Best Spin Bike to Use with Peloton App (And How to Do it!)

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Screenshot 2022 05 17 at 3.12.25 PM
By Katie Pierson

Certified Spinning® Instructor & Personal Trainer

Katie has been a certified fitness professional for twenty years and holds ten fitness certifications, including Spinning Elite and Personal Training. She has shared her expert knowledge in many fitness outlets like Bicycling & Verywellfit.

Can I Use the Peloton App with a Different Bike

You absolutely can use the Peloton App with multiple compatible bikes and have a great riding experience. I love using the app with my non-Peloton bike. Actually, we have a detailed guide on how to do it.

Best Overall
Best Value
Best Budget
Features:
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Poly V
Pedal Type: SPD/Toe Cages
Max User Weight: 350 pounds
Features:
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Belt
Pedal Type: SPD/Caged
Max User Weight: 330
Features:
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Belt
Pedal Type: Toe Cages
Max User Weight: 330
Best Overall
Features:
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Poly V
Pedal Type: SPD/Toe Cages
Max User Weight: 350 pounds
Best Value
Features:
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Belt
Pedal Type: SPD/Caged
Max User Weight: 330
Best Budget
Features:
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Belt
Pedal Type: Toe Cages
Max User Weight: 330

What Makes a Perfect Bike to Work with the Peloton App? 

Not only do you want to make sure that your bike provides a smooth and sturdy ride, but it is also essential to focus on the bike’s features if you are looking to use the Peloton App. Here are a few things to consider:

  • Resistance: Peloton bikes include 100 levels of magnetic resistance. Having a bike with magnetic resistance is a bonus but not a requirement.
  • Metrics Tracking: A monitor that displays metrics such as cadence and resistance level is important if you are trying to follow an instructor-led workout. Instructors will provide the resistance levels that they would like you working in along with speed.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: The Peloton App integrates with other indoor cycling bikes on the market, but connectivity is necessary.
  • Flywheel: without a flywheel, the riding experience would be completely lacking.

Drawbacks of Not Using the Official Peloton Bike with the App

  • Leaderboard: I am sure that you have heard about Peloton’s leaderboard. This fascinating component from Peloton allows riders to compete against fellow riders during class and receive shoutouts from the Peloton Instructors. Unfortunately, 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+.
  • Resistance: Without the Peloton bike, it is difficult to know if you are in the proper resistance range that the Peloton instructor is referring to. Just because the bike you purchased also has 100 levels of magnetic resistance, that does NOT mean that these resistance levels are created equal. I made the mistake of going toe to toe on my Bowflex C6 bike during a Peloton ride, thinking the resistance levels were the same. Let me tell you, they are not. For example, a level 5 on the C6 is a level 25 on the Peloton. However, there are many conversion charts available to keep you in the ballpark for your resistance level.
  • Tracking Metrics: The app does not track your stats and can’t display your cadence or resistance because it can’t integrate with your bike.
  • Additional Devices Required: Most bikes do not include monitors that can integrate with the Peloton App. Therefore, you must supply your tablet or phone to use the digital app while riding.

Quick Access to Our Lists

Our guide is divided into 3 categories.

  1. The best bikes that are almost Peloton ready: Commercial-grade quality bikes that are almost ready to be connected with the Peloton App, with minimal additional requirements.
  2. The best DYI Peloton bikes: Value-for-money bikes that need some extra addons to connect with the Peloton app (usually a cadence sensor + a tablet/ phone).
  3. The best bikes with an alternative app: They offer another App with a Peloton-like experience, in case you want to check also if they fit better to your needs.

Best Peloton-Ready Compatible BikesTop 6 Picks

Our Top Pick: Keiser M3i Indoor Bike

- $400 OFF for Limited Time
Keiser M3i Bike Keiser M3i Bike
4.9

The App takes the cycle to another level, and with compatibility and connectivity, the bike offers all of the latest conveniences the digital age has to offer. 

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike Specs

Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Poly V
Dimensions (LxWxH): 49” x 26” 51”
Pedal Type: SPD/Toe Cages
User Height Range: 4’11” -7′
Max User Weight: 350 pounds

The Keiser M3i is a quality Peloton compatible bike that contains 24 levels of magnetic resistance and a Poly V-belt drive. Its V-shaped frame accommodates riders between 4’11” -7.”

The lightweight flywheel spins eleven times faster than a single pedal stroke. This helps to provide a smooth flywheel not available with many commercial-grade cycles on the market. In addition, the Keiser M3i features a Bluetooth® wireless signal for open API for smartphones and tablets.

