The Echelon line of bikes is often billed as a budget-friendly alternative to high-end brands like Peloton, NordicTrack, and SoulCycle.
With multiple models to choose from and thousands of live and on-demand classes available, it can be a good option for those looking to squeeze in more spin workouts on their own schedule.
However, there are also a few drawbacks to consider before investing in an Echelon bike.
This article reviews some of the key features of the Echelon bike to help you determine whether it’s worth the price.
Echelon is a type of indoor exercise bike that’s popular among many fitness enthusiasts.
A variety of models of Echelon’s Connect bikes are available, each of which can be used with Echelon Fit, a subscription-based app that offers live and on-demand streaming workout classes.
The Connect bike models available include:
- Connect EX-1 LE
- Connect EX-3
- Connect EX-5
- Connect EX-5S
- Connect EX-7S
Each model offers a different set of features and has slight variations in terms of its technical specs and measurements.
Certain models also include extras like bottle holders, weight racks, and power ports.
All Echelon bikes work with the Echelon Fit app, which provides access to both Connect rides and classes from FitPass.
The app offers both live and on-demand cycling classes and allows you to ride with friends and compete on the leaderboard.
FitPass also offers several other types of classes, including:
The Connect EX-1 LE, EX-3, and EX-5 all have a built-in console, which allows you to use your own smartphone or tablet to stream workout classes via the Echelon Fit app.
These models also have Bluetooth connectivity and can be paired with your smart device during your ride.
Meanwhile, both the Connect EX-5S and EX-7S are equipped with a large touchscreen that easily connects to the Echelon Fit app.
The price for an Echelon bike can vary depending on the specific model you select.
Here’s how much each bike costs on the Echelon website:
- Connect EX-1 LE: $839.98
- Connect EX-3: $1,039.98
- Connect EX-5: $1,239.98
- Connect EX-5S: $1,639.98
- Connect EX-7S: $2,039.98
In addition to the prices listed above, delivery costs an additional $199.99.
Financing is available for qualified customers, and Echelon often provides coupon codes and discounts directly on its website.
An active membership for the Echelon Fit app is also required to access most of the bike’s features, although up to five riders per household can share a subscription.
Monthly membership costs $39.99 and provides access to Connect rides and FitPass, which includes other classes like yoga, meditation, Pilates, and stretching.
Annual memberships are also available and cost $399.99 for 1 year or $699.99 for 2 years, which translates to around $29–$33 per month.
When purchasing your bike, you can also prepay for a 1- or 2-year subscription to the app for additional savings.
Echelon bikes are generally more affordable than competitors like Peloton and offer many of the same features.
It can also be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to boutique fitness studios and spin classes, allowing you to ride from the comfort of your home whenever it works for you.
The Echelon Fit app also makes it easy to enjoy a variety of workouts, including a range of cycling and fitness classes.
Plus, the app allows you to connect with the Echelon community, which may benefit those who enjoy having extra social support to stay motivated.
Indoor cycling has also been linked to a long list of health benefits and may help increase weight loss and reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels (
What’s more, regular physical activity has been shown to help extend the life span, improve quality of life, and protect against a number of chronic health conditions (
Although Echelon bikes may be associated with several benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider.
For starters, most models don’t include a built-in touchscreen, which may be an important feature for some.
The two models with a touchscreen are much more expensive and comparable in price to competitors like Peloton or NordicTrack.
In addition to the price of the bike itself, you need to pay to use the Echelon Fit app, which can become expensive over time.
However, the app’s price is similar to those of others on the market, including Peloton All-Access, which also costs $39 per month.
Echelon bikes are also equipped with SPD-compatible pedals, which means that you may want to invest in a pair of cycling cleats that work with this type of pedal.
Moreover, the bikes come with a 1-year limited warranty on parts and labor, which falls short when compared with many of its competitors.
Most Echelon bikes are fairly affordable and can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to brands like Peloton or NordicTrack, especially if you don’t mind using your own tablet or smartphone in place of a built-in touchscreen.
Keep in mind that there are some additional costs beyond the price of the bike itself.
For example, you need to purchase SPD-compatible cleats and maintain an active Echelon Fit membership to use your bike.
However, it can be a fun and flexible way to add more physical activity to your daily routine without needing to hit the gym or pay for pricey spin classes.
Echelon bikes are a type of indoor exercise bike often touted as an affordable alternative to Peloton.
There are several models available, each of which varies in price and offers a unique set of features.
While there are additional costs to consider and some models may be missing certain features like a touchscreen, investing in an Echelon bike can be an easy, fun, and effective way to squeeze some extra workouts into your day.
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