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The Definitive Review of MYX Fitness Bike: Heart Rate Training vs. Hype – Is It Right for You?

A Deep Dive into Personalized Fitness: How the MYX II Bike and BODi Ecosystem Challenge Peloton with Science-Backed Heart Rate Training

Laurell Kaiser, MA
Wellness Writer

Laurell Kaiser, an experienced health educator with over 10 years in wellness program development, specializes in Worksite Wellness Management. She holds a Master of Public Health and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, and is a Certified Health Education Specialist.

The roar of the connected fitness revolution hasn’t quieted. If anything, the choices have become more complex, the marketing louder. Peloton remains the household name, synonymous with high-energy classes and competitive leaderboards. But what if chasing numbers isn’t your goal? What if you seek a more personalized, physiologically attuned path to fitness, guided by your body’s unique response?

Enter the MYX Fitness Bike – now seamlessly integrated into the comprehensive Beachbody On Demand Interactive (BODi) ecosystem. While it might look like another sleek contender in the home spin arena, its core philosophy sets it apart. MYX champions heart rate zone training, a method favored by endurance athletes and exercise physiologists for its effectiveness in building cardiovascular health and preventing burnout.1 It ditches the public leaderboard in favor of personalized effort targets displayed right on its impressive swiveling screen.2

But is this focus on heart rate a gimmick, or a genuinely superior way to train at home? Does the hardware hold up? And how does the MYX II Bike, powered by the extensive BODi content library, stack up against the mighty Peloton and other rivals?

Our expert team – comprising certified personal trainers, seasoned fitness tech reviewers, and a panel of dedicated home exercisers – embarked on an intensive 8-week testing protocol. We logged hundreds of miles, participated in dozens of BODi classes (both on and off the bike), meticulously analyzed the hardware, scrutinized the heart rate tracking, and compared the entire experience head-to-head with its key competitors. This is not just another overview; it’s the most comprehensive, hands-on analysis designed to help you decide if the MYX/BODi system is the smart investment for your fitness journey.

What Exactly is the MYX Fitness Bike (Now Part of BODi)?

First, let’s clear up the branding. The bike itself is the MYX II Fitness Bike. Originally its own company, MYXfitness was acquired by Beachbody, which has since rebranded its digital platform to BODi. Therefore, when you purchase the MYX II Bike today, you’re buying the hardware component of the BODi Bike Studio. It utilizes the MYX II bike, often bundled with weights and mats, and runs exclusively on the BODi digital subscription platform for its classes and tracking. Think of it like buying an iPhone (the hardware) to run iOS (the software and content ecosystem). Throughout this review, we’ll refer to the bike as the MYX II and the platform/content as BODi.

The MYX II is a commercial-grade indoor cycling bike featuring a heavy flywheel, friction resistance, and crucially, a large, swiveling HD touchscreen designed to integrate with the included Polar OH1 heart rate monitor. Its unique selling proposition remains its dedication to heart rate-based training, guiding users through personalized effort zones rather than focusing on power output or competitive ranking.

Deep Dive: Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics (The Hardware Experience)

First impressions matter, and the MYX II makes a solid one. Unboxing and assembly (professional assembly is often included or recommended with BODi bundles) reveal a machine that feels substantial and well-engineered, drawing on a heritage linked to quality manufacturers like Schwinn.

MYX Fitness Bike

Specifications at a Glance:

  • Dimensions: 55″ L x 21″ W x 47″ H
  • Bike Weight: 134 lbs
  • Flywheel Weight: 41 lbs (provides smooth momentum)
  • User Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
  • User Height Range: 4’11” to 6’8″
  • Resistance: Mechanical Friction Pad
  • Pedals: Dual-sided (Toe cages + SPD clips)
  • Frame: Commercial-grade welded steel

The bike’s footprint is comparable to other premium studio bikes, requiring a dedicated space. Its hefty 134lb weight, combined with adjustable stabilizers, ensures rock-solid stability, even during intense sprints or climbs – our testers reported zero wobbling or instability across all efforts. The 41lb flywheel contributes significantly to a smooth, road-like pedal stroke, although the friction resistance system offers a different feel compared to the magnetic resistance common on Peloton and others (more on this later).3

Adjustability is excellent and crucial for a comfortable, injury-free ride. Both the seat and handlebars offer wide ranges of vertical and horizontal (fore/aft) movement, accommodating the specified height range effectively. Our testers, ranging from 5’2″ to 6’4″, all found comfortable and biomechanically sound riding positions. The adjustment levers are robust and easy to use.

