Ultimate guide to buying a used Peloton Bike

Clear Cache and Recovery Mode on Peloton

At different times of the year, like at the start of the New Year or the approach of summer, everyone starts reevaluating their fitness goals and health priorities.

Some may consider investing in a new smartwatch to track their activity and health or purchase fitness equipment to jump into a new workout routine at home. Are you looking to buy a used Peloton bike this year?

Peloton is known for bringing the community and exciting aspects of a boutique gym into the comfort of your home. Known primarily for the Peloton bike and its workout videos, Peloton also offers a treadmill and recently released a rowing machine. 

Suggested reading

Two main Peloton Bike variants: Bike and Bike+Peloton Bike Plus screen is larger than original Peloton Biike's screen

Speaking primarily about the exercise bikes Peloton has to offer, the current options include the original Peloton Bike and the Peloton Bike +.

The original Peloton Bike comes with a 21.5-inch HD touchscreen, a 2×10-watt sound system, and rear speakers. The price of this bike is around $1500–but check for sales. 

The newer Peloton Bike + comes with a 24-inch HD touchscreen that rotates 360 degrees, 4-channel audio with 2×3 watt tweeters, and 2×10 watt woofers, front-facing and rear-facing speakers, auto-follow resistance, and Apple GymKit integration.

This Bike+ costs around $2500 on Peloton’s website–again, check for sales!

The prices of these two bikes do not include taxes, shipping, or the monthly all-access membership fee, which is an additional $44 a month at the time of this writing. 

The membership is for your entire household and includes both live and on-demand classes, access to the Peloton app, and allows you (and family members) to see performance metrics in real-time while working out on the bike.

All bikes purchased directly from Peloton also include delivery, assembly, and setup. They even offer a short training session, so you know how to use your bike! And purchases also have a 12-month limited warranty (touchscreen and most original Bike components) with an option to extend it to 48 months. The bike frame is always covered for five years.

Important recall notice for Peloton Bike models (not Bike+)Bike original model by Peloton

In May 2023, Peloton announced a voluntary recall of the bike seat post on original Peloton model Bikes sold from January 2018 to May 2023 in the United States.

So if you are considering purchasing a preowned original Bike, make sure the seller replaced the seat post or ask them to get that replacement part.

Any refurbished Bikes purchased directly from Peloton after the recall date (May 11, 2023) already have the new bike seat post; however, any new or refurbished bikes purchased directly from Peloton before this date will need you to contact Peloton for a replacement part.

Peloton advises users to stop using their bikes until they’ve made the repair the recall requires, as the bike seat post can unexpectedly break during use, creating a potential fall and injury risk.

This recall is for the bike seat post, and Peloton will send a free bike seat post replacement to all Peloton Bike owners who fill out this form. You can install the replacement post at home without the need for a service call. The seat post is the only part of the Bike that requires repair.

All original Bike models have a red P followed by the white-colored Peloton brand name on the bike’s frame and by its non-swivel display. You can also identify if your Peloton is part of the recall by looking at the label on the inside front fork near the flywheel. If it’s identified by its PL-01 model number on the label, then your bike is part of the recall.Model for Peloton Original Bike identification via Peloton logo

The recall only applies to the original model Peloton Bike with version number PL01 and red/white Peloton logo and not the newer Peloton Bike+.

This voluntary recall only applies to the Peloton original Bike sold in the United States. This matter does not affect international and North America Bike+ nor international Peloton original Bikes.

To obtain your free replacement seat post, please visit this Peloton support page. You can also contact Peloton’s Member Support team at 866-679-9129 from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. ET or visit our Support site, www.onepeloton.com, and click on Product Recalls at the bottom of the page.

For instructions on how to install your replacement seat post, see this Peloton Support video or follow these Peloton’s instructions (PDF file).

Peloton Bike and its service and membership fees add up quickly

While Peloton claims to provide an immersive and challenging workout in a more accessible, affordable, and efficient manner, the average consumer may disagree with their price point.

Not everyone can afford to spend more than $1,500+ on a brand-new machine, so buying a used or refurbished Peloton is an option for consumers who want this name-brand equipment for a lower price point. 

Plus, a monthly membership fee of about $44/month adds to the total cost! The bright side is that if your whole family uses Peloton, one membership covers everyone!

Buying used exercise equipment can save you lots of money in the long run, but it is crucial to be cautious and do your research. To ensure you get your money’s worth, follow these tips for buying a used Peloton bike.

