> At a Glance
> – After five months of testing 10 models, the NordicTrack S24 Studio bike emerges as the new overall best exercise bike
> – Peloton’s original bike has been discontinued, replaced by a new Cross-Training series still under evaluation
> – Prices range from $800 (Schwinn IC 4) to $2,795 (CAROL bike), with features varying from gaming experiences to AI-powered workouts
> – Why it matters: With Peloton’s original bike gone, consumers need reliable alternatives that match their fitness goals, budgets, and space constraints
Exercise bike shopping just got more complicated. Peloton quietly discontinued its original bike series, leaving a vacuum in the premium home cycling market. After five months of testing 10 popular models, one bike consistently outperformed the rest-and it’s not from Peloton.
The New Champion: NordicTrack S24 Studio Bike
The NordicTrack S24 Studio bike delivers a Peloton-like experience with key advantages. Its 24-inch touchscreen dwarfs Peloton’s display and rotates for floor workouts. The SmartAdjust feature automatically changes resistance based on elevation during scenic rides, mimicking real outdoor cycling.
Assembly is included, a perk Peloton charges extra for. The iFIT Train app costs $144 annually-$132 less than Peloton’s membership. Users can stream Netflix, Spotify, and Strava while maintaining separate volume controls for music and instructors.
Key specs:
- 350-pound weight capacity
- 24 resistance levels
- 3-pound dumbbells included
- $2,499 price tag
Gaming Meets Fitness: Aviron Fit Bike
The Aviron Fit Bike transforms workouts into arcade-style competitions. Its 22-inch screen displays games reminiscent of 1990s video games, where riders collect items to earn points while cycling. Live group workouts and friendly competitions keep users engaged.
The bike supports unlimited profiles and offers a generous 10-year frame warranty. However, shorter riders may struggle-even at the lowest seat setting, the bike favors taller users.
Membership options:
- Annual: $24/month for 12 months
- Monthly: $29/month
- First month free
Best for Beginners: Echelon Connect EX-5S-22
The Echelon Connect EX-5S-22 strips away complexity without sacrificing quality. At $1,000, it offers 32 resistance levels and a 22-inch HD screen. Assembly is straightforward with clear video instructions, though Bluetooth setup can be finicky.
The Echelon Premier membership costs $400 annually-$100 less than Peloton. Users get access to live and on-demand classes, plus third-party app integration with Apple Health, Fitbit, and Strava.
AI-Powered Efficiency: CAROL Bike
The CAROL bike specializes in ultra-efficient workouts using AI-powered REHIT (reduced exertion HIIT) technology. Just 2×20-second sprints deliver effective cardio in as little as five minutes. The bike adapts resistance based on fitness level using Cardiovascular Optimization Logic.
Despite lacking a built-in screen, the bike connects to tablets and supports Peloton, Netflix, and YouTube. At $2,595, it’s expensive for a screen-less bike, but the 100-day trial period reduces purchase risk.
Budget-Friendly Options
| Bike | Price | Key Feature | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn IC 4 | $800 | 100 resistance levels, 5lb dumbbells | 10-year frame |
| Horizon 7.0IC | $1,149 | Lifetime frame warranty | Lifetime frame |
| Echelon EX-5S-22 | $1,000 | 22″ screen, 32 resistance levels | 1-year |
What Testing Revealed
Over five months, testers evaluated bikes across multiple criteria:
- Assembly difficulty and included services
- Software intuitiveness and app integration
- Noise levels during operation
- Comfort for various body types
- Membership value and class variety
The NordicTrack S24 consistently scored highest for its immersive experience and value proposition. The Aviron Fit Bike excelled at keeping users engaged through gamification. Budget-conscious buyers favored the Schwinn IC 4 for its reliability and 10-year frame warranty.
Key Takeaways
- NordicTrack S24 Studio bike offers the best Peloton alternative with a larger screen and lower membership costs
- Gaming-focused bikes like Aviron can make workouts more engaging for entertainment-seeking users
- Budget options under $1,000 still provide quality workouts without premium features
- AI-powered bikes like CAROL cater to time-constrained users needing efficient workouts
- Most bikes support third-party apps, reducing platform lock-in concerns
The exercise bike landscape has fundamentally shifted. With Peloton’s original bike gone, consumers have better alternatives that often cost less while delivering more features. Whether prioritizing gaming, AI efficiency, or budget-friendly reliability, 2026’s bike market offers options for every type of rider.
