Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike Review

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Stuck at home?

Looking for some way to stay in shape without the worry of going to the gym?

Trust me – you are NOT alone.

I felt the exact same way, nervous of the judgement that comes with the gym-atmosphere, unwilling to make that trek every single day, and ultimately defeated by the thought of all that money I’d be spending on a membership I just never used.

But then, I stumbled across at-home fitness bikes online. Specifically, the Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike.

After reading up on all it’s awesome features, most impressively, it’s connectivity to live cycling videos whenever you want; not to mention, its sleek, yet sturdy design that can fit in even the smallest spaces?

I mean come on! I had to share it with you!

So, stop stalling! Let’s get pedaling!

 EX5 Echelon Smart Connect Fitness Bike Review

What is Echelon?

One of the top names in at-home fitness, Echelon is a self-proclaimed “new approach to fitness.”

They know how difficult it is to stay fit in our chaotic, yet tightly scheduled world. Echelon provides the answer in their home gym equipment.

Besides the EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike, Echelon puts three other stationary bikes (which we’ll get to in a bit!) and a line of row machines.

Plus, you may have heard of their newest product; the state of the art fitness screen mirror, Reflect! Echelon’s products are cutting edge and affordable, providing you with the ability to get fit on your own time!

Special Features of Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Bike

Here are the EX5 pros for you. There’s a bunch of them, so make sure you don’t miss a single one!

Live, On-Demand Cycling Classes

Yes! You can pedal along with your favorite teachers LIVE at any time of the day (or night)! And that’s not the best part! Echelon actually offers a 30-Day Free Trial of their connected service right here with your purchase of their EX5 model!

You can choose anything from scenic bike routes and endurance-based cycling to strength and HIIT cardio! And let’s not forget that you can even use their Fitpass program for any other non-bike workouts you might feel like trying!

Music to Get You Moving!

Whatever your music style, the EX5 has got you covered. Echelon has actually teamed up with top record labels! So you can take a light, cool down while bopping to some folk songs, or get your sweat on while burning those wheels to some heavy metal!

Plus, if you have a specific playlist in mind, just use the Bluetooth feature and jam out to your own tunes!

EX5 Dynamic Design

Whether you’ve got an at-home gym, a small, 1 bedroom apartment, or even a tiny house, the Echelon EX5 Smart Connect Fitness Bike will surely find a place. It’s compact, yet study design allows you to get a heart-pumping, cardio workout without taking up an entire room!

Not to mention, the EX5 has loads of awesome physical features, such as adjustable SPD (Shimano Pedaling Dynamics) compatible pedals, accessory tray, 2 bottle holders, and 32 levels of resistance in case you’re really looking to go hard!

30 Day, 100% Money-Back Guarantee

Echelon has this awesome, 100% money-back policy! You’ve got 30 days, that’s one whole month, to see if you like their EX5 product! That’s plenty of time, and you know it! So, stop making excuses for yourself and start pedaling those pounds away!

1 Year Warranty

Now, if you’ve got kids who like to climb all over everything in the house, or your bike simply took a beating from your intense workouts, you don’t have to worry! Echelon offers a 1 Year warranty. That means that you may be able to have your EX5 fixed or just looked at by a professional for FREE for an entire year after purchase!

24/7 Tech Support

In our fast-paced, high-tech world, there’s no shame in having some confusion over the latest technology. Echelon is there for you, 24/7.

So, whether you can’t seem to find a video you’d like to bike to or your Bluetooth isn’t connecting, just call or chat, and they’ll solve your problem in no time! I know! I’ve tested it out so you don’t have to worry!

Drawbacks (Cons) of EX5 EchelonEX5 Smart Connect Bike

Okay folks, you know I had to mention these somewhere. Here are the cons of the EX5 Bike.

It Won’t Work If You Don’t Work for It

That’s right, folks. This one should be obvious, but you can’t expect this bike to magically solve all of your weight problems if you don’t work for it. That means changing your lifestyle, as well, including daily practice and a healthy, balanced diet.

