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Which Nordictrack bike to get?

Posted by Pascal Landshoeft

May 24, 2020 12:03:29 PM

Which Nordictrack bike to get

Which Nordictrack bike to get?

 
This article walks you through the Pros, cons, and alternatives of the Nordictrack bike range for each model. You will also find some tips and considerations for the purchase of cardio equipment if you are buying for the first time and feel overwhelmed.
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Index of Nordictrack bikes

 
This is the Index of this article of the Nordictrack bikes in the order of appearance. If you already know which model you are looking for and just want a second opinion, just scroll until you reach the detailed section. If you want a general overview, I would recommend to start at the top and work your way down. You will learn more about the pros, cons, and alternatives for each model in this overview.
 
 

Quick reference for Nordictrack bikes

 
This is a quick reference for anyone who does not want to go too deep into every feature and just wants to know a headline for the bike of choice and why I would buy it. 
 
The biggest screen on a Nordictrack bike
 
Best value for money with incline
 
Best value for money without incline 
 
Cheapest upright bike
 
Cheapest recumbent bike
 
This is a personal opinion based on the features I like. I have a bias to prefer to pay a little more so that I am happy and things last longer. If you like to flip every penny twice, go one down from my recommendations where possible.
 

Nordictrack Pricing

 
The pricing and availability of the models is based on numbers in May 2020. Prices are always subject matter to change by the vendor and I update these posts on a yearly basis. If you find a cheaper price on the website than it is either because of a sale or demand has gone down after the Corona crisis. If you see higher prices than the demand has gone up. If you see models only available in the UK, be aware that this might be a sign that Nordictrack will pull them soon from the market. They usually start distribution from their Headquarters in the United States, have the models available worldwide, and then they sell out in America first when production stops and the other markets follow.
 

Which bike is the right one for you

 
To determine which bike is the right for you I have a list of questions prepared for you. Try to answer them honestly as this might save you 1000 on your purchase as you do not opt into features that you will barely use anyway. Please always consult a GP for general health before changing your exercise regime.
 
  • How many miles do you currently cycle a week? 10 / 50 / 100?
  • How old are you? 20 / 30 / 40 / 50?
  • What is your medical history? Any severe joint pains?
  • Do you listen to your own music or prefer to be entertained by a personal trainer? 
  • How often do you currently use incline/decline functions or do hill cycling?
  • How often do you track your heart rate when biking? 
  • D you surf the internet or watch movies while you are on the bike?
 
The more miles you do a week, the more incline you use and the healthier you are, the more expensive your bike should be as it provides more features. The current behavior is usually a good predictor of future behavior when it comes to habit. If you currently struggle to do your cardio at all and is very likely that an expensive machine won't change that and it is money down the drain. All the extra functions will be overwhelming. If you currently do a lot of exercising, do not compromise. If you are sitting on this machine for more than 12 hours per week, it is worth it to go a little over budget to be happy with your purchase. The main price drivers of indoor cycles are:
 
  • Size of the screen
  • Size of the flywheel
  • Range of incline/decline
 
The bigger the screen, the flywheel, and the incline available, the more expensive the cycle will become. If you max out all these features you find yourself in the 2000 - 2500 price range with Nordictrack. If you compromise on the incline or screen you will find yourself somewhere in the 1000 -1500 range. If you compromise on both you will be around 1000. If you take the minimum on all of the features you will pay about 500-700 for your bike. So having a hard look at whether you really need the incline or the massive screen saves you a lot of money. It always looks more promising when you are buying. In the end most people end up only using the most basic features of any exercise machine they get. If you are a little older and your joints are aching you might prefer a recumbent over an upright bike. 
 

Nordictrack One-touch controls

 
A great feature that Nordictrack provides is one-touch controls. You can see that they have been in the market for a long time and optimized the console they use for their treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes. 
 
The buttons to increase and decrease the resistance/speed and incline are situated at the left and right of the console. By clicking the button of choice the machine will automatically go to what you have chosen. You clicking like mad to go up and down the settings which are convenient and practical. 
 

Nordictrack Ifit 

 
I fit is NordicTrack’s subscription service for personal training and customized rides delivered to your home. While Peloton sets the industry standard, everybody else in the industry is playing catch up. In my personal opinion Nordictrack is currently the closest to give Peloton a run for their money in terms of quality and range you get with their subscription.
 
Most machines come with a free year of Ifit included. When you choose a class or predefined track your bike will automatically adjust resistance and incline based on which course or track you have chosen. If you like group classes in your local gym or get easily bored this is a great feature. If you are more about listening to music and chasing your personal bests on specific distances, this is only a nice to have. 
 
After the first year you will pay a monthly fee of about 10 bucks for an Individual and 30 for a family account. I think this is worth it if you went for one of the bikes with a massive screen. In this case budget will be at the forefront of your decision making anyway. 
 

Treadmills vs bikes

 
Some of you might be comparing bikes and treadmills to do their cardio. As they are roughly the same price here are some thoughts to help you make a decision between the two.
 
If you have limited space a bike will be the better choice than a treadmill. Some treadmills are foldable, but general use shows that you will mostly keep it in the standard position. A bike can also be moved easier by one person than a treadmill if you want to make the space multiple use. 
 
If you live in an area where it is very hot or cold and you love running, get a treadmill instead of a bike. This way you can run all year round. The same goes for running enthusiasts in urban areas who feel unsafe on the road. 
 
If you have problems with your joints choose a bike over a treadmill for your exercises. If you got your hip replaced on top of that, but still want to stay active, a recumbent bike might be the best choice for you. In case you do have arthritis and a hip replacement or similar conditions, please do consult a GP before considering any exercises. 
 
If you want to burn the maximum calories per minute a treadmill is the better choice than a bike. Still, a treadmill might not be the best choice to achieve this goal. A Versaclimber or Jacobs ladder will make you sweat faster if you can afford them. 
 

Ellipticals vs bikes 

 
Some of you might consider buying an elliptical or a bike. Here are some considerations for you when you are doing your research. 
 
Ellipticals will take up a lot more space than an indoor bike. In addition to the square foot it takes up you should also check the clearance to the ceiling. This can be easily overlooked. An elliptical raises you from the floor and you are standing. Therefore, it is not necessarily the ideal choice for a basement gym. In addition most ellipticals are hard to move around even by two people. Keep that in mind when you are planning your space. 
 
An elliptical will be easier on your body than a bike. You will not sit on a saddle and the motion is smooth. In addition most surfaces on an elliptical are cushioned for a comfy ride. If you want to make the entire family happy you will have an easier time with an elliptical than with a bike, given you have space. 
 
In terms of calories burned per minute the elliptical is the worst choice you can make it. It will be very hard to get a challenging workout out of an elliptical for a very fit person. You will burn calories, but you will more likely break the elliptical than reach your limit. 
 

Rowers versus bikes

 
A rower can be a good alternative to a bike. The space requirements are slightly more, but you can Hang concept 2 rowers on the wall after use to save some space. You will also get a reasonable full-body workout from a rower and it is possible to push yourself to the limit. 
 
If you can get a whole family behind the purchase of an elliptical it will not be hard to get them behind a rower. Rowers are also surprisingly cheap compared to fancy stationary bikes with screens. The only big downside of rowers is that they are not great for interval training. Bikes are better suited to this. 
 

Triathletes 

 
Triathletes tend to shell out quite a bit of money on their bike equipment. As you already have the bike, I personally think you are better off to get a stand for your road bike rather than a fancy indoor bike. You will be hard-pressed to find a stationary bike with the same pedals and saddle and changing them around all the time is also just annoying. Save the money on the indoor bike and look into an infinity pool. This is usually the discipline where training is neglected the Most and infinity pools start from 3000 upward. You probably already spent more on the frame for your bike. 
 
 
 
 
 

Nordictrack S22i 2499 /1999 (UK/US)


The Nordictrack S22i stationary bike is the flagship bike in the current Nordictrack portfolio. Its main features are its 20% incline, 22 HD Touchscreen and the included 3lb dumbbells to be able to do full-body workouts on this machine. This is the bike to get if you want to max out all features with Nordictrack and you are not afraid of paying up to do so. The full feature list includes:
 
  • 22” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Free Ground Floor Installation Included
  • Watts Power Readout
  • Includes 1 Years iFit Family Membership
  • Auxiliary Music Port
  • Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers
  • Inertia-enhanced Flywheel
  • Powergrade Incline & Decline Drive System
  • -10% – 20% Incline
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • OneTouch™ Controls
  • Enhanced Corrosion Resistance
  • Large Diameter Adjustable Leveling Feet
  • 22 Digital Resistance Levels
  • 150 kg User Capacity
  • Commercial Grade Steel Construction
  • Ergonomic Padded Saddle
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Non-slip, Multi-position Handlebar
  • Vertical & Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Dual Water Bottle Holders
  • Two 3 Lb. Dumbbells Included
  • Assembled Dimensions - 140 L x 55 W x 146H cm
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Compatible with Standard Road Bike Pedals & Seat
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labour; 5 year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
This is a great machine for very dedicated home gym owners or to impress your clients in a commercial gym. You can also customize it at home, in case you want to make it feel more like your outdoor experience.
 