Steps to Linking Keiser M3i to Peloton

Easily connect to the Peloton app with the Keiser M Series Converter. After pairing the converter via Bluetooth, you can select the Peloton app on the screen. The converter will begin to provide the Peloton with your metrics. Want a step-by-step guide? Follow the steps below.

  1. Pair the converter via Bluetooth to your bike
  2. Click on Peloton app on the M3i screen
  3. Allow Peloton to connect via Bluetooth when prompted
  4. Click the metrics app within the Peloton class you have selected
  5. Select cadence

Peloton to Keiser M3i Resistance Conversion Chart

PelotonKeiserM3i
101-5
206-10
3011-13
4014-15
5016-17
6018-19
7020-21
8022-23
90+24

Best Value: Bowflex C6 / Schwinn IC4

$200 Off + Free Shipping!
Bowflex C6 Bike Bowflex C6 Bike
4.8

An excellent alternative option to Peloton or other streaming bikes. A quiet magnetic resistance bike, proficient enough to link with the many available streaming devices such as Peloton® and Zwift®.

-30% on Amazon
Schwinn IC4 Bike Schwinn IC4 Bike
4.8

Comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to link to several apps such as Peloton® and Zwift®. The Schwinn really does offer excellent quality at a very affordable price.

Bowflex C6 and Schwinn IC4 Bike Specs

  • Resistance Type: 100 Levels of Magnetic Resistance
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 40 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 48.7 × 21.2 × 51.8 inches
  • Pedal Type: SPD/Caged
  • User Height Range: 4’6″-6’6″
  • Max User Weight: 330

Created by Nautilus, the Bowflex C6 and Schwinn IC4 indoor cycling bikes include a 40-pound flywheel and offer 100 levels of magnetic resistance. In addition, these models include 3-pound weights and a Bluetooth heart rate monitor with purchase.

YouTube video

The belt drive on these models is whisper-quiet, and the pedals offer riders the choice between SPD cleats or toe cages. The ergonomically designed handlebars keep riders comfortable in or out of the saddle and include a tablet rest. These models do not have a monitor but offer an LCD console that provides cadence, speed, distance, calories, and heart rate.

Bowflex’s JRNY app is now available with both cycles using a tablet or phone. This app includes exciting classes and scenic rides in addition to watching streaming services such as Disney+, HULU, Netflix, and Prime Video. If wanting to use the Peloton app instead of JRNY, riders can link their bikes to the app where heart rate and cadence are displayed with an android or an iPhone.

Steps to Linking C6/ IC4 to Peloton

  1. Press the Bluetooth button on your monitor
  2. Open the Peloton app on your smartphone
  3. Select the ride you would like to take
  4. Click start
  5. Select the pulse symbol on the smartphone screen
  6. Select Cadence & Nautilus options

Peloton to C6 Resistance Conversion Chart

Peloton to Bowflex C6 Bike Conversion Chart

Best Ride Experience: Bowflex VeloCore Bike

SAVE $540 + Upgraded Seat!
Bowflex VeloCore Bike Bowflex VeloCore Bike
4.8

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

Bowflex VeloCore Bike Specs

  • Resistance Type: Magnetic
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 59.8” x 24.1” x 55.3”
  • Pedal Type: SDP/Toe Cages
  • User Height Range: 5’1″-6’5″
  • Max User Weight: 325

The Bowflex VeloCore bike offers riders two riding modes, including stationary and lean mode. This belt-driven bike offers 100 levels of magnetic resistance and either a 16” or 22” touchscreen.

This impressive model won the Men’s Health 2021 Fitness Award and is a CES 2021 Innovation Award honoree due to the incredible lean mode feature that allows riders to release the flywheel and frame seamlessly. Hence, the bike pivots from side to side as it mimics riding an outdoor bike.

Related:
Bowflex Velocore: A Review from a Spinning Instructor

In addition to its unique frame capabilities, the Bowflex VeloCore also offers integration with several apps, including Peloton directly from the bike’s monitor. Of course, a tablet or phone will be needed to sync to the cycle and provide the Peloton app with your key metrics. Although the Peloton leaderboard is unavailable, cadence will still be displayed on the Peloton App while all other metrics will be displayed on the VeloCore. It is one of the greatest Peloton compatible bikes.