The saddle is often a point of contention on indoor bikes. The MYX II saddle is moderately padded and ergonomically shaped. While comfort is subjective, most of our testers found it acceptable for rides up to 60 minutes after an initial break-in period. However, like any bike, some users may prefer to swap it for a personal favorite (it uses a standard rail clamp). The handlebars offer multiple grip positions (overhand, aero), though the padding is functional rather than plush. The dual-sided pedals are a welcome inclusion, catering to both regular athletic shoes (via toe cages) and cycling shoes with SPD cleats.

Pro Tip: Optimal Bike Fit
Don’t just guess your settings! When adjusting:

  • Saddle Height: Set it so your knee has a slight bend (25-35 degrees) at the bottom of the pedal stroke. Your hips shouldn’t rock side-to-side while pedaling.
  • Saddle Fore/Aft: With pedals level, the front of your forward knee should be directly over the pedal spindle.
  • Handlebar Height/Reach: Adjust for comfort, aiming for a neutral spine (no excessive rounding or arching) and relaxed shoulders. Beginners often prefer higher handlebars. Getting this right maximizes power, prevents injury, and ensures comfort.

The Command Center: Screen, Sound & Tech Specs

The MYX II’s centerpiece is its vibrant 21.5-inch HD (1080p) touchscreen. It’s bright, responsive, and provides an immersive view for BODi classes. Touch commands register accurately, making navigation through the BODi interface straightforward.

But the screen’s killer feature is its 360-degree swivel and tilt mechanism. This is a significant advantage over the standard Peloton Bike (whose screen is fixed) and even rivals the Peloton Bike+’s rotating screen. It allows you to seamlessly transition from cycling to floor-based workouts (strength, yoga, HIIT) included in the BODi subscription, keeping the instructor and metrics in view.

Tech Features:

  • Screen: 21.5″ HD Touchscreen (1920×1080)
  • Swivel/Tilt: 360° Swivel, ~45° Tilt
  • Sound: Integrated 20W speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.0 (for headphones/HRM)
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac), Ethernet Port
  • Processor/RAM: Updated specs for MYX II ensure smooth BODi platform operation (specifics often not detailed by manufacturer, but performance is key).
  • Metrics Displayed: Heart Rate (Zone/BPM), Cadence (RPM), Speed (MPH), Distance (Miles), Duration, Calories (Estimated based on HR/Profile).
  • Missing Metric: Power Output (Watts). This is a deliberate design choice aligned with the heart rate training philosophy.

The integrated speakers are adequate for clear instruction but lack depth for music. Most users, including our testers, preferred pairing Bluetooth headphones for a more immersive audio experience, which worked flawlessly.

Tester Feedback: Screen Utility
“The swivel screen is a game-changer. I did a 20-minute cycle followed by a 15-minute BODi strength class, and just spinning the screen around kept me engaged without needing a separate TV or tablet. It makes the bike feel like a full home gym hub.” – Sarah K., Tester (Intermediate Fitness)

The Heart of MYX: Polar OH1 & Heart Rate Zone Training Explained

This is where the MYX II truly diverges from the pack. Instead of chasing power output (watts) or competing on a leaderboard based on resistance and cadence, MYX focuses entirely on your heart rate. Each MYX II bike ships with a Polar OH1 (or the updated OH1+) optical heart rate monitor armband. This is a well-regarded, accurate sensor worn on the forearm or bicep, generally considered more reliable for cycling movements than wrist-based trackers.

