When Peloton first hit the scene, it felt like they were everywhere. With sleek bikes, energetic live classes, and a cult-like following, they were undeniably the “it” brand in connected fitness. And to their credit, Peloton was in the right place at the right time—launching a live class-based product just before the world shut down for COVID. People were stuck at home and hungry for new ways to stay active and Peloton cashed in.

But what happens when the hype wears off?

Peloton’s Problematic Track Record

I’ll be honest—I’ve never been a fan of Peloton products. Beyond the branding and buzz, there are some serious concerns that are hard to ignore.

First, there have been two major recalls. One involving their treadmill after a devastating incident in which a child was killed. The second involved the seat post on their flagship bike, which has left many users still waiting for replacements. For a brand that prides itself on premium pricing, safety and product reliability should be non-negotiable.

And let’s not forget the financial picture. Peloton lost $3 billion in revenue just a couple of years ago. They’ve been in contraction mode ever since—laying off thousands (over 3,000 employees), scaling back production, and giving away free bikes to Hilton hotels just to boost subscription numbers. It’s a tough look for a brand once hailed as revolutionary.

Why Echelon Might Be the Better Bet

While Peloton has been shrinking, Echelon has been quietly expanding—and they’re doing it smartly. They offer a wide range of equipment options, from budget-friendly residential bikes to commercial-grade models that can stand up to the grind of a gym setting. This flexibility means Echelon can fit into just about any lifestyle or budget.

What’s more? No major recalls. None. That alone should earn them some respect in a category where trust and safety matter.

Echelon is also expanding into strength training and continuing to evolve its product line while maintaining a reputation for building solid, reliable equipment. And unlike Peloton, they’ve managed this growth without slashing their workforce or making desperate plays to prop up a subscription model.

Final Thoughts

I don’t personally use either brand, but if I had to pick a horse in the race, Echelon looks like the company headed in the right direction. They’ve stayed focused, avoided headline-grabbing scandals, and seem to care more about long-term growth than short-term hype.

Peloton may have had the first-mover advantage, but Echelon seems to be playing the long game—and playing it well.