Quick Answer: Yes, Peloton hardware is excellent and worth owning even without the $44/month subscription. The bike has a quality frame, accurate power meter, smooth flywheel, and beautiful screen. With FitSwitch, you can use third-party apps, get ERG mode on Bike+, and create a versatile training platform—potentially saving hundreds of dollars per year.
Table of Contents
- What You're Really Buying
- Peloton Hardware Value
- The Subscription Question
- Alternatives to Peloton Subscription
- Total Cost Analysis
- FAQ
What You're Really Buying
Peloton's Two Products
Peloton sells two things: 1. Hardware — The bike itself 2. Content — The subscription service
These can be evaluated separately.
The Hardware
- Frame: Heavy-duty steel, stable, commercial-quality
- Flywheel: Smooth, weighted for realistic ride feel
- Resistance: Magnetic (quiet), 0-100 scale
- Power meter: Built-in, reasonably accurate (±2-5%)
- Cadence sensor: Built-in, accurate
- Screen: 22" (Bike) or 24" (Bike+) HD touchscreen
- Speakers: Surprisingly good built-in audio
- Build quality: Premium feel, designed for heavy use
The Content
- Thousands of on-demand classes
- Live classes daily
- Professional instructors
- Music licensing
- Community features
- Non-cycling content (strength, yoga, etc.)
Peloton Hardware Value
Compared to Alternatives
| Bike | Price | Power Meter | Screen | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peloton Bike | ~$1,445 | Yes (built-in) | 22" HD | Excellent |
| Peloton Bike+ | ~$2,495 | Yes (built-in) | 24" HD | Excellent |
| Wahoo KICKR Bike | ~$3,500 | Yes (built-in) | None | Excellent |
| Tacx Neo Bike | ~$3,200 | Yes (built-in) | None | Excellent |
| Budget spin bikes | $300-800 | No | None | Variable |
| Spin bike + power pedals | $600 + $600+ | Yes (pedals) | None | Variable |
The Peloton Advantage
For the price, Peloton hardware offers: - Built-in accurate power meter (worth $300-600 separately) - Large touchscreen (worth $200-400) - Commercial build quality - Integrated design (no setup complexity)
Even ignoring the subscription, the hardware competes well.
The Screen's Value
The 22"/24" touchscreen is: - Larger than most tablets - Positioned perfectly for cycling - Capable of running Android apps (with FitSwitch) - Always powered (no battery concerns)
If you bought a comparable tablet and mounting system: $300-500.
The Subscription Question
What $44/Month Gets You
Peloton All-Access Membership includes: - Live classes - On-demand library (10,000+ classes) - Leaderboard access - Performance tracking - Programs and challenges - Multiple equipment types - Unlimited household members
What You Lose Without Subscription
- Access to Peloton classes
- Leaderboard competition
- Detailed tracking history
- Guided programs
What You Keep Without Subscription
- "Just Ride" mode (basic metrics)
- The hardware itself
- The screen (for other apps via FitSwitch)
- Power and cadence sensors
Alternatives to Peloton Subscription
Option 1: Just Ride Mode (Free)
Use Peloton's built-in Just Ride: - Basic metrics display - No instructor, no music - Functional but boring
Cost: $0/month Experience: Minimal
Option 2: Third-Party Apps via FitSwitch
Install other apps on your Peloton: - Zwift ($14.99/month) — Virtual cycling worlds - TrainerRoad ($19.95/month) — Structured training - Netflix, Disney+ — Entertainment while riding - Spotify — Your own music - SmartTube — YouTube without subscription
Cost: Varies by app choice Experience: Excellent with full integration
Option 3: Mix and Match
Use Peloton Digital ($12.99/month) + other apps: - Peloton classes (app version, no bike metrics) - Zwift for structured training - Netflix for entertainment rides
Cost: $28/month for Peloton Digital + Zwift Experience: Good variety, saves $16/month vs All-Access
Option 4: Free Content Only
- MyWhoosh (free Zwift alternative) — Via Firefox browser
- YouTube workouts — Via SmartTube
- Free cycling content online — Via Firefox
Cost: $0/month Experience: Requires more self-direction
Total Cost Analysis
Scenario 1: Peloton All-Access (3 Years)
- Bike: $1,445
- Subscription: $44 × 36 = $1,584
- Total: $3,029
Scenario 2: No Subscription + FitSwitch + Zwift (3 Years)
- Bike: $1,445
- FitSwitch: $199 (one-time)
- Zwift: $14.99 × 36 = $540
- Total: $2,184
- Savings: $845
Scenario 3: No Subscription + FitSwitch + Free Apps (3 Years)
- Bike: $1,445
- FitSwitch: $199 (one-time)
- Apps: $0
- Total: $1,644
- Savings: $1,385
Scenario 4: Buy Bike+ for ERG Mode (3 Years)
- Bike+: $2,495
- FitSwitch: $199 (one-time)
- Zwift: $14.99 × 36 = $540
- Total: $3,234
- vs. All-Access on Bike+: Saves $261 + gets full smart trainer capability
Is the Hardware Worth It?
