Peloton Vs. Nordictrack

If you’re entering the market for an exercise bike, the great news is that there are plenty of fantastic options to choose from depending on your specific needs. Many of these bikes are incredibly well equipped, and will help take your workouts to the next level—all with the help and guidance of a virtual trainer! Two prime examples of these high-spec bikes are the NordicTrack S22i, and the Peloton. The name NordicTrack might sound familiar, as they’ve been in the business of building exercise equipment since 1975.

Peloton is by comparison a relative newcomer to the space, but one that has been a strong contender ever since launching the Peloton Bike in 2013. Since then the competition has been getting tougher and tougher, as you’ll see below, and to fight back the brand has made some changes to their lineup. The classic Peloton Bike as seen in this comparison is now priced at $1,445 with an upgraded bike, the Peloton Bike+ for $2,495. While the higher spec bike now offers some of the features that we love the NordicTrack S22i for, including a swiveling screen and auto-follow resistance, its higher sticker price is going to be a hangup for some. With that in mind, we’re keeping this comparison focused on the classic Peloton bike.

While the Peloton has been gaining mainstream popularity fast, it faces some serious competition in the S22i. Both have their pros and cons, we’ve crafted a thoughtful overview of each bike’s strengths and weaknesses below.

Ed. Update — Since writing this, a new contender has thrown their hat in the ring, delivering a closer-to-Peloton experience for a much more affordable sticker price. The MYX Fitness Bike has rapidly become our new favorite affordable alternative—read the full MYX Fitness Bike review here.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at some of the key differences between these two bikes.

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Footprint

NordicTrack is much longer than Peloton (63’’ vs. 48’’). Although the widths are similar (22’’ vs. 24’’), overall, the NordicTrack machine will require more space than Peloton.

Frame

The frames of both of these bikes are made of high quality steel, so once again you can take comfort in knowing that sturdiness and durability is a non-issue. That said, regular wear and tear is par for the course with any exercise equipment, so neither bike will last for eternity, but at the very least you can assume that either option will be a good one.

Resistance

Though a first glance at the NordicTrack and Peloton websites would lead you to believe the resistance systems of these two bikes are completely different from one another, they’re actually quite similar. Both systems use a set of strong magnets that are moved towards and away from a metal flywheel, making it either harder or easier to pedal. The difference between the two bikes is in how this adjustment takes place.

In the case of the NordicTrack S22i, a 24-step digital controller makes the adjustment as you press buttons on the handlebars or via the 22-inch touchscreen display. Being a digital control, this allows for another interesting function that we will cover shortly. It’s also worth noting here that the S22i also features incline adjustment that is also digitally controlled, allowing the bike to simulate 20% incline and 10% decline hills. When following along with iFit instructor-led classes, the bike’s resistance automatically adjusts to follow the guidance of the instructor.

The Peloton, on the other hand,  uses a physical knob on the frame of the bike that is connected to its magnets via mechanical linkage. By rotating the knob, the magnets are moved in relation to the flywheel the same way the digital controller moves the magnets on the S22i. This type of system allows for a finer control of the bike’s resistance, but it also means the rider needs to take their eyes away from the screen and a hand off the handlebars to make the required adjustment. Sadly the Peloton Bike does not have the same automatic functionality with its resistance controls, though that feature has been added to the new and more expensive Peloton Bike+.

Console Features

The consoles of these two bikes and their built-in functionality is what sets both of these apart from any of the more budget/entry-level bikes on the market right now. Rich high definition displays and quality built-in speakers are just the tip of the iceberg. With both bikes, riders are able to tune into live training classes with a real instructor as if they were in their local gyms taking a spin class in a crowded room—all from the comfort of their own home. You’d think this means these two bikes are competing at an even level, but there are some fundamental differences between the two setups to consider.

You’ll recall our mention of the digital controls on the NordicTrack, right?  Well, as you participate in NordicTrack’s iFit live classes, your instructor can (and will) remotely control your bike’s resistance and incline settings, ensuring that you aren’t slacking during your workout. This is a great feature for beginners as well as veteran riders, as it allows you to stay focused on your routine rather than fussing with settings.

Though the Peloton’s adjustments are manual, the brand has developed a HUGE cult following around its classes, being touted as some of the best/most effective training regiments for this type of exercise. Live classes are being broadcast 24/7, 365 days a year, so no matter when you want to train there is a class ready and waiting for you. The unfortunate catch here is that this training doesn’t come free. On top of the $1,495 sticker price for the Peloton bike, a $39/month membership fee is required to join in on any of the classes (per Peloton’s customer service, the bike comes pre-loaded with 3 classes upon delivery). By comparison, the first 30 days of NordicTrack’s iFit classes are free. After that, you have some options: Yearly Family Plan – $396/yr, Monthly Family Plan – $39/mo, Yearly Individual Plan – $180/yr.

The last clever feature that NordicTrack snuck into the equation is the integration of cycling routes via Google Maps. Not only can you cycle through some of your favorite destinations around the globe, but thanks to elevation data, the S22i will alter elevation and resistance to simulate the route as you watch the scenery pass on its HD display. Pretty cool, right?

Rotating Console

The NordicTrack features a rotating screen design, allowing users to hop off the bike and get some strength training in during a workout. This makes it possible to stay in tune with your programmed workout from start to finish.

The Peloton’s console is unfortunately fixed in place, though if your workout area is behind the bike you’ll still be able to view its 22″ screen. If you’re willing to spend the extra coin, the new Peloton Bike+ has a screen that swivels.

Machine Weight and Weight Capacity

NordicTrack, weighing in at 203 lbs., is quite a bit heftier than Peloton, which only weighs 135 lbs. While this makes the Peloton easier to move around and assemble, with the increased weight of the machine also comes a higher weight capacity. NordicTrack can handle weights up to 350 lbs. while Peloton maxes out at 297 lbs.

Extras

Exercise bikes provide a great way to achieve your cardio goals in the comfort of your home, but you’re limited in terms of strength training. Both Peloton and NordicTrack have considered this caveat, making a set of 3 lb. dumbbells available to customers. As part of the higher price tag, NordicTrack includes dumbbells as part of your purchase, while you’ll have to pay extra at checkout with Peloton.

Price

A first look at the sticker price of the Peloton and the NordicTrack S22i would make you think the two are pretty evenly matched, though there’s a bit of extra math to consider. Right out of the gates you’re paying less for the Peloton.

What will make biggest difference in the purchasing decision between these two bikes is the value/interest in Peloton’s classes. The boutique fitness firm has garnered a huge fan base around the globe, and for some, access to their training classes will outweigh the clear shortcomings of the bike itself in terms of features when compared to the NordicTrack.

Personally, the combination of incline control, route mapping, and instructor-controlled resistance settings while in live classes pushes the NordicTrack ahead of the Peloton, but both are excellent bikes that will most definitely help you get in shape, have fun, and stay motivated all at the same time.

Warranty

NordicTrack offers a lengthier warranty of 10 years frame, 2 years parts, 1 year labor. This is largely due to its superior quality and build. With your Peloton purchase, you’re covered with 5 years frame, 1 year parts & labor protection.

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