# Peloton bike not working: screen, resistance and connection fixes

Source: https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/peloton-bike-not-working
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Row and Spin

**In short:** Start with a full restart: shut the touchscreen down from its settings, switch off at the power, wait, then power up again. Check that the power cable and the cable behind the screen are fully seated. For Wi-Fi problems, forget and rejoin the network. If resistance readings look wrong after that, Peloton's support pages describe calibration, which you should follow for your model or ask support to guide you through.

A Peloton bike combines a spin bike with a touchscreen computer, so faults fall into two groups: the screen and software, and the mechanical side such as resistance, pedals and cranks. Many screen problems clear with a proper restart and a check of the cables. Mechanical faults, and anything involving calibration, are more model-specific. This guide covers the safe checks you can do at home, in a sensible order. Peloton updates its software and support steps from time to time, so use the Peloton support website or your manual for the exact menus on your model.

## Screen black, frozen or stuck on the logo

First check the power. Make sure the power cable is firmly plugged into the wall socket and into the bike, and that the socket works with another device. Then check the cable that runs up the frame to the back of the touchscreen; it can work loose during moving or cleaning.

If the screen is on but frozen, hold the power button on the screen until it shuts down, wait a minute, then turn it on again. Peloton's support pages also describe a factory reset for persistent software faults; this removes local settings, so only do it if support suggests it or the simpler steps have failed.

1. Check the wall socket and power cable.
2. Check the cable behind the touchscreen is fully seated.
3. Hold the screen power button to shut down.
4. Wait a minute, then power on.
5. Contact Peloton support if it still fails to start.

Note: Do not open the touchscreen housing or the bike's covers. Unplug the bike before checking cables, and keep liquids away from the screen and power connections. For electrical faults, contact Peloton support.

## Resistance or cadence readings look wrong

If the resistance number does not change when you turn the knob, or the cadence reads zero while you pedal, restart the screen first, as a software glitch can stop the readings updating. Then check the sensor cable connections that are visible without removing covers.

If readings still look wrong, the bike may need calibrating. Peloton describes a calibration process on its support pages; it differs between models and may need a calibration tool or support's guidance. Follow those instructions exactly rather than guessing. Our article on [resistance faults on exercise bikes](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/exercise-bike-resistance-not-working) explains how magnetic resistance works in general.

## Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and class connection problems

If classes will not load, check whether other devices in the house are online. Restart your router if they are not. On the Peloton screen, go to the network settings, forget the Wi-Fi network and join again, entering the password carefully. A 2.4 GHz network often reaches further through walls than 5 GHz, so try the other band if your router offers both.

For Bluetooth headphones or heart rate monitors, remove the device from the Peloton's list and pair it again. Make sure the device is not still connected to your phone. Membership questions, such as which features work without a subscription, are covered in our [Peloton without a subscription article](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/peloton-without-subscription).

| Problem | First check | Next step |
| --- | --- | --- |
| No classes loading | Is the home internet working? | Forget and rejoin Wi-Fi |
| Weak or dropping Wi-Fi | Distance from router | Try the 2.4 GHz band or a mesh point |
| Headphones not pairing | Disconnected from your phone? | Remove and pair again |
| Heart rate strap not found | Strap battery and contact | Pair from the device settings again |

Connection checks in order

## Pedals, cranks and noises

Clicks once per pedal turn usually come from a loose pedal, crank or shoe cleat. Peloton bikes use Look Delta compatible pedals, so check that the three cleat bolts on each shoe are tight. Tighten the pedals with a 15 mm pedal spanner: the right pedal tightens clockwise and the left anticlockwise.

If a crank arm wobbles or there is grinding inside the frame, stop riding and contact Peloton support. Our [knocking noise guide](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/exercise-bike-knocking-noise) explains how to narrow down a noise, and [spin bike shoes and pedals](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/spin-bike-shoes-and-pedals) covers cleat types.

## When to contact Peloton support, and alternatives

Contact Peloton support through its UK website or the help section on the screen if the bike will not power on, resistance stays wrong after calibration, there is a mechanical noise from inside the frame, or a part is damaged. Have your bike's serial number ready; it is usually on a label on the frame. If the bike is under warranty, do not attempt internal repairs, as this may affect your cover.

If you are thinking of replacing the bike, our [Peloton alternatives guide](https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-peloton-alternative-bike) compares bikes with screens or app links, and our [best spin bikes guide](https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-spin-bike-uk) covers studio-style bikes that work with a tablet.

## Frequently asked questions

**Why is my Peloton screen black?** The most common causes are a loose power cable, a loose cable behind the screen or a frozen software state. Check both cables, then hold the power button to restart.

**How do I fix wrong resistance readings?** Restart the screen first. If the numbers are still wrong, follow Peloton's calibration steps for your model or ask support to guide you.

**Can I use the bike without Wi-Fi?** Some features, such as just ride modes, may work offline, but streamed classes need a connection. Check Peloton's support pages for your model.

**How do I contact Peloton in the UK?** Use the support section on Peloton's UK website or the help menu on the bike's screen, which lists the current contact options.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-peloton-alternative-bike
- https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-spin-bike-uk

## Sources

- [Peloton UK](https://www.onepeloton.co.uk/)