Peloton’s newest Cross Training series has received a lot of hype because it’s Peloton’s biggest launch since the OG Peloton Bike, and it replaced the entire original Peloton line. The new series includes the Cross Training Peloton Bike and Bike Plus, the Cross Training Peloton Row Plus and the Cross Training Peloton Tread and Tread Plus. Some fresh features on the Plus versions include an enhanced Sonos sound system, an integrated fan, a movement-tracking camera, and a 360-degree screen that swivels, among other upgrades.
Along with the Cross Training equipment, Peloton launched Peloton IQ, its new AI software that gives members a more personalized experience and functions like a built-in personal trainer. The Cross Training Plus line has an advanced version of Peloton IQ, which includes a movement-tracking camera that provides feedback during each session.
I recently had the opportunity to test out Peloton’s newest equipment at its headquarters. These are my first impressions of the Cross Training series, along with details on how the new features work.
What is Peloton IQ?
Peloton IQ is Peloton’s new AI-powered feature. It is available to all members through the All-Access and Peloton App One memberships. Peloton IQ customizes your workout plan, includes a self-paced strength and workout generator feature, analyzes your performance and functions like a coach in your home gym. For those who own the Plus Cross Training series, you’ll have access to a movement-tracking camera that provides form feedback and amplifies the IQ experience.
The movement-tracker can count your reps.
There are specific classes you’ll find in the class collection that are labeled for use with Peloton IQ. However, you don’t need to have one of the new machines to experience it. Certain features, such as customizing a program, progress tracking and performance estimates, can still be used by existing members. The only parts they won’t have access to, unless they buy the new Plus hardware, are the movement-tracking camera and hands-free voice control option that allows you to pause a class, change the volume or input the weight you’re using through Peloton IQ.
Peloton IQ’s movement tracking is currently available only for strength-trainingclasses. It will suggest weights you should use and when to increase them, count reps and analyze your form. A Peloton representative told CNET that strength training is its second most popular exercise modality, after cycling, and that members have expressed interest in building more weightlifting confidence and knowledge.
My experience with Peloton IQ
The movement-tracker is one of Peloton IQ's key features.
I was most looking forward to trying out Peloton IQ on the Cross Training Plus equipment, since the movement-tracking camera is supposed to provide helpful feedback during a strength training session. When using Peloton IQ, you have the option to choose how you want to view yourself on the self-view screen (side by side, stacked, maximized, minimized or hidden). I preferred the side-by-side view.
While using Peloton IQ, I found that it accurately tracked my reps, which can be helpful if, like me, you tend to miscount or forget how many reps you’ve completed during a workout. I appreciated that it could detect when I was lifting a weight that was too easy for me and encouraged me to increase it. It recommended that I increase my weight when I exceeded the recommended reps as well, since it assumed the weight was too light for me.
The side-by-side view while doing a workout with Peloton IQ.
However, there is room for improvement as far as what it offers and its accuracy. At one point, I noticed it didn’t correct my form when I was performing a different variation of an exercise being demonstrated (an overhead press). As someone familiar with exercise variations, I’m aware that there are hundreds of options, so it’s possible that some haven’t been added to the Peloton IQ catalog yet. However, it would’ve been helpful if it had given me more feedback on how to improve my form. I’d like to see Peloton continue updating its exercise catalog to provide more accurate corrections or improve its form recognition.
Peloton Cross Training Bike Plus
The Cross Training Peloton Bike Plus includes a redesigned seat (extra cushioned for more comfort), a phone tray added to the middle of the handlebars, and a 23.8-inch full HD touchscreen that swivels 360 degrees. The screen, which is replicated across the Bike, Row and Tread Plus, was redesigned with Sonos speakers to offer studio-quality audio, a three-speed fan, hands-free voice control and a built-in movement tracking camera powered by Peloton IQ.
What I like about it
The Peloton Bike Plus feels like an upgraded version of its predecessor. The changes are subtle, from the extra-cushioned seat to even something as simple as the phone holder. I personally loved how the screen easily swiveled in any direction when I needed to hop down to do exercises on the floor. This ride is quiet and smooth, and functions similarly to the original Peloton Bike Plus. You still rely on the red knob on the bike frame to adjust the resistance, and the classes are still found on the same All-Access Membership platform.
What I don’t like about it
As much as I liked the upgrades Peloton made to its Bike Plus, the retail price for the Cross Training Peloton Bike Plus is $2,695. This is steep, especially since members who already own the original hardware will have to pay full price if they want to experience all of the new Peloton features. For a more affordable option, the Cross Training Bike is available for $1,695; however, note that it doesn’t include the Peloton IQ features.
Peloton Cross Training Row Plus
The latest version of the Peloton Row Plus is similar to its predecessor. The screen features the same design as the Cross Training Peloton Bike Plus and Tread Plus with a built-in fan, movement-tracking camera and Sonos speakers. The difference is that it only rotates up to a 45-degree angle on each side. Otherwise, most of the features, including Form Assist, which originally made the Peloton Row stand out, remain the same. With Peloton Row Plus, you also enjoy the same workouts on the All-Access Membership, plus rowing-specific classes.
