Peloton Tread Review 2023 – Completes your home gym
Overall Score 9.6
Peloton Tread Overview
Our Take on the Peloton Tread
Peloton Tread is a smart immersive, connected treadmill with a 24-inch HD touchscreen, and well suited for users who want interactive studio workouts with a trainer for running or walking. We recommend the Peloton Tread to those users looking more for studio instruction for running and walking with music. Tread trainers are expert runners and fitness professionals who radiate high energy and offer beginner to advanced workouts, including 5K, 10K, and even half and full marathon training.
The monthly Peloton All-Access subscription for $44 per month covers the tread and a bike, plus offers thousands of off-the-equipment options such as strength, stretch, meditation yoga, boot camp, and more. From the Peloton App, you can broadcast to a large-screen TV or many other smart devices with android or iOS as an iPhone or iPad, including Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, and Roku.
The Peloton Tread is a good treadmill for beginners and intermediate to serious competitive runners. It also can be used for power walking and running interval HIIT combination-style workouts. Priced at $3,500 this treadmill is regarded as a premium treadmill however in our opinion, without many of the same comparable features you would expect at this price level — we discuss this in more detail.
Quick Key Features:
Compact footprint (5.5” x 2.8-feet)
Crisp and responsive 24-inch HD touchscreen display
Capable of speeds up to 12.5 mph and 12.5 percent incline
Quick-adjust knob controls to change speed and incline, unique to Peloton
Interactive Studio Runs — daily live classes and thousands of on-demand
Option to automatically follow instructor cues to increase incline during a tread on-demand session. (Not yet on Live workouts) and applies for inclining only, not declining.
Full Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
Compact footprint
BUT NOT A FOLDING TREADMILL
Trust Our Reviews of Fitness Equipment
When testing and evaluating the Peloton Tread, we compared it to comparable treadmill models like the NordicTrack 2450, NordicTrack X22i, and others.
The maybeyesno review team understands what makes good fitness equipment – indoor bikes, rowers, treadmills, ellipticals, and strength equipment. If it’s good – it’s good – if it’s bad – it’s bad, we will tell you. Over the past 10 years, we have tested and published exercise equipment reviews. We get hands-on with gear and discuss overall design, tech and function, including the feel, price, and drill down on components such as the motor, running deck, incline, the screen display (if applicable), subscription content, adjustment features, ease of use, noise levels, warranty and durability.
Based on extensive use and testing, we discuss, summarize, and compare equipment to help you determine if this item is the one for you.
TREAD Feature Summary
The Tread supports a maximum running speed up to 12.5 mph and an elevation incline of 12.5 percent. Peloton Tread content membership has a monthly subscription of $44 for live and on-demand workouts. If you already own a Peloton bike, tread workouts are available as part of the All Access Subscription without additional cost, a good reason from a financial point of view is to consider this treadmill.
Peloton Tread is Bluetooth enabled, easily connecting with most Bluetooth devices, including headphones, speakers and heart rate monitors. When using a heart rate monitor the console will display your heart rate on screen while you run and displays the time in each heart rate zone after your workout.
Heart Rate Monitor and heart Zone Training
You can sync your Apple Watch or Strava account with the Peloton Tread, enabling the automatic capture of your data and allows you to easily keep track of your history and goals achieved in one place.
The 24-inch touchscreen clearly displays the familiar trainers and workouts if you already have a bike or are using the Peloton app. The frame design is sleek and sturdy, and the deck has a belt rotating on rollers similar to many other treadmills.
The Peloton Tread does not fold up and is heavy to move (290 lbs.) So be sure to plan ahead where you want to place the treadmill in your home. The Tread has two small wheels to allow you to move the Tread short distances. You will want at least two to three people to assist in moving it. The Price of your Tread includes delivery and setup.
As we reported last year Peloton added an auto-incline feature to the Peloton Tread. (Licensed from Nordictrack) You can use the auto-incline option when following instructor cues where the treadmill will adjust its incline during an on-demand Tread workout. At any point during a session, you may choose to override auto-incline and make your own adjustments, if you feel the deck elevation is too difficult or too easy.
