5 Best Echelon Exercise Bikes of 2026

The Echelon FitNation Body Bike isn’t your average exercise bike—it’s a full-body revolution disguised as cardio. With 8 levels of independent upper and lower body magnetic resistance, this machine transforms low-impact pedaling into a dual-action workout that actively engages your arms, shoulders, and core. The multi-grip handles are intelligently designed for push-pull movements, making it ideal for users seeking joint-friendly fitness without sacrificing intensity. If you’ve ever felt like stationary bikes only work your legs, this one finally bridges the gap with purpose-built upper-body integration.

In real-world testing, the forward-and-backward non-slip pedals with secure foot straps deliver a smooth, stable motion that adapts to varied fitness levels. While it lacks digital connectivity or live classes, the large analog display keeps essentials like time, calories, distance, and scan functions visible and easy to track. At just under $80, it’s a no-frills but highly functional option for small spaces or rehab-focused routines. However, the resistance system, while effective, doesn’t match the fluidity of higher-end magnetic resistance bikes—expect a slightly stiffer feel at peak levels.

Compared to Echelon’s connected smart bikes, the FitNation Body Bike stands apart as a pure mechanical workhorse—perfect for those who want zero-digital distraction and maximum physical engagement. It’s not built for spin-class intensity or immersive training, but for low-impact endurance, senior fitness, or physical therapy support, it shines. While the EX5 or EX15 offer tech-rich experiences, this model wins on simplicity and full-body utility at a fraction of the cost.

The Echelon EX5 punches well above its weight class, delivering a spin-studio experience in a compact, home-ready frame. With 32 precise resistance levels and Bluetooth-enabled connectivity, it syncs seamlessly with the Echelon Fit App, unlocking over 3,000 live and on-demand classes led by top-tier instructors. The cushioned seat and solid steel frame provide comfort and stability, making it a strong contender for riders who want HIIT-ready performance without the boutique gym price tag. If you’re tired of monotonous solo workouts, this bike injects energy and accountability into every pedal stroke.

During testing, the resistance transitions smoothly, mimicking the ramp-up of real climbs and sprints, while the flywheel delivers a balanced, quiet ride—perfect for apartments or shared spaces. The small footprint makes it ideal for tight corners, and the upright design supports riders from 4’9” to 6’5” comfortably. That said, the screenless setup means you’ll need a tablet or phone mounted separately, which can feel clunky compared to models with built-in displays. While the ride quality is impressive, the lack of visual feedback during class can break immersion.

When stacked against the EX15, the EX5 feels like the more serious athlete’s pick, with a sturdier build and better component quality. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of the EX5S-22 or EX-8s, but it strikes a sweet spot between durability and value. For riders who want pro-level training structure without overspending on a giant screen, the EX5 offers more fitness return per dollar than nearly any other mid-tier bike on the market.

Don’t let the budget-friendly label fool you—the Echelon EX15 is a quiet powerhouse that redefines what an entry-level smart bike should be. With 32 silent magnetic resistance levels, a fully adjustable design, and access to the same Echelon Premier Membership as its pricier siblings, it delivers studio-quality classes without the studio price. The extra-large cushioned seat and padded, slip-resistant handlebars make long rides comfortable, a rarity in this price range. For beginners or casual riders who want guided motivation and real progress tracking, this bike is a game-changer.

In daily use, the EX15 proves surprisingly stable, thanks to its powder-coated steel frame and wide base. The Bluetooth connectivity works reliably, syncing cadence and resistance data to the app during live and on-demand classes. Whether you’re crushing a 15-minute HIIT blast or a 45-minute endurance ride, the smooth flywheel and toe cages keep your feet locked in securely. However, the display is minimal, showing only basic metrics, and the resistance knob, while precise, lacks the motorized flair of higher-end models. It’s not built for competitive training, but for consistent, sustainable fitness, it excels.

Compared to the EX5, the EX15 offers nearly identical core features at a significantly lower price, making it the best value for new riders. While it doesn’t match the EX-8s’ immersive screen or LED feedback, it provides 90% of the experience for half the cost. If you’re looking for a no-gimmicks, app-powered starter bike that grows with your fitness journey, the EX15 is the smartest entry point in Echelon’s lineup.

The Echelon EX5S-22 is where immersion meets innovation, thanks to its 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen that flips 180 degrees for off-bike strength and yoga sessions. This isn’t just a bike—it’s a full home gym hub. With 32 motorized resistance levels, your workouts dynamically adjust in real time during live classes, syncing with instructor cues for effortless intensity shifts. The dual-sided SPD and toe-clip pedals cater to both cycling veterans and newcomers, while the ergonomic handlebars and dual water bottle holders support marathon sessions. If you crave a connected, cinematic fitness experience, this model delivers.

In real-world testing, the touchscreen is responsive and bright, making scenic rides and instructor-led climbs feel engaging and lifelike. The motorized resistance responds instantly, eliminating lag when transitioning from flat roads to steep hills. Riders from 4’9” to 6’5” fit comfortably, and the 300-lb weight capacity ensures durability. However, the screen, while large, isn’t 4K, so up-close viewing reveals slight pixelation. And because it’s fixed in place, glare can be an issue in sunlit rooms unless positioned carefully.

When compared to the EX-8s, the EX5S-22 is a close second—offering nearly the same screen size and motorized resistance at a lower cost. It lacks the curved display and LED flywheel lights, but for most users, the training experience is indistinguishable. If you want the biggest screen possible without stepping into the $2,000 range, the EX5S-22 is the ultimate sweet spot for visual immersion.

The Echelon EX-8s isn’t just the best bike in the lineup—it’s a benchmark for smart fitness equipment. With a massive 24-inch curved HD touchscreen that rotates 180 degrees, it turns your living room into a personal fitness theater. But the real magic lies in the 15 LED flywheel lights that pulse and shift color based on your output zones, creating a rave-like motivational feedback loop that keeps you pushing harder. Combined with 32 motorized resistance levels and SPD-compatible dual pedals, this bike blends performance, aesthetics, and engagement like no other. If you want to feel like a pro athlete in a live class, this is your machine.

During testing, the flywheel’s responsiveness was flawless, with resistance shifting seamlessly mid-sprint. The vented competition-style seat and bullhorn handlebars offer pro-level comfort and positioning, crucial for long or high-intensity sessions. The dumbbell holders and USB charging port turn the bike into a full workout station, perfect for hybrid strength-cardio routines. Even the Bluetooth connectivity is rock-solid, with no lag in metric syncing. The only caveat? The premium features come with a premium footprint—it’s large, heavy, and demands dedicated space.

Against the EX5S-22, the EX-8s is the clear upgrade, offering a larger, curved screen, dynamic lighting, and elite ergonomics. While both have motorized resistance and rotating displays, the EX-8s adds emotional engagement through sensory feedback that the others can’t match. For serious riders who want the most immersive, feature-rich experience, the EX-8s justifies its position as the best overall Echelon bike—delivering top-tier performance, design, and innovation in one flawless package.