It’s a well-known fact that Peloton has created one of the best indoor spin cycling experiences that we can get from home. While their bike and platform are better than most, it comes with a pretty hefty price tag.
For some of us, that makes the full Peloton experience something to reconsider.
Fortunately, Peloton has unlocked its app and made it available for purchase as a separate service. In other words, you don’t have to buy their bike or tread to use their programming.
Good news for many, this can help keep the overall cost down, by finding a spin bike that’s cheaper than the two models Peloton currently offers.
If this is the route you plan on going, then you’re going to want to find a bike that is most compatible with the Peloton app. Perhaps even a great Peloton alternative, if you will.
I’m Tami Smith, an ACE Certified Fitness Instructor, and indoor cycling enthusiast. I’ve been covering the market for the best bikes that work with the Peloton app for a few years now, and I’ve narrowed it down to seven amazing choices.
6 Best Exercise Bikes for the DIY Peloton App Experience
Rank | Price | Comes With Screen? | Best for | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 - Stryde | $1,745 |
| Spinning | |
#2 - JOROTO X2 | $399 |
| Low Budget | |
#3 - Schwinn IC4 | $999 |
| Under $1,000 | |
#4 - Bowflex Velocore | $1,699 |
| Advanced | |
#5 - Echelon EX-3 | $999 |
| Space Saving | |
#6 - Bowflex C6 | $999 |
| Reliability |
Yes
No
Here's the deal... STRYDE'S bike is simply the top spin bike to use with peloton's app - all because of their versatility!
If you’ve been searching for a bike that will work with Peloton app, I recommend going with an option that’s also compatible with a variety of other apps.
That’s why the Stryde tops our list of the best spin bikes that will work with Peloton’s app. With the Stryde, you’re able to use it with a variety of fitness apps, including Peloton’s, however, it’s also designed to work with the Stryde system as well. In other words, you’ll have a variety of workouts available to you, at a lower price point.
What makes Stryde most unique is that they’ve partnered with spinning studios across the United States, so if you decided to purchase STRYDE’s membership, you’d be able to tap into live studio spin classes. On the other hand, if you didn’t want to get their membership, maybe because you already have Peloton’s app, you can easily do that with this exercise bike as well.
Another main reason Stryde is our #1 choice to work with Peloton’s app is that it comes with a 21.5” HD touchscreen, 2 speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity. But, the most impressive feature I love about the Stryde bike is the ability to go split-screen mode on their tablet. For example, you can spin with a Peloton class while also watching Netflix on the same screen - no exercise bike has this feature to date.
Check out my Stryde vs peloton bike comparison article, where I go super in-depth on both spin bikes.
Specs | Info |
|---|---|
Resistance: | Magnetic with 100 resistance levels (exactly the same as Peloton) |
Pedals: | SPD with toe cages |
Footprint: | 4’L x 2’ W |
Weight: | Total 135 lbs |
Pros:
Cons:
Get $100 off total with link below!
Top budget friendly (AKA DIY Peloton bike) option.
If you’re looking for the best DIY Peloton bike, look no further than the JOROTO X2. It often goes on sale and can be purchased for under $500. With the JOROTO X2, you’re able to connect and stream thousands of fitness classes, including Peloton at the most affordable price point on this list.
You will need your own streaming device (phone, tablet, TV), as this budget option does not come equipped with a screen. That said, with over 100 positive reviews and an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, users are going bananas about this bike, calling it a “worthy investment / Peloton Hack.” I agree 100% with those reviewers because you’re getting everything the Peloton has besides the screen and clip, although you can purchase clips as an add-on for an additional $49.99.
But wait, can an exercise bike under $500 really be the same quality as the Peloton?
The JOROTO X2 is super quiet with its non-touch magnetic resistance and belt drive for a smooth ride. It’s also tough and sturdy as the bike can hold up to 300lbs max user weight, so it’s constructed with high-quality materials. You can adjust the handlebars and seat to fit your body type, making it safe and convenient. Finally, the JOROTO X2 is fully compatible with Peloton’s app and has a tablet holder by the handlebars.
Head on over to the Joroto bike vs Peloton comparison article to learn even more about how it stacks up against it.
Specs | Info |
|---|---|
Resistance: | Magnetic with 100 resistance levels (yes, the same as Peloton's) |
Pedals: | Steel toe-caged with adjustable straps |
Footprint: | 4’L x 3’ W |
Weight: | Total 140 lbs |
Pros:
Cons:
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If you have a budget under $1k, this one's for you!
The IC4 is Schwinn’s best indoor cycling bike amongst others they offer and it was designed to be used with the Peloton app amongst others like Zwift and the Explore the World app, to name a few.
With smooth magnetic resistance that closely rivals the feel of Peloton, a full LCD stat display monitor, and a media rack for securely streaming your workouts from your favorite device, it’s easy to see why the IC4 is a top contender.
Additionally, you’ll receive two 3 lb dumbbells with your bike and a rack to hold them, plus a USB charging port to make sure that your device is powered up through your whole workout. The Schwinn IC4 is easily one of the most budget-friendly alternatives to the Peloton bike and it’s made to work well with the Peloton app, a win-win.