When the Instructor cues the new incline range, your treadmill's running-deck-incline, will start to adjust. Once auto-incline is activated, an outline of a lock icon will begin to fill. This is your indication of the amount of time left until the next incline change.
USE AUTO-INCLINE on the Peloton Tread with the Lock icon Indicator
PROS with Peloton Tread
A modern, attractive design with metal covering, a mat metallic powder finish, the treadmill’s side upright-supports angle in an outward direction giving the sense of a wider feel — but are also functional to allow comfortable room for arm movement.
Peloton trainers are talented instructors, many veteran runners who present well produced workout content combined with music playlists and loads of metrics.
The wide touchscreen is a decent size at exactly 23.8-inches and is responsive to touch, loads classes quickly, and has an anti-smudge, anti-sweat surface.
The Tread motor is quiet, with the only noise being the foot strike on the deck which normally occurs across all treadmills when running.
A smart choice for those who love Peloton but want to do more than cycle.
Both the Peloton Bike and the Tread membership are covered by an All-Access Peloton subscription.
Strong Connectivity options for both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
CONS with Peloton Tread
Tread price now is $2,995 (was $3,495) plus a Peloton monthly subscription of $44/month. This is an above average price for this quality of treadmill and might be more than some people want to spend. Without the monthly subscription, you cannot access any Tread content.
Peloton Tread running deck is smaller than other comparable treadmills in the same price range – it is 2-inches less in width, and 1-inch shorter than the NordicTrack 2450 or X22i Incline Treadmill, and other treadmills in this price-quality category.
There is virtually zero bounce or give in the running deck.
The screen wobbles a bit when running – was an issue at higher speeds.
The Peloton Tread is not a folding treadmill, requires dedicated floor space.
The adjustment knob while a cool idea – we found is less precise than preset speed and incline control buttons, where you can increment by 1/10th of a mile (for example). The Knobs, both well located on the inside of each handrail, are quick to respond but are a little tricky to get use to and as mentioned, are not as easy to quickly select the exact speed or incline you may need.
Adjustment Control Knob
One on each side to adjust Incline and Speed
With an Auto-Follow option enabled the Peloton Tread only inclines, users have to manually set decline, which was disappointing – at this price point decline ability should be expected and included as part of this Auto-Follow function.
The Tread does not support Downward Decline Elevation like the Nordictrack 1750 and 2450 treadmills. Downhill running or walking can be help strengthen the quads, glutes, and hamstrings, this is a good option to have for training, recovery, or weight loss goals.
The Peloton Tread also does not provide automatic change to speed. You manually need to set/adjust the running deck speed to follow trainer speed cues. Most connected treadmills have automatic change-adjustment to incline, decline and speed, plus include running deck elevation-decline to simulate downhill running synchronized to each workout session. These last two points combined, are significant feature-misses, especially for the price level.
No cooling fans. Does not so seem important, but certainly nice to have.
The motor is a little under-powered for this category of treadmill, particularly for heavy – daily users who run longer distances often.
Peloton Tread Unique Features
Jump Button within Control Knob
THE JUMP BUTTON
A Jump button increases speed and incline by 1 mph and 1% incline. The jump button conveniently located on the inside of both control knobs will take you up to the next even level. For example, if you are at 3.2mph and want to increase speed, a quick press on the jump button will take you to 4mph.
Note, that the Jump button is only for increasing speed and incline and cannot decrease either.
ON-SCREEN SHORTCUTS
On-screen shortcuts are for speed and incline changes. You are able to set up 3 shortcuts for incline settings and three-speed settings to quickly toggle between on the touchscreen. This a useful feature for those who like HIIT interval workouts, or plan to quickly move from one speed to another so you do not have to fiddle with the knobs to get to the exact setting you want.
Peloton Tread Classes – What to Love
Screenshot Sample of Tread Class with Peloton instructors
■ Peloton Instructors are interactive and engaging. We have experimented with taking a substantial number of sessions across all major fitness subscription services, and Peloton is among one of the top connected interactive training platforms.
■ There is a wide variety of live and on-demand classes, with live classes typically posted within 48 hours of airing. You get a broad range of workout options to select from, with a nice blend of instructors delivering a good mix of training with get-up-and-go energy, charm, and appeal.
