Bowflex VeloCore vs Peloton: Which bike wins?

In the past few years, the idea of indoor cycling has taken the market by storm. People are growing fond of exercising from the comfort of their own homes instead of visiting crowded gyms that smell of sweat.

The modern-day exercise bikes sport a slim design and do not take up much space in your home. However, working out from your home does not mean working out in seclusion. The indoor exercise bikes harness the use of top-notch technology and allow you to indulge in community-based interactive classes.

The indoor exercise bikes are a fun way to get rid of your unwanted calories. You can also enjoy shows or music as you exercise; this will keep you hooked to the bike seat for a longer time.

This article draws a comparison between the Bowflex VeloCore bike and the Peloton bike. Read on to find out.

Bowflex VeloCore vs Peloton: Key Differences

Both Bowflex VeloCore and Peloton have distinct features. Although they offer the same number of resistance levels and facilitate a noise-free workout session, few differences in features tell them apart from one another.

Have a look at the table below:

Bowflex VeloCore

The Bowflex VeloCore is the first indoor exercise bike of its kind. Its lean technology sets it apart from other bikes in the market. You can either set the bike to the stationary mode or opt for a swaying motion as you pedal.

The bike allows you to enjoy an immersive riding experience. There are two screen sizes: 16 inches and 22 inches.

You only have to sit on the saddle and change to a world destination of your choice from its “Explore the World” feature. The bike will constantly measure your distance, calories burned, heart rate, time, and every other metric that will motivate you to push yourself further. However, it does not calculate watts (power output).

The bike has a JRNY program. Once you purchase a membership, the possibilities are endless! The Bowflex VeloCore does not confine you to the JRNY app; you can access other apps like Peloton and Zwift.

You can also view content on different OTT platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, etc. that can keep you entertained while working out.

The bike uses a silent magnetic resistance system. You can choose to increase or decrease the resistance based on your tolerance level. The dual-link pedal system offers you the flexibility to ride the indoor bike either in special cycling shoes or in athlete’s shoes.

With the adjustable seat and handlebars, this indoor cycle allows you to enjoy the most comfortable ride as you pedal through a destination of your choice.

Pros & Cons

Is it worth buying a Bowflex VeloCore?

The Bowflex VeloCore is the first bike that incorporates lean technology so that you can experience being on the road without stepping out of your house. In addition, it has a sturdy framework and all the features that you need to have a great workout session. Therefore, a Bowflex VeloCore is worth buying.

Peloton

If you want to work out in a group without leaving your home, the Peloton Bike might be the right choice for you. The bike has an ergonomic appearance; the black color makes it blend perfectly with every kind of room decor. The size is compact, which makes it ideal for small apartments.

The Peloton bike is equipped with software that can track the resistance and monitor other metrics like calories burned, time, distance covered, etc. and display them on a 21.5 inches HD touchscreen. The bike uses a magnetic resistance system that allows you to switch between 100 resistance levels and choose how intense you want the workout to be.

The instructor-led workout will help you design the best workout regime for yourself so that you achieve remarkable progress over time. You can purchase a Peloton premium membership for $39 a month and access all the available classes. Other members of your family can also create their own profiles and enjoy the benefits of a customized workout experience remotely!

The handlebars and seat are adjustable. It is suitable for anyone who weighs less than 297 lbs and whose height lies in the range of 4’11”-6’5”.

Pros & Cons

Is it worth buying a Peloton?

Yes, a Peloton bike is worth investing in. Although it does not let you experience the thrill of a real bike ride as it lacks the tilting feature, it is still a great indoor bike to invest in. The Peloton bike will allow you to indulge in an intense workout session. You can also build a community of like-minded people and compete with them.

Bowflex VeloCore vs Peloton: Head-to-Head Comparison

Live Classes & Interactive Workouts

Bowflex VeloCore: The Bowflex VeloCore indoor bike facilitates interactive workout classes with the help of a JRNY subscription. The JRNY feature assesses your individual performance and paves the way for one-on-one coaching. You can also access live classes through other apps like Zwift and Peloton.

This bike has provision for an AI algorithm that will derive the feedback from your former workout sessions and recommend customized workouts. This makes sure that you reap the most benefits out of the workout session. Your workout program will automatically change as you get stronger.

The JRNY subscription also has an “Explore the World” option. There are virtual destinations to choose from that you can visit right from the comfort of your house. You can also make your ride more pleasurable by playing your favorite music as you ride.