You Better Have Your Own Screen

You know all those professional shots you see online, showing an out-of-breath biker watching a workout video on a nice, wide screen? Well, those screens are not included. So, you’d better have your own tablet or iPad if you want to take advantage of Echelon’s cycling classes.

There is a tablet holder, though, so you won’t have to worry about your precious tech crashing to the ground as you’re pedaling your heart out.

Remember That 30-Day Free Trial?

Well, that’s how long it’ll last you. Just 30 days. After that, you better be prepared to purchase the Echelon Fitness if you want to get ANY of those cool, Smart Connect features, including music, classes, and even the resistance levels.

No Incline Feature

This one is kind of a bummer. If there’s one bike workout over all others that makes you feel the burn it’s pedaling up a hill. Your EX5 won’t be able to simulate that experience. The EX5 doesn’t come with an incline or decline feature. That being said, it’s pretty customizable overall, and its 32 levels of magnetic resistance definitely will still make you sweat!

No Fan or Speakers

Unfortunately, the EX5 does not come with its own built-in fan or set of speakers. So, unless you’ve got your own fan or a way to boost your tablet’s sound, you might be dying of sweat to an exercise routine you can’t really hear.

You Better Like Black and Red…

…because that’s the only color pattern it comes in. Now, I know you probably won’t care too much about this con; after all, black and red is a pretty badass color combo. But if you were hoping to have an all-pink gym, for example, your EX5 won’t conform to that aesthetic

A Biking Buyers Guide: What to Consider before buying the Echelon EX5

We know how difficult research can be. And we know that you’re gonna want to do your research before making a purchase such as the level of the EX5 bike.

That’s why we did it for you! Below, we’ve compiled a Buyer’s Guide regarding the EX5 Echelon Smart Connect Bike so you can feel comfortable making an educated purchase!

1. Price

This little powerhouse of a stationary bike is gonna run you $1,239.98 right now! That’s over $250 less than its usual cost ($1,499.99) and over $650 less than the leading competitor (Peleton’s top seller is a whopping $1,895)!

Now, if you want to purchase the EX5 with an annual subscription to the Echelon Smart Connect App, your price will go up to $1,598.99. Still, a lot better than their competitors.

2. Assembly

Luckily, the EX5 comes mostly preassembled! The only thing is that it’s about the weight of your average 14 year old. At 106 pounds (net weight), you might need to grab a friend to help you remove it from the box and roll it into place.

3. Specs & Storage

The EX5 is very compact, at only 54 inches (length) x 20 inches (width) x 53 inches (height).

That means, you won’t have to worry about your EX5 making your room feel cluttered, especially if you live in an apartment with limited space!

4. Build & Construction

Echelon spared no expense when it came to building these babies! The EX5 is made with high quality, study and strong steel. So, you won’t have to worry about breaking your bike by pedaling too hard!

5. Power and Motor

The EX5 requires a connection to a 100-240V outlet. So, basically the voltage found in all buildings! Most homes and apartments are wired for 110 volts!

And the EX5 even has a new, powerful motor that allows for those 32 levels of magnetic resistance!

6. HD Display

Unfortunately, as mentioned in the cons, the EX5 does not come with its own screen. However, you can display your own tablet or smartphone above the comfy handlebars. The EX5 comes with a built-in holder for any of the tech gear you’ll be using as your screen!

7. Weight Capacity

As the EX5 is a pretty lightweight bike to begin with, its weight capacity can’t be expected to be that high. Considering this, though, it can hold up to 300 pounds, which is quite good!

8. Resistance

The EX5 has knobs that control its resistance! You’ll be able to work out your body with 32 levels of resistance, so you’ll never get bored! Plus, that many resistance levels will certainly keep your routine challenging as you continue to improve!

9. Warranty

The Echelon EX5 has a 1 year, worry-free guarantee! So you’ve got 365 days to pedal your heart out before making your final decision!

Extras!

Today, it seems as though nothing comes for free. So, you’ll be excited to find that the EX5 actually has a few extra, awesome features!