Pros of the S22i 

 
The pros of the S22i are:
 
  • Can use your own seat and pedals
  • Big screen
  • 20% incline
  • Good sound system
It is possible to exchange the seat of the S22i with the one you are already using for your outdoor bike. The same goes for the pedals. This is usually a good option for anyone who already cycles a lot outside and has a semi-professional or even professional setup with their current bike. You can clip into the pedals and give it your all. Still, less experienced cyclists will also get a fully functioning setup with good pedals and a seat.
 
The massive 22-inch screen on the S22i is one of the main factors which drives price. It even has an HDMI connector to take up even more screen real estate. This can interesting if you want to run classes with inexperienced trainers. You just buy the S22i for the instructor and get some other bikes, which are a bit cheaper, in bulk. Hook up the main bike to a projector and you have a good group setup which is not too expensive. I can not really see how you would want even more screen estate at home. I personally think the 22 inch is even overkill. But go for it, if you want to tread yourself. 
 
The S22i bike also comes with an incline/decline system so that you can simulate hill climbs and downhill biking in the sense of the tour de france. You will not recreate the experience of a mountain bike on this, but it is a very good option to take challenging tracks indoors and simulate them when you combine the bike with the Ifit subscription.
 
The S22i also comes with a good sound system that will fill the room with the music and instructions from the available Ifit exercises. This will be needed as the bike does not come with Bluetooth to hook up your earphones to it. 
 

Cons of the S22i 

 
The cons of the S22i are:
 
  • Needs tightening on the seat and pedals
  • Pedals keep going
  • No Bluetooth for headset
  • Weight capacity
You will have to watch and tighten the seat and the pedals regularly, especially if you are a heavy user. If you compare this to a street bike, it will be more maintenance than you are used to. Still, if you are an average user, you will probably experience this less. 
 
The pedals are attached to an inertia flywheel which means that they will keep moving even if you break. If you are used to using indoor machines and ellipticals this is something you are already familiar with. If you are a very dedicated outdoor cyclist who bought the S22i to press even more miles into a week than spend a little to get used to the mechanics. They are different from how your street bike would react and you might hurt yourself if you want to break at high speed instinctively. 
 
A big oversight for a stationary bike with such a high price tag is that you can not use Bluetooth with the machine. If you are already investing in such a big touch screen it is very safe to assume that you want to make heavy use of the preprogrammed I Fit content. For this, you can not hook the sound up to your earphone. This is bad for use at home or in a gym. For such a high price I would expect Bluetooth to be included.
 
Another con to the S22i is weight capacity. Officially it only goes up to 150kg. If you want to get active to lose some weight, you might want to look at the ellipticals or heavy-duty treadmills to use for walking. Possible models can be the X22i treadmill or the SE7i elliptical.
 

Alternatives to the S22i 

 
Alternatives to the Nordictrack S22i are:
 
 
The Nordictrack 1750 will cost you roughly the same as the S22i bike. With this, you will get one of the most well-balanced treadmills in the Nordictrack portfolio. 1750 is the bread butter machine of Nordictrack and leaves little to be desired if you are an average user or heavy user who does not need a massive incline or screen. Compared to the S22i you get a smaller screen and in return a very reliable treadmill which is good value for money. Of course, this is will take up more space in your home compared to a bike.
 
The Nordictrack X11i is in the same price range as the Nordictrack 1750. With this treadmill, you will get a whopping 40%  incline. It is one of the least costly treadmills out of the 40% incline line up from Nordictrack. If you are a dedicated runner who wants all options on the incline or just wants to maximize calorie burn per minute, this might be the better option. Keep in mind, that a treadmill will have bigger space requirements than a bike.
 
The FS7i elliptical is the most modern elliptical to date from Nordictrack which you can get in the UK and a solid mid-range option in the US. The free stride technology makes this machine a stepper, treadmill, and elliptical in one machine. If you like the cushioned experience of ellipticals and have a good balance, this might be an option for you. The only downsides to this machine are that it is more error-prone than ellipticals with a set range of motion and that you need to get used to how to balance on the machine. Compared to the S22i you will get a smaller screen, it will take up more space, but it will be more friendly for users with a lower fitness level and provide more options for your home gym. Good buy to make the entire family happy, if the most sporty person in the household is willing to compromise.
 
The concept 2 model D rower is an option for anyone who prefers rowing over biking. You will also save about 1000 compared to the S22i. The concept 2 model D rower is a good option fur budget home gym owners or commercial gyms who want to buy in bulk. You can also hang these rowers on the wall quite easily to save space, once you have the right hooks for it.
 
The Rogue Echo Bike is my personal favorite as a choice for a home gym bike with no bells and whistles. It is built like a tank and has been stripped of most of the multimedia features which I find unnecessary. This airbike will take any abuse and has everything on board to get you sweating for around 700 bucks. If you do not need to be motivated by fancy colors and screens, this is a solid bet. 
 

Summary for the Nordictrack S22i

 
The S22i is a great piece of equipment for the dedicated home gym owner who likes to be entertained while he or she is cycling. It can also be a viable option for boutique gyms who want to make their clients feel special and buy in small quantities. That there is no Bluetooth option for the price tag is a major let down. Budget-conscious home gym owners or commercial gyms which have more than 20 people in the cardio area at peaks will not find this to be a viable option because of the high price tag. 
 
 

Nordictrack S15i 2199 / 1599 (UK/US)

 
The S15i Nordictrack is part of the flag line S series from Nordictrack. Its main features are the 14-inch screen, 20% incline, and the two free dumbbells which can be put on the bike. The S15i will be a good choice for anyone who wants to exercise at home and bring the outdoors indoors. It comes with an I fit subscription for the first year and is more space-efficient than treadmills or ellipticals. The full list of features reads as followed:
 
 
 
  • 14” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Watts Power Readout
  • Includes 1 Years iFit Family Membership
  • Auxiliary Music Port
  • Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers
  • Ergonomic Padded Saddle
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Non-slip, Multi-position Handlebar
  • Vertical & Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Inertia-enhanced Flywheel
  • -10% – 20% Incline
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • OneTouch® Controls
  • Enhanced Corrosion Resistance
  • Large Diameter Adjustable Leveling Feet
  • 22 Digital Resistance Levels
  • 150 kg User Capacity
  • Commercial Grade Steel Construction
  • Dual Water Bottle Holders
  • Two 3 Lb. Dumbbells Included
  • Compatible with Standard Road Bike Pedals & Seat
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Assembled Dimensions - 141 L x 55 W x 154 H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labour; 5 year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
This is a solid option if the S22i is not in stock and you are in a rush or just want a little smaller screen. Still, around 2000 for just a bike is a hefty investment for a home gym. For this amount of money, you can buy a squat stand, barbell, and plates if you are more into strength. 
 

Pros of the S15i

 
The pros of the S15i are as followed:
 
  • 14-inch screen
  • 20% incline
  • Free dumbbells
 
The S15i omes with a high-quality touch screen which Nordictrack also uses in their elliptical and treadmill setups. This is a good size and the screen is crisp. If you care about screens you will not be disappointed with this one.
 
The S15i gives you a wide range of incline options from -10% up to 20%. With this you can simulate most outdoor rides at home. Combined with the Ifit this makes a compelling workout machine for the home which keeps you engaged a long time. From the easiest to the most challenging workouts you will find something for any level in the Nordictrack repository. 
 
The free dumbbells are a nice bonus to make the S15i a home gym rather than just a bike. Apart from the regular bike workouts Nordictrack also has stretches and strength exercises in their library which can be done on and off the bike to make it a 360-degree experience. Don't expect too much for strength results out of two 3lbs dumbbells, but they definitely will help anyone who likes to tone and stretch.
 

Cons of the S15i

 
The Cons of the Nordictrack S15i are:
 
  • No hrm
  • Price to screen ratio
  • No Bluetooth
The S15i, as the S22i do not come with a Heart rate monitoring device and also has no Bluetooth. For a machine with such a price tag this is definitely an oversight on Nordictrack's behalf. Experienced cyclists might want to sync all of their data with their polar devices from the indoor and outdoor runs and just simply can not do that as there is no Bluetooth to hook up. Great for Nordictrack to monopolize the data and lock you in. Bad for anyone who wants to use more than just the S15i to stay fit. As there is no Bluetooth you will also not be able to hook up your Bluetooth headphones to the machine. This can be a real bummer if you live in a house with thin walls or just like your music and instructions extra loud.
 