What to look for when buying a used Peloton bike:

You should always check the item for any wear and tear when you buy anything secondhand. When looking at the used Peloton, look for any signs of damage.

Ask yourself these questions: does the bike have any cracks? Do you notice any rusty spots on the bike, is the bike sturdy, or are there any other defects? Looking for any of these warning signs will indicate how safe the exercise bike is.

get your ride on with PelotonMore than photos

Sometimes photos don’t give you enough information about the bike’s condition.

If you get to see the exercise bike in person, make sure you thoroughly inspect it. Look closely for any scratches or other damage, and check the condition of the bike’s wheels.

Also, turn on the monitor to see how it works. Are there any display issues?

  • Make sure you are careful with the screen. The screen is the most costly part to repair or replace. That alone can cost you several hundred dollars.

Don’t be afraid to ask the seller if you can test the bike!

  • You want to make sure you’re going to be comfortable. Spin the pedals and listen to how they sound.

When buying a used Peloton, you should also inquire about any part recalls or repairs that the bike had or needs.

Also, take the time to research how much the parts cost and how much it costs to repair the exercise bike should there be any issues.

Flywheel bearings typically need to be replaced, and that can cost around $100 out of pocket.

Peloton also recommends replacing the bike’s pedals annually for proper maintenance, which Amazon has some affordable options.

If the parts are reasonably priced, you may want to pursue the Peloton! If the bike’s parts are out of your range, you may want to skip that specific bike. 

Three Generations of Peloton Display Screens

When looking into buying a used Peloton, see if you can find out how old the bike is and the version of its display screen.

There are three generations of Peloton display screens. An older screen model should make the bike’s price lower.

older Peloton bike display screen

The newer screens are thinner and have a faster processor, better quality speakers, more RAM, and screencast capabilities. But a first-generation screen should still work unless there was damage done to it.

Find out the Peloton bike’s screen’s generation

  • Look for the FCC ID or model number. If it reads “xxxxx-QUARTZ” or “001,” that’s the first generation.
  • If it says “RB1V1,” that’s the second generation, and “RB1VQ” is the third generation. 

Check for recalls and repairs

Finally, check Peloton’s Support site to see if there are any recalls on the Peloton model you are interested in purchasing used or refurbished.

Ask the seller if they made any repairs related to any recalls. In particular, in May 2023, Peloton issued a recall for all original Bike models to replace the bike seat post.

You want that replacement seat post for Peloton original Bikes sold between January 2018 to May 2023 in the United States since the original seat post poses a risk of breaking.

The recall and replacement seat post is not required for Peloton Bike+.

What about a warranty for used Peloton equipment

The warranty is a big issue to remember when deciding if you want to purchase a used Peloton. And it is a big reason you want to make sure the bike for sale is in good condition and does not need any repairs.

The good news: Protection Plans for Bike or Bike+ purchased on or after April 5th, 2022, are transferrable to a new owner.

The bad news: any plans purchased before this date are non-transferrable to secondary owners, even if there is still time left. This also applies to extended warranties.

Peloton only accepts warranty claims from the original purchaser for any purchases made before April 22, 2022.

However, a secondary owner can now purchase a Peloton Protection Plan if it’s within the first 12 months after the original owner’s delivery date.

So if you are considering purchasing a previously-owned Peloton from a third party, ask for the protection plan order confirmation from the original owner before you buy!

However, a seller can transfer their prepaid membership credits to a new buyer. Peloton does allow sellers to transfer any prepaid membership credit to buyers.

To transfer these credits, you must email Peloton Support ([email protected]) with both the seller’s and buyer’s rider names and email addresses. 

Learn more about Peloton’s protection plans here.

Where to buy a used Peloton bike

Directly from Peloton

Peloton now sells certified refurbished used Bikes through its website. You generally save about $400-500 versus buying a new bike. And Peloton occasionally offers discounts on refurb models.

There are a lot of advantages to purchasing a used bike directly from Peloton. Each bike is inspected and tested, comes with a new pair of pedals, and includes the same 12-month limited warranty and the delivery and setup.

You can even purchase an extended Peloton Protection Plan on a refurbished unit–for a total of 48 months of coverage, including accidental damage, surge protection, and $0 deductibles. If considering a refurb, we highly recommend purchasing the extended warranty. Refurbished model benefits from Peloton

The biggest difference between a new Peloton bike and a refurbished one is cosmetic damage on the bike itself–you see things like scratches and normal wear and tear from previous use.

Additionally, refurbished bikes do not qualify for financing or the 30-Day home trial and cannot be returned once delivered.

