In an ideal world, everyone is healthy and in the best shape of their lives. However, the reality is cruel, and most of us don’t have the time to hit the gym because of our busy schedules. Thankfully, our comparison Echelon vs Peloton bikes should offer some solution to this problem.
Both brands offer you an excellent live spin class app that makes indoor cycling exciting. They also both have a similar design and help you to get the best indoor cycling workout possible.
But since the Peloton and Echelon stationary bikes have so much in common, how will you know which one is better for you? We’ve put together this article to cut the guesswork out of your decisions by making an in-depth comparison of the Peloton vs Echelon Smart Connect exercise bikes. We look at all aspects of both bikes and compare side by side to give you a completely unbiased opinion of the best indoor bike to choose. But before we jump into the comparison, we’ll do a quick review of both the Echelon and Peloton bikes.
Echelon Smart Connect EX5 Review
Spin bikes are an excellent alternate workout activity because of the low impact it has on your body. But you also need intensity to help you lose adequate weight and get heart-pumping workouts.
The Echelon Smart Connect achieves this by providing “Remarkable” low impact high-intensity workouts! With the Echelon Spin Bike, you get all the expected amenities of traditional stationary bikes.
What truly makes the Echelon different from your standard stationary bike is the app and the size of the bike. The Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX5 measures 3’5″ x 1’10” and weighs merely 105 lbs.
You also get a few primary inclusions such as:
- 2 Medium Water bottle holders.
- One media rack that swivels 180 degrees
- Access to pre-programmed or live workouts sessions
- Matte finished frame with colored accents in either red or royal blue.
- It includes a manual resistance controller with 32 levels of magnetic resistance.
- Height adjusted padded handles.
- Padded seats that can be adjusted up or down.
- A dumbbell holder behind the seat that can fit two small dumbbells
- Double-sided pedals that for cycling shoes or a caged side for regular sneakers.
All in all, you get a high-quality bike that will provide value for money.
Peloton Indoor Bike Review
Like the Echelon bike, Peloton indoor bikes are excellent in helping you achieve a low impact high-intensity workouts. They’ve been in the business since 2012 and have since become the frontrunner in their segment. Notably, Peloton were the innovators in providing high-energy live fitness classes and packaging it with an indoor bike and app.
So what do you get with a Peloton bike? You get all the standard features of any other bike but a more premium quality and design. The first notable feature you get on the Peloton is the 22″ HD touchscreen display. You also get the Peloton fitness app built into the screen as well. Here’s a quick look at what you get on the Peloton bike:
- It comes with pedals for cycling shoes.
- A weight holder under the rear seat
- Two Medium water bottle holders.
- It has a Multi-grip handlebar that can be adjusted to suit your ride.
- A Magnetic Resistance Knob.
- It comes with firm rubber leveling feet and rollers at the front for easy movement.
- It has a seat with two-dimensional adjustment.
For people that want to stay fit, lose weight, and maintain optimal wellness; buying a Peloton bike is a decision you won’t regret.
Echelon Vs Peloton Comparison
In this section, we compare the price, key features and specs, apps, space requirements, and comfort of both models. We’ve also included our own opinions and thoughts from other customers. Look: The problem with Indoor exercise activities is that they quickly become monotonous. So without adequate motivation, you’ll soon find that your bike has become a decoration or coat rack.
The truth is…Comparing the Peloton vs Echelon is like comparing a Porsche to a Toyota. You get four wheels and an engine on both cars, but the Porsche feels better and gives a satisfying feeling to drive. That’s not to say that the Toyota – Echelon bike in this case – won’t take you to where you want to go. It will, just not in the same fashion!
But let’s make the full comparison first so you can decide for yourself which bike is better for you.
Key Features and Specs
The first point of comparison we’ll be focusing on is the features and specs of both models. Both the Peloton and Echelon bikes main selling point is the accommodating fitness app. Without the apps, the bikes are not significantly different than any other indoor exercise bike. However, there are a few things we loved on the Echelon and peloton that you probably won’t find elsewhere.
Design Comparison
First up is the design, the Echelon and Peloton bikes are very compact but high-quality bikes. They both have a similar design theme with the two most significant differences being that the position of the drive wheel. The Echelon has a rear drive system while the Peloton has a frontal drive system. Even though the location of the wheels is different, there is virtually no difference in performance or feeling. Also, the wheels on both models are very quiet and smooth when in motion.
A word of caution:
If you have kids, you would need to be more careful while using the Echelon bike. Because the wheel is a moving part that sits behind you and can cause injuries to your kids if you aren’t paying attention to them.
On the Peloton bike, the wheel is in front of you where you’ll be able to see the actions of your child before the machine causes any damage. Moreover, most of the spinning parts on the Peloton indoor bike is covered up behind a plastic covering.
Additionally, the Peloton indoor bike features a large 22″ HD touchscreen display that extends below the handlebar from the frame. The Echelon smart connect bikes do not include a built-in display but instead allows you to utilize technology already present in your home. Which means that if you don’t have a large tablet, you’re pretty much screwed with a tiny phone screen to use their app.