Remember those 2 bottle holders?

Well, there’s also a weight holder behind the seat! Don’t have weights to put there? Don’t worry about it! The EX5 comes with two!

Benefits of the EX5 Echelon Smart Connect Fitness Bike

Not only is the EX5 Echelon Smart Connect Fitness Bike a great bang for your buck. It’ll help you burn off all that quarantine, holiday, or just plain stubborn fat.

Why?

Because it’s right there in front of you. You know you’ll find yourself hopping onto your EX5 at any time of day.

Watching TV with the family?

Why not pedal, too?

! Just got home from a long day of work? Put on some sweatpants, connect to the Echelon Fitness App, and get your biking sweat on!

Social Proof

The EX5 seems to be the middle child of the Echelon series. There’s not too much information on it out there, nor are there many reviews of it at all.

That means the EX5 might just be perfect for you! Because of its similarities to the newest EX5s (see below under “Alternatives”), you’re gonna want to look into the EX5 as a cheaper, yet just as cardio-driven option!

But hey, don’t just listen to me! Here’s some things others are saying about the EX5 Fitness Bike!

What Is Everyone Saying About the EX5?

Though there are some bits of negative feedback for the EX5, the overwhelming majority of buyers seem to love their bikes! Check out some of these reviews below!

Positive Feedback:

@Jennontherocks says:

“I absolutely love [my EX5]! The FitPass Tour De Echelon [ride] made me feel like I was right there in Nice!”

@Andie_fit33 just got back into her exercise routine following tough times. She says:

“I decided to order [the EX5 Echelon Fitness Bike] because working out is as good as therapy and now, I have no excuses. Day 3, and loving it!”

Jennifer B gave the EX5 a 5-Star Rating. She says:

“This bike is awesome! And not just the bike…the instructors, the community, the class offerings…the whole experience!!! Highly recommend.”

Barry R gave the EX5 a 5-Star Rating. He says:

“Love the Echelon bikes. I purchased one for my daughter-in-laws birthday and also one for myself. I had been a regular “spinner” at my local YMCA for years. With the purchase of the bike, I am wondering why I still maintain my YMCA membership. It is much more convenient to go in my basement for a live ride or catch an on demand ride whenever I want… Keep up the good work, Echelon.”

Nate M gave the EX5 a 5-Star Rating. He says:

“Love the bike, it quickly gets addictive. The classes have great options for time, skill/fitness level, music, etc., plus you get all the fitness classes included. The only thing I would change about the bike is the handlebards. I wish there was a way to move them a little closer to the seat, but no big deal.”

Negative Feedback:

An Anonymous Verified Buyer gave the EX5 a 1-Star rating. They say:

“I was told their bikes ship out within 48 hours of the order and then there is a 3-5 day window for when it will arrive. I am now on day 7…”

Mitchell D gave the EX5 a 3-Star Rating. He says:

“I enjoy the ride but do not like the internet connection failing during the rides. Do not like the fact that you have to buy an echelon heart rate monitor to show on the ride.”

DSouza M gave the EX5 a 3-Star Rating. They say:

“The classes are good and I like the bike, but the seat will not stay in place. It tilts forward and backward.”

Alternatives

Now, if you’re not 100% sure about the EX5 just yet, or the last one just got sold as you were trying to purchase it, don’t worry! Just check out these other awesome Smart Connect FItness Bike options from Echelon!

EX1 Echelon Smart Connect Fitness Bike

Echelon EX3 Smart Connect Fitness Bike (Red)

If you’re looking for a smart connect bike under $1,000, look no further than the Echelon EX1 Bike! At a sale price of only $839.98, the EX1 will give you many of the same benefits as the EX5 for a lower price! Plus, it’s a few pounds lighter for those looking for an easy-to-lift bike!

How Is the EX1 Similar to the EX5?

  • Tablet Holder
  • Dumbbell Holder
  • Bluetooth Capabilities
  • 32 Levels of Resistance
  • Black and Red Color Pattern
  • Smart Connect with “FitPass”
  • SPD Compatible Pedals (with adjustable toe cage!)