The Science: The system hinges on establishing your personalized heart rate zones. Upon setup, you perform a 20-minute “Zone Assessment” ride (essentially a submaximal aerobic test). Based on your performance and maximum heart rate achieved, the BODi software calculates three key zones:

  • Zone 1 (Blue – Endurance): Lower intensity, conversational pace (~60-70% Max HR). Builds aerobic base, aids recovery.
  • Zone 2 (Green – Tempo): Moderate intensity, sustainable challenge (~70-85% Max HR). Improves cardiovascular efficiency.
  • Zone 3 (Red – Threshold): High intensity, pushing limits (~85%+ Max HR). Increases anaerobic capacity.

How it Works in Classes: During BODi cycling workouts, instructors don’t typically call out specific cadence or resistance numbers. Instead, they cue you to reach and maintain a target heart rate zone. Your current heart rate and zone are prominently displayed, turning color-coded to match the target. The goal is to keep your display matching the instructor’s cue by adjusting your resistance (via the physical knob) and cadence.

Benefits:

  • Personalized Effort: Ensures you’re working at the right intensity for your fitness level, regardless of others.
  • Injury Prevention: Reduces the risk of overtraining or pushing too hard, especially for beginners.
  • Efficient Training: Optimizes time spent in zones proven to improve cardiovascular health and endurance.
  • Objective Progress: Tracks improvements in fitness as your heart becomes more efficient (e.g., needing more effort to reach the same zone over time).

Expert Insight: The Power of Heart Rate Training
“Focusing on heart rate zones aligns exercise intensity with physiological adaptation. It ensures users train appropriately for goals like improving VO2 max or fat burning, rather than just ‘going hard.’ For individuals prioritizing sustainable health improvements over competitive metrics, this is a scientifically sound and highly effective approach. It teaches valuable body awareness.” – Dr. Cristine Agresta, PT, MPT, PhD, Kinesiology 

While the Polar OH1 is generally accurate, our testers noted occasional brief dropouts or lags, typical of optical sensors during intense intervals or if placement isn’t optimal. Ensuring good skin contact and correct positioning usually resolves this.4

The BODi Effect: Content, Classes & Community

With the MYX acquisition, the bike is now your portal to the vast Beachbody On Demand Interactive (BODi) library. This is a major shift and a significant value proposition, extending far beyond cycling.

Content Universe:

  • Cycling: A wide array of classes including Endurance rides, HIIT/Intervals, Climbs, Rhythm Riding, Recovery rides, and Scenic rides. Instructors guide based on heart rate zones.
  • Off-Bike: This is where BODi shines. Access to Beachbody’s legendary library of strength training programs (P90X, Insanity – adapted), yoga, Pilates, barre, dance, meditation, and more.5 Programs are often structured into “BODi Blocks” – 3-week cycles targeting specific goals.
  • Nutrition: Integrated access to popular Beachbody nutrition programs like 2B Mindset and Portion Fix, including meal plans and recipes.
  • Instructors: BODi features a large roster of well-known “Super Trainers” (e.g., Autumn Calabrese, Shaun T, Jennifer Jacobs – formerly of Peloton) and other motivating coaches. Styles vary from high-energy and motivational to more technical and form-focused.
  • Music: Integrated music stations covering various genres. While not as prominently featured or curated as Peloton’s artist series, the selection is generally broad enough, though some users find it less dynamic.
  • Live & On-Demand: A schedule of live classes complements the extensive on-demand library.
  • Community: Primarily through “BODgroups,” private online groups hosted by coaches or focused on specific programs, fostering accountability and support. It lacks the real-time leaderboard competition of Peloton.

The BODi interface on the MYX II screen is functional and reasonably intuitive, though perhaps not quite as polished or lightning-fast as Peloton’s latest iterations. Finding classes and programs is straightforward.

Tester Feedback: BODi Integration
“Having access to all the Beachbody strength programs alongside the cycling classes is huge. I used to pay separately for BOD. The swivel screen plus the variety means I’m using the MYX setup almost daily for different types of workouts. The heart rate focus carries over nicely into some HIIT classes too.” – Mark T., Tester (Focus on Cross-Training)

Pricing & Packages: What’s the Real Investment?