VeloCore also offers easy access to services like Bowflex radio, Disney+, Netflix, and Prime Video. Therefore, stay entertained as you exercise!

Peloton: Peloton has a huge library full of workouts. It has a wide range of workouts to choose from. Once you purchase the membership, you can opt for immersive workout sessions. Peloton offers you everything ranging from a rough, uphill ride to a relaxing ride.

Unlike Bowflex VeloCore bikes, Peloton indoor bikes have live classes where you will be assigned a real-time instructor who will help you achieve your fitness goals. There is also provision for group workout sessions. You can compete with others and push yourself further to acquire a high rank on the leader board.

Apart from live classes, Peloton also has on-demand classes. While live classes have to be accessed then and there, on-demand classes do not bind you to a strict schedule. Your workout can be backed by the music of your choice, which makes it more pleasurable.

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Resistance

Bowflex VeloCore: The Bowflex VeloCore indoor bike has 100 levels of resistance. It harnesses the use of a magnetic resistance system which facilitates a quiet and smooth workout experience.

Peloton: Peloton bikes are similar to Bowflex VeloCore in terms of resistance. Just like the former indoor exercise bike, Peloton bikes also have 100 levels of magnetic resistance. This helps to prevent the rattling noise of chains when an athlete is pedaling and offers a quiet workout experience.

Technology

Bowflex VeloCore: All indoor bikes are technologically advanced and are infused with all facilities that allow a seamless indoor cycling experience. The Bowflex VeloCore uses top-notch technology. Although it has a JRNY app, it also works with other third-party apps.

If you wish to view your visuals on a larger screen, you can connect your Bowflex VeloCore to your television. In addition, as mentioned above, you can also access different OTT platforms like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, and so on. All these features make your cardio workout even more energetic and instill new stamina in you so that you can push yourself to your extremes!

Peloton: The Peloton bikes have failed to use technology as nicely as Bowflex VeloCore. Although the number of resistance levels is the same as Bowflex VeloCore, Peloton Bikes have a few limitations. Unlike the JRNY app, Peloton App is not compatible to function with other third-party apps.

However, you can opt for instructor-led exercise sessions with Peloton bikes and attain your dream body goal. Nevertheless, you cannot ignore that you will have to invest in an expensive membership plan to reap the benefits of interactive classes.

Most of the tech features also require WiFi connectivity to function.

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Design & Frame

Bowflex VeloCore: The Bowflex VeloCore indoor bike has a modern and sleek design. It also has many customizable features that provide you with a wholesome riding experience right from the comfort of your home.

The design of this spin bike is very user-friendly. For example, you can choose between the leaning mode and stationary mode. The bike gently tilts from side to side; you can set to any virtual destination and experience the thrill of outdoor biking without stepping out of your house. All these features will make you feel like a professional rider.

The bike weighs approximately 175 lbs and is sturdy enough to accommodate a maximum weight of 325 lbs. It comes with additional accessories like a pair of dumbbells and a Bluetooth armband so that you can track your heart rate.

Peloton: A Peloton bike has a robust framework. It weighs 135 lbs, which is lighter than the Bowflex VeloCore indoor bike. It has a professional, black appearance.

The bike uses a silent magnetic resistance system and has a flywheel. There is a resistance knob that makes it easy to change the resistance level and also works as a brake.

However, unlike the Bowflex VeloCore indoor bike, it does not have the tilting feature. The design is compact and can suit almost every kind of room decor.

The bike is very sturdy and is easy and fun to work out with. The handlebars and seats are adjustable; therefore, the bikes can cater to the requirements of different kinds of users. It can support a maximum weight of 297 lbs.

Pedals

Bowflex VeloCore: Bowflex VeloCore indoor bikes have dual-sided pedals. You can choose to secure your feet with SPD clips when you are using cycling shoes, or you can opt for toe cages when you are using athletic shoes.

These will keep your legs from slipping when you are pedaling at a great speed. You can also detach the toe cages when they are not in use.

Peloton: Peloton bikes have pedals made of aluminum. The pedals have the provision to clip in your cycling shoe and enjoy a safe workout experience. Since the pedals are triangular, they are called Delta pedals.

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Seat

Bowflex VeloCore: In a Bowflex VeloCare bike, you can adjust the seat horizontally and vertically. Adjusting the seat allows you to workout in a more comfortable position and does not strain your back.

