Echelon Connect Bike EX-7 Review

It’s most heavy-duty bike yet, the Echelon Connect Bike EX-7 brings a performance-oriented design to the indoor cycling market, complete with streaming training. In the same arena as the Stryde Bike, the Echelon Connect Bike EX-7 offers nearly unlimited training programs by way of its 21.5″ HD touchscreen (which pivots 180 degrees), and features center audio jack, front-facing speakers and high-definition video quality. With a Kevlar PolyV power drive belt and electronic magnetic Eddy current brake equipped with neodymium magnets, the bike brings a competitive foot print of 54 by 20 inches and weighs only 124 pounds. One of the upsides to the screen is that it can be used for not just the incredible diverse Echelon community of training programs, but other memberships and apps as well. As with most indoor bikes these days, an Ethernet wired or WiFi connection are required, and the unit does have an Ethernet connection in the rear of the bike.

The Echelon Connect Bike EX-7 enters a competitive market which features not just the Stryde Bike, but the NordicTrack S22i and MYX Fitness Bike, which run similar to many of the Peloton units. The Echelon Connect Bike EX-7 comes in slightly pricier than the Stryde, but offers some hardware in exchange, as it appeals to the studio fitness crowd who want to bring home the live workout experience with a pivoting 21.5″ screen. Other key features include Bluetooth telemetry for heart rate monitoring and dumbbell holders built into the bike.

The Great

• High-quality Streaming Training Options: One app and membership unlocks the entire Echelon community in terms of live streaming workout sessions of all kinds, as well as a whole host of pre-programmed routines.
• Great Screen: Users can participate in live workouts by way of a 21.5″ HD touchscreen which pivots 180 degrees.
• Entertainment Options Abound: Equipped with user-facing dual speakers, the bike has Bluetooth audio and a standard 3.5 mm audio jack.
• Durable Design: Echelon put the money where it counts on the machine, so its frame is of high quality and durability.
• Solid Feedback: In addition to the Live Leaderboard and Watts, other data displayed includes RPM, MPH, Calories, Distance, Time, Heart Rate, and Resistance Level.
• Dumbbell Holders: A pair of dumbbells can be stored on a rack off the bike for cross training sessions.
• Diverse Pedals: As with many bikes, users commercial SPD clips for clip-in riding shoes and a toe cage.
• Good Ergonomics: With its typical range of adjustability, the EX-7 has a quad-seat with multiple options.
• Heart Rate Monitoring: The EX-7 offers Bluetooth Telemetry.
• Solid Weight Limit: With a maximum user weight of 325 lbs the EX-7 can handle nearly any user.
• Payment Options: Financing payments start as low as $52 per month.

The Not so Great

• Connection Needed: Like any connected bike, you’ll need an Internet connection (WiFi or cable) in order to make the most of the EX-7 riding experience.
• Power Requirements: The bike does require 110V or 240V by way of two ports in the front and rear frame.
• Short Warranty: The bike comes with a limited 12-month parts and labor warranty atop a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Price: At $2,040, the bike is a little pricier than some competitors.

Who Should Use the EX-7 Bike?

The Bottom Line

In consideration of the solid machine and its programming flexibility, the Echelon Connect Bike EX-7 is a solid consideration for buyers to match up against the Stryde Bike and others. A little pricier, but with a few more bells and whistles, it makes for a solid referral for riding enthusiasts.

Echelon Connect Bike EX-7 Specs