Peloton vs Echelon bikes

Screens and how you follow classes

Peloton's bikes have a built-in touchscreen fixed to the frame. On the standard Peloton Bike the screen faces the rider. On the Bike+, the screen swivels so you can turn it towards a floor space for off-bike classes. Classes, ride data and the leaderboard all run on that screen, so the experience is tightly joined up.

Echelon's range is broader. Many Echelon Connect bikes have a holder for your own tablet or phone, and you run the Echelon app on that device. Some higher models add a built-in touchscreen. Using your own tablet keeps the bike simpler and lets you swap to other apps, but you have to supply and charge the device. If you want to mix and match apps, our guide to using Zwift or the Peloton app on any bike explains the options.

Resistance control and data

Both brands use magnetic resistance, so they are quiet in the home. Peloton bikes use a central knob that you turn during classes, and the screen shows resistance, cadence and output in watts. On the Bike+, resistance can follow the instructor's cues automatically if you switch that feature on. Check Peloton's support pages for how it works on your model.

Echelon bikes also use magnetic resistance with numbered levels, set by a knob or by buttons on the handlebars, depending on the model. Ride data such as cadence and resistance shows in the app. Exactly which metrics appear, and whether output is shown in watts, varies by model and app version, so check Echelon's specification pages. If you train by power, our bike power zones tool turns an FTP into effort levels.

Pedals and shoes

Peloton bikes come with pedals that take Delta-compatible cleats, a three-bolt road cycling system. That means you need cycling shoes with Delta cleats fitted, or you swap the pedals for ones that suit your shoes. Changing pedals is a common job, but use the right pedal spanner and remember the left pedal has a reverse thread.

Many Echelon bikes come with dual-sided pedals: a toe cage on one side for trainers and a clip-in side on the other, often for the two-bolt SPD system. That makes it easier for several people in a household to ride in everyday shoes. Our guide to spin bike shoes and pedals explains the cleat systems.

Note:If you change pedals, follow the maker's instructions and torque guidance, and check them again after the first few rides. If a pedal thread is damaged or anything feels loose, stop riding and contact the maker's support or a qualified bike technician.

Membership, UK availability and support

Both brands sell a monthly membership that unlocks their full class library on the bike or app. Without one, features are limited. Peloton's terms for using its bike without a membership have changed over time, so check its current UK pages; our guide to using Peloton without a subscription explains what is usually available.

Peloton sells its bikes directly in the UK and supports them with its own delivery and service teams. Echelon's UK availability has varied over the years and depends on model and retailer, so check which bikes are currently sold here, and who handles warranty and repairs, before ordering. If a connected bike stops working, the maker's support pages are the first stop; our Peloton bike not working guide covers basic checks.

Which should you choose?

Choose Peloton if you want a single, tightly integrated system with a built-in screen, a large class library and direct UK support, and you are happy to use Delta clip-in shoes or change the pedals.

Choose Echelon if you prefer more choice of format, like the idea of using your own tablet, or want pedals that work with trainers out of the box. Check UK availability first. If neither appeals, our best Peloton alternative bike guide lists bikes that work with third-party apps, and our best spin bike UK guide covers the wider market.

Frequently asked questions

Is Echelon cheaper to run than Peloton? Running costs depend on each brand's current membership terms, which change. Compare the latest UK membership pages for both before you decide.

Can I use Peloton classes on an Echelon bike? You can follow Peloton app classes on a tablet while riding any bike, but data will not sync with the Peloton leaderboard in the same way. See our guide to using apps on any bike.

Do Peloton bikes come with toe cages? On most models, no. The standard pedals take Delta cleats. Many owners fit different pedals instead. Check the manual first.

Do Echelon bikes need a membership? For the full class library, yes. Some basic ride functions may work without one, depending on the model. Check Echelon's support pages.