How Is It Different?

  • Handlebars: The EX1 doesn’t have the EX5 competition-level, aerodynamic handlebars
  • Price: It’s sale price is $839.98, versus the EX5 at $1,239.98
  • Seat: The EX1 doesn’t have the EX5 competition-level seat
  • Net Weight: The EX1 weighs about 104 pounds

Check out the very affordable EX1 right here!

EX3 Echelon Smart Connect Bike

Still cheaper than its EX5 older sister, the EX3 Echelon Smart Connect Bike will run you $1,039.98 (on sale) for almost all of the same features as the EX5! However, just like the EX1, the EX3 weighs 104 pounds for a lighter lift!

Plus, you can’t overlook its extra, colorful customizability! The EX3 is the only Echelon bike that comes in three different shades: rider red, biking black, and winged white! That’s perfect for all of you out there looking for a bike to match your room’s aesthetic!

How Is the EX3 Similar to the EX5?

  • Tablet Holder
  • Bluetooth Capabilities
  • 32 Levels of Resistance
  • Smart Connect with “FitPass”
  • Competition-level 6” Adjustable Seat
  • SPD Compatible Pedals (with adjustable toe cage!)

How Is It Different?

  • Net Weight: The EX3 weighs about 104 pounds
  • Price: It’s sale price is $1,039.98, versus the EX5 at $1,239.98
  • Color: The EX3 comes in 3 different colors: red, black, and white!
  • Handlebars: The EX3 doesn’t have the EX5 competition-level, aerodynamic handlebars

Check out the ultra-customizable EX3 right here!

EX5s Echelon Smart Connect Bike

Echelon EX5-S Smart Connect Fitness Bike, Black

Now, for all of the EX5s’s similarities to its little sister, the EX5, this one has got a few major differences. First off, price. The EX5s is $400 more than the EX5. That’s quite a lot more money to spend on a very similar bike.

However, and here’s the biggie, the EX5s comes with a touchscreen! That’s right! No need to provide your own iPad or tablet! Plus, the EX5s is perfect for those looking for an even sturdier biking experience.

About 10 pounds heavier than the EX5, the EX5s will allow you to pedal even harder – and therefore, burn even more calories – without wobbling!

How is the EX5s Similar to the EX5?

  • Tablet Holder
  • Bluetooth Capabilities
  • 32 Levels of Resistance
  • Smart Connect with “FitPass”
  • Black and Red Color Pattern
  • Competition-level 6” Adjustable Seat
  • Competition-level Aerodynamic Handlebars
  • SPD Compatible Pedals (with adjustable toe cage!)

How is It Different?

  • Price: It’s sale price is $1,639.98, versus the EX5 at $1,239.98
  • Net Weight: The EX5s weighs about 125 pounds
  • Screen: The EX5 comes with a 21.5” HD Touchscreen

Check out Echelon’s newest fitness bike with a built-in touchscreen, the EX5s, right here!

Concluding with a Cool Down

I think it’s safe to say that just thinking about all these Echelon Smart Connect Bikes has given you a workout (even if only a mental one!)! So, let’s cool it down and refresh ourselves!

There’s no question that Echelon puts out a great series of Smart Bikes.

The EX5 will undoubtedly give you all the great Echelon features for a very affordable price. Not only can you connect your EX5 to the Echelon FitPass Fitness App, get tons of awesome classes taught by trained, down-to-earth instructors.

And play all your favorite tunes as you pedal the fat away; you can also trust your EX5 to fit whatever space, time constraints, and wallet-watching you’re looking for!

And hey, if the EX5 isn’t for you, now you know about Echelon’s other Smart Connect Fitness Bikes! The EX1 is a great bargain!

The EX3 comes in three, fun color patterns! And the EX5s comes with its own touchscreen! With Echelon’s Smart Bike line, you simply can’t go wrong!

So, go on and GET READY TO PEDAAAAAL (get it?)!

Happy Fitnessing!

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