Winner: Peloton.
Looks and Comfort Levels
Both machines do generally look similar. However, there is not such a clear difference in the quality of the materials. The Peloton has a great feel overall on the handle grips; it features a welded steel frame that coated with ED & Powder which promotes longevity of the build.
The Peloton also has a more versatile handle than the Echelon. Because of the limitation of having a media rack in the center of the handle, the Echelon connect bike is forced to use a rectangular handle. This handle can only be held in 2 ways while on the Peloton you have three different grip styles. One key aspect that determines the comfort of your bike is the seats design and cushion. This part is a bit tricky and subjective to a user’s liking. However, we found that if you are working out for short periods, a larger and thicker seat is more comfortable. If you are going to be working out for upwards of 30 minutes to an hour, then the sporty seat of the Peloton will feel better.
Winner: Tie.
Resistance System Comparison
Both bikes have similar positioning for the resistance adjuster knobs. The Peloton’s knob has a sleeker look and smoother resistance transition than the Echelon. The Echelon Smart Connect EX1 spin bike uses a Precision Resistance Motor with 32 levels. The Peloton, on the other hand, uses an entirely different resistance system called Neodymium rare earth magnet system for resistance. The Peloton’s system is different as it uses a combination of cadence, resistance percentage, and output to determine how hard you are working.
In simpler terms, the Peloton will push you to work harder and more efficiently than the simpler resistance level based system of the Echelon. With that in mind, if you want the traditional level adjusted resistance, you should stick with the Echelon bikes.
Winner: Tie.
Dimensions And Space Requirements
There is also a difference between the Peloton and Echelon smart connect bike in size. The footprint of the Echelon is slightly less than the Peloton bike. The Echelon has a dimension of 3’5″’ x 1’10” while the Peloton comes in at 4′ L x 2′ W. In terms of weight, the Echelon is also slightly lighter due to the materials used and the lack of a screen. The Echelon weighs just 105 pounds while the Peloton indoor bike weighs 135 pounds in total.
Overall both the peloton and Echelon bikes can be placed in just about any room without taking up much space. Both bikes also feature a roller for easy movement to whichever area you choose to workout.
Winner: Echelon.
Echelon App Vs Peloton App
The main difference in the Echelon vs Peloton bike is found here in the apps that they both provide on a subscription basis. So since most people are more interested in the apps, we decided to make a little comparison of the apps you get with the Echelon app or Peloton app. Let’s start with the similarities of both apps.
The Echelon and Peloton apps are both available for download on an iTunes and Google Play store for FREE. A 14 day free trial period is available for you to test out the apps. However, you will eventually have to pay a subscription fee either monthly or annually.
How Much Do the Apps Cost Monthly?
At the time we made this comparison, the Peloton app costs $39.99 per month; however, if you go online right now, you could get two months for the $19.99. This offer might expire soon so don’t be surprised if it is no longer available when you check. The Echelon Connect Bike App costs $39.99 which is a little more expensive than the Peloton app with the special promotion. They also offer you other purchases that may interest you such as an Extra Mile subscription for $12.99. So if you plan to get a full subscription package, you’re looking to spend $52 a month just for the app.
What to Expect With the Apps?
Through both apps, you’ll get access to join live classes and watch pre-recorded class videos. Besides, you get to access virtual riding content featuring locations all over the world. The apps also allow you to track your exercise statistics such as calories burned, distance, resistance, speed, and a few other indicators.
Peloton App Review
Our favorite app of the two was the Peloton app for its easy to use intuitive user interface. Overall we found the Peloton app easier to navigate and loved the positioning of different items such as the class schedules. Plus we liked the fact that the programs were broken down to different exercises.
Another fantastic thing we loved after comparing the Echelon app vs Peloton apps is the instructors. There is an immense gap between the teaching styles and experience levels of the instructors on both apps. We found that the Peloton’s classes are more coordinated. Plus the music selection of the Peloton live classes was always on point for all the sessions we chose.
Echelon Fit App Review
The Echelon app is pretty similar to Peloton’s; however, there are some slight differences. The first thing that will pop out when you do one of Echelon’s live classes is the teaching style of the instructors. They were reasonably ok overall, but there were a lot more dry moments. And they didn’t motivate enough so that you’ll want to push yourself past your supposed limit.
The camera angles were also off at times on the Echelon app, and the classes had a completely different atmosphere. With the Peloton classes, you will feel like you are around people working just as hard. Both apps also have a great feature that shows your position among all the other participants in the classes. However, sometimes that feature isn’t necessary so you can quickly turn it off.
Look: Biking indoors isn’t all that fun, and without something or someone to keep you excited you’ll find yourself spending less time with an indoor bike. The Peloton instructors were so efficient and fun to follow along with that you’ll probably see yourself doing more than you thought possible.