Another thing specific to the S15i is the price to screen ratio. When you purchase you will at some stage make a decision whether you need a big touchscreen to keep engaged or not. If you decide that this is throwing money in a bottomless pit, you will probably not get any screen at all. If you decide you want a screen, you will probably tend towards getting one that is as big as possible. If that is the case you might as well go for the S22i. The price of both bikes is the 2000 range so you might as well go for 22 instead of 14 inches and take it all the way down to town. If you can afford a 2000 bike you can afford one for 2500. Why compromise at the upper range of the portfolio? 
 

Alternatives to the Nordictrack S15i

 
These are alternatives to the S15i in the same price range:
 
The Nordictrack X9i treadmill is the cheapest 40% incline treadmill in the Nordictrack portfolio. It is a little outdated as the Product range has moved on to the X32i, X22i, and X11i in the United States. In the UK the X9i is still available. The X9i has a relatively small screen but makes up for it with a strong motor and incline. If you have space, run a lot, and care for an incline up to 40% this might be a better option than shelling out 2000 on the S15i
 
The Nordictrack T9.5 is another option that would even save you a little money compared to the S15i. The main point this treadmill has going for it is a very strong motor. If you want to put in a lot of miles per week without crazy inclines and a reasonable screen, this can also be an option. 
 
If you have to accommodate different fitness levels in your home or do not have space in your commercial setting to have a lot of machines, then the FS7i can be a good option. This elliptical has the option to function as a treadmill, stepper, and elliptical based on how you use it. This gives it a very wide range of people to work with. The downside of the design is that it takes up more space than the S15i, is more prone to error, and has no option for a big screen to be attached. The free stride technology also requires a little bit of balance and fine motor skills to make it work for you. This might be overwhelming for the very clumsy among us. who are better off opting for an elliptical with a fixed range of motion.
 
The concept 2 model D is the classic rowing machine that dominates this segment of the fitness market. If you want to save about 1000 compared to the S15i and like rowing this is a viable option. It will take more space than a bike, but can be hanged on the wall if it is not used. In a commercial setting this is also more cost-efficient to built a fleet rather than paying 2000 per unit with the S15i
 
My personal favorite for home gyms is the Rogue Echo bike. for about 700 you will get a tank of an airbike that has everything that is necessary to take everything out of you. If you do not need a screen to be entertained and want one of the best stationary bikes for home use, this is the one. However, this bike has been designed with the serious athlete in mind. Comfort or entertainment was only an afterthought in this design.
 

Summary for the Nordictrack S15i 

 
The S15i has the same bike as a base then the S22i. The main reason to look into this direction in the Nordictrack portfolio is that you want a bike with a big screen but not go over 2000 to get it. In my opinion, this is a bit of a false economy to make you feel less bad about shelling out 2500 on a bike, when you could buy a used car for the kids for that. If you think you need the luxury of a touch screen to work out, you might as well buy the S22i. If you want to justify the purchase you will use this bike for probably five years at least. So just spent 100 less a year on fitness toys and you are fine. Another option is to just get rid of the touch screen and save 2000. 
 
 

Nordictrack S10i 1699 (UK)

 
The S10i is the oldest bike from Nordictrack in the S line up and is currently only available for purchase in the UK. I would expect that after the available stocks are sold, this model will go end of life. The main features of the S10i are the 10 inch Touch screen, 20% incline, and the free dumbbells which come with the purchase. The full list of features includes:
 
  • 10” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Free Ground Floor Installation Included
  • Watts Power Readout
  • Includes 1 Years iFit Family Membership
  • Auxiliary Music Port
  • Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers
  • Ergonomic Padded Saddle
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Non-slip, Multi-position Handlebar
  • Vertical & Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Inertia-enhanced Flywheel
  • -10% – 20% Incline
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • OneTouch® Controls
  • Enhanced Corrosion Resistance
  • Large Diameter Adjustable Leveling Feet
  • 22 Digital Resistance Levels
  • 150 kg User Capacity
  • Commercial Grade Steel Construction
  • Dual Water Bottle Holders
  • Two 3 Lb. Dumbbells Included
  • Compatible with Standard Road Bike Pedals & Seat
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Assembled Dimensions - 140 L x 56 W x 141 H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labor; 5-year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
If you want a bike from Nordictrack with a 20% incline, this is the best value for money you can get as long as you do not mind the smaller screen compared to the rest of the S line. 
 

Pros of the Nordictrack S10i

 
The pros of the S10i are:
 
  • Money to incline ratio
  • Touch screen 
 
The biggest pro of the S10i is the amount of money you spent on the incline. Currently,  this is the cheapest option in the Nordictrack bike line up to get your hands on a 20% incline. The trade-off is a 10inch touch screen which is the smallest compared to the S line models. 
 
For this price range, it is also good to get a touch screen instead of a backlit or LED screen. Other models in the same price range might not provide a touch screen as the S10i used to be the flagship bike when Nordictrack made the swing from Backlit to touch screen displays. 
 

Cons of the S10i 

 
The cons of the S10i are
 
  • No Bluetooth
  • Small touch screen 
  • Oldest model out of the S line
As with the entire S line, the S10i also only has an aux rather than Bluetooth compatibility. This is an oversight of Nordictrack as they did modernize the screens, but did not upgrade the frames for the S series. If engineering had looked for Touch screens with inbuilt Bluetooth they would not have the problem of offering 1000 - 2000 bikes which you can not hook up to your Bluetooth earphones. 
 
If you care about screen real estate than this bike is the worst option in the S line. I also think this is the wrong way of looking at this bike. If you buy it, buy it for the incline, not for the screen. If a big screen is your main concern and you want to save money you can go for the Grand Tour Pro in the US and save some money while still getting a 10inch. 
 
Another downside is that S10i is the oldest model in the S line of bikes from Nordictrack. You can not buy it in the US anymore while it is still available in the UK. If you do not mind fixing things yourself or you are not a heavy user this is no problem. But if you are a gym owner who wants to buy ten of these and use them for 5 years, then you might want to opt for a newer model. 
 

Alternatives to the S10i 

 
Alternatives to the S10i bike are
 
 
The S40 treadmill is part of the older range of treadmills which is still available in the UK. If you want a treadmill which is cheaper now, as it got a bit out of date but was one of the best in its heyday, this is the one to get. 
 
The T7.5 treadmill is currently the best-balanced treadmill of Nordictrack in the lower price range around 1500.  It is also still being sold in the US which makes it a safer investment than the S40 for commercial use. 
 
The 12.9i elliptical from Nordictrack would be a price neutral option if you want to accommodate for more fitness levels in your house. It is usually easier to strike a balance for all users with an elliptical than with a bike. This assumes that you can fit an elliptical in the dedicated space, as they are considerably bigger than the bikes. 
 
The concept 2 model D rower is always a good alternative to safe money when you buy in bulk or can hang it on the wall in a home gym. With the concept 2 model D you can push the cost for your cardio machine under 1000 and own a proven industry standard. Most people think of the concept 2 model D when they think of a rowing machine. Unless they watched too much house of cards. 
 
The Rogue echo bike is my personal favorite for home gym use. This machine is as solid as a tank and has been stripped to the bare necessities to make you sweat. Based on this it comes in at a very competitive price point of around 700. If you are a no-nonsense weekend warrior you can get the Rogue Echo bike and some heavy kettlebells for the price of one S10i bike and get cracking.
 

Summary for the Nordictrack S10i

 
The S10i bike is a great option for someone who does not mind the exercises provided via Ifit too much and already has a screen in their gym. If you are looking for a 20% incline bike of high quality without a lot of entertainment attached to it, this is the machine for you. 10inch used to be the best of the best, but in a time of 32-inch screens latched onto cardio machines the S10i just fell behind. 

