Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells vs Peloton Bike Original (Gen 3) (2026)

✍️ By the 247Verdict Editorial Team📅 Updated 05 October 2026

Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

9.2/10 Excellent

4.7★ (26,200 owners)

Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells. Turn the dial, pick 2.5–24kg in 2 seconds.

Full Review

Peloton Bike Original (Gen 3)

9.0/10 Excellent

4.4★ (8,400 owners)

21.5" touchscreen, live and on-demand classes, auto-resistance, 12K+ classes, Peloton Membership.

Full Review

At a Glance

	Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells	Peloton Bike Original (Gen 3)
247Verdict Score	9.2/10	9.0/10
Owner Rating	4.7★ (26,200)	4.4★ (8,400)
Verdict	Excellent	Excellent

Quick Verdict

Both are strong choices, but the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells edges ahead with a 9.2/10 vs 9.0/10. Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells. Turn the dial, pick 2.5–24kg in 2 seconds. That said, the Peloton Bike Original (Gen 3) is worth considering if 21.5" touchscreen, live and on-demand classes, auto-resistance, 12K+ classes, Peloton Membership. Check the current price on Amazon →

Pros & Cons Side by Side

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

Replaces 15 dumbbell sets (2.5–24kg) in footprint of one pair
2-second dial adjustment — no fumbling between sets
Compact storage tray included
10-year track record of reliability
25 weight settings covers virtually all home strength training

Longer than standard dumbbells — some floor exercises feel awkward
Not designed for dropping — unlike fixed iron
24kg upper limit insufficient for advanced lifters

Peloton Bike Original (Gen 3)

21.5-inch touchscreen with live instructor classes creates genuine motivation unmatched by solo training
Auto-resistance adjusts the bike automatically when instructors call for changes — no manual dial
12,000+ on-demand classes across cycling, yoga, strength and stretching
Peloton membership community: leaderboard, high-fives, group rides create social engagement
The most effective home fitness device for consistent usage by motivation-dependent exercisers

Peloton Membership ($44/month) is required for classes — the machine's primary value
£1,000+ hardware plus subscription — Schwinn IC4 with Zwift costs significantly less
Class-dependent usage: without membership, the Peloton Bike is an expensive basic exercise bike

FAQ

Which is better, Bowflex SelectTech 552 or Peloton Bike Original?

Is the Bowflex SelectTech 552 worth the extra cost?

Yes — Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells scores higher at 9.2/10 vs 9.0/10.

Who is the Peloton Bike Original best suited to?

Replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells. Turn the dial, pick 2.5–24kg in 2 seconds.

Who is the Peloton Bike Original best suited to?

21.5" touchscreen, live and on-demand classes, auto-resistance, 12K+ classes, Peloton Membership.

What are the main downsides of each?

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells: Longer than standard dumbbells — some floor exercises feel awkward; Not designed for dropping — unlike fixed iron. Peloton Bike Original (Gen 3): Peloton Membership ($44/month) is required for classes — the machine's primary value; £1,000+ hardware plus subscription — Schwinn IC4 with Zwift costs significantly less.

Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?

Largely, yes — Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells sits at 4.7★ from 26,200 verified Amazon owners, and Peloton Bike Original (Gen 3) at 4.4★ from 8,400.

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