Peloton is a well-known leader in the home spin bike market and were one of the first brands to introduce the large screen interactive workouts.
This helped transform how people trained, helping them to stay consistent and while also enjoying their workouts. Even after the Covid lockdown surge in demand, there are still over 700,000 active subscribers to the Peloton training app.
But you are looking at spending a considerable amount on a piece of equipment it is good to know all alternative options available.
So we decided to explore some of the best Peloton alternatives available in the UK, helping you find a high-quality option that fits your budget and workout goals.
1. NordicTrack S22i
If you are looking for a like-for-like Peloton alternative then the NordicTrack S22i is our top pick, offering a range of premium features that make it a close match to the Peloton Bike+.
While the S22i costs slightly more on paper, it comes packed with features that might save you money in the long run.
For example, the S22i boasts a large rotating 22" HD touchscreen, similar to the Peloton, and is compatible with iFit, which rivals Peloton's training app in terms of quality and variety.
While the S22i may appear pricier upfront, the Peloton Bike+ often requires additional purchases, such as cleats (around £120) and dumbbells (£25), adding to the overall cost.
In contrast, the S22i includes toe cages on one side of the pedal and SPD clips on the other, so cleats aren’t necessary. It also has 2 x 1.4kg dumbbells included which we feel Peloton should include. They would be relatively inexpensive for them to include but is an inconvenience if you don't realise they aren't included.
As for the software, iFit offers a comprehensive range of workouts beyond cycling, including yoga and strength training.
The iFit Pro membership costs £34 per month, slightly cheaper than Peloton’s £39 monthly fee. Plus, if you choose not to subscribe to iFit, you can still use the S22i with access to a selection of workouts.
Make sure to double check the pricing of the subscriptions at the time of purchase as they seem to adjust the pricing regularly.
2. Echelon EX-5s
Next up we have the Echelon EX-5s which is another premium spin bike option but comes with a significantly more affordable price tag compared to the Peloton.
One of its unique features is the rear-mounted flywheel, which keeps it clear of any sweat, eliminating the need for a sweat guard.
Aside from this difference, the bike’s sleek design and colour scheme look incredibly similar to Peloton and could easily be mistaken at first glance.
Compatible with the Echelon Fit app, the EX-5s offers a wide variety of workouts, including cycling, running, rowing, yoga, and strength classes.
At just £29 per month, it’s the most affordable app on our list. While the Peloton and iFit apps offer a slightly more refined experience, the Echelon app’s cost savings make it a good choice for budget-conscious users who want interactive workouts.
When it comes to user experience, the EX-5s delivers a comfortable workout but challenging workout.
The magnetic resistance system operates quietly, and the seat is more comfortable than typical race-style options.
Plus, the 22” screen is immersive and the horizontally and vertically adjustable seat and handlebars, helps you achieve the ideal setup for your workout.
However, the screen doesn't rotate, which can be a minor inconvenience for non-cycling workouts like yoga, though it does tilt for better viewing angles.
The standard warranty on the Echelon EX-5s is only one year, but if you subscribe to the Premier plan, it extends to four years at no extra cost, offering long-term value. But make sure to double check this is the case before purchasing.
Overall, this bike offers an excellent balance of features and affordability, making it a great Peloton alternative.
3. JTX Cyclo Studio V5
If you prefer supporting UK-based companies, the JTX Cyclo Studio V5 is a fantastic option.
Built to commercial standards, it comes with a generous 3-year parts and labor warranty (or 1 year for commercial use), reflecting JTX's confidence in their product and offering extra peace of mind for buyers.
As a UK business, JTX is easy to contact should any issues arise, adding another layer of convenience.
In terms of app compatibility, the Cyclo Studio V5 works with popular cycling apps like Zwift and Kinomap.
Zwift is widely considered the best cycling app for cycling enthusiasts and is loved for its interactive virtual world. Plus it also offers training plans, group rides, races, and more while only costing £17.99/month.
You’ll need your own smart device to connect to these apps, but the bike includes a convenient tablet holder mounted above the handlebars. This is a common sense feature that a surprsing number of manufactueres ignore and will have the tablet holder sit over the console and can't see the console when using a smart device.
This built-in display shows key workout metrics such as cadence, speed, pulse, time, and distance.
For comfort, the bike has vertically and horizontally adjustable seats and handlebars, allowing you to find the perfect fit.
The pedals feature both SPD clips and toe cages for added flexibility. In addition, the handlebars offer multiple grip positions, and there are heart rate sensors built into them.
However, for more accurate readings, you can also connect a Bluetooth heart rate monitor as the handpulse sensors aren't generally very accurate.
The only minor downside is the infinite resistance adjustment, which can make it hard to gauge exact what resistance you are set to. However, after a few uses, you'll get a feel for it, and it becomes a minor issue.
4. Echelon Sport Smart
Here we have another option from Echelon with the Sport Smart Bike which offers a budget-friendly alternative.
Although it lacks a built-in screen, you can connect your smart device, such as a tablet, to the Echelon app for an immersive, interactive workout experience at a fraction of the cost.
As we saw earlier, the Echelon app provides a wide variety of workout options, but it does require a monthly subscription fee of £29.
At a glance, the bike's frame resembles the Peloton with its sleek design and similar features like magnetic resistance and adjustable handlebars and seat for a comfortable ride.
However, it’s missing some extras, such as cleat clips and a dumbbell holder. But, if you prefer using cleats, you can easily swap the pedals for cleat-compatible ones, which would only cost around £30.
Despite these omissions, the bike still offers plenty of value. It boasts 32 levels of resistance and a sturdy build that can support users weighing up to 136kg—1kg more than the Peloton Original.
If you already own a smart device, the Echelon Sport Smart Bike is a fantastic option that delivers an effective workout experience at nearly half the price of the Peloton Original, making it an excellent value for money.
5. Schwinn 700 IC
The Schwinn 700 IC, formerly known as the IC7, is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality home bike.
Schwinn is well know for their superior quality and their bikes are often found in commercial gyms.
The 700 IC lives up to this reputation with features like a heavy 18kg flywheel for a smooth and consistent ride, a clear and user-friendly console, dual SPD/toe cage pedals for versatility, and a fully adjustable seat and handlebars to ensure a personalised fit.
However, in terms of a Pelton alternative, it lacks Bluetooth connectivity, which means it doesn't support interactive workout apps.
If an app-driven experience is essential for you, this might not be the right choice.
However, if you're after a genuine spin class feel at home, the Schwinn 700 IC is hard to beat.
Plus, you can always set it up in front of your TV for a more relaxed ride while watching your favorite shows.
Rounding Up
While Peloton remains a leading name in the home spin bike market, there are plenty of excellent alternatives available that offer similar features at more affordable prices.
Whether you're looking for premium options like the NordicTrack S22i or budget-friendly choices like the Echelon Sport Smart Bike, there is something for every type of rider.
Brands like Schwinn and JTX also offer durable, well-built bikes that deliver a high-quality cycling experience, even if they don’t include all the bells and whistles of interactive apps.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs, whether that’s an immersive app-based experience, a sturdy build, or a more cost-effective option.
Whichever bike you choose, you can be sure to find a model that supports your fitness goals and fits your budget, helping you enjoy engaging workouts from the comfort of your home.