Nordictrack GX 4.6 Pro 999 (UK)

 
The NordicTrack GX4.6 is one of the first bike models from Norictrack that you can get under 1000. At the time of writing it is only available for purchase in the UK and not in the US which points towards that this model might go end of life soon.  In the states, this line of bikes has been rebranded to the "Grand Tour" line. The main features of the GX4.6 are its 7-inch touchscreen display, 11kg flywheel, and a maximum capacity of 130kg. The full list of features reads as followed:
 
  • 7" HD Touchscreen Display
  • iFit Integrated
  • Includes 1 Years iFit Family Membership
  • Integrated Pivoting Tablet Holder
  • Dual 2" Speakers
  • Upright Frame
  • 11kg Inertia-enhanced Flywheel
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • 24 Digital Resistance Levels
  • Max User Weight 130kg
  • EKG Grip Pulse Heart Rate Monitor
  • BLE Chestbelt Compatible
  • Oversized Cushion Seat
  • Vertical & Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-wide, Ergonomic Foot Pedals with Adjustable Strap
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Product Weight 47kg
  • Boxed Weight 51kg
  • Assembled Dimensions - 94L x 63W x 156H cm
  • Boxed Dimensions - 107L x 36W x 64H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labor; 5-year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase
Overall the GX 4.6 is a solid bike that ticks all of the boxes. You will get a heart rate monitor, in build screen to surf the internet or use Ifit and a bigger flywheel. All of this not at a crazy price tag as for the S line of upright bikes from Nordictrack.
 

Pros of the GX 4.6

 
The pros of the GX 4.6 are:
 
  • Inbuilt screen 7-inch screen
  • Heart rate monitor included
  • Good value for money
This upright bike comes with everything you need in the box. Especially for home gym owners this is a good option without breaking the bank. You have everything in one place and do not need to buy extra things which then come later in the post and mess up the experience. For 1000 this is a solid bike which borders between home and commercial use without breaking the bank. Commercial gyms might want to consider that some members might expect more from you in times of 32inch touchscreens and mega rigs. Still, if you run a no-nonsense gym this bike will do its work for the members who want to use one. 
 

Cons of the Nordictrack GX 4.6

 
The cons of the Nordictrack GX 4.6 are:
 
  • No Bluetooth
  • No Incline
  • No massive screen
The lack of Bluetooth is an oversight in most of the Nordictrack bike line up. If you want to use your bose earphones with your new purchase you will be disappointed. That might be reason enough for some buyers to turn towards a different brand or model. No Bluetooth will also make it harder to pair your data from your polar or another device which you use for outdoor cycles with the data from The GX 4.6. Of course, this is only relevant if you are already an avid outdoor cyclist.
 
Compared to the Nordictrack S series you will also get no incline with this model. The gap to the S10i is 700 pounds. For this amount of money, you can get a second bike without an incline. So if you want a touchscreen under 1000 you will have to bite the bullet in the Nordictrack portfolio and not get an incline function. 
 
Since Peloton entered the market there has been a shift of cardio equipment to attach bigger and bigger screens. If you buy into this trend than the GX 4.6 is quite far behind the curve with a 7-inch touch screen. However, big screens are costly and you will be hard-pressed to find models under 2000 with a 22-inch or even 32-inch screens
 

Alternatives to the Nordictrack GX 4.6

 
Alternatives to the Nordictrack GX 4.6 are:
 
The SE5i is in the same price range as the GX 4.6 and is a rear-drive elliptical. The console is very similar to the GX 4.6. The SE5i can be a good compromise for gyms with very limited space or home gyms. Not everyone likes the pounding of a treadmill or sitting in a saddle to get their cardio in. A rear-drive elliptical can be a compromise to cover all your members of the gym or family. 
 
The GX 4.4 is the little brother of the Nordictrack GX 4.6. IT has no integrated touchscreen and comes without a heart rate monitor at a slightly lower price. If you are torn between the GX 4.4 and the GX 4.6 I would recommend getting the GX 4.6. You are spending minimally more money on cardio equipment terms and get a better value for money options.  With the GX 4.4 you will have to invest in a heart monitor and attach your iPad to the machine to get to the same level of convenience. If you drop your iPad in the process and it breaks it already does not justify the money you saved for buying the GX 4.4 instead of the 4.6.
 
The concept 2 model D is the classic rower and the industry-standard for this fitness segment worldwide. If you prefer to row instead of biking to burn your calories than the concept 2 model D is probably your best bet. In addition to a similar price tag you can also hang the rower on the wall to save space. This is usually not a good option with upright cardio bikes.
 
My personal favorite for use in a home gym is the Rogue Echo bike. It is compact, has been stripped of most unnecessary entertainment and build like a tank. The Echo bike will give you everything you need to push yourself and last a lifetime. Still, if you prefer something less beefy and with some entertainment, the GX 4.6 is the better choice. 
 

Summary for the Nordictrack GX 4.6

 
The Nordictrack GX 4.6 is situated in the middöe of the Nordic track portfolio and covers all bases. You will not get the best of the best but also not break the bank. If you just want a solid bike and not out too much thought into your purchase, this is the model to get. 
 
 
 

Nordictrack GX 4.4 Pro 649 / 799 (UK / US)

 
 
The NordicTrack GX 4.4 is the little brother of the GX 4.6 which has been stripped of the touchscreen and heart rate monitor. The GX line is only available in the UK and has been replaced with the "Grand Tour" line in the US undergoing a rebranding. The main features of the GX 4.4 are its 5-inch Backlit Display, 9kg flywheel, and 125kg max capacity. The full list of features includes: 
 
  • 5" Backlit Display
  • iFit Bluetooth - 1 Years Membership Included
  • Smart BlueTooth (BLE) Chestbelt Compatible
  • Dual 2-Inch Speakers
  • Upright Frame
  • 9kg Flywheel
  • 25 Digital Resistance Levels
  • Onetouch™ Controls
  • EKG Handgrips
  • 125kg Max User Weight
  • Oversized Cushioned Seat
  • Vertical and Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-wide Ergonomic Pedals with Adjustable Straps
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Water Bottle Holder
  • Product Weight 48kg
  • Box Weight 57kg
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • 30 Workouts Apps
  • Assembled Dimensions - 105L x 59W x 161H cm
  • Boxed Dimensions - 108L x 65W x 39H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labor; 5-year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
 
This bike shaves off 350 pounds compared to its bigger brother, the GX 4.6. This is achieved by swapping the 7-inch touch screen for a 5-inch backlit screen, getting a smaller flywheel, and not shipping a heart rate monitor with the machine. This is the middle of the G series from Nordictrack available in the UK. You are compromising on features and on price. 
 

Pros of the Nordictrack GX 4.4

 
The pros of the NordicTrack GX 4.4 are:
 
  • Middle of the lower price range
  • Focuses on the essential
  • Bigger flywheel than GX 4.7
 
The GX 4.4 is the middle of the lower price range of bikes that are available from Nordictrack in the UK. With this, it is the ideal model for someone who does not want to make a decision between saving money and having a lot of features while not spending more than 1000. If this is how you buy, this is the bike for you.
 
The GX 4.4 focuses on the essentials and delivers a display for entertainment and a solid bike to crunch some miles. No-fuss made and still not too cheap to make you worry about the quality of the product. 
 
Compared to the cheapest bike in the UK Nordictrack line up, the GX 4.7, the GX 4.4 has a bigger flywheel and therefore will last longer. Whether that warrants 200 pounds more at the time of writing is a different matter.
 

Cons of the Nordictrack GX 4.4 

 
The cons of the Nordictrack GX 4.4 are:
 
  • Too many compromises
  • No touchscreen 
  • Old Nordictrack model
The biggest point for me about the GX 4.4 is that it makes too many compromises for my tastes. If you are looking into the G series or Grand tour line up of Nordictrack you have decided to spend around 1000 for your home gym cardio equipment. With this you have already ruled out premium features like big inclines or screens. With the GX 4.4 you even further compromise on the lower end and neither save a lot of money or have a great experience. Not all brains are as black and white like mine but either go for the GX 4.6, if you want the ease of use and a great experience for around 1000 or go with the GX 4.7 and maximize your savings to spend on other equipment or a weekend away. 
 
While you are still spending around 700 pounds on the GX 4.4 you neither get a timely screen or a very solid bike. Again the 4.4 is over-compromised. Either get a bike you can abuse the heck out of and has not a lot of entertainment or get a bike that entertains but can not take that much of a beating. This all depends on your user profile and what is important to you personally.
 
The last point about the GX 4.4 is that it is part of a family of products that is very likely to go end of life and continued under the "Grand Tour" line of product of Nordictrack. The GX bikes are available for purchase in the UK but no in the US. As the Nordictrack headquarters is in the US you can make some predictions about the distribution of models that will first be available in the US and then stretch to other parts of the globe like Europe.
 

Alternatives to the Nordictrack GX 4.4

 
Alternatives to the Nordictrack GX 4.4 are:
 
The GX 4.6 is the big brother of the GX 4.4. In my opinion, this is the best value for money bike from Nordictrack you can get in the 1000 budget bracket. The main differences to the GX 4.4 are that the heart rate monitor is included and, a bigger flywheel and a touch screen. As the price is currently 300 pounds higher than for the GX 4.4 you get a better screen, flywheel, and heart rate monitor for 100 pounds each. I think that is a good deal and will leave you with a more complete experience to maximize the entertainment and training options. If I buy a Nordictrack bike for under 1000 I would always go for the GX 4.6 over the GX 4.4 as I don't like to buy twice or disappointments.
 
