Bowflex Velocore Vs Peloton: Which Is The Best For You?

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Intro 

Fitness conditioning bikes in recent years have seen a massive boom in popularity, with several manufacturers producing high-quality bikes.

So how do you choose the right one for you? 

This article will compare two of the most popular fitness bikes on the market: the Bowflex Velocore and the Peloton.

  1. Bowflex VeloCore Bike
  2. Bowflex VeloCore Bike
    4.5

    Provides the rider with an incredibly realistic riding experience, closely simulating riding outside on roads or up and down your favorite mountain climb.

    Check Official Deal Amazon Reviews
  3. Peloton Bike
  4. Peloton Bike
    4.4

    Maybe the most popular indoor cycle, and for a good reason. Excellent quality with an excellent app for beginners and experts. The only downside it that users cannot change resistance when using apps like Zwift etc.

    Price & Reviews Check Holiday Sale

In a hurry? Check the Velocore vs Peloton Comparison Table

Take a look at this simple table I have put together that compares the most important features between the Bowflex Velocore and the Peloton Fitness bikes. 

BowflexPeloton
Price $1700-$2200$1900
MembershipJRNY appPeloton app
Month Cost $20 per month$40 per month
ResistanceMagnetic (100 Levels)Magnetic (100 Levels)
ClassesAdaptive On-DemandOn-Demand & Live
Unique FeatureLean ModeApp Leaderboard
From this table, you can get a more detailed look at the features you find most important to you, such as price and the type.

JRNY vs. Peloton App 

The Bowflex Velocore App

The Bowflex Velocore comes equipped with the JRNY app, which offers users a fun, interactive way to get fit. The app evaluates your personal fitness levels to provide detailed workouts for you and make getting fitter much easier.

The app uses the latest technology to track all of your previous workouts to develop future sessions that then push you to your limits. As a professional coach, I really love this feature, and particularly for those just starting, it can be daunting to design and implement your own sessions; here, the JRNY app does it for you.

The app also allows you to access Netflix, Disney, and even other cycling apps such as Zwift.

  • No Live classes but sophisticated on-demand which adapt to your style of riding
  • Netflix and Disney access
  • The latest tech
  • Specialized Training workouts

Peloton App

Wow, where to start; The Peloton app is jam-packed full of features that will quite literally “knock your socks off.” The sessions are produced with the highest quality coaches, tech, and visually, they’re stunning. 

The app provides the user with countless workouts to access that will keep you fit and entertained while doing it; there’s nothing worse than riding a fitness bike staring at a blank wall. One of the most outstanding features is the live classes. Unlike Bowflex, the Peloton app streams live classes led by coaches who do a fantastic job and get the most of you in a fun interactive way.

If the live classes are not for you, simply open the app and browse the countless on-demand sessions designed for all rider levels.

Another great feature of the Peloton App isthe leaderboard. This fascinating component from Peloton allows riders to compete against fellow riders during class and receive shoutouts from the Peloton Instructors. If you do not have the Peloton bike and membership, you will be on the sideline as the leaderboard is not available anywhere but the Peloton bike or bike+.

  • Live Classes
  • World-class coaches
  • A heap of workouts
  • Detailed metrics tracking
  • Leaderboard (Only if you own a Peloton Bike)

Bowflex Velocore Review 

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Bowflex VeloCore Bike Bowflex VeloCore Bike
4.5

Provides the rider with an incredibly realistic riding experience, closely simulating riding outside on roads or up and down your favorite mountain climb.

Specs

  • Floor Space: 59.8” x 24.1” x 55.3”
  • Weight: 175lbs or 80kgs
  • Maximum Weight: 325lbs or 148kgs
  • Tech: Bluetooth and the ability to measure heart rate
  • Resistance: The bike uses magnetic resistance with 100 levels
  • Hardware: Both tilt and stationary are available
  • Screen: LCD screen comes in 16″ and 22.”

Review

Not many bikes on the market can offer new tech that changes the game when it comes to fitness bikes, but the Bowflex Velocore has done just that. It comes with the option of setting the bike to either the traditional stationary mode or the state-of-the-art lean mode (swaying).

As a lifelong cyclist myself, the swaying mode is not only a fun way to ride but also offers an incredibly realistic riding experience. The bike is comfortable, and the saddle, in particular, is soft and allows for more extended sessions with comfort and ease. 

