Table of Contents
- Should I Buy Peloton Bike or Bike+?
- Key Feature Differences: Peloton Bike vs. Bike+
- Pricing Breakdown: New, Refurbished, and Total Ownership Costs
- Pros and Cons of Each Model
- Who Should Buy the Peloton Bike?
- Who Should Buy the Peloton Bike+?
- Long-Term Value and Resale Considerations
- FAQ
- Is the Peloton Bike+ worth the extra $1,050?
- Do both require the same subscription?
- Can I upgrade from Bike to Bike+ later?
- What’s the weight limit and space needs?
- Are there 2025 updates to either model?
- Final Thoughts
- About Author
- Mariar Fernandez
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Should I Buy Peloton Bike or Bike+?
Should I Buy Peloton Bike or Bike+? Buy the Peloton Bike if you’re a beginner or cycling-focused on a budget ($1,445 new); opt for Bike+ ($2,495) if you want auto-resistance, rotating screen for off-bike workouts, and premium audio for versatile training. Both require $49.99/month All-Access Membership.
Key Feature Differences: Peloton Bike vs. Bike+
The Peloton Bike delivers core cycling essentials, while Bike+ adds premium tech for immersion. Both feature magnetic resistance (100 levels), 4’x2′ footprint, and welded steel frames supporting up to 297 lbs.
- Screen: Bike’s 21.5″ HD tilts vertically; Bike+’s 23.8″ HD rotates 360° for floor workouts like yoga or strength.
- Audio: Bike has 2-channel rear-facing speakers (16W); Bike+ offers Sonos-tuned 2.2-channel front-facing with rear woofers (26W) for clearer bass.
- Resistance: Both manual via knob; Bike+ adds auto-adjust to instructor cues, reducing distractions.
- Extras: Bike+ includes 5MP camera with privacy cover, USB-C port, built-in fan, and Apple GymKit for Watch integration; Bike uses micro-USB.
Q3 2025 data shows Bike+ users engage 25% more in non-cycling classes, per Peloton earnings. For full specs, check Peloton’s comparison tool.
Pricing Breakdown: New, Refurbished, and Total Ownership Costs
New Bike starts at $1,445 (plus $300 delivery/setup), refurbished at $1,145. Bike+ new: $2,495; refurbished: $1,995. Financing: 0% APR over 12 months via Affirm—Bike at $120.42/month, Bike+ at $207.92.
| Model | New Price | Refurbished | Year 1 Total (w/ Membership) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peloton Bike | $1,445 | $1,145 | $2,345–$2,645 |
| Peloton Bike+ | $2,495 | $1,995 | $3,395–$3,695 |
Membership ($49.99/month or $479.99/year) unlocks 50,000+ classes—essential, as unsubscribed Bikes limit to three free sessions. Rentals: $89/month for Bike, $129 for Bike+, including membership. 2025 sales drop effective prices 10–20% during Black Friday.
Pros and Cons of Each Model
Peloton Bike Pros:
- Affordable entry to Peloton ecosystem; 90% of beginners stick with cycling classes.
- Compact and quiet (belt drive); ideal for small spaces.
- Reliable for metrics tracking (power, cadence via Bluetooth).
Peloton Bike Cons:
- No rotation limits off-bike viewing; manual resistance requires focus.
- Basic audio; upgrades cost $500 for screen replacement.
Peloton Bike+ Pros:
- Auto-resistance boosts immersion—users report 15% higher workout intensity.
- Versatile for strength/HIIT; camera enables future video features.
- Ergonomic saddle and fan enhance comfort during 45+ minute sessions.
Peloton Bike+ Cons:
- $1,050 premium may not justify for pure cyclists; 20% higher energy use.
- Heavier (144 lbs vs. 140 lbs), tougher for movers.
Expert quote: “Bike+ shines for multi-workout users, but the standard Bike nails 80% of needs at half the upgrade cost.”
Who Should Buy the Peloton Bike?
Ideal for novices or cardio purists. If 70%+ of rides are cycling-focused, save $1,050—the manual knob builds skill without gimmicks. Suits apartments (59″ L x 22″ W) and budgets under $2,000 total.
Statistics: 65% of 6.1 million Peloton members own the standard Bike, with 1.2% quarterly churn among cycling-only users. Recent X users praise its value: “Started with Bike—perfect for daily spins, no regrets on skipping +.”
Who Should Buy the Peloton Bike+?
Choose Bike+ for versatility—auto-features and rotation support strength (up 30% engagement) or family use. Worth it if off-bike workouts exceed 30% of routine or you value GymKit for Apple Watch heart rate.
Data: Bike+ owners average 180 workouts/year vs. 140 for Bike, per 2025 retention stats. “Upgraded to Bike+—auto-resistance changed my HIIT game,” shares a Lifehacker reviewer. Explore user stories on Reddit’s r/pelotoncycle.
Long-Term Value and Resale Considerations
Both hold value: Used Bikes resell at $600–$900 (60% retention); Bike+ at $1,200–$1,800. Peloton’s Repowered platform adds $400 trade-in credit toward upgrades. Warranty: 12 months on refurbished; 5 years frame.
ROI: At 3 sessions/week, save $1,000/year vs. studio classes. Bike+ edges longevity with upgradable tech—future AI like Peloton IQ favors it. 2025 revenue: Subscriptions (67%) outpace hardware, emphasizing ecosystem lock-in.
Steps to Decide:
- Assess workout mix: Cycling-only? Go Bike.
- Budget check: Under $1,800? Standard wins.
- Test via 30-day trial—return for full refund.
FAQ
Is the Peloton Bike+ worth the extra $1,050?
Yes for versatile users; no for cycling basics—save for accessories instead.
Do both require the same subscription?
Yes, $49.99/month All-Access for full classes; family sharing up to three profiles.
Can I upgrade from Bike to Bike+ later?
Sell via Repowered for $400 credit; no direct trade-in, but resale averages $750 recovery.
What’s the weight limit and space needs?
297 lbs max; 4’x2′ footprint, 8′ ceiling recommended for both.
Are there 2025 updates to either model?
Minor: Both now auto-resistance capable via software; Bike+ adds anti-glare screen.
Final Thoughts
Weigh your routine against the $1,050 gap: Peloton Bike empowers focused riders affordably, while Bike+ elevates multi-discipline enthusiasts with seamless tech. Amid 6.1 million users and 98% trial satisfaction, either unlocks Peloton’s addictive classes—prioritize trial to pedal confidently in 2025.
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