Echelon Smart Connect EX-1 Bike Review

How long will the Echelon Smart Connect EX-1 last?

One of the main reasons we do not rank the Smart Connect EX-1 higher is because the quality Echelon put into this model does not seem like it will last too long. You should expect more for the price tag, but more than likely you will get a longer lasting bike from one of our higher ranked bikes. We would only recommend the Smart Connect EX-1 for a light user or a beginner because they should see the longest use out of this bike.

Brief Overview

There are a lot of great exercise companies out there that make quality machines. We are not totally convinced that Echelon is one of them. The Smart Connect EX-1 looks like an okay bike but we cannot figure out why Echelon decided to price such a basic bike so high. We are left to reason that Echelon is a little prouder of their bike than their reputation allows. Yet, this model is not a total waste. So, we have placed the Smart Connect EX-1 in our Fourth Place 2020 Best Buy spot for the $700 to $999 dollar category.

Overall Quality

There are a lot of bikes on the market so why would you spend more than you need to on a basic model? That is what we thought when we looked at the Smart Connect EX-1. Don’t get us wrong, Echelon has made a pretty decent bike, but we do not think it is worth the price tag they currently have on it. We know that Echelon does not have the best reputation for quality. And the Smart Connect EX-1’s warranty seems to be proof that Echelon is even aware of their low-quality bikes. If the company that makes the bike does not want to stand behind their machine for more than a year, why should you? Especially when they are asking so much money.

Still, there are obviously some redeeming qualities about the Smart Connect EX-1. We do like that the Echelon Smart Connect EX-1 has that magnetic resistance and so many resistance levels. Some bikes, especially in this price range, do not have motors. In some cases, this can be great. You don’t have the noise or plugs, and you don’t have to maintain a finicky motor. But you have to admit, it seems pretty silly when the motor-less bikes cost just as much as the motorized bikes. With the Smart Connect EX-1, you do get a pretty decent motor. Additionally, the resistance is controlled through a magnetic force as opposed to friction or a stationary brake. Magnetic braking systems often prove to last longer and be smoother than other systems. So not only did Echelon design a decent motor and braking system, but they also gave the Smart Connect EX-1 a 32-level resistance capability which does add to its value. Mind you, we still think you should try and find the Smart Connect EX-1 on sale- the motor isn’t that good.

History

This is the first year that we have been able to review the Smart Connect EX-1. We do have other Echelon bike reviews as well as an array of bike reviews that may help you decide.

Conclusion

Echelon has made a decent bike with good workout features like the resistance levels and braking system. But overall, the Smart Connect EX-1 does not beat other bikes on the market. If you are a light user, we would recommend this bike if you find it on sale. Our 2020 Fourth Place Best Buy for the $700 to $999 dollar range may not last too long for more serious users, but it won’t be a complete waste just try and find the Smart Connect EX-1 on sale.