Indoor cycling has exploded in popularity, and two brands dominate the market: Peloton and NordicTrack. Both offer high-tech, immersive experiences with live classes, performance tracking, and sleek designs. But which one is the better investment for your fitness goals?
In this guide, we’ll compare Peloton vs. NordicTrack to help you decide which smart bike is worth the hype.
1. Quick Comparison: Peloton vs. NordicTrack
| Feature | Peloton Bike+ | NordicTrack S22i |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 23.8” HD touchscreen | 22” HD touchscreen |
| Live & On-Demand Classes | Peloton App | iFIT Membership |
| Incline/Decline Feature | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (-10% to +20%) |
| Automatic Resistance Adjustment | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Subscription Cost | $44/month | $39/month |
| Price | 💰💰💰 (~$2,500) | 💰💰 (~$2,000) |
👉 Verdict: NordicTrack offers incline/decline features and is slightly more affordable, while Peloton has a bigger screen and stronger community aspect.
2. Peloton Bike+ Review
🚴 Key Features:
✔ 23.8” rotating HD touchscreen for immersive classes.
✔ Live & on-demand classes with world-class instructors.
✔ Automatic resistance control – adjusts based on instructor cues.
✔ Compact, sleek design – fits well in most homes.
🔥 Pros:
✅ Best for high-energy studio cycling workouts.
✅ Engaged community & leaderboards for motivation.
✅ Seamless integration with Apple Watch & Spotify playlists.
✅ Strong resale value if you upgrade later.
⚠️ Cons:
❌ Expensive ($2,500+).
❌ Requires a monthly subscription ($44/month).
❌ No incline/decline feature.
💡 Best for: Riders who love studio-style cycling classes and want the biggest fitness community.
3. NordicTrack S22i Review
🚴 Key Features:
✔ 22” HD touchscreen with immersive global rides.
✔ Incline/decline (-10% to +20%) to simulate real terrain.
✔ Automatic resistance adjustment based on iFIT trainers.
✔ Swivel screen for off-bike workouts.
🔥 Pros:
✅ Incline/decline feature adds variety to workouts.
✅ iFIT membership includes studio & scenic rides.
✅ Lower subscription cost ($39/month).
✅ Often cheaper than Peloton (~$2,000).
⚠️ Cons:
❌ Slightly smaller screen than Peloton.
❌ iFIT lacks the same community feel as Peloton.
❌ Larger footprint – needs more space.
💡 Best for: Riders who love outdoor-style cycling and want incline/decline simulation for tougher workouts.
4. Subscription Comparison: Peloton vs. iFIT
| Feature | Peloton App ($44/month) | iFIT ($39/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Live Studio Classes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Outdoor Scenic Rides | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Leaderboards & Community | ✅ Strong | ❌ Limited |
| Incline/Decline Workouts | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
👉 Verdict: If you love competitive, studio-style rides, Peloton is better. If you enjoy simulated outdoor rides with incline changes, go with NordicTrack.
5. Which Smart Bike Should You Choose?
💪 Buy Peloton Bike+ if:
✅ You want high-energy studio classes with top instructors.
✅ You love competition & leaderboards.
✅ You’re okay with a higher price & monthly subscription.
🚴♂️ Buy NordicTrack S22i if:
✅ You prefer outdoor-style rides with incline/decline.
✅ You want more variety in workouts (not just cycling).
✅ You want a cheaper subscription & slightly lower upfront cost.
🔗 Buy NordicTrack S22i on Amazon
6. Final Verdict: Which One Is Worth the Hype?
💥 Winner: It Depends on Your Workout Style!
- 🏆 Peloton is best for community-driven workouts & high-energy studio classes.
- 🏆 NordicTrack is best for outdoor simulation & incline/decline workouts.
🔥 Our Recommendation? If you’re a studio cycling fan, go Peloton. If you love real-road feel, go NordicTrack.