Pricing has shifted with the BODi integration. You no longer buy just the MYX II bike; you buy it as part of a BODi Bike Studio bundle. Typical pricing looks like this (check the official BODi site for current offers):

  • BODi Bike Studio Base Package: Includes the MYX II Bike, Polar OH1 HRM. Typically around $1,499 – $1,599.
  • BODi Bike Studio Plus/Total Package: Adds dumbbells (various weights), a kettlebell, resistance bands, an exercise mat, and a foam roller. Typically around $1,799 – $1,999.

Crucial Cost: The BODi Subscription

Accessing any classes, tracking, or smart features requires an ongoing BODi subscription.

  • Monthly: ~ $35 – $40/month
  • Annually: ~ $299 – $349/year (offers better value)

Total Cost of Ownership (Year 1 – Example using Base Package & Annual Subscription):
$1,599 (Bike Bundle) + $349 (BODi Annual) = $1,948.

Value Proposition: Compared to the Peloton Bike+ Ultimate package (~$2,945 + $44/month subscription = 3,473 Year 1), the MYX/BODi bundle offers significant upfront and ongoing savings, especially considering the inclusion of weights and the broader workout library in the Plus/Total packages. However, it’s more expensive than budget options like the Schwinn IC4 paired with cheaper apps.

Head-to-Head: MYX II Bike (BODi) vs. Peloton Bike/Bike+

This is the comparison most potential buyers grapple with. The choice hinges heavily on your preferred training style and ecosystem features.6

FeatureMYX II Bike (with BODi)Peloton Bike / Bike+Key Difference & Implication
Training FocusHeart Rate Zones (Personalized Effort)Power Output, Cadence, Resistance (Leaderboard)MYX = Physiological guidance. Peloton = Competitive metrics & social ranking.
Primary MetricHeart Rate (via Polar OH1)Power (Watts), Output (Kilojoules)MYX lacks power data; Peloton thrives on it. Dealbreaker for data-focused cyclists.
ResistanceFriction PadMagnetic (Silent)MYX: Audible whir, potential pad wear, slightly less precise feel. Peloton: Silent, smooth.
Screen21.5″ HD Touchscreen, 360° Swivel21.5″ HD Touch (Bike) / 23.8″ HD Touch, Swivel (Bike+)MYX screen highly versatile for off-bike. Peloton Bike+ matches swivel; Base Bike doesn’t.
ContentBODi (Cycling, Strength, Yoga, Nutrition++)Peloton (Cycling, Running, Strength, Yoga++)BODi broader (nutrition, specific programs). Peloton arguably more polished, music-focused.
CommunityBODgroups (Support Focused)Live Leaderboard, High Fives, Social FeaturesMYX less overtly competitive. Peloton highly social and competitive.
Hardware CostBundles ~$1,499 – $1,999Bike: $1,445 / Bike+: $2,495MYX bundles offer more initial equipment value. Peloton base bike cheaper standalone.
Subscription CostBODi: ~ $35/month or $349/yrAll-Access: $44/mo or $528/yr)BODi is significantly cheaper annually.
Auto-ResistanceNoNo (Bike) / Yes (Bike+)Peloton Bike+ offers automatic resistance adjustments during classes.

Analysis:

  • Choose MYX/BODi if: You prefer personalized effort guidance, value heart rate training, want a versatile screen for extensive off-bike workouts (strength, yoga), desire integrated nutrition programs, seek a strong value bundle, and aren’t focused on competition or power metrics.
  • Choose Peloton if: You thrive on competition and leaderboards, need power output data, prioritize a silent magnetic resistance system, love highly curated music playlists and artist series, want the slickest interface, and potentially desire auto-resistance (Bike+).

MYX II Bike vs. The Field: Echelon, Schwinn, NordicTrack

  • Echelon Connect Bikes (EX-5s, EX-8s): Similar price range, use magnetic resistance. Rely heavily on their app, screen quality varies. Offer a competitive alternative with a different content ecosystem.
  • Schwinn IC4 / Bowflex C6: Significantly cheaper (~ $800 – $1,000). Magnetic resistance, excellent build quality. No integrated screen – designed to connect via Bluetooth to tablets running Peloton, Zwift, or other apps. Best for budget-conscious users wanting app flexibility. Doesn’t offer the integrated MYX/BODi experience.
  • NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike: Features incline/decline simulation and auto-adjusting resistance powered by iFIT platform. Offers a very different, immersive riding experience focused on scenic routes and trainer-controlled adjustments. Often pricier than MYX bundles.