Regardless of which app you choose between the Peloton vs Echelon bike app, you’ll be getting a great workout! Also, bear in mind that both apps provide a free trial period that you can use to see which you prefer.
Winner: Peloton with Echelon being close behind.
Price
Most people are more concerned about the vast price difference between the Echelon bike vs Peloton. The thinking behind it is that since one is half the price of the other and does the same thing why not go with the cheaper Echelon Smart Connect?
Well, there are many reasons why the cheaper model may or may not be the better option. But for those who aren’t aware here’s a quick breakdown of the costs. To get the basic Peloton bike package, you’ll be spending at least $2,245.
If you don’t have a media device at home or you have a mobile phone but think it is too small or you instead prefer not to use it, you would have to purchase a tablet along with the bike. A tablet that has an average screen size of at least 12″ will cost you anywhere between $200 to $600! With the Peloton, you get a massive 22″ HD touchscreen display with a built-in camera and all the latest tech.
If you’re tech-savvy, you could potentially get the Echelon app to work on a smart tv or laptop, but you’ll still end up incurring extra cost.
The bottom line is that if you don’t have a media device, the Echelon isn’t exactly the best option.
However, if you do have something suitable to run the app, then saving a few bucks by buying the Echelon is a bike you should consider.
Nonetheless, you also have the option to finance both the peloton and Echelon bikes for roughly $50 to $60 bucks per month. So if you think the prices are too high, you should consider making a monthly payment.
Winner: Echelon
Pros & Cons of Echelon
We compiled all the pros and cons of the Peloton bike and Echelon bike so you can quickly choose which is better to buy.
Pros
- It cost less than half the price of the Peloton.
- The Echelon has 32 levels of resistance.
- It has a Sleek ergonomic design.
- Echelon bike is a little smaller and weighs less than Peloton.
- It has 2-sided pedals that has a caged side and spd cleat for cycling shoes.
- The Smart Connect bike has a quiet flywheel.
Cons
- It does not have a built-in screen.
- Instructors for the live classes aren’t as good as the Peloton instructors.
- It does not come assembled, so you have to pay to get it assembled.
- The flywheel is at the rear of the bike and is a hazard to kids.
Pros & Cons of Peloton
Pros
- It has a 22″ HD built-in display with for Peloton app.
- Pelotons app has a better UI and is easier to use.
- The peloton digital app has better music selection than the Echelon app.
- It features a smoother and more advanced resistance system than Echelon does.
- Pelotons live classes are more fun and motivating.
- The Peloton bikes include a pedal for cycling shoes.
- It is delivered and assembled in your home.
Cons
- Costs double the price of the Echelon.
- It is slightly heavier than the Echelon bike.
- The Peloton uses a belt drive system.
Echelon Releases New Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX5
With the latest release from Echelon, we now have a bike that is a strong competitor to the Peloton. Their new Echelon smart connect EX5 and EX5S both feature a built in monitor that lets you stream classes like the Peloton. Plus the 21.5″ HD Touchscreen monitor can be flipped 180 degrees! This is a feature that isn’t available on Peloton yet.
So considering the new Echelon Smart Connect EX5S in the comparison of the Echelon vs Peloton bike we have to say that the better option is Echelon. It is cheaper, has better pedals with a toe cage & SPD compatibility and does just about everything you will do on a Peloton. So why spend more on a Peloton when you could save $1000 on a spin bike?
They have even upgraded the magnetic resistance motor to allow a smoother riding experience. Plus, you’ll also be getting more comfortable 4-way adjustable seats if you go with Echelon bikes over Peloton ones!
Another thing to consider is that Echelon Fit is still a new company that hasn’t been around for long. They are developing the product and their bikes as time goes on. So buying one now isn’t a bad option as they will likely improve going forward.
The good news though is if you are on a tighter budget then the Echelon almost falls in the price range of used spin bikes that will definitely save you more money in the long run.
For more Peloton alternatives click here. We’ve also compared the the Nordictrack S22i and Peloton bike, so check out that post if you want to see more bikes compared with the Peloton
The Bottom Line
Both the Peloton and Echelon bike will offer intense workouts! But deciding which is the better bike between the Echelon vs Peloton will be dependent on your situation.
While we loved both bikes, we would rather spend less by buying the Echelon bike. However, Peloton’s Digital App is better than Echelon’s App so if your desire is amazing workout content then you won’t go wrong with the Peloton bike.
The only downside to the Peloton is the cost. But if you can afford it, you’ll be making a great purchase. The design is just gorgeous plus the built-in display works seamlessly with the app. Also, the Peloton has instructors that we find a lot more experienced at guiding you than the Echelon instructors. Furthermore, the Peloton has far more media content than Echelon at this point. The Echelon Smart Connect Bikes are not that bad either. You get “Just enough,” and the classes are “good enough” to follow along. If you’ve never tried the Peloton live classes before then, you likely won’t even notice anything wrong with the Echelon classes.