Echelon Best Value Pick Echelon EX-5s Connect Bike with 21.5-inch rotating touchscreen and 32-level magnetic resistance
Exercise Bike Best Value 21.5" Screen 32-Level Resistance
By Echelon Fit

Echelon EX-5s Connect Bike

★★★★☆ 4.4 (12,740 verified reviews)
$1,039 $1,639 Save $600
Free shipping from Echelonfit.com · Echelon Premier Membership $34.99/month for full class library · 0% APR financing available from $35/month
In stock · Ships within 3–5 business days · 1-year frame warranty · 30-day return window

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Black — $1,039
White — $1,039
This review covers the Black EX-5s. The White colourway uses the same hardware and components throughout — performance is identical. View all options on Echelonfit.com →
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Quick highlights

  • 21.5-inch HD rotating touchscreen — the largest screen in its price class; rotates 180° for off-bike workouts including strength, yoga, and stretching sessions from the Echelon library
  • 32 levels of magnetic resistance — smooth, silent adjustment via handlebar dial or in-class auto-resistance cues; more granular than Peloton Bike's 100 micro-levels but fully adequate for all fitness levels
  • Competition-style seat and handlebar adjustability — 4-way handlebar and seat adjustment (up/down, fore/aft) accommodates riders from 4'9" to 6'5"; compatible with standard aftermarket saddles
  • Echelon United app with live & on-demand classes — thousands of cycling, strength, yoga, and meditation sessions; Echelon Premier Membership at $34.99/month vs Peloton's $44/month
  • SPD-compatible pedals included — dual-sided pedals accept SPD cleats and standard athletic shoes with toe cages; no separate shoe purchase required to start riding
  • Tablet mount and Bluetooth speakers built in — integrated 2 × 5W Bluetooth speakers in the screen housing; optional headphone jack; tablet mount folds behind the screen when using the built-in display

Our editor's review

After 10 weeks of daily testing across beginners, casual riders, and performance cyclists — side by side with the Peloton Bike+, NordicTrack S22i, and Schwinn IC4 — here's our full verdict. Read our testing methodology.

MT
Marcus Teller

Fitness Equipment Editor · Tested March–May 2026 over 10 weeks across 6 rider profiles · Methodology

The connected indoor cycling market spent several years sorting itself into two clear tiers: the Peloton premium at $1,445–$2,495 and a scattering of budget bikes below $600 that paired mediocre hardware with thin app libraries. The Echelon EX-5s occupies the gap between them more convincingly than any competitor we've tested — a genuinely large 21.5-inch rotating screen, 32 levels of smooth magnetic resistance, competition-grade adjustability, and a live class platform that competes credibly with Peloton's, at a hardware price roughly 40% lower. After ten weeks of testing, the EX-5s is the connected exercise bike we recommend to any buyer who wants the full screen-and-class experience without the Peloton premium.

The 21.5-inch rotating HD touchscreen is the EX-5s's headline feature, and it earns it. At this diagonal measurement, it's the largest integrated screen in the mid-range connected bike segment — larger than the NordicTrack S15i's 15.6-inch display and matching the Peloton Bike+'s 23.8-inch screen more closely than you might expect at the price. The rotation mechanism is smooth and locks firmly at 180° for floor-based workouts — our testers used it credibly for strength and yoga sessions on the mat alongside the bike. Picture quality is excellent for streaming classes; it's not a cinema display, but it's sharp enough that instructor cues and form demonstrations are clear at normal riding distance.

The 32-level magnetic resistance is quiet, smooth, and precise enough for structured interval training. Resistance changes via a handlebar-mounted dial that clicks between levels, or automatically during classes that broadcast resistance cues through the Echelon United app. For context, Peloton's system uses 100 micro-levels of resistance — a finer gradation that performance cyclists appreciate during high-precision power training. For recreational riders and even serious fitness cyclists, the EX-5s's 32 levels are fully adequate; our test panel included two competitive cyclists who found the range and transition quality sufficient for their interval and hill-simulation sessions.

The Echelon United class library is the honest variable in the EX-5s recommendation. Echelon's platform has improved substantially since 2022 — the catalogue of live and on-demand cycling, strength, yoga, and meditation classes has grown, instructor quality is genuinely good, and the $34.99/month Premier Membership is meaningfully cheaper than Peloton's $44/month All-Access Membership. What Echelon hasn't yet matched is the cultural energy around Peloton's leaderboard and the depth of its instructor roster — Peloton's instructors have built fan communities that Echelon's haven't. For most riders, Echelon's content is excellent; for the subset of buyers who specifically want the Peloton leaderboard experience, only a Peloton delivers that.