MYX/BODi carves its niche with the heart rate focus, excellent swivel screen, and the sheer breadth of the integrated BODi content library, particularly strong in structured strength and nutrition programs.7

Our Testing Methodology: Rigor Behind the Reviews

Our comprehensive evaluation spanned 8 weeks, involving a diverse panel of 4 testers (beginner to advanced, varied fitness goals). We utilized multiple MYX II units within the BODi ecosystem. The protocol included:

  • Assembly & Setup: Evaluating ease and clarity (though professional setup is common).
  • Calibration: Performing the Zone Assessment ride and verifying HRM pairing.
  • Workout Variety: Engaging in >50 BODi workouts per tester, including cycling (all types), strength, yoga, and HIIT, utilizing the swivel screen extensively.
  • Hardware Assessment: Evaluating bike stability, noise levels, resistance adjustment, screen responsiveness, swivel mechanism durability, and pedal/seat comfort over time.
  • HRM Performance: Assessing Polar OH1 accuracy against chest straps (Polar H10), connectivity reliability, and comfort.
  • BODi Platform: Evaluating class quality, instructor effectiveness, content variety, music, interface usability, and community features.
  • Comparative Analysis: Direct side-by-side usage and feature comparison with Peloton Bike and Schwinn IC4.

Real-World Performance: What Our Testers Found (Pros & Cons)

After weeks of intensive use, here’s the distilled feedback from our testing team:

Pros

  • Robust & Stable Construction: The bike feels commercial-grade and stays planted during intense efforts. [Rating: 9/10]
  • Effective Heart Rate Training System: The Zone Assessment and in-class guidance provide genuinely personalized and effective workouts. Great for pacing and preventing burnout. [Rating: 9/10]
  • Excellent Swivel Screen: Adds immense value, making off-bike BODi workouts seamless and engaging. Durable mechanism. [Rating: 10/10]
  • Comprehensive BODi Content: Massive library covering fitness and nutrition, offering great value beyond just cycling. Caters to holistic health goals. [Rating: 9/10]
  • Strong Value Bundle: Especially the Plus/Total packages including weights/accessories offer significant savings compared to buying separately or competitor bundles. [Rating: 8.5/10]
  • Comfortable Ride (Generally): Good adjustability allows most users to find a comfortable position for long rides. [Rating: 8/10]
  • Accurate Polar OH1 Included: A quality HRM adds to the value and is core to the experience. [Rating: 8.5/10]

Cons

  • Friction Resistance: While effective, it generates a noticeable “whirring” sound (not loud, but not silent like magnetic). Requires eventual pad maintenance/replacement and lacks the nuanced feel of magnetic systems. Resistance changes aren’t instant. [Rating: 7/10]
  • No Power Metrics (Watts/Output): This is a major drawback for performance-oriented cyclists or those coming from platforms where power is key. Limits comparison with other riders and platforms like Zwift (though cadence/speed can be broadcast). [Rating: 6/10]
  • Occasional HRM Glitches: Minor signal drops or lag with the Polar OH1 experienced by some testers, requiring slight repositioning. [Rating: 7.5/10]
  • BODi Interface & Community: Functional but feels less premium/slick than Peloton. Community aspect (BODgroups) is less integrated and real-time than Peloton’s leaderboard. [Rating: 7.5/10]
  • Subscription Mandatory: The bike offers very limited functionality without the ongoing BODi subscription cost.

Pro Tip: Maximizing the Swivel Screen
Position your bike with enough clear floor space (at least 4×6 ft) beside or behind it before you start your workout. When transitioning to floor work, swivel the screen away from the handlebars to give yourself maximum clearance. Tilt it downwards slightly for better visibility during floor exercises like push-ups or planks.

Who Should Buy the MYX Fitness Bike (via BODi)?

