As a fitness brand, Echelon is very new on the scene, officially launching back in 2018. It is very likely in response to the breakout popularity of Peloton, as many people have compared the two, with Echelon bikes offering a slimmed-down version of Peloton services and features.
Echelon’s parent company is Viatek Consumer Products Group, INC. who develop and manufacture a wide variety of products, from landscape lighting to quirky dog products. It is interesting to see more non-fitness companies develop fitness brands, and if it leads to good innovation, it can only benefit the health and fitness of everyone.
Echelon Exercise Bikes
At this time, Echelon has only produced two exercise bikes, the EX1, and the EX3 Max. There is a connection between FitNation’s streamlined folding stationary bikes and Echelon, as these companies are both owned by Viatek, but at this time, Treadmill Reviews is focusing on the bikes produced only by Echelon.
Echelon EX1 Bike
The Echelon Smart Connect EX1 exercise bike is a slim bike that comes in a few different colors. It is a lightweight bike, weighing up to 105 lbs, though it can accommodate a user who weighs up to 300 lbs. There are multiple points where you can adjust this bike to suit you, such as moving the seat vertically as well as horizontally. The console height can also be adjusted, as well as the pedal toe cages. There is a knob resistance that allows you to adjust the bike resistance level from 0-32. For more, be sure to read our full review below.
Echelon EX3 Max Bike
If you think we’ve made a mistake and you are looking at a picture of the EX1, let us assure you, this is the Echelon EX3 Max exercise bike. As you may infer from the visual, the EX3 is very similar to the EX1, to an almost disappointing degree. The differences between these two bikes are fairly minor when it comes to functionality, most of the differences exist in adding indexing lines for more precise adjustments and a different cycling seat. For more information, please read our complete review below.
Standout Features Of Echelon
There are a number of standout features on the Echelon bikes that set them apart from other exercise bikes on the market.
Echelon Fit app workout streaming – Similar to other subscription fitness programs, the Echelon Fit app allows you to choose from a workout library a variety of exercise programs. You can join in one of their live cycling classes which are broadcasted from their Chattanooga, TN fitness studio. There is also the Echelon Flex Studio, which has off-bike classes available. Some of the classes are focused on strength, yoga, pilates, and more. When you purchase a subscription to Echelon Fit app, you can choose to have bike-only workouts or also purchase a package that gives you access to the Flex Studio as well as the bike workouts.
Self-supplied bike display – Neither of the Echelon bikes comes with a display of any kind. Normally, you would get a watts power display or simple LCD screen and a tablet holder for more advanced workouts, but that’s not the case. You will need to supply your own smart device like a smartphone or tablet to have any display. Also, at this time, the smart device needs either iOS 9 or later if an Apple device or 6.0 Android update or later; otherwise, your device won’t be compatible.
Resistance knob – There are 32 resistance levels you can choose from on the Echelon bikes, and you select them by using the built-in magnetic resistance knob. It can take a little bit of time to adjust to using a knob to change your resistance level if you are used to digital resistance, but it is relatively easy.
Exercise bike color options – Okay, it may seem a little silly, but it is unusual to have color options when it comes to fitness equipment. But it is interesting that you have a few color options if you choose to purchase one of the Echelon bikes.
180-degree adjustable console – Since the Echelon Fit app has other types of workout programs along with the training rides, it is helpful that you can pivot the tablet-holding console 180 degrees. That way, if you want to do something like one of their yoga or stretching classes, you can just pop your device in the console holder and turn it so that you can see it elsewhere in the room.
Echelon Financing
Echelon offers to finance their bikes, though not for their basic bike packages at this time. The financing is provided through Affirm, and there are options to do 12, 18, or 24 months financing. Depending on your credit, you may be required to put down a down payment.
Our Bottom Line Review On Echelon
When it comes to Echelon bikes, we have mixed feelings. The EX1 exercise bike is a good alternative to more expensive exercise bikes while still providing access to subscription fitness services. But the EX3 Max is basically the exact same bike but is pricier than the EX1.
Also, neither bike comes with a display. While Echelon markets this lack of display as a good thing, we can’t help but feel like it was cutting corners to produce a bike that could compete with Peloton and NordicTrack. But, the EX1 is a decent bike option, and we look forward to seeing how Echelon develops as a fitness manufacturer.