Nordictrack S22i vs Peloton: Which Bike Reigns Supreme?
Ready to revolutionize your workouts from the comfort of your home? Indoor cycling has exploded in popularity, and two names dominate the scene: the NordicTrack S22i and the Peloton. Both offer immersive experiences, live and on-demand classes, and the promise of a killer workout.
Choosing between these two titans can be a challenge. The NordicTrack S22i boasts impressive features, including incline and decline adjustments, while the Peloton is renowned for its sleek design and engaging community. This comparison will delve into the key differences.
We’ll explore everything from the bikes’ specifications and features to their subscription costs and overall user experience. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which bike best suits your fitness goals and budget, helping you make the right choice between the NordicTrack S22i and the Peloton.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | NordicTrack S22i | Peloton |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 22″ | 21.5″ |
| Screen Type | Rotating Touchscreen | Touchscreen |
| Incline | Up to 20% | Up to 0% |
| Decline | Up to -10% | N/A |
| Resistance | Digital Silent Magnetic Resistance | Digital Resistance |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Workout Programs | iFit (Subscription Required) | Peloton All-Access (Subscription Required) |
| Speakers | Dual 3″ Digitally Amplified Speakers | Front-facing stereo speakers |
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Bluetooth Chest Strap Included | Optional |
| User Profiles | Multiple | Multiple |
| Pedals | Toe Cages & SPD Compatible | Delta-compatible cleats |
| Fan | Auto-Adjusting CoolAire™ Fan | N/A |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Screen Size & Quality
- Nordictrack S22i: Features a 22-inch HD touchscreen that swivels, allowing for off-bike workouts. The screen offers clear visuals and is responsive to touch. However, some users find the screen’s brightness can be an issue in certain lighting conditions.
- Peloton: Comes with a 21.5-inch HD touchscreen that does not swivel on the original bike. The screen provides a crisp and vibrant display, ideal for immersive workouts. It lacks the swivel feature, limiting off-bike exercise options on the original model.
- Winner: nordictrack s22i
Interactive Training & Classes
- Nordictrack S22i: Offers iFit, providing a vast library of live and on-demand classes, including scenic rides and trainer-led workouts. iFit automatically adjusts incline and resistance based on the class. Requires an iFit subscription.
- Peloton: Provides access to live and on-demand classes taught by Peloton instructors. The platform focuses on a structured class format. Requires a Peloton All-Access Membership.
- Winner: Tie
Incline & Resistance
- Nordictrack S22i: Boasts -10% to 20% incline capabilities, allowing for a wider range of workout intensity and mimicking outdoor terrains. It offers digital resistance control.
- Peloton: Provides digital resistance control, allowing you to adjust the difficulty of your workout. The original bike does not include incline or decline features.
- Winner: nordictrack s22i
Workout Metrics & Data Tracking
- Nordictrack S22i: Tracks metrics like speed, time, distance, heart rate (with a compatible chest strap), and calories burned. iFit provides detailed workout summaries and performance data.
- Peloton: Displays metrics such as cadence, output, resistance, heart rate (with a compatible monitor), and calories burned. Provides detailed performance tracking and historical data.
- Winner: Tie
Bike Design & Build Quality
- Nordictrack S22i: Features a sturdy build with adjustable handlebars and seat, catering to a range of rider heights. The bike has a solid feel.
- Peloton: Known for its sleek design and solid construction. The bike feels premium and is designed for durability.
- Winner: Tie
Audio & Sound System
- Nordictrack S22i: Includes integrated speakers for class audio and music playback. The sound quality is generally good.
- Peloton: Features built-in speakers that deliver clear audio. The sound quality is excellent.
- Winner: peloton
Subscription Cost & Value
- Nordictrack S22i: Requires an iFit subscription, which can be purchased separately. Offers a large variety of classes and content, providing good value.
- Peloton: Requires a Peloton All-Access Membership, which is a monthly subscription. The membership is more expensive, but includes access to all classes and features.
- Winner: nordictrack s22i
Other Features
- Nordictrack S22i: Includes a pair of 3 lb dumbbells, a fan, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Peloton: Includes a pair of cycling shoes.
- Winner: nordictrack s22i
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Incline/Decline Capability | NordicTrack S22i |
| Screen Rotation | NordicTrack S22i |
| Class Variety | Peloton |
| Community | Peloton |
| Overall Value | NordicTrack S22i |
What They Have in Common:
- Streaming Classes: Both bikes offer live and on-demand workout classes led by professional instructors, providing a motivating and engaging workout experience. Classes cover various disciplines, from cycling to strength training and yoga.
- Connectivity: Both bikes connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing users to stream classes, track performance metrics, and connect with other devices. This enhances the overall workout experience by providing access to a wealth of data and entertainment.
- Subscription Required: Both bikes require a monthly subscription to access their full library of classes and features. This subscription unlocks a vast array of workout options, allowing users to personalize their fitness journey.
- Performance Tracking: Both bikes track key performance metrics such as speed, distance, resistance, heart rate (with compatible devices), and calories burned. This data helps users monitor their progress and stay motivated.