The screen comes in two sizes, options 16″ and 22″, and offers the user an interactive experience that can also track data such as distance pedaled, calories, duration, and even heart rate. 

Finally and maybe most importantly, the bike uses a magnetic resistance system that provides a quiet and smooth cycling experience. The system has 100 resistance levels, meaning that anyone can jump on and find their perfect workout, and the option to use sneakers or dedicated cycling shoes is a bonus.

The Peloton App can integrate with the VeloCore (Read our definitive guide on how to use it when you don’t have a Peloton bike). Unfortunately, the Peloton leaderboard is still only available for those that own a Peloton bike and membership.

Things I liked:

  • Unique optional Lean Mode that requires greater activation of core and upper body
  • Integrates with cycling apps like Peloton (without the leaderboard) and Zwift
  • The app offers everything and more.
  • Comfortable on longer rides
  • Magnetic resistance is quiet and smooth
  • As a cyclist, the option to wear cycling shoes is a nice touch

Things To Consider:

  • Some users have complained that the bike is too heavy.
  • Although I love the “sway mode”, newcomers to cycling may find it a bit unnerving to start with.
  • Live classes not available

Peloton Review

Peloton Bike Peloton Bike
4.4

Maybe the most popular indoor cycle, and for a good reason. Excellent quality with an excellent app for beginners and experts. The only downside it that users cannot change resistance when using apps like Zwift etc.

Specs

  • Floor Space: 59” x 23” x 53”
  • Weight: 135lbs or 61kgs
  • Maximum Weight: 297
  • Tech: Bluetooth 
  • Resistance: Magnetic Resistance
  • Hardware: Stationary 
  • Screen: 22″ LCD screen

Review

The Pelton bike is the most recognized conditioning bike on the market, and with good reason. The company itself has been making high-quality fitness equipment for decades now, and they’re not letting up.

The Peloton bike is ergonomically designed and, because of this, extremely comfortable. The saddle and handlebars are fully adjustable, meaning anyone of any size and shape can find a comfortable position. The Pelton is light and easy to move around the room, particularly good if you have a home gym.

If you’re into tracking your workouts like me, then the Peloton won’t let you down. With the 22″ LCD screen, you can track everything from distance, time, heart rate, and calories burnt. Another excellent feature is the touchscreen which is easy to use while working out. 

The live classes are second to none, and as a professional coach, I can tell you they have been designed and implemented by top people in the industry. Although slightly pricey, the app is worth every penny, and don’t forget other members of your family can also use the account.

Things I liked:

  • Best interactive conditioning bike app on the market
  • Super lightweight
  • The “live” classes are world-class
  • Magnetic resistance is smooth and quiet.
  • A reputable name in the fitness industry

Things To Consider:

  • The app is fantastic but is also a little on the pricey side.
  • Workouts are very limited if you don’t purchase the app.

How The Bikes Compare

Tech

  • Bowflex Velocore: The Bowflex Velocore is outfitted with the JRNY app that provides the user with numerous workouts designed specifically for you. The app does this by tracking your previous workouts, enabling it to create sessions according to your current fitness levels. You can also access Netflix and Disney while working out, and unlike many other bikes, you can also access outside or third-party apps like Zwift.
  • Peloton: Ok, so the Peloton app has its great points and some not so great. Great in that the sessions, including the live workouts, are world-class and help you develop your fitness levels while having fun. The downside is that you can only use the Peloton app; there’s no option to connect or sync to a third-party app. So basically, if you purchase the Peloton, you have to stick with it. Most functions also require wifi.

Resistance

  • Bowflex Velocore: The Bowflex Velocore uses a state-of-the-art magnetic resistance system to power its bikes. The system offers 100 different resistance levels and provides a quiet riding experience perfect for home or office gyms.
  • Peloton: As with the Bowflex Velocore, the Peloton utilizes the same magnetic resistance system while also providing 100 levels of resistance. These systems are excellent because they offer so many different resistance levels, meaning that almost anyone of any fitness level can find a challenging workout.

Saddle

  • Bowflex Velocore: The saddle or “seat” on the Bowflex Velocore is soft, and comfortable which is a nice change as many fitness bikes have seats that are honestly too hard and uncomfortable. The seat is also fully adjustable, meaning it’s perfect for all shapes and size riders.
  • Peloton: The Pelton saddle is also soft and ergonomic, perfect for those of you who like the longer workouts. The seat moves vertically and horizontally again by simply pulling the lever, making it ideal for both men and women.