The GX 4.7 is the better option for penny pinchers. I personally hate penny-pinching as it usually annoys me to look long for things and do not enjoy the process of hunting for bargains. But, if you love this and want to save every possible penny you can save, then the GX 4.7 is the better option than the GX 4.4. For saving around 200 pounds you get a smaller flywheel and squeezed everything from the G line while still getting a functioning bike.
 
The SE3i elliptical is the smallest rear-drive elliptical you can get from Nordictrack. This places it in the same budget bracket as the GX 4.4. Ellipticals are usually a better option when you want to accommodate the entire family rather than just the cycle enthusiast. Remember that your gym will take up community space in the home and you might want to compromise a little. In a commercial setting, an elliptical can tend to more clients than just people who are interested in biking. Beware of low ceilings with ellipticals.
 
The C700 is the smallest treadmill in the Nordictrack line up. This is a great treadmill for anyone who wants to walk indoors and who does not want to spend too much. If you run a retirement home and want to get people to walk more without having them out and about, this can be a good option. Maybe all the families chip in to get two of those. If you are a serious runner who puts more than 1oo miles a week on their machine, stay way clear from the C700
 
The concept 2 model D rower is a good alternative if you want to take more care of your upper body when you do your cardio. Concept 2 is the worldwide industry gold standard on rowers and model D is their best seller. A great option for rowers over bikes is that you can hang them on the wall to save space. This usually does not work that well with bikes. Commercial buyers will appreciate that package deals for buying rowers in bulk from Concept 2 are easier to obtain than for Nordictrack products. 
 
My personal favorite for home gym deployment is the Rogue Echo bike. The design focuses on a sturdy frame, cutting out all amenities except a saddle and pedals. This machine is not designed to entertain but make you sweat. For about 700 you get a machine that can take abuse and will last for a lifetime. The downside is that it will not keep you engaged that much. You will have to want to grind for this model. 
 

Summary for the Nordictrack GX 4.4

 
The GX 4.4 is one of these products that emerge when the vendor wants to combine a middle option on all features. The flywheel is ok, but not great. The Screen is ok, but not great. Combined with being in the lowest budget bracket that usually does not create a great product. I get the thought process, but if you are already penny-pinching, go all the way to the floor or try to get the most value for each penny you spent. The GX 4.4 does neither of these. 
 
 

Nordictrack GX 4.7R 499 (UK)

 
The GX 4.7R is the cheapest of the G series line up of the Nordictrack bikes. Its main features are a 5-inch Backlit display, 7kg flywheel, and 125kg maximum capacity. With this, it is the easiest item to start with cardio equipment from the NordicTrack bike line up. The full list of features reads: 
 
  • 5" Backlit Display
  • 1 Year iFit Membership Included
  • Smart BlueTooth (BLE) Chestbelt Compatible
  • Dual 2-Inch Speakers
  • Recumbent Frame
  • Step Thru™ Design
  • 7kg Flywheel
  • 22 Digital Resistance Levels
  • Onetouch™ Controls
  • EKG Handgrips
  • 125kg Max User Weight
  • Lumbar Supported Cushioned Seat
  • Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-wide Ergonomic Pedals with Adjustable Straps
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Water Bottle Holder
  • Tablet Shelf
  • 24 Workouts Apps
  • Assembled Dimensions - 137L x 64W cm x 131H cm
  • Product Weight 48kg
  • Boxed Weight 53kg
  • Boxed Dimensions - 142L x 33W x 66H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labor; 5-year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
This is the low budget option and does what it says on the tin. It gets you a convenient bike for occasional use with no bells and whistles. Think about your user profile and what you enjoy and decide accordingly.
 

Pros of the GX 4.7R

 
The pros of the GX 4.7 Pro are:
 
  • Price
  • Price 
  • Price
I do not really have a lot else to say about this bike. It is cheap and cheerful for a Nordictrack bike and gives you a screen, pedals, seat, and bars to get going. But that is about it. So if you love spending as little as possible, go for this one. If your budget stretches to 1000, which admittedly, is double the price of this bike, go for the GX 4.6 which is better value for money. 
 

Cons of the GX 4.7 R

 
The cons of the Nordictrack GX 4.7R are:
 
  • No touchscreen
  • No  Bluetooth
  • Smallest flywheel 
The GX 4.7R comes without a touchscreen or Bluetooth. This means that many modern ways of doing exercise from home or without disturbing the person next to you in the gym are simply not convenient to do. The lack of Bluetooth is a general oversight in the Nordictrack bike portfolio and is amplified in their cheaper models as they also lack other features. Still, you can not expect to save money and get a lot of features when you buy a new model. 
 

Alternatives to the GX 4.7R

 
Alternatives to the GX 4.7R are:
 
The GX 4.6 Nordictrack bike is, in my opinion, the best value for money option in the Nordictrack bike line up for the UK. IT comes with a big flywheel, heart rate monitor, and a touch screen. With these features, you at least keep a connection with the current industry standard rather than being left completely behind. If you intend to use your bike for 3 - 5 years and have fun with it, spend the extra money if a bike is all you are getting. If you just want a bike fast and cheap, stick with the GX 4.7.
 
The concept 2 model D is a rower which is roughly in the same price range as the GX 4.6. A rower has the advantage that it can be hung on the wall when you do not use it. The model D is also the flagship of concept 2 and therefore a safe bet for maintenance and spare parts. The GX 4.7 might leave you with bottlenecks for both down the line. 
 
The Rogue echo bike os my personal favorite for home gyms. It is solid, has a good, simple design, and makes your sweat drip hard. It has not been designed for entertainment but for performance. I personally like that approach, but it is not for everyone. Apart from this it is slightly more expensive than the GX 4.7 and therefore might be ruled out by some. 
 

Summary for the GX 4.7R

 
Cheap and cheerful sums it up quite well. If you only have a couple of bucks left after planning out your entire gym and want to cram in a bike as an afterthought, this is the one. Maybe just to keep the wife and the kids happy. If you want to crush a lot of miles and care about longevity, this is not the bike for you. 
 
 
 

Nordictrack VX 550 599 (UK)

 
The VX 550 is one of the lower budget bikes in the NordicTrack line up and is currently only available via the UK website. Its main features are a 9kg flywheel, 5-inch backlit display, and a maximum capacity of 125kg. This is the bike for you if you want a bigger flywheel for relatively little and you do not care about Ifit or other digital features to keep you engaged. The full list of features reads: 
 
  • This item is NOT compatible with iFit.
  • 5" Backlit Display
  • Smart BlueTooth (BLE) Chestbelt Compatible
  • Dual 2-Inch Speakers
  • Upright Frame
  • 9kg Flywheel
  • 20 Digital Resistance Levels
  • Onetouch™ Controls
  • EKG Handgrips
  • 125kg Max User Weight
  • Oversized Cushion Seat
  • Vertical and Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-wide Ergonomic Pedals with Adjustable Straps
  • No AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan Included
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Tablet Holder Included
  • 20 Workouts Apps
  • Assembled Dimensions - 150L x 61W x 167H cm
  • Product Weight 44kg
  • Boxed Weight 56kg
  • Boxed Dimensions - 106L x 32W x 66H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labor; 5-year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
This is currently the cheapest 9kg flywheel you can get from Nordictrack. If you are an above-average cyclist who wants a bike that lasts to get a medium cycle in when it rains, the VX 550 can be a good option for you. 
 

Pros of the VX 550

 
The pros of Nordictrack VX550 are:
 
  • Price
  • 9kg flywheel
The VX550 has a great price point for a Nordictrack Cardio machine. In addition you will get a fairly big flywheel for what you are paying. The GX 4.7R is in the same price range but only has a 7kg flywheel. The combination of price and bigger flywheel makes this the durable low budget option in exchange for not being up to the times in the entertainment and engagement department. 
 

Cons of the VX550

 
The cons of the VX 550 are:
 
  • No Ifit
  • No Touch screen 
The VX550 is not compatible with the Ifit subscription from NordicTrack. This means that the number of days for the VX550 in the NordicTrack portfolio are very numbered. NordicTrack is pushing hard on catching up to Peloton in the entertainment and engagement segment to regain market share and establish recurring revenue. The VX550 does not fit anywhere in this strategy. If you are a commercial buyer who wants buy-in bulk, stay way clear from this one for your gym. Home users will have to make a conscious decision whether it is worth to get a 9kg instead of a 7kg flywheel while trading off Ifit. If you think you need the engagement features, go for the GX 4.7R instead of the VX550.
 