At $1,039 on sale (regularly $1,639, with frequent promotional pricing), the EX-5s represents genuine value when compared to the $1,445 Peloton Bike or $2,495 Bike+. The hardware isn't quite at Peloton's build quality — the frame has slightly more flex under aggressive sprinting, and the resistance mechanism feels less buttery at very high levels — but the gap is smaller than the price difference suggests. For budget-conscious buyers who want a real connected class experience, the EX-5s is the clearest recommendation in the mid-range connected bike category. We awarded it Best Value Connected Exercise Bike in our 2026 Fitness Equipment Awards. Browse our full exercise bike reviews for more.

Our scoring breakdown

Scored across our 5-dimension rubric after 10 weeks of testing across 6 rider profiles. Read our testing methodology for full scoring details.

Screen & Software

8.8

21.5-inch HD rotating touchscreen is the largest in the mid-range class. Fluid Echelon United app interface, responsive touch, smooth rotation for off-bike workouts. Slightly behind Peloton's screen quality at close range but not meaningfully so at riding distance.

Ride Feel & Resistance

8.3

32-level magnetic resistance is quiet, smooth, and adequate for all fitness levels including interval training. Less granular than Peloton's 100 micro-levels but rarely limiting in practice. Handlebar dial control is tactile and responsive.

Content & Community

7.9

Echelon United library is genuinely strong — thousands of cycling, strength, yoga, and meditation classes at $34.99/month. Instructor quality is good. Community and leaderboard engagement noticeably behind Peloton's, though improving year-on-year.

Build Quality & Adjustability

8.1

4-way seat and handlebar adjustment covers riders 4'9" to 6'5". Solid steel frame with minimal flex at moderate efforts; some lateral movement detected under aggressive sprinting. Standard SPD + toe-cage dual pedals included.

Value

9.3

At $1,039 on sale vs $1,445–$2,495 for a Peloton Bike or Bike+, and $34.99/month vs $44/month for content, the EX-5s delivers more connected bike per dollar than any competitor tested. The best value case in the connected indoor cycling segment.

Overall Score · Best Value Connected Exercise Bike 2026

Winner, Best Value Connected Exercise Bike in our Best of 2026 Fitness Equipment Awards · Exercise Bike category

8.5/10

What we loved and didn't

The honest breakdown after 10 weeks of testing across beginners, casual riders, and performance cyclists. See our methodology.

+Pros

  • Largest screen in the mid-range segment — 21.5-inch rotating HD display outclasses every competitor below $1,500 and rivals the Peloton Bike+'s 23.8-inch at a fraction of the hardware cost
  • Full class experience at a meaningful discount — $1,039 hardware + $34.99/month content vs $1,445+ hardware + $44/month for Peloton; over 12 months that's roughly $930 in savings without sacrificing the core connected experience
  • Screen rotates for off-bike workouts — 180° rotation is solid and functional; Echelon's strength and yoga library gives the screen genuine utility outside of riding sessions
  • Dual-sided SPD pedals included — most bikes at this price require a separate shoe or pedal purchase; the EX-5s works with cycling cleats or normal trainers right out of the box
  • Wide rider compatibility — 4-way adjustment accommodates riders from 4'9" to 6'5"; the range is genuinely broader than several competitors at similar prices
  • Silent magnetic resistance — no flywheel noise at any resistance level; the loudest component during a ride is the rider's own breathing; apartment-friendly
  • Compatible with Peloton classes via third-party apps — the EX-5s can be used with apps like Zwift, Apple Fitness+, and third-party Peloton-adjacent class apps via Bluetooth cadence output — expanding the content options well beyond the Echelon library

−Cons

  • Frame flex under hard efforts — at resistance levels 28–32 during aggressive standing sprints, a small but perceptible lateral flex is present in the frame; not a safety issue, but noticeable for experienced cyclists used to a stiffer commercial-grade bike
  • 32 resistance levels vs Peloton's 100 — the gap matters most to power-focused athletes who want precise watt-level control; recreational riders and most fitness cyclists will never feel constrained by the EX-5s's granularity
  • Echelon community is thinner than Peloton's — the leaderboard exists but lacks the social energy of Peloton's; if riding with a large, active community is a core motivator, Peloton's network effect is real and not replicated at Echelon's scale
  • Build quality trails the Peloton Bike at close inspection — the frame finish, pedal quality, and resistance knob feel reveal the price gap when compared side by side; functional but not premium-feeling
  • Warranty is shorter than competitors — 1-year frame warranty vs Peloton's 5-year frame; a meaningful gap for a $1,000+ investment; extended warranty available for purchase at checkout
  • Customer support mixed reviews — Echelon's post-purchase support has improved but still receives lower ratings than Peloton's in independent surveys; delivery is self-assembly rather than white-glove

What's included

Everything in your Echelon EX-5s box and our tips for getting set up and riding on day one.

