Based on our positive long-term Peloton Bike experience, and nearly 4,000 workouts on our original Bike, we upgraded to Peloton’s newest Cross Training Bike+ with Peloton IQ ($2,695). We paid $1,995 — $700 off with a promotion.

The Cross Training Bike+, Peloton’s most advanced indoor bike, has a built-in camera and AI-powered movement tracking (Peloton IQ). It counts reps, tracks movement, and gives feedback during off-bike strength sessions.

Pair that with a 23.8″ swivel screen, Sonos-tuned speakers, and automatic resistance control, and it’s a seriously premium product.

Whether it’s really worth it depends on how often you train and how much you’ll use those features.

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Why We Upgraded to the Peloton Cross Training Bike+

Consistency & Convenience

We ride outside when possible, but our Peloton helps us stay fit in the off-season with on-demand structured classes and guided strength. No commute. No excuses.

What We Love Most: Smarter Movement Tracking

For us, the main draw was Peloton IQ, a camera-based movement tracking system that counts reps, checks form, and provides visual feedback without extra sensors or equipment.

Like other forms of AI, it’s not perfect. Rep counts are sometimes missed, and it struggles in tight or dark spaces (more on this below). In our experience, floor-based movements are the least consistent.

Peloton offers a detailed post-class feedback option where you can flag movements that were tracked incorrectly. Although we’ve reported several issues with specific movements but haven’t yet seen improvements, it’s an encouraging sign they’re paying attention to user experience. That option wasn’t available when we first got the bike.

And unlike some competitors such as the Tempo home gym, you can use your favorite single or adjustable dumbbells. That’s a relief if you already own dumbbells and don’t want to spend extra for the brand name. We purchased Peloton’s dumbbells because of the sleek design and secure grip, but they’re not required.

Reliability & Trust

Since our original Peloton Bike lasted thousands of rides without issue, we felt confident splurging on the upgraded bike. We’re optimistic the Cross Training Bike+ but have some early build concerns worth knowing about.

Major Drawback: Screen Stability Issues

Our original Peloton held up well over five years of frequent, heavy use, which is why we had high expectations for the new Peloton Cross Training bike series. But the Cross Training Bike+ raises some concerns.

The Screen Wobble Issue

If you’re sensitive to screen movement, or don’t want to pay a premium price for a bike with a noticeable flaw, this section is for you. The wobble gets worse during harder efforts, especially standing sprints.

Some side-to-side movement is normal on swivel screens. But the Peloton Bike+ screen wobble feels structural. We also noticed it on the Peloton Cross Training Bike, although it’s less pronounced. Likely because that screen is smaller.

The good news is there’s a partial fix. You can tilt and adjust the screen to reduce the wobbles. It’s a more natural angle for riding anyways. Peloton’s official fix, tightening all the components, didn’t help.

This issue doesn’t seem isolated. Instructors’ Cross Training Bike+ units show visible screen movement during high-intensity efforts. Some early owners have reported similar concerns in community forums.

On a $2,695 machine where the screen is the centerpiece of every workout, it’s a big concern.

Creaking Handlebars & Pedal Squeaks

After years of indoor riding, we’ve embraced the slight creaks and squeaks that most bikes produce. Even our original Peloton Bike had an occasional handlebar squeak. Within a month, our Peloton Cross Training Bike+ developed an increasingly loud squeak in the right pedal.

The fix was simple: tightening some bolts eliminated the noise. But at this price, you don’t expect to troubleshoot in the first few rides. We’ll update this section if anything changes with long-term use.

Dealing with tightness or aches from your training? A quick mobility reset can help just as much as the gear itself.

What’s New & What’s Familiar

Similar Feel, Smarter Details

If you already own a Peloton Bike+, the Cross Training Bike+ will feel familiar in many ways. Automatic resistance, quality build, and responsive software remain the same.

The refinements are in details like a more comfortable seat, a built-in fan, and a phone tray to elevate your indoor bike training experience.

Peloton IQ: The Biggest Upgrade

By this point you know what Peloton IQ is. But how does it feel in practice?

For exercises with clear movement patterns — lunges, squats, presses — it’s quite accurate in terms of rep counts and form feedback. But floor-based movements, such as oblique crunches or neutral-grip chest presses, aren’t always detected.

The form cues (“keep thighs parallel”) can feel generic if you already know the movements well. And if you’re new to a movement or aren’t sure you’re doing it right, the cues may not be specific enough. Think of it as a reinforcement tool, not a coaching replacement.