Outside of that, the only downside to a refurb is that the model you want may not be available when you want it since availability depends on returns.

Local online marketplace:

Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Letgo, Recycler, OfferUp, Nextdoor, and other local groups and message boards are your best bet for finding a used Peloton bike, especially in your area.

Buying a used Peloton nearby should make the price less costly, making it easier and quicker to pick up.

Garage and estate sales:

Typically, you could find various used fitness equipment for sale at a garage and estate sale.

But with the introduction of the local online marketplace, that will be your best bet.

Trying to find a used Peloton may be like finding a needle in a haystack. However, checking out any local garage and estate sales never hurts. Who knows, you may luck out!

eBay:

National online marketplaces like eBay will also have the option to buy used Peloton bikes. But always proceed with caution. When searching on eBay for Peloton, some other exercise bike brands may pop up in your search. 

A family member, a friend, or a person you know in real life: If you know someone, who is planning on selling a used Peloton, that is your best bet for a safe and trustworthy transaction. Plus, your close friends or family members should be able to give you an excellent deal!

No matter where you decide to purchase your used Peloton, proceed with caution.

To best protect yourself from any scams or instances of fraud, always check to see if the seller is verified. Don’t take the risk if the interaction doesn’t seem or feel right to you. Wait for the right opportunity. 

Questions to ask a seller before buying a used Peloton

Are you the first owner?

If the bike had multiple previous owners, it likely moved around a lot. Which could mean it has more wear and tear on the bikes, especially if it wasn’t carefully moved. 

What month and year was this bike purchased?

This will give you an idea of how old the bike is. Is there a sales receipt for the original purchase?

Have you checked any recalls and made any repairs recommended by those recalls?

You want to make sure the current owner is responsible and has made any repairs related to recalls

In particular, for owners of the Peloton Bike original mode (PL-01 model number with red and white Peloton logo on the frame and by its non-swivel display,) you want to make sure they replaced the bike seat post since it poses a risk of breaking.

Purchases made directly from Peloton (refurbished or new) already have this replacement (if you purchased the bike after May 11, 2023.)

What generation screen does the bike have? 

If the bike has an older model screen, that should make the price significantly less. 

How many rides have been done on the bike?

This should also give you a good idea of the bike’s wear and tear. Just because the bike looks brand new doesn’t mean the internal hardware looks the same.  

Is there anything wrong with the bike? Does it make any strange noises?

It might need repair work if it’s making strange sounds. This might be complicated. Also, ask if the Wi-Fi works perfectly with the bike. 

Does the bike come with any accessories?

Peloton makes tons of accessories for their bikes like mats, shoes, weights, HR monitors, headphones, and more.

If the seller is willing to add those into the sale, it could up the price a little, but you could also score the ultimate deal! 

Does the bike have any prepaid subscriptions left?

If the previous owner still has some of their subscription left on their bike, that could explain why the seller has the exercise bike for sale at a higher price point. 

Why are you selling the bike?

This is a critical question to ask the seller. They could be selling because maybe they realized this bike was not right for them, or they prefer using the Peloton app for different workouts. Asking this question can provide a lot of insight. 

Can we negotiate the price?

It never hurts to ask to negotiate! Some sellers may want the bike gone as soon as possible and might be willing to compromise their price. But if they have multiple people interested in the Peloton, they may be less likely to negotiate. 

How to activate a used Peloton bike

So you just bought a used Peloton bike! Now what?

After setting the exercise bike up in your home workout area, you’re going to need to activate your Peloton bike.

You’re going to need the original or previous owner’s email address that they used to register the bike with Peloton.

Once you have that, head over to Peloton’s website and go to Peloton Chat, their customer service representative should be able to transfer the ownership over to you from there!

The other important thing to do is to make sure that you level the bike once you have moved it into your exercise space.

To do this, there are three stabilizers underneath each base. It is important that all of the stabilizers are adjusted to the same lengths and that the outermost stabilizers are firmly touching the floor to prevent the bike from rocking.

While Peloton ultimately discourages consumers from buying their equipment secondhand, there are many benefits to purchasing a used Peloton. The cost alone is the most significant advantage of investing in a used Peloton bike.

There are other options as well. You may want to consider Apple Fitness+ if you already have an Apple Watch and pick up an affordable exercise bike.

While you may not have any warranty options, that shouldn’t deter you from purchasing a used Peloton.

Peloton bikes are well-made and high-quality exercise bikes. As long as you proceed with caution, buying a used Peloton is a great decision! 

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.