Alternatives to the VX550

 
Possible alternatives to the VX550 are:
 
The Nordictrack GX 4.7 is the better option if you are convinced that you need some instructors and entertainment to keep engaged with your workouts. You will get a smaller flywheel, but in return the GX 4.7 is Ifit compatible and therefore give you a big library of engaging content. 
 
The Nordictrack C700 treadmill is a low budget alternative for anyone who prefers jogging or walking over cycling. The C700 is the cheapest treadmill in the Nordictrack line up that you can currently get. While it is a good option for joggers and walkers, it might be a bit too small for serious runners who put their treadmills through a lot of abuse. 
 
The SE3i elliptical is the low budget elliptical option from Nordictrack. An elliptical can be a good compromise for the entire family or in a small gym to keep multiple happy, rather than just cyclists. The downside of an elliptical is that it needs more space and higher ceilings. 
 
The concept 2 model D rower is the bread and butter machine in the rowing world. If you prefer rowing over cycling you can not go wrong with this model. You can also hang the rower on the wall to save space when you are not using it. The model D will be slightly more expensive than VX550
 
My personal favorite is the Rogue echo bike for home gym use. It is slightly more expensive than the VX550 but is built more stable. In return you sacrifice any type of entertainment as it does not come with a screen. The Rogue echo bike is designed for serious athletes and might be a little intimidating for anyone who just wants to stay active and mobile, without pushing themselves to the brink of exhaustion. 
 
Summary for the Nordictrack VX550
 
The VX550 is a good option if you want a big flywheel at a low price from Nordictrack. In exchange for this, you will get a product which the Nordictrack management will care very little about so expect that it will be harder to get support and parts for it. 
 
 

Nordictrack VR25 999 / 1499 (UK/US)

 
The VR25 is part of the recumbent bike series of Nordictrack. In this product line, it is the flagship of Nordictrack. The main features are an 11kg flywheel, a meshed seat, and a 7-inch touch screen. The full feature list covers:
 
  • 7" Full Colour Capacitive Touch Display
  • iFit Integrated- 1 Years Family Membership Included
  • Smart BlueTooth (BLE) Chestbelt Compatible
  • iPod Compatible Bluetooth Audio (2 - 2" Speaker)
  • Recumbent Frame
  • Step Thru™ Design
  • 11kg Flywheel
  • 26 Digital Resistance Levels
  • Integrated Quick Touch Handle Controls
  • EKG Handgrips
  • 158kg Max User Weight
  • Oversized Lumbar Supported Cushion Sea
  • Easy Glide Seat Adjustment
  • Extra Wide Ergonomic Foot Pedals
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Water Bottle Holder
  • Pivoting Integrated Tablet Holder
  • Assembled Dimensions - 94L x 63W cm x 156H cm
  • Product Weight 47kg
  • Boxed Weight 52kg
  • Boxed Dimensions - 109L x 37W x 65H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labor; 5-year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
This is a great choice when you want to be able to burn calories while not being too hard on your joints or work while you are exercising by reading your emails. It might not burn the most calories per minute, but the trade-off is that you can also do some other things while exercising or be easy on yourself after a long day while still burning off some calories.
 

Pros of the Nordictrack VR25

 
Pros of the VR25 include:
 
  • Big flywheel
  • Meshed seat
  • Ipad holder
The 11kg flywheel will last you for a long time and take care of a smooth ride. The bigger the flywheel the smoother the ride and the longer it will last. This is the recumbent bike with the biggest flywheel in the NordicTrack line up. 
 
The meshed seat will make it easier for you to keep the sweat at bay. Other recumbent bikes have solid plastic seats which can become rather disgusting during use. Especially in a professional set up with a lot of turnover a day, a meshed might be good piece of equipment to get with your recumbent bike. 
 
The last benefit you get is a little holder for tablets of most sizes. This way you can stay up to date or just follow your favorite programs and music on your own gadget rather than going through the browser of the VR25
 

Cons of the Nordictrack Vr 25

 
The cons of the VR 25 are:
 
  • Low-calorie burn
  • Space requirements
  • Ifit subscription
Recumbent bikes have one of the lowest-calorie burns per minute when it comes to exercise equipment. Why invest a good bit of money into a recumbent while a stiff walk almost has the same effect? Still, that is up to you based on your preferences, possibilities to exercise outside, and who your clientele is. 
 
Compared to traditional bikes a recumbent bike will take up more space. Take this into consideration when you are making your measurements. A bonus compared to ellipticals is that a recumbent bike can tolerate a lower ceiling than an elliptical. 
 
The Ifit subscription might not be for everyone. After the free version is used up you will have to pay 10 - 30 bucks a month to get access to the Ifit subscription for the newest content. You will still be able to have access to a free library, but the latest and greatest content will only be available under the subscription. 
 

Alternatives to the Nordictrack VR25

 
Alternatives to the Nordictrack VR25: 
 
The Nordictrack VR21 is the small sister of the VR25. It has a smaller flywheel and no touch screen display. In return for giving these features up you save 250 pounds or 500 USD. This can be an option for the budget-conscious who are interested in obtaining a recumbent bike. 
 
The Nordictrack C700 treadmill is a great option for joggers and walkers who want to exercise at home rather than outside. If you prefer running over sitting on a recumbent bike, the C700 might be the better option for you. If you are a serious runner who takes his/her treadmill through a lot of abuse, look a little more upmarket than the C700
 
The NordicTrack SE5i elliptical is an option for a full-body workout while still being easier on your joints than a treadmill. The SE5i can be a good compromise for the entire family if some want to get a bit harder on their workouts than a recumbent bike will allow. Just make sure that your ceiling is high enough as a dingy garage might be better off with a recumbent bike in it to save you from unnecessary headaches. 
 
The Concept 2 model D is the industry standard for indoor rowing machines. You will save some money compared to the VR25 and still be easy on your joints. Another bonus is that you can hang a rower on the wall after use. The downside is that most concept 2 rowers don't come with a lot of media options. 
 
My personal favorite for a home gym is the uncompromising Rogue echo bike. Rogue maximized stability and metal engineering on this machine while minimizing the entertainment factor and produced a true workhorse. If you are into burning as many calories as possible per minute without breaking the bank or giving up too much space in your home, this is for you. The Echo bike is not for you if you want to be entertained and have it cozy while you burn some calories. 
 

Summary for the VR25

 
The Nordictrack VR25 is a great recumbent bike for professional use in a commercial facility to address people who do not want to go all out on their cardio workout or warmup. The bigger flywheel is especially interesting when the machine is heavily used. Home gym owners might want to save a little money by going for the VR21 instead as they will still get an industry-grade machine for 250 pounds or $500 less. The same goes for commercial facilities that need to buy many recumbent bike units. 
 
 

Nordictrack VR21 749 / 999 (UK/US)

The Nordictrack VR21 is the little brother of the VR25 in the Nordictrack recumbent bike line up. Its main features are a 5-inch backlit display, 9kg flywheel, and 125kg maximum capacity. The full list of features reads as followed: 
 
  • 5" Backlit Display
  • iFit Bluetooth - 1 Years Membership Included
  • Smart BlueTooth (BLE) Chestbelt Compatible
  • Dual 2-Inch Speakers
  • Recumbent Frame
  • Step Thru™ Design
  • 9kg Flywheel
  • 25 Digital Resistance Levels
  • Onetouch™ Controls
  • EKG Handgrips
  • 125kg Max User Weight
  • Lumbar Supported Cushioned Seat
  • Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-wide Ergonomic Pedals with Adjustable Straps
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Water Bottle Holder
  • Integrated Tablet Holder
  • 32 Workouts Apps
  • Assembled Dimensions - 155L x 59W cm x 132H cm
  • Product Weight 48kg
  • Boxed Weight 57kg
  • Boxed Dimensions - 153L x 65W x 39H cm
  • Warranty - 2 Years parts and labor; 5-year frame guarantee upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase.
The VR21 is the better option for home gym buyers who want to save some money as the 9kg flywheel is more than enough. Commercial buyers might consider this option when they want to buy 5 - 10 units instead of the VR21. Otherwise the VR25 might be the better option. 
 

Pros of the NordicTrack VR21

 
The pros of the VR21 are:
 
  • Price
  • Meshed seat
  • Comfortable position
The VR21 is the cheapest recumbent bike that you can get from Nordictrack. If you want one and like the NordicTrack brand, this is the one to go for. Especially if you are a home gym buyer. Commercial buyers might consider this model when they buy in bulk. If you only want to have one or two on the floor, invest in the VR25 and the bigger flywheel as they will clock more miles per unit as a fleet of ten VR21 on the floor. 
 