■ The Leaderboard gives you an idea of where you rank compared to other users. This is a feature that makes Peloton competitive and challenging. Compete against friends or yourself for a new Personal Best.
■ Live and on-demand classes include Closed Captioning (CC) as an option, which is great when you want to play your own music playlist and still follow the trainer's instructions and for those who need this service.
Peloton Tread Detail
TOUCHSCREEN AND CONSOLE
Tread Console
The touchscreen is the same quality as the Peloton Bike+. The 24-inch display has a great high-quality 1080p HD resolution with excellent image and graphics presentation. The console includes a front-facing soundbar with 2-rear-facing woofers, an 8-megapixel camera with a built-in sliding privacy cover, and a USB-C port on the back, close enough to charge a compatible device placed in the front storage tray. USB-C connections come with newer iPads, Apple laptops, and other devices. A feature we liked is that you can put your Peloton Tread to sleep by holding the stop button below on the handrail for 5 seconds.
[NOTE] After 20 minutes of inactivity, the Peloton Tread automatically goes into sleep mode. To wake up the Tread, you can press the stop button or simply tap on the touchscreen.
Tread Storage Tray - two water bottle holders
■ The tray is a little small but stays with the minimalist style of the Tread. It pretty-much holds 2 water bottles and a phone. The Tray is not removeable to easily clean, as it was on the original Peloton Tread+.
■ The Peloton Tread’s console touchscreen cannot rotate or swivel for off-the-Tread or on-the-mat workout sessions, making it harder to view compared to treadmills that do. But it does allow to be tilted upward or downward 50 degrees and has an exceptionally good resolution that can work well from an angle depending on screen glare.
Off-the-Tread Peloton Cross-Training combined workout session with weights
For some on-the-mat classes you may be better off using the Peloton App on a smartphone, smart widescreen TV with Apple TV or tablet, especially for floor position routines.
RUNNING DECK
Peloton Tread running deck belt up-close
■ The Peloton Tread deck at 59-inches in length and 20-inches width is not as wide as most other comparable treadmills in this price category. The two inches of width missing makes a difference and gives you a more squished feel when running at speeds over 5 mph. There is not as much room for your arms to swing as freely as on other treadmills like the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 or the Nordictrack X22i or X32i incline Treadmills which have a standard deck length and width of 60” x 22-inches. On the positive side Peloton gives runners more room for a longer stride by placing the treadmill motor out of the way under the deck which eliminates need for a cover at the front of the running deck.
■ The Tread running deck also lacks absorption/cushioning and is not on par with some of the other treadmills in its class. We think there should be more shock absorbing features to reduce impact on your knees, hip and ankle joints. The cushioning on the Tread is what we would expect to find with a less expensive treadmill, not one in the $2500+ range.
Peloton Tread running Deck, side-rails and textured belt at 59”x20”
MOTOR
During our use, the 3.0 HP motor performed well, it felt responsive and quick to change of speed. That said, the Tread’s 3.0 HP motor is the minimal acceptable motor power for this class of treadmill. Since the Tread was only first released in May of 2021, there is not yet enough available long-term data to validate durability of the Tread’s motor, but for now we assume based on the specifications it should be ok if not too stressed. Multiple daily long-run users may push the motor into early burn-out —time will tell.
■ Your Peloton Tread should be located within 5 feet of a power outlet, with a little slack, it is not recommended to be used with an extension cord, and the power cord never be placed under the Tread according to Peloton.
As an FYI, the Peloton website indicates that it requires a dedicated circuit for the Tread and to avoid GFCI outlets. This may be an additional cost to consider. Numerous owners of the Peloton Tread ignore this recommendation and use a regular 120v outlet. We are not able to provide guidance on this issue — the ramifications are unclear both on how this may affect the equipment and warranty.
Wi-Fi REQUIREMENTS
Peloton states a recommend minimum download speed of 10-15 mbps and a minimum upload speed of 2.5 mbps is required for the Tread operation. While our experience with Peloton Equipment from a Wi-Fi speed and operational perspective has been solid to exceptional, it is the amount of bandwidth available that should be the focus to ensure a good experience. If your home network already has a number of devices using your available bandwidth you may have to make adjustments. [TIP] Use fast.com or speedtest.net to test/check your home network speed during different days at different times of the day.
