The Excicle Bike is LG‘s latest foray into the connected fitness space, seeking to challenge category leader Peloton. Unveiled at CES 2023, the Excicle combines sleek aesthetics with versatile training modes for both studio and outdoor riding simulation.
But how does this newcomer stack up against the established Peloton? I‘ve analyzed both products across key aspects like design, technology, content, and value to help you decide which connected exercise bike is the better pick.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| LG Excicle | Peloton Bike/Bike+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | TBD (Expected $1500-$2000) | $1445/$2495 |
| Display | No built-in display | 22" and 24" touchscreens |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, WiFi | Bluetooth, WiFi, 3.5mm audio |
| Cycling Modes | Hybrid (indoor/outdoor simulation) | Magnetic resistance |
| Subscription | TBD | $39/month |
Design and Engineering
The most striking aspect of the LG Excicle is its minimalist, avant-garde aesthetic. The monocoque carbon fiber frame and integrated handlebar screen mount gives it an incredibly modern, sculpted look. LG claims it‘s their lightest and strongest bike ever engineered.
By contrast, Peloton sticks to a more conventional bike silhouette. The matte black carbon steel frame with sweat-proof coating is durable and sleek, but not quite as eye-catching. For small spaces though, Peloton‘s slightly smaller footprint may fit better.
Both bikes promise smooth, near-silent rides using belt drives instead of noisy chain systems. But LG‘s advanced Variable Freewheel motor that enables hybrid training modes is a technological leap over Peloton‘s classic magnetic resistance.
Ultimately form vs function is a matter of preference. Those valuing stunning looks will find the Excicle alluring, while Peloton prioritizes practicality.
Displays and Connectivity
One major difference is LG did not integrate a display on the Excicle, while Peloton bikes have vibrant 22" or 24" touchscreens. This allows Peloton users to follow classes, view metrics, and access content seamlessly without any external device needed.
LG expects users to cast or airplay classes from an app to a TV or tablet. This affords more flexibility to use your own screen, but introduces some fragmentation compared to Peloton‘s unified system.
Both can sync workout data over Bluetooth and WiFi to their respective apps. Peloton also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for wired audio integration absent on the LG.
Overall Peloton has done better optimizing hardware and software for a cohesive experience. Serious riders may prefer its integrated solution over LG‘s bring-your-own-device approach.
Training Content and Features
A huge part of these connected fitness products lies in their on-demand libraries and instructor-led classes. This is where Peloton shines over not just LG, but most competitors.
Peloton offers over 15 different class types from cycling to bootcamp to meditation, with new 30-60 minute sessions added daily across all disciplines. Their roster of 50+ top-notch instructors gives an unparalleled variety of personalities and coaching styles sure to match any rider‘s preferences.
Live classes let you feel part of a group ride with real-time leaderboards and instructor interaction via camera and chat features. curated playlists and themed rides keep content fresh and engaging over time.
We are yet to see the breadth and depth of content LG will offer for the Excicle platform. But matching Peloton‘s world-class community and content catalogue built over a decade will prove challenging even for a giant like LG.
That said, the Excicle bike does pack innovative features that could attract serious cyclists. The automatic resistance adjustment during outdoors simulation recreates downhill coasts and uphill climbs more realistically than any indoor bike before. Interval training also takes advantage of resistance flexibility in new ways.
So while Peloton likely leads in volume and variety of classes, LG brings far more advanced training capabilities augmenting both live and on-demand classes.
Pricing and Value Comparison
As a luxury connected exercise bike, sticker shock is expected with either option. The flagship Peloton Bike+ comes in at a steep $2500, with the original model running $1445.
LG has not officially announced Excicle pricing, but estimates place it between $1500 to $2000. This positions the Excicle as an affordable alternative to the premium Peloton tier while matching up against the standard bike.
When evaluating value however, it goes beyond just the bike cost. Both require ongoing subscription fees for their respective class content, currently $39 per month for Peloton. Rumors indicate LG will charge over $50 monthly for the Excicle platform, but we‘ll have to wait for official word.
There‘s also financing options that spread out upfront expenses over monthly payments. And the ability to share access across household members increases the value proposition for families and roommates. Ultimately it‘s a complex equation around budgets and utilization.
One thing is clear – neither bikes will appeal those unwilling or unable to invest over a thousand dollars upfront given far cheaper basic exercise bikes exist. The luxury pricing is what helps fuel sophisticated engineering, beautiful design, and rich content.
Recent Technology Innovations
Peloton made waves in 2022 by slashing prices on equipment while increasing subscription costs – essentially subsidizing the bikes to grow the platform. Combined with new executive leadership, its signs of a strategic shift recognizing market realities.
Software improvements continue making Peloton a more social, engaging platform with features like hashtag riding challenges. New discipline additions such as rowing and boxing indicate an ecosystem play beyond just bikes.
LG meantime banks on the Excicle bike itself as the primary innovation lever rather than content or software environment. The variable resistance freewheel motor, outdoors simulation mode, and adjustable geometry reinvent what connected exercise bikes can achieve.
Upcoming products hinted like the Layzne exercise mirror and Pontos smart scales show LG‘s aspirations perhaps to mirror Peloton‘s platform ubiquity across fitness verticals. But right now the smart bike remains the crown jewel of their connected gym vision.
Verdict: Which is the Better Buy?
Both Peloton and the LG Excicle represent the pinnacle of connected exercise bikes pushing technological and experiential limits. There is no universally superior option – each have strengths and weaknesses that will appeal differently depending on individual priorities around design, content, training versatility and budget.
For those wanting the most immersive cycling platform with world-class community and content catalogue, Peloton leads the pack. Its polished hardware-software integration rewards loyal riders who engage deeply with the broader ecosystem.
The Excicle however brings genuine cycling training innovation thanks to its advanced variable resistance motor enabling far more dynamic outdoor simulation and interval training. The striking modern aesthetics and hydraulic adjustable geometry also help it stand out from the crowd.
So while Peloton likely retains an overall edge, LG has firmly positioned the Excicle bike as a formidable rival that refines and pushes many aspects of connected cycling forwards. As the platform develops with more software features, training programs and broad device sync support, it may well give even Peloton leadership cause for concern.
FAQs
Does the LG bike have a touchscreen like the Peloton?
No, the LG Excicle does not include an integrated touchscreen display. Riders need to connect an external device like smartphone, tablet or smart TV to view class content and monitor workout data.
Do I have to pay a monthly fee for classes on LG‘s bike?
LG hasn‘t formally announced recurring costs, but it is widely expected subscriptions will be required to access on-demand class libraries and online features comparable to Peloton‘s $39 monthly charge.
Which has more advanced technology for controlling resistance/simulation?
The LG Excicle uses an advanced Variable Freewheel motor that dynamically adjusts resistance instantly to simulate uphills, downhills and interval training for remarkably realistic outdoor riding. Peloton relies on magnetic resistance that, while effective, does not offer the same depth of simulation capability.
Is one bike clearly better than the other overall?
It‘s hard to declare one bike definitively "better" given the differing strengths. Peloton leads in community, content and integrated hardware/software experience. But the LG Excicle brings meaningful cycling tech innovations and gorgeous modern aesthetics. For most, Peloton likely still retains an edge but the Excicle is arguably the more future-forward product advancing connected exercise bike capabilities to the next level.