The meshed seat is a good little design feature to prevent sweating like mad. Other models have hard plastic full seats which can become sticky and unpleasant. 
 
If you only want to moderately exercise and still use the time to go through emails or place some calls, a recumbent bike can be a very good option. They also have the advantage over ellipticals that they are closer to the floor and therefore do not need high ceilings. 
 

Cons of the VR21

 
The cons of the VR21 are:
 
  • 9kg flywheel
  • Space requirements
  • Low-calorie burn
  • No touch screen
The 9kg flywheel puts the VR21 at a disadvantage to the VR25 model which has an 11kg flywheel. For home users this will not be as relevant as for commercial users. The trade-off is that you pay less money.
 
Compared to a traditional bike a recumbent bike takes more space and burns fewer calories per minute. If you want to optimize your floor space for the maximum amount of people burning the maximum amount of calories this is not the model to go for. Keep your clients and space requirements in mind, especially when shopping for recumbent bikes. 
 
Compared to the VR25 the VR21 has no touch screen. If you want to get the full benefit of an easy workout while doing your work or surfing on the internet, the touch screen option will go along way for convenience. 
 

Alternatives to the Nordictrack VR21

 
Aöternatives to the Nordictrack VR21 are: 
 
The Nordictrack VR25 is the big brother of the VR21. Personally I think that this is a better option for commercial buyers who only want one or two recumbent bikes on their floor. Otherwise, homebuyers can save some money by getting the VR21. The worse media options can be compensated by just using your own devices on an easy ride. 
 
The NordicTrack C700 is the treadmill alternative from Nordictrack in the same budget range as the VR21. The C700 is a good option for walkers and joggers to get some miles in. If you intend to get your calorie burn in while standing, this might be the better option than the VR21. The C700 is not suited for runners who will take their treadmill through a lot of abuse in speed or distance. 
 
The NordicTrack SE3i elliptical is the cheapest elliptical in the Nordictrack line up. This can be a good compromise for all your clients or the entire family when you think that a recumbent bike does not have enough oomph. Just make sure that you have enough clearance to the ceiling as an elliptical will put you in a higher position than a recumbent bike and is harder to get on and off. 
 
The concept 2 model D is the industry standard for indoor rowing. If you want to row and turn your cardio into a full-body workout, this might be better option than the VR21. A rower can also be hung on the wall after your workout to save some space. The only downside is that the calorie burn per minute is also relatively low compared to treadmills and upright bikes. 
 
The Rogue echo bike is my personal favorite for indoor gyms. This is a straight forward machine to make you sweat. No extra bells and whistles, just pure focus on high-intensity interval training. For some this bike might be intimidating, but I love it and it is also reasonably priced. Still, i would not place this one in an old folk's home or rehab center. The VR21 might be a better option in those scenarios.
 

Summary for the Nordictrack VR21

 
The Nordictrack VR21 is a good budget option for a recumbent bike from Nordictrack. If you want to relax and still burn some calories, this is the right machine for home use. 
 
 

Nordictrack VU 19 999 (US)

 
The Nordictrack VU 19 is an upgraded version of the old G series. Its main features are a 7-inch touchscreen, 19lb flywheel, and 325 lb. capacity. The main difference to the G series is that the Ipad holder has been moved from the front of the display to above. This way you can see your stats while also being on your Ipad at the same time. The full list of features reads:
 
  • 7” Smart HD Color Touchscreen
  • Includes 1-Year NordicTrack iFit® membership**
  • Integrated Pivoting Tablet Holder
  • Auxiliary Music Port
  • AC Adapter Included
  • Two 2” Bluetooth® Compatible Speakers
  • Upright Frame
  • 19 Lb. Inertia-enhanced Flywheel
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • 24 Digital Resistance Levels
  • 325 Lb. User Weight Capacity
  • EKG Grip Pulse Heart Rate Monitor
  • NordicTrack iFit Bluetooth® Smart Chest Strap
  • Oversized Cushion Seat
  • Vertical & Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-wide, Ergonomic Foot Pedals with Adjustable Strap
  • AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
  • 32 On-board Workouts
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • 43.6" L x 24.9" W x 59.4" H Footprint
  • 10-Year Frame Warranty
  • 2-Year Parts Warranty
  • 1-Year Labor Warranty
the VU 19 is a solid middle of the portfolio option for bikes in the NordicTrack portfolio. If you want a reasonable coverage on all relevant features for an upright bike from Nordictrack, this is the one to go for without going over 1000.  
 

Pros of the Nordictrack VU 19

 
The pros of the VU 19 are:
 
  • Well balanced
  • 7-inch touch screen
  • Gadgets are not in the way
The VU 19 is a well-balanced bike that covers all bases without breaking the bank. If you do not want to think too hard about your bike purchase from Nordictrack and have 1000 to spare, this is the right model to get. Think of it as the Volkswagen Golf from Nordictrack. Does everything well, looks good, but does not impress too much.
 
The 7-inch touch screen will keep you in striking distance of current technology trends in cardio equipment. The screens are getting bigger and bigger and the classes more interactive. A small backlit display or even led based display will leave you behind and make the experience less engaging. A 7-inch display is a good compromise to not break the bank as some models go up to 32-inch.
 
A final little touch is that NordicTrack finally managed to move the holder for gadgets out of the way of the touch screen. On older models like the VR21 or some of the GX bikes the gadget holder would put your tablet right in front of your Nordictrack touch screen. This way you could not see the status of your workout.
 

Cons of the Nordictrack VU 19

 
cons of the Nordictrack VU19 are:
 
  • No Bluetooth headphones
  • No big screen
  • No incline 
 
A big oversight in the design of the Nordictrack touch screens and electronics is that you can not project their sound onto Bluetooth headphones. The Bluetooth speakers are a step in the right direction, but still do not go all the way. I listen to heavy metal when i workout... loud. I can not do that on a bike that I have at home at 6 am in the morning unless it is in a separate building. That would be reason enough for me to not buy any NordicTrack bike.
 
A 7-inch screen is rather small compared to the 10-,14-,22- and 32-inch options that are out there. Be aware that the new content that NordicTrack will put out will assume bigger and bigger screens and optimize the layout of the classes and menus accordingly. If you have the extra money to spend you might want to go for one of the S10i or S15i models instead. 
 
The VU 19 has no incline option available. This keeps the bike under the 1000 threshold, but at the same time limits you from getting everything out of your Ifit subscription or cover all the possible rides you want to do. For an occasional cyclists, this will not be a deal-breaker, but someone with a serious performance goal might want to consider to invest 200 to 500 more to also get an incline function.
 

Alternatives to the Nordictrack VU 19 

 
These are alternatives to the Nordictrack VU19 that are in the same budget range:
 
The Nordictrack VR21 costs about the same as the VU 19 but is a recumbent bike. If you want a more comfortable ride or your hand free while exercising, this is the bike to go for. 
 
The NordicTrack C700 is the cheapest treadmill you can currently get from the NordicTrack website. This is a good option for joggers or walkers who do not like sitting in a saddle for their daily calorie burn. It is not a great option for runners who put a lot of abuse on their treadmill in terms of speed, distance or a combination of the two. 
 
The concept 2 model D is the industry standard for indoor rowing all over the world. If you like to sit while you are exercising, but want to turn it into a full-body workout, the rower is a good option. Another bonus is that you can hang a rower on the wall after use to save space. That does really work for most bikes unless they are foldable.
 
The Rogue echo bike is my personal favorite for weekend warriors who want to push their limits at home. This machine has been stripped of most multimedia options to provide a frame that can take a lot of abuse. If you want to put your phone an a counter, blast yourself with heavy metal, and do intervals until you fall off the bike, this is the machine for you. 
 

Summary for the NordicTrack VU19 

 
The Nordictrack VU19 is a well-balanced bike from Nordictrack at a good price which took care of design flaws of former generations of NordicTrack bikes. St the moment it is only available in the US and not in the UK, but that might change when they start to distribute worldwide. 

Nordictrack Grand tour 1299 (US)

The Grand Tour from Nordictrack addresses the spinning classes market for NordicTrack in the US. The other model is the Grand Tour Pro. The main features of this model are a 7-inch smart touch screen, a freewheel clutch, and a 10% incline. This makes it a good model to buy in bulk for spinning classes. The full list of features includes: 
 
  • 7” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Integrated Tablet Holder
  • Includes 1-Year NordicTrack iFit® membership**
  • Auxiliary Music Port
  • Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers
  • CoolAire™ Workout Fan
  • Oversized Cushion Seat
  • Horizontal and Vertical Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-Wide Ergonomic Pedals with Adjustable Straps
  • Upright Articulating Cycle
  • 3 Piece Crank
  • Freewheel Clutch
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • 24 Digital Resistance Levels
  • -10° to 10° Incline and Decline
  • OneTouch™ Controls
  • Oversized Levelers
  • 350 Lb. User Capacity
  • Included 3 Lb. Dumbbells
  • Integrated Handle Controls for Incline and Resistance
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Water Bottle Holder
  • 59.2" L x 23.3" W x 56.2" H Footprint
  • 10-Year Frame Warranty
  • 2-Year Parts Warranty
  • 1-Year Labor Warranty
The Grand Tour is a great option when you want to take your spinning classes to the home. A commercial buyer might want to get spinning bikes with fewer multimedia and casing options to save some money to buy in bulk.
 

