Peloton Bike+ Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

The Peloton Bike+ is the premium offering in Peloton's lineup, promising an elevated indoor cycling experience. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to provide an honest assessment. With a larger rotating screen, auto-resistance, and improved audio, it aims to justify its higher price tag. But does it deliver? We break down the design, performance, ease of use, cleaning, and common buyer complaints.

Design and Build Quality

The Peloton Bike+ features a sturdy steel frame with a sleek, modern aesthetic. The 38-pound flywheel provides a smooth, quiet ride thanks to magnetic resistance. The bike feels solid and stable even during intense sprints. The 24-inch rotating touchscreen is a standout, allowing you to easily transition from cycling to floor workouts. The screen is bright and responsive, with excellent viewing angles. The handlebars and seat are adjustable, though some users find the seat uncomfortable for long rides. Overall, build quality is top-notch, with premium materials and a polished finish.

Screen and Audio Performance

The 24-inch display is a significant upgrade from the original Peloton Bike's 21.5-inch screen. It rotates 360 degrees, making it ideal for off-bike classes like yoga, strength, and meditation. The touchscreen is highly responsive, and the interface is intuitive. The sound system features four front-facing speakers and a subwoofer, delivering rich, immersive audio that fills the room. This is a clear improvement over the original Bike's speakers. The camera is also better for video calls and Peloton Guide integration.

Class Library and Subscription Value

Peloton's class library is one of the best in the industry, with thousands of live and on-demand classes spanning cycling, running, strength, yoga, meditation, and more. New content is added daily. The All-Access Membership costs $44 per month, which is steep compared to some competitors. However, the quality and variety of instruction are exceptional. The Bike+ also supports Apple GymKit for seamless integration with Apple Watch. The subscription is required for full functionality, which is a common complaint among budget-conscious buyers.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Peloton Bike+ is straightforward, though delivery and assembly are typically handled by Peloton's team for an additional fee. The interface is user-friendly, with easy navigation to classes, metrics, and profiles. Auto-resistance adjusts the bike's resistance automatically to match the instructor's cues, which is a convenient feature that enhances the workout experience. The bike also supports multiple user profiles, making it suitable for households with multiple riders. The touchscreen is responsive, and the overall experience is polished.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Peloton Bike+ is simple. Wipe down the frame, screen, and handlebars with a damp cloth after each use to remove sweat. The magnetic resistance system requires no maintenance. The belt drive is also low-maintenance. However, the bike's large footprint and exposed cables may require occasional dusting. The screen can be cleaned with a microfiber cloth. Overall, maintenance is minimal, but the bike's size can make cleaning underneath a bit challenging.

Common Buyer Complaints

Despite its premium status, the Peloton Bike+ has some recurring complaints. The most common is the high subscription cost, which many feel is too expensive for what you get. Some users report issues with the touchscreen freezing or requiring a reset. The seat comfort is a frequent criticism, with many opting to replace it with a third-party saddle. The lack of a built-in fan and water bottle holder is another annoyance, as these are standard on many competitors. Finally, the bike's large size can be a problem for those with limited space.

Who Should Buy the Peloton Bike+?

The Peloton Bike+ is ideal for fitness enthusiasts who want a premium, immersive workout experience and are willing to pay for it. If you value a rotating screen for multi-discipline training, auto-resistance for a seamless ride, and top-tier audio, the Bike+ is worth the investment. It is also great for households with multiple users thanks to easy profile switching. However, if you are on a budget, prefer a simpler setup, or don't need the extra features, the original Peloton Bike or a more affordable alternative may be a better choice.