Yes, If You Want:
- Quality indoor cycling equipment
- Built-in power meter accuracy
- Large screen for apps/entertainment
- Flexibility to choose your content
- Long-term durability
Maybe Not, If You:
- Only want Peloton-specific classes
- Won't use third-party apps
- Prefer a simpler, cheaper spin bike
- Don't care about power data
The Smart Trainer Comparison
Peloton Bike+ with FitSwitch becomes a smart trainer: - ERG mode ✓ - Power broadcast ✓ - App compatibility ✓ - Large screen (bonus) ✓
Compare to Wahoo KICKR Bike ($3,500) or Tacx Neo Bike ($3,200): - Peloton Bike+ + FitSwitch: ~$2,700 - Competitive features, lower price, plus screen
Maximizing Value Without Subscription
Step 1: Get FitSwitch
FitSwitch installation unlocks your Peloton's potential: - App installation - Sensor broadcasting - ERG mode (Bike+) - Smartwatch connectivity
Step 2: Choose Your Apps
Select based on your goals: - Structured training: Zwift, TrainerRoad - Entertainment: Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video - Music: Spotify - Free content: SmartTube (YouTube), Firefox browser
Step 3: Connect Your Ecosystem
- Apple Watch or Garmin for workout tracking
- Strava for social sharing
- Training platforms for analysis
Step 4: Train Effectively
With the right apps: - Follow structured training plans - Track progress over time - Enjoy variety in content - Save money monthly
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a Peloton if I don't want the subscription?
Yes, if you plan to use FitSwitch and third-party apps. The hardware value is solid.
Can I try before canceling subscription?
Yes. Use both Peloton and other apps simultaneously. Cancel when ready.
Will Peloton disable my bike without subscription?
No. The bike functions without subscription. Just Ride mode is always available.
Is the original Bike or Bike+ better without subscription?
Bike+ is better if you want ERG mode for training apps. Original Bike is fine for entertainment and basic tracking.
What about Peloton's financing?
Peloton offers financing. Do the math on total cost vs. alternatives before committing to monthly payments.
Can I sell my Peloton later?
Yes. Pelotons have resale value. The market has softened but bikes still sell.
Is FitSwitch a one-time purchase?
Yes. FitSwitch is ~$199 once. No subscription required.
What if I miss Peloton classes later?
You can resubscribe anytime. Or use Peloton Digital ($12.99/month) via the app on your Peloton.
Do I lose my workout history if I cancel?
Your Peloton history stays in your account, but access requires subscription. Export data or use third-party tracking going forward.
Is this worth it for casual riders?
For casual use, the math is less compelling. But if you ride regularly and want flexibility, yes.
The Verdict
Peloton hardware is excellent—worth the investment even without the subscription. The question is what software you run on it.
With Peloton subscription: Great experience, premium price Without subscription + FitSwitch: Great experience, lower cost, more flexibility
FitSwitch transforms your Peloton from a subscription-dependent device into an open platform: - Choose your own apps - Get ERG mode on Bike+ - Connect to smartwatches - Save money monthly
Your bike, your choice.
Get FitSwitch — Make your Peloton worth it.
Last updated: January 2025