Migliaccio & Rathod LLP is investigating Echelon Fitness Multimedia, LLC for allegations that a July 2025 firmware update materially disabled core functionality of Echelon smart bikes and treadmills – effectively forcing consumers into ongoing subscriptions or rendering the equipment unusable.

Reported Issues

Owners of Echelon smart cardio machines report a sudden loss of functionality following a mandatory firmware update:

Bikes and treadmills that previously worked offline now require a constant connection to Echelon servers
Third-party app compatibility (e.g., Zwift) disabled despite prior functionality
Users warned by community forums that updating “effectively bricks your bike” without an active subscription
Consumers describing the update as a post-purchase bait-and-switch
Machines reduced to little more than static displays unless monthly fees are paid

Tech coverage and user forums indicate these changes were imposed after purchase, not disclosed at the point of sale.

Why Consumers Should Be Concerned

Echelon marketed its equipment as premium smart fitness hardware with flexible use. Retroactively disabling offline or third-party functionality may support claims under:

State UDAP statutes for deceptive or unfair post-sale conduct
Breach of implied warranty, where hardware no longer performs its ordinary purpose
Unconscionable contract modification, imposed through forced firmware updates
Negative-option subscription theories, where continued basic use depends on recurring payments

A fitness machine sold outright should not become subscription-locked years later through unilateral software changes.

Signs You May Be Affected

Purchased an Echelon bike or treadmill prior to mid-2025
Lost offline or third-party functionality after a firmware update
Told you must maintain an Echelon subscription to retain basic use
Equipment now unusable without constant server access

If you experienced these issues, fill out the form below or contact [email protected] or (202) 470-3520.