Pedals

  • Bowflex Velocore: The pedals on the Bowflex are very well made, which gives the user confidence when pedaling hard. The pedals are SPD compatible, which is an excellent option for those who love cycling like me.
  • Peloton: The Peloton pedals are manufactured from lightweight aluminum and also provide the option to use either sneakers or clip-in shoes. The clip-in shoes are excellent when pedaling at high speeds or when the workout requires an enormous amount of power.

Frame And Build Quality

  • Bowflex Velocore: The Bowflex is made from the highest grade materials and delivers a robust and sturdy ride which is particularly good when pushing through a challenging workout. The bike weighs in at 175lbs or 80kgs and can handle a maximum rider weight of 325lbs or 148kgs. The outstanding feature, in my opinion, is the two options available when riding. The stationary mode offers confidence for newcomers, while the sway mode is perfect for more experienced riders looking for some fun while working out. The bike is pretty heavy, though, and not easy to move around.
  • Peloton: The Peloton bike comes in at 135lbs or 61 kgs, with the capacity to hold a maximum weight of 297lbs or 143kgs. The design is sleek, modern, and elegant, and with the black paint, the Peloton is one great-looking fitness bike. The resistance system is easily interchangeable, and by simply turning the knob, you can switch through the 100 different levels to find the one that’s right for you. The seat is fully adjustable and comfortable, as are the ergonomically designed handlebars, great for longer workouts.

Bowflex Velocore vs. Peloton vs. Nordictrack S22i 

Well, this is not an easy comparison to make because, depending on several different factors, all three of these bikes might be the right one for you.

Recently, the NordicTrackS22i has gained massive popularity among fitness bike enthusiasts primarily because of the number of outstanding features that rival the other big-name makers. 

Two of the most outstanding and well thought out features are the LCD screen, which can swivel up and down, and my favorite is the ERG mode. This mode adjusts the resistance for you, meaning you don’t need to worry about being at the correct resistance. You also get heaps of workouts and “live sessions”, too.

So compared to the Bowflex Velocore and the Peloton, the NordicTrackS22i stacks up very well. Factors to consider between the three bikes would be space and size, apps, and of course, the price tag.

Nordictrack Commercial S22i Nordictrack Commercial S22i
4.7

22 inches Interactive HD Touchscreen Display streams on-demand iFit workouts directly to your equipment and provides easy stats tracking; Adjustable display mount allows for 360-degree screen rotation.


Which Bike Is For Me? 

So the question you’ve all been waiting for, which bike is best for me, the Bowflex Velocore or the Peloton?

Both bikes offer similar and some instances, identical features such as the magnetic resistance system with 100 different levels. But really, the ultimate factor in determining which bike is best for you depends on your circumstances.

Factors like how much space you have in your gym, what are your fitness levels and goals, how often you plan on using it, and your budget all need to be considered before purchase. 

If you’re an athlete looking for a real hardcore workout, the Bowflex Velocore is right up your alley. The Sway mode really takes this bike to another level and offers a realistic riding experience that is unparalleled. 

On the other hand, the Peloton is perfect for those who like to be part of a larger community, and the live sessions are fun and interactive. Loyal Pelotons customers can attest to that. 

Conclusion 

Both bikes, the Bowflex and the Peloton, won’t let you down when looking for a high-end conditioning bike. Remember, however, to consider all of the factors above before opening your wallet and spending some cash. 

  1. Bowflex VeloCore Bike
  2. Bowflex VeloCore Bike
    4.5

    Provides the rider with an incredibly realistic riding experience, closely simulating riding outside on roads or up and down your favorite mountain climb.

    Check Official Deal Amazon Reviews
  3. Peloton Bike
  4. Peloton Bike
    4.4

    Maybe the most popular indoor cycle, and for a good reason. Excellent quality with an excellent app for beginners and experts. The only downside it that users cannot change resistance when using apps like Zwift etc.

    Price & Reviews Check Holiday Sale
Brenton Barker

Brenton holds a Degree in Sports Coaching from the University of Delaware and was the former Head Advisor for the Japanese Government's Sports Science Institute. Brenton currently consults with several Professional Athletes and clients in Self- Accountability, Health, and Goal Orientation.

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