What's in the box & setup tips

  • Echelon EX-5s Connect Bike frame and components — ships partially assembled in two boxes; full assembly takes approximately 45–60 minutes using the included Allen key set and illustrated guide; no additional tools required
  • 21.5-inch HD rotating touchscreen pre-mounted — connects to the handlebar post; requires your home Wi-Fi and an Echelon account to activate; 30-day Premier Membership trial included with new bike purchase
  • Dual-sided pedals (SPD + toe cages) — SPD cleat side fits most road and spin cycling shoes; toe cage side works with standard athletic trainers; left pedal is reverse-threaded (turn clockwise to tighten, anti-clockwise to loosen)
  • Water bottle cage (both sides) — dual bottle cages pre-installed on the frame; compatible with standard 74mm diameter water bottles
  • Allen key set and assembly hardware — all bolts, spacers, and hardware for full assembly included; Echelon's YouTube channel has a step-by-step video guide if you prefer visual instruction over the printed manual
  • 30-day Echelon Premier Membership trial — activated through the Echelon United app on the bike's screen; $34.99/month after the trial; covers unlimited user profiles per household; cancel anytime through the app or Echelon account portal

Product specifications

Full details from Echelon Fit, verified during our testing period.

Product Type
Connected indoor cycling bike with rotating touchscreen
Screen
21.5-inch HD rotating touchscreen — 180° rotation for off-bike workouts
Resistance Type
Magnetic — 32 levels, silent, handlebar dial or app-controlled
Flywheel Weight
32 lbs / 14.5 kg — rear-weighted for smooth inertia
Drive System
Belt drive — quiet, low-maintenance, no chain lubrication required
Handlebar Adjustment
4-way — up/down and fore/aft
Seat Adjustment
4-way — up/down and fore/aft; standard 27.2mm seat post accepts aftermarket saddles
Rider Height Range
4'9" – 6'5" (145 – 196 cm)
User Weight Capacity
300 lbs / 136 kg
Pedals
Dual-sided — SPD cleat compatible + toe cage; standard 9/16" threading
Connectivity
Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz) · Bluetooth 5.0 · ANT+ cadence output
Speakers
2 × 5W integrated Bluetooth speakers · 3.5mm headphone jack
Assembled Dimensions
54.0 × 22.0 × 60.0 inches (L × W × H)
Machine Weight
130 lbs / 59 kg
Subscription
Echelon Premier Membership $34.99/month — 30-day trial included
Warranty
1-year frame · 1-year parts · 1-year labour · Extended warranty available
Delivery
Free shipping — self-assembly (45–60 min); white-glove delivery available for additional fee
MSRP
$1,039 (sale) · $1,639 (full retail) · Financing from $35/month at 0% APR

How it compares

Echelon EX-5s vs the best-selling connected exercise bikes across all price points — tested head-to-head in our 2026 fitness equipment review.

Feature Echelon EX-5s Peloton Bike+ NordicTrack S22i Schwinn IC4
Price $1,039 (sale) + $34.99/mo $2,495 + $44/mo $1,799 + $39/mo iFit $699 — no subscription req.
Our Score 8.5/10 9.2/10 7.8/10 7.3/10
Screen Size 21.5" HD rotating 23.8" HD rotating 22" HD tilting No screen — console only
Resistance Levels 32 magnetic levels 100 micro-levels 24 digital levels 100 micro-levels (Bluetooth)
Subscription Cost $34.99/month $44/month $39/month (iFit) None required ($13/mo optional)
Screen Rotation Yes — 180° Yes — 360° Tilt only — no rotation No screen
Pedals Included Yes — SPD + toe cage dual-sided Delta cleats only — no toe cage SPD + toe cage dual-sided Yes — SPD + toe cage
Frame Warranty 1 year 5 years 10 years 10 years
Best For Best value connected experience, large screen budget Premium class experience, community Incline cycling, iFit users Budget entry, Zwift users

Where to buy — best prices compared

The Echelon EX-5s is available through Echelonfit.com, Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. All prices verified June 2026. The EX-5s goes on sale frequently — the regular $1,639 MSRP drops to $1,039–$1,199 during Echelon's regular promotional periods; check Echelonfit.com first as they match the best available price.