Steps to Linking VeloCore to Peloton

  1. Select the “Fitness Apps” category on the monitor
  2. Click “Work Out with Peloton”
  3. Open the Peloton app on your smartphone
  4. Select the ride you would like to take
  5. Click start
  6. Select the pulse symbol on the smartphone screen
  7. Select Cadence & Nautilus options

Best Commercial-Grade: Stryde Bike

Stryde Bike Stryde Bike
4.7

A commercial-grade quality bike with a lot of extra perks. The massive advantage of the Stryde is that it can display key metrics such as cadence and resistance level that are tracked by itself. So, Stryde users don't rely on Peloton integration with the digital app.

Stryde Bike Specs

  • Resistance Type: Magnetic 100 Levels
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 30.5 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxW): 4’ x 2’
  • Pedal Type: SPD/Toe Cages
  • User Inseam Range: 5”1’ -6’5”
  • Max User Weight: 350 pounds

The Stryde Bike offers riders up to 100 levels of magnetic resistance. This belt-driven cycle includes a 30.5-pound flywheel and comes assembled with pedals that accommodate an SPD cleat or street shoes via a toe cage.

This bike offers outstanding construction along with features that make riding more comfortable. This bike accommodates riders up to 350 pounds and between 5’1” – 6’5.” Stryde has partnered with multiple boutique studios across the nation to provide excellent content for its users. We love that if purchasers decide not to purchase the monthly subscription to these classes, it doesn’t hinder the bike’s functionality as riders can use the free ride feature.

One of the main reasons we selected the Stryde Bike as one of our top choices is the technological capabilities this bike offers, along with the 21.5 HD Touchscreen console. The Stryde allows for its users to enjoy many different fitness apps in addition to the $29 subscription available through Stryde. Those looking to use the Peloton app can quickly load the app onto the Stryde monitor. After selecting a free ride on the Stryde bike, it will display key metrics such as cadence and resistance level and can be used to help guide you through a Peloton class. The little metrics box remains visible in the bottom right corner of the screen while the rest displays whatever Peloton class you are taking. This is a massive benefit because if Peloton decides to stop offering cadence integration with the digital app, Stryde users will remain unaffected since these metrics are being tracked and displayed by the Stryde bike. Hence, you will never miss a cue with this cycle option.

Steps to Linking Stryde to Peloton

  1. Select “free ride” from the Stryde screen
  2. Move the “free ride” metrics to the bottom right of the screen
  3. Select the Peloton app on your screen
  4. Pick the class of your choice and click begin


Best Peloton DYI BikesTop 3 Picks

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Pro

-$300 OFF + Free Cadence Sensor ($70 Value)
Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Pro Bike Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Pro Bike
4.8

Includes a 40lb inertia-ready flywheel belt drive mechanism to provide a smooth & quiet ride. Its magnetic resistance provides quick, easy, & reliable resistance changes.


  • Use SAVE10 coupon code on Sunny Official Site for 10% OFF!
  • Free Cadence Sensor to Sync with the SunnyFit App! Applied to your Cart!

Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Pro Bike Specs

  • Resistance Type: Magnetic
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 40 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 49” x 22” x 46.5”
  • Pedal Type: SPD/Toe Cage
  • User Height Range: 182.88 cm -152.4 cm
  • Max User Weight: 265 pounds

A belt drive system powers the 40-pound inertia-driven flywheel of the Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Pro. This model includes pulse sensor-equipped handlebars and magnetic resistance.

The saddle offers 4-way adjustability, but unfortunately, the handlebars do not. Although the consumer rating is a 4.6 out of 5, many shorter riders reported difficulty finding a comfortable riding position. The battery-operated monitor provides riders with their speed, duration, and cadence.

Unfortunately, since there is no Bluetooth connectivity, the Synergy Pro cannot pair with the Peloton app directly, and a tablet or phone will be required. Luckily, this model includes a convenient tablet holder located on the handlebars. The magnetic resistance system is not the same as the Peloton, so it would be best to consider perceived exertion levels to estimate the resistance level used.   

2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1805

Holiday Deal: $150 Off
Sunny Health Magnetic Bike SF-B1805 Sunny Health Magnetic Bike SF-B1805
4.7

Priced usually under $600, this model offers users an experience often reserved for higher-priced options. This quiet belt-driven model includes a heavier front flywheel weighing in at 44 pounds.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1805 Bike Specs

Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Belt
Flywheel Weight: 44 pounds
Dimensions (LxWxH): 48” x 23” 45”
Pedal Type: Toe Cages
User Inseam Range: 28″ x 38″
Max User Weight: 300 pounds 

The SF-B1805 offers 4-way adjustability for both the saddle and handlebars. This model offers a belt drive system, magnetic resistance, and a 44-pound flywheel.

