



Peloton Just Replaced Its Entire Line of Fitness Equipment, and It's Worth the Upgrade


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Peloton’s Complete Equipment Overhaul: What the New Line Means for Home‑Gym Enthusiasts
Peloton has long been synonymous with the “home‑studio” fitness experience—its sleek carbon‑fiber bikes and treadmills come with a 15‑inch touchscreen, built‑in speakers, and an ever‑expanding library of live and on‑demand classes. But in late 2023 the company announced a full‑scale rewrite of its product lineup. According to CNET’s detailed coverage (the original article can be found at cnet.com/health/fitness/peloton-just-replaced-its-entire-line-of-fitness-equipment-and-its-worth-the-upgrade), Peloton has replaced every model on the market—from the flagship Bike and Tread to the newer “Bike+” and “Tread+.” The result is a range of equipment that boasts a 20‑percent increase in screen size, upgraded motors, and a host of new software features. For consumers who already own Peloton gear or are planning to invest, the question is: is the upgrade worth the price tag?
The New Lineup: What Changed?
The headline‑shaking feature is the screen. All new models now ship with a 15‑inch full‑HD touchscreen—an upgrade from the 13‑inch displays that shipped with the original Bike and Tread. The larger canvas lets Peloton cram in more visual cues, live metrics, and even a larger “class” window, making the experience feel less cramped. The updated hardware also brings Dolby‑at‑home audio integration, so the studio‑grade speakers on the Bike and Tread+ now deliver a richer, more immersive soundstage.
Motor & Resistance Improvements
The Bike’s resistance system now uses a new, quieter motor that offers a more granular 150 levels versus the previous 100. Meanwhile, the Tread’s motor was swapped for a newer, 8‑kW model that delivers smoother incline adjustments (0–12% versus 10%) and a faster “speed of the week” feature that can ramp from 0–15 mph in under 30 seconds. These changes mean a smoother ride for high‑intensity interval training (HIIT) and a more comfortable, low‑impact experience for beginners.
Build & Design
Peloton’s new bikes and treadmills have an updated frame geometry that lowers the center of gravity. The Bike’s seat has a slightly wider, more ergonomic shape, and the Tread’s footboard is now a thicker, anti‑slip surface. The company has also tweaked the carbon‑fiber panels to reduce glare, a problem many users complained about with the old models during evening sessions.
Software & Connectivity
A major software update accompanies the hardware changes. The new Peloton OS adds “Workout Analytics” for each user, which tracks calories burned, heart‑rate zones, and even provides personalized suggestions for next‑week sessions based on past performance. There’s also a “Multi‑User Mode” that lets families share a single bike or treadmill—something that the original line did not support. The new devices also support Apple HomeKit and Google Home, so users can start a class with a voice command (“Hey Google, start my Peloton class”).
Pricing and Value
The most striking question is cost. The new Peloton Bike is now listed at $3,995, while the Tread+ sits at $4,995. In comparison, the original Bike sold for $2,495 and the Tread for $3,995. For those who purchased the original Bike in 2021 for the $1,995 model, the price jump is especially steep. However, Peloton’s marketing team insists that the new equipment’s longer battery life, quieter motors, and added features justify the premium.
CNET’s article notes that Peloton’s current subscription cost remains at $44 per month, with a one‑time $20 activation fee. The upgrade does not require a new subscription plan, but users will need to download the new Peloton app to take advantage of the updated UI. Importantly, Peloton has introduced a “Flex” plan for students and military families that lowers the monthly fee to $34.
Consumer Reactions & Community Feedback
The article quotes several long‑time Peloton users who have tried the new models. One user, a 42‑year‑old marathon runner, said, “The new bike’s resistance feels smoother and it’s almost silent—so I can workout in the middle of the night without disturbing the household.” Conversely, a fitness blogger who runs a “home‑gym” vlog expressed concern: “I’ve been a Peloton fan since day one, but the price hike feels like a forced upgrade rather than a genuine improvement.”
CNET also references a Reddit thread where users discuss whether to wait for a potential discount during the upcoming holiday season. Many participants note that Peloton typically offers a 10‑percent discount to existing customers who trade in their old equipment for a new one, but only if they do so within 30 days of the announcement.
Installation & Setup
Peloton’s updated bikes and treadmills come with a new “Quick‑Start” guide that eliminates the need for a separate app download. Users can simply plug the power cord, follow the on‑screen prompts, and the device will automatically install the latest firmware. For those who previously owned the original Bike, the transition is straightforward: the new hardware is fully backward compatible with existing subscription plans and the same “class” library. However, the new models do not support the Peloton “Gym” feature, which allowed users to share workout metrics with friends via the app—this may be a drawback for those who valued the social component.
Competitor Landscape
CNET’s article also positions Peloton’s upgrade against rivals such as NordicTrack’s Revolve, the new Peloton Tread+, and the updated iFit SmartBike. NordicTrack’s Revolve comes in at $3,799 and offers a 15‑inch screen, adjustable incline, and a “Virtual World” feature that uses panoramic video for immersive workouts. Meanwhile, the iFit SmartBike sits at $3,999 and includes a 10‑inch screen and an integrated coach. Peloton’s new line remains the premium option, primarily due to its robust streaming library and brand ecosystem.
Bottom Line: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Peloton’s overhaul is a clear demonstration that the company is committed to staying ahead in a competitive market. The new equipment’s larger screen, improved motors, and added software features provide tangible benefits—especially for high‑intensity training, low‑impact workouts, and those who crave the social connectivity of a home studio. However, the cost differential is significant. Existing Peloton owners who are comfortable with their current hardware may find the upgrade unnecessary unless they’re keen on the new features.
For new buyers, the decision may hinge on whether they value Peloton’s unique class library and ecosystem over the potential savings of a lower‑priced competitor. Peloton’s “Flex” plan, the possibility of trade‑in discounts, and the expected holiday sale season all offer opportunities to lower the cost. Ultimately, whether the new line is “worth the upgrade” depends on how much you value the incremental improvements against the price premium. If you’re a fitness enthusiast who trains at least four times a week and wants the best visual and audio experience, the upgrade could justify the cost. If you’re more casual or already comfortable with the old models, you might hold off and wait for a price dip.
Read the Full CNET Article at:
[ https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/peloton-just-replaced-its-entire-line-of-fitness-equipment-and-its-worth-the-upgrade/ ]