Note: Full camera-based tracking is only available on the Cross Training Series (Bike+, Tread+, Row+). However, some older Peloton hardware is getting IQ software updates. You can take the classes but can’t access movement tracking unless you’re on the Cross Training Series Bike+ with the built-in camera.

Hands-On First Impressions

A quick summary of key takeaways to know before buying:

• Movement tracking: Recognizes basic form inconsistencies and offers helpful corrections. Best for users familiar with the movements.
• Space requirements: Peloton lists 8’ x 6′ for Row+ bootcamp/floor workouts, but 5–6′ in front and 2–3′ on the sides is sufficient. Bike footprint: 54″ L × 22″ W (approx. 4′ x 2′).
• Apartment-friendly design: Great for tight spaces or shared rooms.
• Household versatility: Supports multiple users training in different disciplines.
• Intuitive & responsive: Seamless switching between cycling, strength, and mobility workouts.

For strength work off the bike, these guided resistance band workouts are worth saving.

The Cost of a Smarter Platform

As Peloton’s ecosystem improves, it gets more expensive. The All-Access Membership now costs $49.99 per month (up from $44).

The expansion justifies some of the increase. This year, Peloton added 12,000+ new classes, 40+ structured programs, personalized training plans, and integrated apps like YouTube, Disney+, and Breathwrk.

After 5+ years on the Peloton platform, we still use the bike and classes enough to justify the cost, partly because it replaces subscriptions like Zwift, yoga apps, or gym memberships to hit our same goals.

But the math only makes sense if you use what you pay for. For cycling alone, $49.99 per month is a lot. And if you aren’t thrilled about AI integration, it’s hard to justify the higher cost.

A no-subscription exercise bike might be a better choice. There are also less expensive Peloton alternatives that deliver strong performance without the premium price tag.

Peloton Cross Training Bike+ vs. Original Peloton Bike: Key Differences

Wondering if you should upgrade your current Peloton Bike or buy a Peloton for the first time? Both bikes use Peloton’s All-Access Membership, but they’re built (and priced) for very different training priorities.

Here are some key differences and similarities.

Who Should Choose the Cross Training Bike+?

If you consistently ride, strength train, and do mobility work, the Cross Training Bike+ is for you. It’s also worth it if you want a total all-in-one home workout experience.

Who Should Stick With the Original Peloton Bike?

If you mostly cycle, the original Peloton Bike or Bike+ covers your needs at a lower price. Skip it if you rarely use strength or mobility classes.

Is the Peloton Cross Training Bike+ a True Upgrade?

It’s an evolution, not a reinvention. For multi-discipline athletes, the versatility and movement tracking can justify the cost. For pure cyclists, the original Peloton Bike still delivers. If you want newer hardware without movement tracking, the Peloton Cross Training Bike is worth a look.

Is the Peloton Cross Training Bike+ Right for Me?

If you ride consistently and often use strength and mobility classes, the Bike+ is worth it, especially if it replaces other subscriptions.

For strength sessions off the bike, these recommended resistance band sets are an easy, space-saving way to round out your training.

Heart of the Experience: Cycling, Strength, and Recovery

Cycling classes still anchor Peloton’s platform, with options ranging from recovery rides to themed workouts and high-intensity sessions. For cyclists who want to train seriously, the power zone classes and structured intervals are especially useful. Pairing them with a reliable heart rate monitor can make training more effective.

As Peloton continues to evolve, so do its class offerings. Some require Peloton’s equipment, like treadmill and rowing workouts. But there’s also a large selection of equipment-free options such as guided runs and walks.

Off-bike, there are different interval training styles like HIIT, Tabata, and EMOM. For strength classes in particular, there’s a strong bootcamp vibe. Think fast-paced with minimal rest between reps. A self-paced option is available if that’s not your thing, but it’s disappointing if you enjoy studio classes but prefer a different style.

Recovery is also a big part of the platform. Whether you want a post-workout recovery, gentle stretching or yoga, or meditation, there are many options. And if winter is your main indoor training season, our base-building guide explains how to balance endurance, strength, and recovery more effectively when you’re stuck indoors.

FAQ

Q: Is the Cross Training Bike+ worth upgrading from the Bike or Bike+?
A: Only if you’ll consistently use the tracking features or share it with other users. Pure cyclists and budget-conscious consumers may not see enough value.

Q: Will there be an upgrade kit for older bikes?
A: Not yet. Camera-based tracking is exclusive to the Cross Training Bike+, Tread+, and Row+.

Q: Can it replace other home gym equipment?
A: For many users, yes. You can ride, lift, stretch, and track progress in one machine.

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