Coming in at only $551.29, this Sunny Health & Fitness bike provides excellent value to its riders. The magnetic resistance and belt drive create a tranquil ride. In addition, the 44-pound flywheel gives riders a smooth pedal stroke compared to lighter flywheels that can often make an uneven and choppy stroke.

This model does not offer a console of any sort. For metrics to be tracked, additional hardware would be needed, including a cadence counter. If wanting to utilize this bike with the Peloton app, riders will also need to keep track of the number of times they have turned the resistance knob to understand better how it relates to the Peloton bike. A conversion chart is located below for the B1805, showing the number of turns on the resistance knob.

Peloton to Sunny Health B1805 Resistance Conversion Chart

PelotonSunny Health B1805
151
252
302.5
353
403.5
504
554.5
605
655.5
706
756.5
807
85+8

3. JOROTO X2 Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike

JOROTO X2 Magnetic Bike JOROTO X2 Magnetic Bike
4.7

A belt-driven cycling bike that is affordable and well made. Users talk about its great construction quality and the silent operation.

JOROTO X2 Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike Specs

Resistance Type: Magnetic
Drive System: Belt
Flywheel Weight: 35 pounds
Dimensions (LxWxH): 43 x 20 x 42.5
Pedal Type: Caged
User Inseam Range: 27.5″ -36.2″
Max User Weight: 300 pounds

The JOROTO X2 is an excellent value-for-money bike that is compatible with the Peloton app; it includes a 35-pound flywheel and magnetic resistance system. In addition, four-way adjustability is available for both the handlebars and the saddle.

We love that this model offers a more comprehensive range of adjustability for the handlebars. In addition, the ability for the handlebars to move closer to the saddle is a game-changer for shorter riders. The JOROTO X2 also features a saddle that is three inches wider than competitors adding extra comfort for those that do not like the standard competitive style seats.

Many purchasers revealed they selected this model instead of a Peloton bike but still use the app and are happy with their decision. It is important to note that although the monitor provides distance, mph, and distance, it does not include cadence. An additional cadence tracker will be needed for the whole experience on the Peloton app.


Best Bikes with an Alternative App

The MYX II Bike

MYX II Bike Specs

  • Resistance Type: Friction
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 41 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 47” x 21” 54”
  • Pedal Type: SPD & Toe Cages
  • User Height Range: 4’11”- 6’8″
  • Max User Weight: 350 pounds

The MYX II showcases a belt drive and friction resistance system. In addition, this model includes a 41-pound flywheel and offers riders versatility in shoe options with its dual SPD and toe cage pedal.

My Video Review on Youtube

Check out my video review on Youtube, where I share many details about my experience with the MYX II bike.

Like & Subscribe to learn about any new bike that we review on Girl Bike Love!

YouTube video

Images From The Testing

This commercial-grade indoor cycling offers four-way adjustability of the handlebars, making it possible for riders at even 4’11” to find a comfortable riding position. This cycle accommodates a wide range of riders with its max weight capacity of 350 pounds and a maximum height of 6’8”.

Recently, Beachbody integrated all of its content with the MYX II bike through its applications of OpenFit and BODi (Beachbody On Demand Interactive). This model has also introduced an exciting new feature called BODcast. Located in the monitor is a camera that allows Beachbody instructors to see participants in real-time offer encouragement and safety cues. Unfortunately, since the MYX II has its software, the Peloton App cannot be played through the monitor, and an additional device will be needed.

NordicTrack Commercial S22i

Nordictrack S22i (New Model) Nordictrack S22i (New Model)
4.7

The bike itself is an incredible machine and has an incline and decline feature, which means when you ride, a motor will raise and drop the front of the bike. The screen is 22” HD and uses an application called iFit for all your live and pre-recorded classes.

Nordictrack S22i Bike Specs

  • Resistance Type: Magnetic
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 32 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 61” x 22” x 58”
  • Pedal Type: SPD & Toe Cages
  • User Height Range: 4’10”- 6’10”
  • Max User Weight: 350 pounds

This commercial-grade indoor cycle offers both an incline and decline riding experience, mimicking outdoor terrain.

The NordicTrack Commercial S22i offers the unique ability to adjust both resistance, incline, and decline. In addition, this cycle includes 30W audio, an ergonomic seat, and hybrid SPD pedals. 

