The NordicTrack E9.0 Elliptical – An Impressive Machine

The NordicTrack E9.0 elliptical is a mid-range trainer that lists for $1600 but is usually on sale for about $800, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a good machine under the $1000 mark.

What You Get

Designed to appeal to fitness buffs and those who are serious about their workout, the E9.0 has a 7" backlit display that tracks your progress as well as speed, pulse, time and calories burned. You get 30 built-in workout options and 24 levels of resistance.

The specs on the NordicTrack E9.0 elliptical include:

• 20" to 22" adjustable stride length
• 30 Programs
• 24 levels of resistance
• -10° to 20° adjustable incline
• Moving handlebars
• Handgrip Pulse Sensors
• Wireless Chest Belt (included)
• iFit wireless Internet training program compatibility
• MP3 Connection with Speakers & Volume controls
• Oversized, cushioned foot pedals
• Front Drive
• Transport Wheels
• 350-lb. User Capacity
• Dimensions: 65.8"L x 25.5"W x 68.5"H
• Warranty: lifetime frame, 3 years parts, 1 year labor

The Word on the Street

UPDATE:  The NordicTrack E9.0 elliptical has been discontinued and replaced with all new, upgraded models.  

Check out our latest NordicTrack elliptical reviews here.

Trainers and serious workout gurus recommend the NordicTrack E9.0 elliptical and several other NordicTrack models to anyone who wants a serious workout but also needs lots of variety to keep them from getting bored.

The E9.0 is iFit compatible so that you can log in and compete against Facebook friends or get coaching from people like Jillian Michaels. Many reviews credited the iFit program (which you have to pay a monthly fee for) with keeping them on track.

Reviewers also like the range of programs and adjustable incline, which targets different lower body muscle groups for a complete workout.

They feel that the weight capacity was good and often commented on the nice fit they got from the NordicTrack E9.0, which some credited to the company's extensive fitness research. Recent reviews have also noted that the negative incline feature is rare and works different leg muscles.

Our Thoughts

When you can get this model for under $1000, you're getting an impressive machine that will really challenge you. You simply don't find 24 levels of resistance and 30 workout programs at this price point. With others in this price range, you're lucky to get 16 resistance levels and 12 to 15 programs.

Throw in the variable incline and iFit capability and you've got an elliptical you sometimes don't find even in a commercial setting. There are a few minor flaws, like the warranty.

It's not the worst in the industry, but it should be better for a machine like this. In some instances, we've found that the nuts and bolts don't line up like they should, so pay for professional assembly of the NordicTrack E9.0 elliptical if you can.