Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Echelon EX-5S-22
Best Peloton AlternativePeloton Cross Training Bike+
Best PremiumPrice
$1,200-$1,600
$2,500-$3,000
Summary
The most beginner-friendly connected bike that mirrors the Peloton experience at a lower price point. CNET's pick for best Peloton alternative, praised for intuitive use and a built-in 22-inch screen.
The gold standard for connected fitness with a rotating touchscreen, auto-resistance, and the best live and on-demand class library available. Both CNET and PCMag name it the best exercise bike overall for 2026.
Pros
- 22-inch rotating touchscreen built in — no tablet needed
- Intuitive interface praised as easiest to use among connected bikes
- Echelon app offers live and on-demand classes at lower subscription cost than Peloton
- Appears across multiple expert and community recommendation lists
- Rotating 24-inch HD touchscreen enables off-bike strength and yoga classes
- Auto-follow resistance syncs automatically with instructor cues
- Massive live and on-demand class library with top-tier instructors
- New AI camera for strength training form feedback
Cons
- Echelon app class quality and instructor depth doesn't match Peloton
- Build quality feels less premium than Peloton at a similar price tier
- Subscription still required for full feature access
- Expensive upfront cost plus mandatory monthly subscription fee
- Subscription required to access most features — bike is limited without it
- Heavy and difficult to move once placed
Our take
If you want the Peloton vibe without the Peloton price tag, Echelon is the move. The EX-5S-22 is the easiest connected bike to just get on and ride without fiddling with settings.
If budget isn't a concern and you want the most polished, motivating experience money can buy, Peloton still hasn't been beaten. The community and class quality are genuinely unmatched.
Buy
