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The battle for the budget-class smart bike is fierce indeed and Echelon is spinning a new offering into the marketplace with its EX-Prime Smart Connect Fitness Bike. For fans of exercise bikes, this model, also known as the Prime Bike, looks a lot like a Peloton without the screen, priced at $500. Devoid many of the features one might expect from a $2,500 model, the Prime Bike does offer an integrated tablet holder and comes with the Echelon Fit App which offers its own live, interactive training programs for holistic workouts. More than 1,500 on-demand rides as well as live, interactive trainers. As it’s the newest in the series, Echelon is offering a free 30-day trial for the bike and the online fitness app.

That said, fitness fans by now might have heard the commotion between Echelon and Amazon.com, as the manufacturer had originally promoted the bike as a joint product in terms of both production, marketing, and distribution. Amazon.com has completely disavowed that relationship and online offerings have been changed dramatically. Even as the bike’s future remains a bit cloudy, it’s certainly worth a consideration given the sizable difference in price between it and its near peers.

A significantly lighter unit, the EX-Prime weighs in at only 80 pounds compared to others which typically run between 120 and 130. With a length of 45 inches and height of 36, it would fit easily in a home and make for light work in moving around. Powered off of silent magnetic resistance, the bike does offer toe cages to secure the feet, paddled handlebars for a slip-resistant grip, and an extra large cushioned seat. Maximum weight capacity is 330 pounds, and 32 levels of resistance are available for the user.

Aside from size, the most noticeable difference is the lack of screen, which in today’s world, simply means users should bring their own tablet. The Echelon Fit App comes with the unit at $39 per month, very comparable to other products on the market. For those unfamiliar with that particular program, it is compatible with all other Echelon machines, including rowers. More than 1,500 training programs are available to the subscribers, as well as interactive training by way of life coaches from remote locations. Workout stats can be shared with fellow classmates across the world and advanced upon leaderboards, with results logged, much the same as other programs. Classes range anywhere from 20 to 75 minutes and span beginner to advanced.

Powder-coated black to prevent scratching, the Prime Bike comes with a 12-month limited parts and labor warranty, which is less than most in the industry.

The big question is the bike’s future regarding the Amazon.com partnership and it’s overall durability. But given the price, it’s an attractive look and really ought to be considered against the more expensive units. The buyer will have to judge cost over potential machine quality there.

Echelon EX-Prime Smart Connect Fitness Bikes Specs