What I like about it
I like that Peloton kept the same features that made the Peloton Row stand out in the first place. Form Assist was still helpful this time around, as it corrected me during some rowing classes. For instance, it made me aware that I needed to slow down the drive and catch, and instead break it down into steps.
What I don’t like about it
The issues I had with the original Peloton Row remain the same with the Cross Training Peloton Row Plus. It’s a bulky machine that may not fit in most spaces, especially if you’re working out at home. Additionally, if you want to fold it up, it needs to be anchored to the wall, which may not be possible in some homes. For the revamp, it would’ve been helpful to have this machine in a slightly smaller footprint or designed so it’s easier to store.
It seems like a missed opportunity not to have a smaller version of the Row, since it doesn’t have a basic alternative like the other two machines. Another aspect that confused me was that this screen doesn’t rotate all the way around like the Cross Training Peloton Bike Plus and Treadmill Plus.
The changes made to the machine aren’t drastic, so the price tag still seems high at $3,495.
Peloton Cross Training Tread Plus
Similar to the Cross Training Bike Plus and Row Plus, the Cross Training Tread Plus has the same screen design and interface. This time, the tread features a rubberized slat belt, making it softer and more cushioned than its predecessor, and it gives you the option to move it manually in “Free Mode” with your feet or with the electric motor. There’s also a new accessories tray where you can keep your phone and water bottle at arm’s reach. You can still pair a heart rate monitor that’s compatible with Peloton and connect your account to the Strava app if you like tracking your workouts that way. The screen swivels 360 degrees, which is particularly helpful if you have ample room in your workout space.
What I like about it
This treadmill is still heavy-duty and designed for runners, walkers and even hikers, as it connects you to Peloton’s corresponding boot camps. Similar to the Bike Plus, the screen rotates 360 degrees, allowing you to do floor workouts on any side of the machine. When using the Peloton IQ feature, the camera angle captures the floor space you’re working with, allowing you to see yourself. I think you’ll benefit more from it if you have ample room versus a smaller space.
What I don’t like about it
I didn’t notice any significant differences between this version of the Tread Plus and the previous one. The belt length (67 by 20 inches) remains the same, but the screen (23.8 inches) shrank 8 inches from the previous version. This time, it has the ability to swivel 360 degrees. Besides Peloton IQ, there’s now a “Free Mode” function and the new tread material (which is a plus), but everything else remained the same.
I wasn’t a fan of the knob on the side of the machine that controls the incline and speed because I worry it might make sudden changes while you’re using the machine. This was my same concern when I tried the original Peloton Tread because I personally prefer buttons. There’s a button in the middle of the knob that allows you to jump speeds, which may be ideal if you’re doing interval training, but it can feel risky if you aren’t well-versed with the machine.
This treadmill is the same size as the original Peloton Tread Plus and, similarly, doesn’t have a folding option, so you must ensure you have sufficient room in your home to keep it out in the open.
The Cross Training Tread Plus is also expensive at $6,695, and even with a discount, the price is hard to justify for the minimal changes made. If you opted for the Cross Training Tread, you’re still looking at a $3,295 price.
Peloton membership changes
The All-Access Membership is now $50 per month, up $5 from the original $45 per month fee. Peloton App One is still $13 per month and doesn’t require you to own any Peloton equipment.
You’ll have access to thousands of classes and the Peloton IQ feature as a member.
My final thoughts on the Peloton Cross Training Series
As a fitness equipment tester, I’m familiar with smart products on the market and all of Peloton’s equipment. I was expecting more of this revamp, especially because the overhaul took members and fitness enthusiasts by surprise. I know Peloton is constantly finding new ways to innovate, which is evident in the Peloton IQ feature, but it wasn’t enough to show me something different that I haven’t seen with other smart home gyms.
For example, when I tested Tonal 2, another smart home gym, the machine provided feedback based on my form and suggested ways to improve it during my workout. I liked that Peloton IQ could tell when I needed to increase the weight during my workout, but I didn’t feel confident that it could precisely correct an exercise I was doing incorrectly. If I’m meant to rely on AI software to help me meet my fitness goals, I’d expect it to be more personalized and accurate.
According to Peloton, Peloton IQ has more than 2,000 classes that offer form feedback, 60 strength moves and recognizes 200 variations for rep tracking. With the way AI is constantly evolving, I wouldn’t be surprised if Peloton improves Peloton IQ and gives it the boost it needs in the future.
One other concern I had with the revamp was that the new equipment prices and All-Access Membership price don’t seem to be justified by the new changes. Existing Peloton members can use some features of Peloton IQ, but not all of them. If they want to get the whole Peloton IQ experience, they’re expected to purchase one of the new Plus versions of the Cross Training series at full price. A trade-in deal would’ve been a good incentive, as they’ve been loyal to the brand. Currently, the full Peloton Cross Training Series is on sale through Dec. 29.
If you’re a fan of Peloton’s products and your budget isn’t the issue, then it may be worth investing in one of these new Cross Training Plus machines if you want to experience Peloton IQ in real time. If running, rowing or cycling isn’t your preferred way to work out, the prices for the Cross Training series will be steep. In that case, you’re better off trying Peloton alternatives or other treadmill and rowing machine options that are more budget-friendly.
