The era when high-end workout machines were exclusive to gyms is a thing of the past. Prior to the onset of Covid-19, home workout equipment was seldom utilized; however, the pandemic has dramatically shifted this trend, leading to an increased reliance on home fitness tools. One of the companies that has reaped significant benefits from the rise of at-home exercise is Peloton.
Peloton has garnered a devoted following among cycling enthusiasts, thanks to its engaging studio cycling classes and the availability of personalized training experiences. Interestingly, even those who are not particularly fitness-obsessed have embraced the convenience of exercising on Peloton bikes.
While Peloton bikes have long been a favorite among fitness aficionados, the company has not rested on its laurels. In late 2020, Peloton unveiled the Bike+, featuring enhanced specifications compared to the original Peloton Bike.
Both models offer impressive capabilities to cater to different user preferences. Continue reading to discover which bike might be the perfect fit for you.
Peloton Bike vs. Bike+
Construction and Design
Peloton has made several enhancements to the design of its original bike, elevating its overall appeal.
Bike Frame
Both bikes measure 59 inches in length and 22 inches in width, utilizing poly V power transmission belt drives. Notably, the Peloton Bike+ stands 6 inches taller than the original Peloton Bike, which can be attributed to the increased height of its screen.
When positioned side by side, the frame designs appear similar unless one closely observes the handlebars. Both models feature frames constructed from durable powder-coated steel and employ a neodymium rare-earth control magnet system.
Pedals
Both the Peloton Bike and Bike+ come equipped with clip-on pedals compatible with Delta Look cleats, ensuring that your feet remain secure and stable while pedaling. The Bike+ also includes toe cages, providing the option to use athletic shoes during your cycling sessions.
Handlebars
The handlebars of both bikes are crafted from alloy steel and polypropylene, delivering a robust grip for intense pedaling. However, the designs differ: the original bike features handlebars that form an inverted V shape, whereas the Bike+ has vertically straight handlebars that allow for a more secure grip.
The vertical design of the Bike+ handlebars also enables users to rotate the screen, enhancing versatility during workouts.
Peloton bike Physical Adjustments
Both Peloton models allow for adjustments to the seat, enabling movement forward, backward, and vertically. A conveniently located knob on the side of each seat facilitates easy positioning.
The knobs on the Peloton Bike are notably larger and protrude from the seat frame, while the Bike+ features flatter, sleeker knobs, contributing to its streamlined aesthetic and simplifying seat adjustments.
Quality
Despite a slight weight difference of 5 lbs between the two bikes, their construction quality remains consistent. Both models can support riders weighing up to 297 lbs and accommodate users ranging from 4'11" to 6'4" in height. Furthermore, both bikes are designed to provide exceptional stability during use.
Digital Features
Peloton enhances the cycling experience through its large digital touchscreen display, 24/7 access to trainers, and seamless compatibility with various devices.
Touch Screen
The Peloton Bike features a 21.5-inch touchscreen, while the Bike+ boasts a larger 23.8-inch display. Although both screens offer HD resolution and excellent quality, the larger screen of the Bike+ delivers a more immersive experience.
Additionally, the rotatable screen of the Bike+ allows users to continue following workout sessions even when off the bike, and its glare-free design protects your eyes during exercise.
App Subscription
Peloton offers an app subscription priced at $44 per month, granting access to recorded classes, live sessions, and a customizable workout experience. Users can track their progress and metrics such as power output, resistance levels, heart rate, and more during classes.
This subscription also fosters community interaction among users, enabling participation in competitions on a global scale.
Speaker System
Both bikes are equipped with stereo speaker systems; the Peloton Bike has 16-watt speakers positioned at the rear, while the Bike+ features 26-watt speakers located at the front of the bike, just above the screen.
The forward-facing speakers of the Bike+ provide a more focused auditory experience compared to the distractions of rear speakers. Furthermore, the Bike+ includes rear-facing woofers for enhanced sound quality.
USB Charging and Bluetooth Connectivity
Both models offer Bluetooth connectivity, with the Bike+ employing Bluetooth 5.0, while the original Bike uses Bluetooth 4.0. The Peloton Bike is equipped with a standard USB charging port and an ethernet port, while the Bike+ features an upgraded USB-C charging cable for convenient device charging during workouts.
Processor and Camera
Both bikes come with 16 GB of internal storage. The Peloton Bike is powered by a 2 GB RAM, a 2 GHz processor, and a 5 MP front camera, which are sufficient for basic functionality.
Conversely, the Bike+ is equipped with a faster 2.5 GHz Qualcomm processor, 4 GB RAM, and an 8 MP front camera, resulting in clearer visuals and improved screen performance.
Apple Watch Integration
While the Peloton Bike only supports USB connectivity and cannot sync with Apple devices, the Bike+ offers seamless integration with Apple Watch through Apple GymKit. Additionally, it connects with other mobile fitness trackers, enabling users to monitor their workouts and physical statistics anytime.
Magnetic Resistance and Auto-Flow
Magnetic resistance utilizes the attraction of flywheels to create the opposing force needed for pedaling, with resistance levels adjusted by repositioning the magnets.
A notable feature of Peloton bikes is the inclusion of 100 levels of magnetic resistance, catering to users at all fitness levels—from beginners to seasoned athletes. This variety enhances workout progression and allows for individualized resistance adjustment based on one’s stamina and strength.
While both bikes offer adjustable resistance, the Peloton Bike+ introduces the innovative auto-flow lock function. This feature enables users to lock resistance within a specific range, eliminating the need for constant manual adjustments. With the instructor's guidance, users can focus on their workouts without the distraction of