Peloton: The Peloton bike comes with a seat whose height and depth can be adjusted. You only have to turn the lever below the seat to the left and adjust your seat position to your desired height and depth, and you are done! It is suitable for people whose heights lie between 4’11” and 6’4”.

Handlebars

Bowflex VeloCore: The handlebars of Bowflex VeloCore are partially adjustable. This means that although you can adjust the height of the handlebars, you cannot alter the horizontal position. Nevertheless, the handlebars are equipped with comfortable grips and make your workout experience pleasurable.

Peloton: Peloton also has adjustable handlebars. This can be done with the help of a lever, similar to how one can adjust the seat.

Noise

Bowflex VeloCore: As has been already mentioned, this spin bike uses a magnetic resistance system. As a result, it does not make any noise when an athlete is pedaling.

Peloton: The Peloton bike, like the Bowflex VeloCore bike, uses a magnetic resistance system that ensures a noise-free workout experience.

Biking Experience & Comfort

Bowflex VeloCore: Apart from offering a comfortable ride experience, the Bowflex VeloCore indoor spin bike is the first of its kind that can tilt sideways. If you couple it with a virtual destination of your choice, you can experience a thrilling, adventurous, outdoor ride.

The handlebars and seats are adjustable and have proper cushioning. The pedals also have straps and clips to fasten your feet and avert any accident.

Peloton: Peloton bikes are comfortable to ride. However, since the bike is stationary and does not make a swaying motion as one cycles, it lacks the spark and does not impart the feel of an outdoor ride.

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Specs & Dimensions

Bowflex VeloCore: The dimensions of Bowflex VeloCore are 59.8” x 24.1” x 55.3”. Weighing 158.3 pounds, it can support a maximum weight of 325 pounds. The bike has two settings that allow you to choose between working out in a stationary position and swaying motion. This tilting option makes it stand a class apart. The riders can enjoy a realistic riding experience.

Mentioned below are the specs of this indoor exercise bike:

1. Stationary and Tilt options are available
2. JRNY (free trial for 6 months after your purchase)
3. 16” and 22” screen
4. Bluetooth armband for heart rate monitoring
5. Mobile or tablet holder
6. Bluetooth Speaker
7. 100 levels of Magnetic Resistance

Peloton: The Peloton Bike has dimensions of 59” x 23” x 53”. It is slightly smaller in size than the Bowflex VeloCore bike. However, it weighs 135 lbs, and the mounted screen weighs an additional 10 lbs.

The specs of this bike are as follows:

1. 5” screen
2. Magnetic drive belt
3. 100 levels of resistance
4. Live and on-demand classes
5. Adjustable handlebars and seat
6. Quiet workout experience

Cost

Bowflex VeloCore: If you choose a Bowflex VeloCore bike with a 16” console, you will have to pay $1,699. The bike with a 22” console costs $2,199. This includes a free JRNY membership for six months from the day of your purchase.

Peloton: The Peloton bike is priced at $1895. You can pay monthly installments of $49. However, this price does not include membership cost.

Membership

Bowflex VeloCore: The Bowflex VeloCore bike comes with a JRNY membership. The membership is priced at $19.99 per month, or you can pay $149 for a year. Once you subscribe to the JRNY membership, you can make as many user profiles as you want.

Peloton: Peloton has two kinds of membership plans. The premium membership plan costs $39 a month. With this membership, you can browse the available classes and check your progress with the help of performance metrics.

Peloton also has a Digital membership plan that is available at $12.99 a month. While the premium membership is available to multiple users at a time, the digital membership can be accessed by only one user.

Which is better VeloCore or Peloton?

You should buy a Bowflex VeloCore indoor exercise bike if:

• You wish to be given a choice for the console size.
• You want to experience real biking through beautiful destinations without leaving your home.
• You want a cheaper membership plan.
• You want customized workout recommendations.
• You want to flip through other exercise or entertainment apps.

You should opt for a Peloton Bike if:

• You want a moisture-resistant HD screen.
• You are looking for a stationary bike with largest community
• You are looking for live cycling classes.
• You want to meet more people who are into fitness.

Verdict

Bowflex VeloCore allows you the freedom to stream your favorite show as you work out. Not to mention, the tilting feature and the virtual destinations will make your biking experience even more thrilling! Both the bikes have the same resistance feature, so it is pointless to distinguish on the basis of that.

The VeloCore JRNY membership also does not burn a hole in your pocket. Although Peloton is one of the best stationary indoor bikes available for the price, VeloCore has more appealing features and, and therefore, gains an edge.