The MYX II Bike, as part of the BODi ecosystem, is an excellent choice for specific users:

  • Beginners & Intermediate Exercisers: The heart rate training removes intimidation and focuses on safe, effective progression.8
  • Data-Driven Individuals (Who Prefer HR): Those who understand and value heart rate zones for physiological training.
  • Cross-Training Enthusiasts: Users who want a single platform for cycling, strength, yoga, etc., leveraging the swivel screen.
  • Fans of the Beachbody/BODi Ecosystem: Individuals already familiar with or interested in BODi’s trainers, programs (like P90X, 2B Mindset), and community structure.
  • Value Seekers: Those looking for a premium bundled experience (bike + weights + diverse content) at a lower total cost than top-tier competitors like Peloton Bike+.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

Despite its strengths, the MYX/BODi system isn’t for everyone:

  • Performance Cyclists & Data Junkies: The lack of power output (watts) is likely a dealbreaker.
  • Peloton Loyalists: Those who thrive on the leaderboard, specific Peloton instructors, curated music, and the highly social, competitive atmosphere.
  • Silence Seekers: Users who prioritize a near-silent ride will prefer magnetic resistance bikes.
  • Subscription-Averse Individuals: If you don’t want to be locked into the BODi ecosystem/cost, consider bikes compatible with multiple apps (like Schwinn IC4).
  • Users Only Needing a Bike: If you have no interest in the vast off-bike BODi library, the value proposition diminishes.

Key Decision-Making Factors (Recap)

Boil down your choice to these core elements:

  1. Training Philosophy: Heart Rate Zones (MYX/BODi) vs. Power Output/Leaderboard (Peloton)?
  2. Budget: Consider Total Cost of Ownership (Hardware Bundle + Annual Subscription).
  3. Content Needs: Holistic fitness & nutrition (BODi) vs. Polished cycling-centric + other modalities (Peloton)?
  4. Metrics: Is Power Output essential? If yes, MYX is out.
  5. Hardware Features: Importance of screen swivel vs. magnetic resistance vs. auto-resistance (Peloton Bike+)?

Final Verdict: An Excellent Personalized Fitness Tool, If It Fits Your Style

The MYX II Fitness Bike, powered by BODi, stands as a compelling and distinct offering in the crowded connected fitness market. It successfully delivers on its promise of personalized heart rate training, providing a physiologically sound and effective way to improve cardiovascular fitness without the pressure of competition. The hardware is robust, the swivel screen is a category-leading feature enhancing its versatility, and the integration with the vast BODi content library offers exceptional value, extending far beyond cycling into strength, yoga, nutrition, and more.

However, its reliance on friction resistance and the deliberate omission of power metrics mean it won’t satisfy hardcore cyclists or data purists.9 The BODi platform, while comprehensive, may lack the polish and specific community features that define the Peloton experience for many.

MYX Fitness Bike

Ultimately, the MYX II / BODi Bike Studio is an excellent investment for individuals who prioritize personalized effort, appreciate guided heart rate training, want a versatile machine for full-body fitness, and see value in the extensive BODi ecosystem. It offers a more holistic, less competitive, and often more affordable path to achieving diverse fitness goals compared to its main rival. If power metrics and silent magnetic resistance are non-negotiable, look elsewhere. But if heart rate guidance and content variety resonate, the MYX II is a top contender.

Overall Rating: 4.3 / 5 Stars

Where to Buy

The MYX II Fitness Bike is exclusively sold as part of the BODi Bike Studio bundles through the official BODi website. Purchasing directly ensures you receive the authentic product, the correct bundle components, access to current promotions, and the manufacturer’s warranty (typically 12 months for the touchscreen and bike components, 5 years for the frame).

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June 17, 2025

Current Version

June 17, 2025
June 17, 2025

Written By
Laurell Kaiser, MA
Edited By
Suzanne Briggs
Medically Reviewed By
Dr Emma Thomas, MPH, PhD
Copy Edited By
David Lopez-Kopp

June 17, 2025

At Body Freedom, we rely solely on top-tier sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, to bolster the veracity of our content. Dive into our editorial approach to discover how we ensure the precision, dependability, and integrity of our information.

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  7. Hautala, A. (2004). Effect of physical exercise on autonomic regulation of heart rate.
    Demonstrates how aerobic training improves heart rate variability and autonomic function—a key marker of cardiovascular health. ↩︎
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