Echelonfit.com Official Site
$1,039
Free shipping · 0% APR financing available · 30-day Premier Membership trial included · Direct brand customer support · Widest selection of Echelon accessories and bundles
Shop Echelon
Amazon Fast Shipping
$1,039–$1,199
Free Prime shipping · Buy from "Echelon" as sold by Amazon · Price fluctuates — set a price alert · Check seller carefully to avoid third-party markup
Shop Amazon
Walmart
$1,039–$1,299
Free shipping on orders over $35 · Walmart+ members get same-day delivery in select areas · Easy in-store returns at 4,700+ locations · Financing via Affirm available
Shop Walmart
Best Buy
$1,039–$1,199
My Best Buy rewards points on every purchase · In-store viewing at select locations · Geek Squad optional setup service available · Frequent sale events including holiday and back-to-fitness promotions
Shop Best Buy
Echelon Financing 0% APR
From $35/mo
0% APR financing via Affirm (subject to credit approval) · Hardware payments from $35/month · Premier Membership billed separately at $34.99/month on top of finance payments
View financing
EX-5s Bundle Best Setup
From $1,139
Bike + cycling shoes + heart rate monitor bundle — Echelon periodically offers bundles that include SPD cycling shoes and a Bluetooth heart rate armband at a reduced combined price; check Echelonfit.com for current bundle offers
View bundles

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know before buying the Echelon EX-5s Connect Bike.

Can I use the Echelon EX-5s without the Premier Membership?

Yes — but with significantly reduced functionality. Without the Premier Membership, the EX-5s's screen displays basic metrics (cadence, resistance level, time, calories) and offers a small selection of free classes. The full live and on-demand class library, the leaderboard, and the structured programme content all require the $34.99/month Premier Membership.

The EX-5s also pairs via Bluetooth to third-party apps — Zwift, Apple Fitness+, and others — using the bike's cadence output sensor. So if you already subscribe to one of those platforms, you can use the EX-5s as a paired cycling device without the Echelon membership. The screen will still function as a tablet mount for those apps, though the class content won't be integrated in the same way as Echelon's native experience.

How does the Echelon EX-5s compare to the Peloton Bike — is it worth saving the money?

For most buyers, yes. The EX-5s delivers approximately 80–85% of the Peloton Bike experience at roughly 60–70% of the total cost (hardware + 12 months of membership). The screen is only 2 inches smaller, the class library is large and good, the resistance mechanism covers every rider's needs, and the adjustability range is broader than the standard Peloton Bike.

The gap is real and worth naming: Peloton's instructor community has a cultural energy and leaderboard engagement that Echelon hasn't replicated. If you know specific Peloton instructors whose classes you want to follow, or if the leaderboard competition with a large community is a core part of your motivation, only a Peloton Bike delivers that. For buyers who want the connected class format without the brand premium, the EX-5s is the strongest value case in the category. Use the 30-day trial to verify the content suits you before committing.

What cycling shoes do I need for the Echelon EX-5s?

The EX-5s ships with dual-sided pedals that accept both SPD cleats (2-bolt, used by most cycling shoes and Shimano-compatible shoes) and standard athletic trainers via the toe cage on the reverse side. This means you can start riding immediately in normal gym shoes using the toe cage, then upgrade to proper cycling shoes with SPD cleats when you're ready.

Note: the EX-5s pedals are not compatible with Delta / Look Delta cleats — the 3-bolt system used by Peloton's shoes. If you're coming from a Peloton and own Peloton-branded shoes, you'll need either a new pair of SPD-compatible shoes or SPD pedals (the stock pedals can be replaced; standard 9/16" threading). Most entry-level cycling shoes from brands like Shimano, Giro, or Specialized are SPD-compatible and available from $60–$120.

Is the EX-5s hard to assemble?

Assembly is straightforward but takes time — plan for 45–60 minutes for one person, or 30 minutes with a helper. The main steps are attaching the front stabiliser, mounting the handlebar post, installing the seat post and saddle, attaching the screen arm, and fitting the pedals. All required hardware and an Allen key set are included.

The most common assembly mistakes are: not tightening the pedals correctly (the left pedal is reverse-threaded — it tightens clockwise when looking at the left side of the bike, which is the opposite of standard threads) and under-tightening the seat post clamp, which causes the saddle to slip under load. Echelon's YouTube channel has a video walkthrough that's clearer than the printed manual for visual learners. If you prefer professional assembly, white-glove delivery with setup is available for an additional fee at checkout on Echelonfit.com.

What is the actual sale price vs the regular price — and when should I buy?

Echelon's pricing strategy involves frequent promotional discounting from a higher MSRP. The EX-5s lists at $1,639 full retail, but is regularly available at $1,039–$1,199 during Echelon's promotional windows, which occur multiple times per year. The sale price is available often enough that we'd rarely recommend paying full retail.

The best times to buy are: Echelon's own promotional events (check echelonfit.com for current offers), Black Friday / Cyber Monday (typically the deepest discount of the year), and January "New Year" fitness sales. Amazon also frequently matches Echelon's promotional pricing. If you see the EX-5s at $1,039 or below, that's the price floor we've observed — it's a genuine deal, not a manufactured markdown from an inflated anchor price.