Priced at $1,899, it also offers 24-levels of digital resistance. One of the unique features of this bike includes its ability to offer up to a 20% incline and -10% decline riding experience. S22i has a 4.7 rating with over 41,000 reviews.

Read Also:
NordicTrack S22i vs Keiser M3i
NordicTrack S22i vs Bowflex Velocore

With the purchase, riders also receive a 30-day membership to iFit. The iFit membership offers Calorie Burn, Destination Cycle, Strength Training, Bootcamp, Cross-Training, and Yoga & Mindfulness classes. After the free trial, the iFit membership costs $15/month for an individual and $39/month for a family. Although this platform offers a variety of formats, Peloton has a broader catalog.

ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22

ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
4.7

Bring the full training experience to your home with the Studio Bike Pro 22 exercise bike, lots to look at and touch with the massive 22-inch touchscreen.

Proform Pro 22 Bike Specs

  • Resistance Type: Magnetic
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 32 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 61” x 22” x 58”
  • Pedal Type: SPD & Toe Cages
  • User Height Range: 4’10”- 6’10”

Max User Weight: 350 pounds

The ProForm Studio Bike 22 includes a belt drive and offers 24 levels of magnetic resistance. A sturdy steel frame and ergonomic padded seat provide comfort and stability.

A desirable feature of this $1,299 cycle includes the iFit instructors’ ability to adjust the resistance during a class automatically. In addition, this commercial-grade indoor cycling bike offers a 32-pound front flywheel that delivers a more realistic riding experience due to the weight placement and faster gear ratio. The 22” touchscreen can swivel to 180 degrees and tilt up or down. This bike also offers the ability to swap out the saddle for one that suits your needs better.

This sister brand of Nordic Track also features iFit as their streaming service and includes a 30-day free trial. Please refer above to the Nordic Track Commercial S22i to learn more about iFit, as the ProForm Studio Bike 22 has the same offerings.

Echelon EX5

Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike
4.7

Aero handlebars feature ergonomic design to help align your upper body for optimum performance. - 32 levels of silent magnetic resistance lets you vary your workout intensity – Handlebar mounted 180 degree rotating console lets you incorporate off bike exercises

Echelon EX5 Specs

  • Resistance Type: Magnetic
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 26.8 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 58” x 20” x 55”
  • Pedal Type: SPD & Toe Cages
  • User Height Range: 4’11”- 6’4″
  • Max User Weight: 300 pounds

The Echelon EX5 is equipped with 32 levels of magnetic resistance and a 28.6-pound flywheel. In addition, the dual-sided pedals include an SPD and toe cage.

This cycle includes a 180-degree rotating tablet holder priced under $999. This unique indoor cycling bike accommodates riders up to 300-pounds and offers a wide height range of 4’11” – 6’4”. The four-way adjustability of the handlebars helps to accommodate this wide range. In addition, this indoor cycle includes a belt-drive system.

Echelon offers a yearly premium membership to its online platform for $34.99 per month, including over 35 live classes per day and thousands of On-Demand classes. This plan also allows up to five user profiles. For those looking for a more affordable option, the FitPass includes Strength Training, Pilates, Yoga, and other formats for only $11.99 per month. If you enjoy taking live classes, the Echelon app offers more currently than Peloton.

Sunny SF-B1805SMART

Sunny Interactive Bike (SF-B1805 Smart) Sunny Interactive Bike (SF-B1805 Smart)
4.8

The SF-B1805Smart offers users a connection to the SunnyFit app and the dual-purpose pedals, which allow users to either ride in sneakers or "clip-in" with their dedicated cycling shoes.


Use SAVE10 coupon code on Sunny Official Site for 10% OFF !!!

Sunny SF-B1805SMART Specs

  • Resistance Type: Magnetic
  • Drive System: Belt
  • Flywheel Weight: 44 pounds
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 50.8” x 23.4” x 7.6”
  • Pedal Type: SPD & Toe Cages
  • User Height Range: 5’- 6’5″
  • Max User Weight: 300 pounds

The Sunny SF-B1805SMART cycle offers a 44-pound flywheel and magnetic resistance. Metric tracking is available through a SMART Device via the Free SunnyFit App.

Priced at only $799, this affordable cycle offers a great riding experience. This is partly due to this cycle’s adjustability, including 4-way adjustability of the saddle and handlebars. Riders in the height range of 5”-6’5” and up to 300 pounds can comfortably ride on this cycle. Although this bike doesn’t include a monitor, it does offer a device holder that can accommodate a tablet or smartphone.

