This is the reason I bought a Keiser bike instead of a Peloton, it has a simple display that works with Bluetooth sensors (I use my watch to record my sessions). I use the Peloton app in an iPad (I could pair the bike with the iPad app, but don't).
The bikes are about the same price, but the Keiser screen is a simple LCD display that's much cheaper to replace if it gets broken and is fully usuable without a subscription.
I did the same and my Keiser M3i has been fantastic. Their GitHub repos are current and their lead developer actually answers implementation questions: https://github.com/KeiserCorp
When I'm considering buying a smart device that I'd be uncomfortable throwing away if/when the company ceases support, I ask them beforehand: Is there an open API and/or SDK? Does code or protocol escrow exist? This saved me from buying a smart watch and a smart ring. The manufacturers seemed healthy at the time but were bankrupt or acqui-hired and shut down within a year.
Hmmm. Both of you are getting me very close to pulling the trigger on the M3i. Just so I’m clear, you have to buy the “M Series Converter” bluetooth device as well so it can connect to 3rd party apps, correct? Or I could just record an Indoor Cycling workout manually on my Apple Watch, right?
Someone else answered your question, but I’d add that I previously owned a Sunny SF-B1002 “dumb” belt drive spin bike for about $350 and it worked great. It’s 90% as good for much less money. I only upgraded because I use it a lot and wanted a couple M3 features (infinite frame geometry adjustment and numbered/repeatable resistance control), or I’d still use the Sunny.
I had to get the converter to sync with my (Garmin) watch, so I imagine that you'll need it to pair with apps. It wasn't really clear whether I'd need the converter or not, but turns out that I did -- I figured I'd return it if I didn't need it.
I haven't actually tried pairing it to my iPad or other devices.
"It's a $2k training bike. You could spend $1k and get a really nice brand new road bike and a smart trainer that controls resistance like a Wahoo Kickr Snap (or several others) for ~$500."
That being said the M3i seems to be one of the more flexible options if you are gonna go the stationary bike route.
$1K would get a decent road bike, but not really one I'd consider "really nice".
I have a really nice road bike, and a decent steel framed commute bike. I've used both on a trainer, but it's not the same feel as a spinning bike, particularly when standing up and cranking hard on the pedals.
A good spinning bike will last a decade or more with little maintenance, but you'll be changing tires often on the road bike trainer as well as all of the other maintenance that comes with a bicycle.
You can get a good workout on a bike+trainer and if that's all your budget (or space) allows, it's a good option, just don't expect it to be a spinning bike.
The bikes are about the same price, but the Keiser screen is a simple LCD display that's much cheaper to replace if it gets broken and is fully usuable without a subscription.
Plus, I think the bike looks better.
https://www.keiser.com