Pros of the Nordic track Grand tour

 
The pros of the Grand tour bike are:
 
  • 10% incline
  • Freewheel clutch
  • 7-inch touchscreen
 
For a bike including a touch screen and incline option the Grand tour is reasonably priced for a Nordictrack bike. The Grand Tour is great value for money as long as you like the way it works for biking. Some might prefer the inertia of a flywheel for use of use. The 7-inch touch screen is the cherry on the top to round up the picture. 
 

Cons of the Nordictrack Grand Tour

 
 
  • Small screen 
  • Freewheel clutch
  • No Bluetooth
The grand tour has a relatively small touchscreen compared to the wider Nordictrack portfolio which reaches up to 32-inch. If you want a bigger screen with the experience of a spinning class you can go for the Grand Tour pro. This bike has a 10-inch instead of a 7-inch touchscreen.
 
The freewheel clutch might not be liked by every user. If you are used to spinning classes this will be the preferable bike option for you. If you usually use flywheel bikes on the general gym floor, go for the VU19 or GX line instead. 
 
As with most Nordictrack bikes you do not have the option to use your Bluetooth headphones to follow the instructions of the Ifit classes. This is a little irritating when you spend more than 1000 bucks on a piece of equipment you can not hook up to your wireless headphones. 
 

Alternatives to the Nordictrack Grand tour

 
Alternatives to the Nordictrack Grand tour are:
 
The Grand tour Pro is the big sister of the Grand tour bike. For an additional $200 you get a bigger touchscreen than with the Grand Tour. If you are shortsighted or use the Ifit classes a lot, get the Grand Tour pro instead of the Grand tour. If you think that 7-inches are more than enough, spare yourself the extra expense. 
 
The Nordictrack 6.5 Si treadmill is one of the smaller Nordictrack treadmills which are available in the US. If you want a solid low budget option from Nordictrack this is the one. The T series has been recently released in the US and is more likely to be continued than the C series of treadmills that has seen its best days. If you want to run and put some miles on the treadmill without going overly fast, this is a solid option.
 
The Nordictrack SE7i is an elliptical in the same price range as the Grand tour bike. An elliptical can be a better compromise for all members of a gym or family to get their cardio in than a bike. Not everybody likes sitting on a saddle for 30 or more minutes to burn their calories. Just make sure that you have enough clearance to the ceiling when getting an elliptical as this can be an issue. An elliptical will also take up more floor space than a bike. 
 
The concept 2 model D rower is a worldwide standard and you can not go wrong with it if you are interested in an indoor rower. This bread butter machine from concept 2 does its job and will also save you some money compared to the Grand Tour. Commercial buyers will also appreciate that package deals are easier to obtain from concept 2 then from NordicTrack when the unit count climbs. 
 
The Rogue echo bike is my personal preference for use at home. I like to go hard and blast my ears with music from my bose earphones when I work out. The Rogue echo bike is just perfect for that, it does not cost a leg and an arm and can take my 105kg muscle with layer fat. 
 
 Summary for the Nordictrack Grandtour
 
If you like spinning classes and want to do them from home this is a good way to go. I would still go for the Grand tour Pro if I was in the market for one. If I do spin classes at home I want the instructor to be as big as possible. A 10-inch screen will be better for that than 7-inch and the two models are only $200 apart. That is not really a lot of money in terms of cardio machines. Of course, $200 can buy you a lot of jump ropes made from plastic, but that is a different debate to be had. 
 
 

Nordictrack Grand tour pro 1499 (US)

The Grand tour pro bike from Nordictrack is the flagship in spinning bikes from this brand. The main features of this machine are its 10-inch touch screen, freewheel clutch, and 10% incline. the full list of features covers the following points:
 
  • 10” Smart HD Touchscreen
  • Includes 1-Year NordicTrack iFit® membership**
  • Integrated Tablet Holder
  • Auxiliary Music Port
  • Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers
  • Upright Articulating Cycle
  • 3 Piece Crank
  • Freewheel Clutch
  • SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • 26 Digital Resistance Levels
  • -10° to 10° Incline and Decline
  • OneTouch™ Controls
  • Oversized Levelers
  • 375 Lb. User Capacity
  • CoolAire™ Workout Fan
  • Oversized Cushion Seat
  • Vertical Seat Adjustment
  • Horizontal Seat Adjustment
  • Extra-wide, Ergonomic Foot Pedals with Adjustable Strap
  • 2–3 Lb. Integrated Dumbbells
  • Integrated Handle Controls for Incline and Resistance
  • Front-mounted Transport Wheels
  • Water Bottle Holder
  • 57.5" L x 23.5" W x 62" H Footprint
  • 10-Year Frame Warranty
  • 2-Year Parts Warranty
  • 1-Year Labor Warranty
This is a solid bike to take your spinning classes home and connect to the trainer via a 10-inch touchscreen. If you like to work out at home and keep engaged, this is the machine for you. 
 

Pros of the Nordic track Grand tour pro

 
  • 10% incline
  • 10-inch screen
  • Freewheel clutch
Compared to the S10i and S15i you get a reasonably balanced bike at a good price point including an incline. It is up to you whether you prefer the experience of a freewheel clutch or an inertia flywheel. If you like spinning classes over usual bikes on the gym floor, go with the Grand tour range. 
 
The 10% incline will enable you to follow the Ifit instructors on various tracks around the world and the incline will automatically adjust according to where your ride takes you. This keeps the experience and fun and you engaged to stay fit and healthy.
 

Cons of the Nordic Track Grand Tour pro

 
The cons of the Grand tour Pro are:
 
  • Price
  • Storage of dumbbells
  • Ifit subscription
If you wanted to buy in bulk or do not need the fancy extras, because there is already a big screen on your home gym for youtube videos, then the price is high. You can get goof spinning bikes for under 1000  without these bells and whistles if they do not appeal to you. 
 
The storage of the dumbbells can rattle or they fall off. Unfortunately there is no click-in system for the dumbbells to keep them in place. This is a minor annoyance as you can easily store 3lbs dumbbells somewhere in the room you train in. Still worth mentioning when you invest $1500. 
 
The Ifit subscription will cost you somewhere between $10 to $30 a month depending on which subscription you will choose. Not everybody likes to pay infinitely to use all of the features of their home gym equipment. Still, there are plenty of workouts available in the free library, but you will not have access to the live content and latest releases. 
 

Alternatives to the Grand tour pro 

 
The alternatives to the Grand tour pro are
 
The Nordictrack Grand tour is the little brother of the Grand tour pro. It comes in with a smaller screen that is 7-inch across to save you $200. If you do not care about big screens you can save the $200 to get a nice pair of shoes with the Grand Tour to start your new exercise regimen.
 
The Nordictrack 6.5 SI treadmill is another option in the same budget bracket as the Grand Tour Pro. This is a solid treadmill for walkers, joggers, and runners alike. Runners should just take care that the treadmill is not necessarily designed for high speed pounding over a prolonged period of time. Do a moderate long-distance run or short sprints. If you are very heavy, fast and can run for a long time you might want to a little more upmarket in the Nordictrack portfolio.
 
The Nordictrack SE7i elliptical can be a good compromise to accommodate many different clients or family members when space is limited. Ellipticals are machines that usually appeal to a wider audience than bikes. Not everybody likes to sit on a saddle for half an hour to get their daily burn in. Ellipticals leave you with more options as long as you have enough clearance to the ceiling.  
 
The concept 2 model D is the classic option for indoor rowing. You can not go wrong with this model and you can even hang it on the wall after you finished your workout to save some space. It is also less expensive than the Grand Tour pro. 
 
The rogue echo bike is my personal favorite for home gym use. Simple, straight forward, and sturdy. This machine is affordable and built like a tank. I put on my bose earphones, leave the iPhone on the countertop and blast intervals until the airbike beats me to it.
 

Summary for the Nordictrack Grand Tour Pro

 
The Grand Tour pro is a very good option for the serious spinning class enthusiast to keep their hobby up from home. If you want to save a little money go for the Grand Tour from NordicTrack instead. 

 

 

Topics: Treadmill