One of the best features of this bike is that it offers over 100 On-Demand classes via the SunnyFit App, in addition to tracking metrics. Unlike other cycling companies that charge a monthly membership fee, there is no additional fee. Users can enjoy classes such as cycling, running, strength training, stretching, and more. After connecting a SMART phone via Bluetooth to the bike, metrics such as distance, time, calories, and average cadence will be recorded within the app. This app is available for download in the App Store and Google Play. We love that the classes are offered for free, unlike the Peloton app, but the number of Live and On-Demand classes available through Peloton is much grander.


How Can You Set-Up the Peloton App with a Non-Peloton Bike?

After creating your Peloton account, make sure that you have downloaded the app to your iPhone or Android. Next, if your bike offers Bluetooth Connectivity, make sure any heart rate monitors are synced. Then, if available, find a resistance conversion chart that coincides with your bike and make sure there is a way to track your cadence. After that, you should be all set!

What to Look for When Buying a Cycle for Using it with the Peloton App

Commercial-Grade Construction

If your bike sways, not on purpose like the Bowflex VeloCore, then it will be challenging to ride with confidence, especially out of the saddle. Look for a bike that offers stabilizers, a sturdy frame, and handlebars designed for comfort when climbing out of the saddle. A commercial-grade cycle should naturally include these components.

Tablet Holder or Monitor

Most likely, you will be using your device to stream the Peloton App. Therefore, the handlebars must have some tablet holder, so you can keep a comfortable riding position and be able to follow along with the class. Additionally, some bikes are available that include a monitor that can access the Peloton all from their console.

Weighted Flywheel

A weighted flywheel is a must. If you want the ride on your bike to simulate what is happening during a Peloton class, a bike without one just won’t cut it. Try to find a bike with at least a 30-pound flywheel, as it will make the fluidity of your pedal stroke much smoother. 

Magnetic Resistance

Since the Peloton instructors call out resistance ranges, it is helpful to have a bike that shows resistance levels. However, it is crucial to remember that resistance levels are not the same across different models.

Tracking Cadence

Your console or monitor should display this for you. Yes, you can purchase a cadence counter, but most quality bikes on the market will have this feature readily available. 

Pro Tip: Did you know you can figure out your cadence without a counter or console? Simply count how many times one of your legs comes to the top of your pedal stroke during a six-second count. Add a zero to the number you counted, and you found your cadence.

Bluetooth Capability

It is a nice feature when your heart rate or cadence can link to the Peloton app. A few bikes offer this capability via linking to a Bluetooth heart rate monitor and your phone. Your phone must be connected to your bike for these additional metrics to show. Not all bikes offer this capability, and even at that, they might not support both Android and iPhone. 

SPD Pedals

Being able to click in for a ride will take the experience to a whole new level. It will allow for greater stabilization of your knee compared to using toe cages and increase the productivity of your workouts. I don’t know about you, but even if my favorite Peloton instructors can’t see me, I want to be able to really push it when they tell me to.

Weight Holder

If you are one of those riders who enjoys taking the cycling classes that include an arm section, you might want to look into a cycle that includes a weight holder. A weight holder usually comes with 3lb or 5lb weights and is located beneath the handlebars or saddle. This will allow you to quickly grab your weights instead of needing to unclip and miss reps. 

I prefer weight holders closer to the saddle. Unfortunately, with my Bowflex C6, the weights fall out of the holder when riding out of the saddle. The sound of them falling out not only scares me, but I am afraid that I will somehow damage the flywheel.

FAQ

Can you use a Peloton App with an Echelon bike?

If you use the QZ (qdomyos-zwift) app, you can link your Echelon bike and Peloton App. You can then view your cadence and heart rate on the Peloton App.

Can I put the Peloton App on my TV?

Yes, on most smart televisions, you can use the Peloton App. If your television does not have the capability, but if you can Chromecast, you can do that instead.

How much is the Peloton App per month?

The Peloton App is $12.99 per month plus applicable taxes.

The Bottom Line

Best Bike to Use with Peloton App

Many affordable bikes that are available today allow for great riding experiences as they are compatible with the Peloton App. You just need to find the right one for you!

Katie Pierson

Katie is the creator of MT Girl Fitness and has been a certified fitness professional for almost twenty years. She currently holds ten different fitness certifications, including Group Fitness, Spinning Elite, Rockstar Spinning, and Personal Training. Fitness is her passion, and she loves seeing her clients reach goals they never imagined.

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