- Interactive Classes: Both bikes provide interactive classes with real-time feedback and motivation from instructors. This creates a virtual group fitness experience, making workouts more enjoyable and effective.
NordicTrack S22i Vs Peloton Buying Guide
Features and Technology
The NordicTrack S22i boasts a 22-inch rotating touchscreen, incline and decline adjustments, and live and on-demand iFit classes. It offers a more immersive experience with its AutoAdjust technology, automatically adjusting resistance and incline based on the class. The Peloton, while featuring a large touchscreen, primarily focuses on instructor-led classes. It lacks the incline/decline functionality found on the S22i, but excels in its streamlined design and user-friendly interface. Both offer heart rate monitoring compatibility and Bluetooth connectivity.
Workout Experience
The S22i provides a broader workout range due to its incline/decline capabilities, simulating outdoor cycling more realistically. iFit’s global workouts further enhance this, allowing riders to experience routes worldwide. Peloton offers a more studio-like experience with its live classes and leaderboard competitions, fostering a strong sense of community. The workout intensity largely depends on the classes chosen and the rider’s effort, but the S22i’s added features provide a more versatile training environment.
Subscription and Content
Both bikes require a subscription to access their content libraries. iFit offers a vast library of on-demand classes, including studio cycling, outdoor workouts, and strength training. Peloton focuses on its live and on-demand cycling classes, with a strong emphasis on instructor-led workouts. The content quality is high on both platforms, but the type of workouts and the instructors’ style differ. Consider your preferred workout style and the variety of content when selecting between these two subscriptions.
Build Quality and Design
Both bikes are well-built, but the S22i is known to be slightly more robust due to the added moving parts of the incline/decline feature. The Peloton has a more compact and sleek design, taking up less floor space. The S22i is also slightly heavier. Consider your available space and the importance of incline/decline when evaluating build quality. Both bikes provide a stable and secure platform for intense workouts.
Price and Value
The initial cost of the S22i and Peloton bikes is comparable, but the ongoing subscription fees are a significant factor in the long-term cost. The S22i often includes promotional offers that can lower the initial price. Consider the long-term cost of ownership, including the subscription fee, when evaluating the value. The value also depends on the content and features that align with your fitness goals and preferences.
Community and Support
Peloton has a very strong community, with interactive leaderboards and social features that enhance the workout experience. NordicTrack’s iFit also has a community, but it is less emphasized. Both companies offer customer support, but the experiences vary. Research online forums and reviews to assess the quality of support offered by each company. Consider how important community is to your motivation when making your selection.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy NordicTrack S22i If…
- You want a bike with incline and decline capabilities to simulate outdoor riding.
- You prefer a rotating touchscreen for off-bike workouts.
- You value the included Bluetooth heart rate monitor.
- You desire a more immersive experience with the auto-adjusting fan.
Buy Peloton If…
- You prioritize access to a large and well-established library of live and on-demand classes.
- You enjoy the Peloton community and brand experience.
- You prefer a sleek and minimalist design.
- You want a more focused cycling experience without incline/decline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest difference between the S22i and Peloton?
The biggest difference is the incline/decline feature on the S22i, absent on the Peloton. The S22i offers a more versatile workout with this, plus the iFit platform offers a wider range of content, including outdoor workouts. Peloton emphasizes a studio-like experience with live classes and a strong community.
Does the S22i have incline and decline?
Yes, the NordicTrack S22i has both incline and decline capabilities. This allows the user to simulate different terrains and increase the intensity of the workout. The incline/decline feature can automatically adjust based on the iFit class.
What kind of classes are available on iFit?
iFit offers a wide variety of classes, including studio cycling, outdoor workouts (running, hiking, etc.), strength training, and yoga. It also features global workouts filmed in various locations around the world, providing a diverse workout experience. There are classes for all fitness levels.
Does Peloton have live classes?
Yes, Peloton is known for its live classes, which are streamed throughout the day. These classes provide a sense of community and real-time interaction with instructors and other riders. The live classes are a major component of the Peloton experience.
How much does the iFit subscription cost?
The cost of the iFit subscription varies based on the plan. There are often monthly and annual options. The price is competitive compared to other fitness platforms and provides access to a large library of on-demand and live classes. Check the NordicTrack website for current pricing.
Is the Peloton bike good for beginners?
Yes, Peloton is good for beginners. They offer beginner classes and programs to help new riders learn the basics and build their fitness levels gradually. The instructors are also very encouraging and supportive, which makes the workout experience welcoming for beginners.
Which bike is better for outdoor cycling simulation?
The NordicTrack S22i is better for outdoor cycling simulation. The incline/decline feature and iFit’s global workouts allow you to experience hills and varied terrains, much like outdoor cycling. The Peloton does not have these features.
Final Verdict
The NordicTrack S22i and Peloton both offer compelling cycling experiences. The S22i shines with its incline/decline, wider content variety, and global workout options. Peloton excels with its studio-like experience, live classes, and strong community. The best choice depends on your workout style preference and desired features.
Winner: NordicTrack S22i