Be sure to check out Schwinn IC4 vs Stryde Bike and the Schwinn IC4 vs. MYX to see how it stacks up.
Specs | Info |
|---|---|
Resistance: | Magnetic with 100 resistance levels (WOW, You guessed it! Same as Peloton!) |
Pedals: | Dual-link Pedals with Toe Cages |
Footprint: | 48.75" L x 21.25" W x 52" H |
Weight: | 106 lbs |
Pros:
Cons:
Feel the ride with this lean technology by Bowflex - stream any app on it. Heads up though, it's not cheap!
The VeloCore by Bowflex is the latest release from this popular fitness equipment brand, and it happens to be one of the most innovative home spin bikes on the market. Instead of making another standard spin bike, Bowflex took things to the next level by adding “lean” mode, allowing users to really get into the experience. Now, you can lean into turns, engaging and working your core while you spin.
Of course, should you choose to use the VeloCore like a traditional spin bike, you can, too. With two different console sizes to choose from, 16” or 22”, you can decide which size screen is best for you and your budget. Speaking of the screen, you can stream anything you want from Bowflex’s unlocked screen, from their JRNY app to Peloton and entertainment apps - the choice is yours.
Similar to Peloton and Schwinn’s IC4, the VeloCore features 100 levels of smooth, magnetic resistance. Bowflex also includes 3 lb dumbbells, two cup holders, and a media rack, all for your comfort and convenience.
Read my detailed comparison on Bowflex Velocore vs. Peloton to learn more.
Specs | Info |
|---|---|
Resistance: | Magnetic with 100 resistance levels (yep, the same again) |
Pedals: | Dual-sided pedals (SPD Clips for cycling shoes and toe cages for athletic shoes) |
Footprint: | 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H |
Weight: | 158.3 lbs |
Pros:
Cons:
A great choice if you have limited space!
When considering a spin bike to use with Peloton app, you can’t overlook Echelon and their great lineup of affordable spin bikes, in particular, the EX-3. The Echelon Connect EX-3 gives you nearly all the bells and whistles you’d want from a home spin bike, but with more flexibility in programming and a lower price point (no complaints there!).
The EX-3 is sleek, compact, and comes in three different color options; red, black, or white. Aside from its space-saving design and impressive looks, you’ll also find features like magnetic resistance, full adjustability, and a device holder to securely stream your workouts.
Echelon has its own programming and spin workouts, so you could always choose to buy a membership and enjoy their own lineup of workouts, which include Mario Lopez coaching, I might add. However, you also have the freedom and flexibility to choose other apps like Peloton, Zwift, or any media applications you’d like.
To see how it compares, read the Echelon vs Peloton article I wrote, and then you can check out the Echelon vs MYX vs Stryde comparison to have everything you need before you make a buying decision.
Specs | Info |
|---|---|
Resistance: | Magnetic with 32 levels |
Pedals: | Dual-sided pedals (SPD Clips for cycling shoes and toe cages for athletic shoes) |
Footprint: | 3′ 5″ L x 1′ 6″ W |
Weight: | 105 lbs. |
Pros:
Cons:
A super reliable spin bike that you can use with multiple apps, including Peloton's.
Bowflex is making its second appearance on our list of the top spin bikes to use with Peloton's app. This time, we’re talking about the Bowflex C6. Honestly, this bike is almost identical to the Schwinn IC4 as the two brands are related, but there are still some nuances that are different between the two.
The C6 is a sleek-looking bike that has the majority of the features you’re looking for when it comes to spinning at home and using it in conjunction with the Peloton app. The 100 levels of magnetic resistance create a smooth, quiet ride, which is essential for serious spinners who want to enjoy the real deal from home.
You’ll also find fully adjustable handlebars and seats as well as convenient features like dual-sided pedals, a device and water bottle holder, and 3 lb dumbbells. The only thing that Peloton has on the C6 is the screen, which can easily be replicated by adding in your own tablet while you ride. Overall, the C6 brings some serious competition to the market, all at a price that’s far lower than Peloton’s.
Be sure to check out my Bowflex C6 vs Peloton blog post and my Bowflex C6 vs MYX and NordicTrack S22i article to get a better idea of how it stacks up vs other similar spin bikes.
Specs | Info |
|---|---|
Resistance: | Magnetic with 100 levels (same as Peloton) |
Pedals: | Dual-sided pedals (SPD Clips for cycling shoes and toe cages for athletic shoes) |
Footprint: | 48.7" L x 21.2" W x 51.8" H |
Weight: | 106 lbs. |
Pros:
Cons:
Closing Thoughts: Which Bike Should You Pick?
After listing 6 great bikes to use with the Peloton app, it can feel difficult to narrow down the right choice for you, but don’t let that deter you from getting a great bike and enjoying Peloton’s epic programming.
I feel that the Stryde Bike is the best spin bike to use with Peloton app because it’s nearly identical to the Peloton bike, but gives you more freedom and flexibility with your streaming content and even allows you to use it without paying for a monthly subscription. Furthermore, the investment required to get the Stryde Bike is significantly less. Visit their website now to see the current deal.
However, I do understand if you want to go with a cheaper option, in that case, any of the other options on this list are going to be more than enough to get your cardio in from home, especially since they’re all compatible with the Peloton digital app!
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