If you experience poor connectivity from certain parts of your home. The Google Wi-Fi Router works better than an extender and also comes in 2 or 3 packs with extra pods. Check it out at Amazon and read the verified review comments, you’ll find some useful real-world internet tips there.
Can I just run on the Peloton Tread?
YES, you can. The Tread offers a free "Just Run" mode option that does not require owners to commit to a paid subscription. You will have access to 2 pre-recorded classes, but your stats are not saved. If you do not have access to Wi-Fi, you will see your stats on the screen for the current session.
Put the Tread into Free-Mode and run your own workout
What are the User Requirements?
The Peloton Tread is designed and tested for user heights between 4'11'' and 6'4'’ (150 - 193 cm) tall. And for minimum to maximum weights of between 105 and 300 lbs. (48 - 136 kg)
Peloton states this treadmill is for those aged 16 and over.
PRICE OPTIONS
The Peloton Tread costs was priced at $3,495 with included delivery and set-up. but as we reported reduced has been to $2,995. It has a 12-month limited warranty. There are packages you can purchase that will include dumbbells, heart rate band, water bottle, workout mat and yoga accessories. There are two available, $3,295 and $3,320 depending on which one you choose. Financing options are available from Affirm.
The monthly workout subscription is $44 per month. All Access subscription membership includes Peloton Bike content along with a Hugh selection off the equipment cross-training workout content.
Peloton offers a 30 day at home trial. If you are not satisfied, Peloton will pick up the tread and provide a refund.
The Tread Warranty breaks-out out as follows:
- Frame: 5 years
- Motor: 5 years
- Belt: 5 years
- Screen: 1 year
- Parts: 1 year
- Labor: 1 year
Overall, the Peloton Warranty is a little skimpy, we would expect at least 2 years on the parts and 10 years on the Frame. This is an area where the Peloton Tread is not competitive. We would recommend purchasing the extended warranty especially if you have multiple users that run for long periods of time.
Extended warranty pricing for an additional 12 months of coverage is $270; for an additional 27 months of coverage add $325. All parts and labor for covered repairs are included in the extended coverage options.
Monthly Membership (Content): $44/month All Access
Number One Big Reason to buy the Tread
First, if you already have a Peloton bike and are looking to purchase a treadmill, the Tread should be at the top of your consideration list. By using the All-Access Peloton subscription with your Tread, you will not be required to purchase an additional subscription, and this will save $528 per year. Add to this, familiarity with the Peloton approach to training and method, plus an overall affinity towards the brand probably helps tip the scale towards the Tread. Did we mention the cost of ownership savings?
The $528 savings for existing Peloton users is definitely a very persuasive reason to purchase the Tread as your home treadmill. If you love your bike, you will most likely love your TREAD and be able to expand your fitness options with Peloton.
IN THE END ─ Final thoughts
Overall, we enjoyed the Peloton Tread. The touchscreen is great, and the frame has a sleek and contemporary look, we really like the attractive matte metallic-finish styling. The motor does not have a cover taking up valuable space in the front of the treadmill deck as it is housed internally out of sight. underneath the deck. This provides more room on the running deck allowing you to take longer strides without bumping into a front motor cover.
The Screen console wobble may bother some runners, and the deck offers less cushioning than what we usually like to see. One of our biggest concerns is the motor and durability since the motor is such a critical and the hardest working component of any treadmill's durability and performance. The 3.0 HP is underpowered, and we would have preferred to see it rated at least at 3.5 or 3.6+.
However, if you have a Peloton bike, you will appreciate the metrics-rich statistics, familiar trainers, and workout content with the leaderboard available for those competitive types. And you can use your bike, All Access subscription on the Tread without any additional cost, or vice-versa.
The Tread could be improved a lot, adding for instance the ability to decline, but overall, it is a satisfactory treadmill although a bit pricey for its quality and features. If you are a Peloton fan, you will enjoy having the Peloton Tread to add walking and running to your wellness and fitness options at home.
