membership for most features
- × 3.0 CHP motor smaller than NordicTrack/Sole treadmills at same price tier
Verdict: If you'll use it consistently, the Peloton Bike+ delivers best-in-class connected fitness. If the price is challenging, the Schwinn IC4 at $799 delivers excellent hardware that works with third-party apps including Peloton's own app. See our full exercise bike comparison.
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