Nordictrack vs Peloton: Battle of the Bikes

The world of at home fitness is constantly improving and developing because of rising popularity, less travel travel time, and advanced technological features that really change the game of workouts.

Although there are a handful of competing and effective spin cycle style bikes, there are features that can really separate the men from the boys in style of fitness--in addition to technology, there are size and weight considerations, pedal and seat quality concerns, subscription deals, display capabilities and of course, price. 

When it comes to studio cycles and spin classes, the two top dogs are Nordictrack and Peloton. 

No matter what studio cycle you end up choosing, your workout routine has the potential to be the most motivational and uplifting session of all time.

This is why I will compare and contrast these two huge names on the market currently. On the Nordictrack side of things, I will talk about the S15i Studio Cycle and the S22i Studio Cycle; on the Peloton side, I will look at the Peloton Bike and the Bike+.

While you can’t go wrong with either choice, there might be some key features on one that makes or breaks your decision.

Nordictrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle

Weighing in at 205 lbs (or 93 kg) it is heavier than the Peloton, but provides a steady and stable workout. In terms of height, the maximum distance from the ground is 78 inches, which is pretty standard when compared to most other cycles.

And finally, the dimensions of the S22i are 55 inches (142 cm) long and 22 inches (56cm) wide. It can carry a maximum weight of 350 lbs (or 159kg.)

It is worth mentioning that there is a 10 year warranty on the bike frame, a two year warranty on individual parts and a 30 day return policy. However, there is a 10% restocking fee if you go that route.

A good thing about the S22i is that it comes with a one year family membership for an interactive personal training at home program called iFit, which enables you to join live or previously recorded spin classes all from the comfort and close proximity of your workout space.

The iFit is great because it provides unlimited live or on demand classes with cycling and training options, such as workouts that do not involve the cycle.

Now for the technology. With its 22 inch (56 cm) interactive HD touchscreen, you will be able to clearly stream your iFit program while viewing your live performance tracking like speed, calories burned and distance on the side of the screen.

You can also turn the screen around 360 degrees, which is a cool plus if you are doing workouts with someone else.

When it comes to your workout itself, the S22i comes with an ergonomic padded saddle, which is significantly comfortable to sit on.

In terms of the pedals, Nordictrack keeps it standard by providing a more basic pike pedal. In terms of sound, this cycle is surprisingly quiet, due to its SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance technology.

For price, the Nordictrack is reasonable for a high tech studio bike, costing $1,999 with the iFit membership included.

Nordictrack S15i Studio Cycle

The S15i can carry the same maximum weight, at 350 lbs (159 kg) of human body weight, and comes with the same warranty options.

The same ergonomic padded saddle and bike pedals are used here to provide a comfortable workout while allowing you to keep your footwear casual.

The biggest difference is the smaller screen, compared to the S22i above. This cycle has a 14 in (35.5 cm) HD touchscreen display, speakers and auxiliary port to connect to your own headset. 

For price, the S15i comes in at a very favourable $1,599 with the iFit membership included.

Any user who wants to have the same intense workout from a Nordictrack studio cycle, but with less technology in your face would seriously consider the S15i.

This is very ideal if you want to place your cycle in front of a window--the smaller screen would not interfere with your line of sight.

Peloton Bike+

For starters, let’s look at the dimensions. Being just a tiny bit bigger than Nordictrack but weighs a lot less. The Bike+ is 59 inches (150 cm) long x 22 inches (56 cm) wide.

With this size, the cycle weighs at a surprisingly light 140 lbs (63.5 kg) -- that’s almost 60 lbs lighter than its competition. Because of its lighter weight, the Bike+ can carry a maximum weight of 297 lbs (135 kg.)  

In terms of warranty, Peloton provides a 12 month warranty on touchscreen and original bike components, a 5 year warranty on the frame and a 30 day return policy.

In terms of the workout program provided, the Bike+ gives a Peloton specific program, which offers unlimited live and on demand classes as well as cross training programs to do before or after your cycling that do not involve the cycle, such as yoga, strength training and bootcamp.

Unfortunately, the subscription does not come with the Peloton and must be purchased separately.

For the technology, the Bike+ really makes you feel like you are in a cockpit instead of on a bike.

With an interactive, HD touchscreen measuring at 23.8 inches (60.5 cm) wide, along with Bluetooth connectivity, built in speakers and microphone, you can have a fully interactive workout session for both audio, visual, and physical exertion.

When it comes to the workout itself, the Bike+ offers a sport series saddle, which is pretty comfortable, but the pedals are delta-compatible aluminum, which looks great and feels smooth on your cycle shoes.

In terms of price, the Peloton brand definitely factors into its price. It costs a whopping $2,495 and the membership subscription of $13-39 monthly has to be purchased separately.

Peloton Bike

The Bike offers a 21.5 inch (55 cm) wide HD touchscreen, which has Bluetooth connectivity, built in speakers and a microphone. The Bike is a great option if you want to cycle in front of a window or nice scenery.

When it comes to price, the Bike costs $1,895 and the membership has to be purchased separately.

Battle of the Bikes:

Final Thoughts: