NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i Elliptical Review

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NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i Elliptical Rating

Features

Display Console

Durability

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Overall Rating

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QUICK REVIEW

Pros A big “pro” for the NordicTrack SE7i is the SpaceSaver frame. It lets you get the stability of a large rear drive elliptical machine without permanently giving up your floor space. The frame is foldable, has attached transport wheels, and can be moved from room to room without a hassle. The entire unit is easy to assemble in about 15 minutes, not the hour or two needed for most home ellipticals. The machine’s 18” stride is ideal for shorter trainees, and the while the overall resistance is light compared with that of health club ellipticals, the SE7i has 22 tension settings to give newer trainees a well-tailored challenge. Other selling points are a maximum eight-degree power ramp, moving handlebars, and great workout program variety including optional iFit integration.

Cons Lightweight ellipticals like the SE7i can’t offer the smoothest and quietest workout experiences. The lighter the flywheel, the more a machine is prone to feeling choppy. You might also be disappointed by the stride length if you’re of average or taller height; SpaceSaver ellipticals are generally a better ergonomic fit for people with shorter legs. Finally, this machine is entry-level in its series and lacks the best features of the NordicTrack SE9i, such as a wireless heart rate monitor and integrated HD touch screen. The SE7i in this review has a 5” LCD window for programming.

Summary The SE7i can be a good value when sold in the lower to middle price range. Its emphasis on space saving and portability, however, lead to engineering that isn’t ideal for very tall or heavy people, nor for those seeking club-quality elliptical training.

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NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i Elliptical Detailed Overview

The SpaceSaver SE7i is the simpler of two elliptical machines with moving handlebars in the NordicTrack SpaceSaver Series for 2017. Both the SE7i and SE9i have foldable frames with attached caster wheels for easy storage/repositioning. Both models have 18″ footpaths and 18-pound effective flywheels as well. The SE7i is lower priced mostly because it’s a “bring your own touchscreen” elliptical trainer. That is, it has a standard 5″ LCD whereas the SE9i has a 7″ high-def touchscreen that’s enabled for the web and iFit Coach… but when using the SE7i you can connect to the web and iFit workouts by connecting your own tablet computer or smartphone. Another important difference between the two SpaceSaver elliptical models is heart rate monitoring. The SE7i has contact grips; the SE9i has contact grips and wireless telemetry. Other key specs for the entry-level model are a maximum 8-degree power incline, 24 built-in workout apps, a workout fan, a water bottle holder and a two-year parts warranty.

Our Favorite Features

Easy assembly in about 15 minutes
Space-saving design (Foldable frame)
Rear drive design is easy on the back
24 preset workouts for pro training
Ready for iFit Coach for unlimited workout downloads
Power adjustable incline to 8 degrees
One-touch controls for incline
Cushioned and adjustable pedals for good ergonomics
Workout fan and bottle holder to help keep you comfortable

NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i Elliptical - Notable Specs:

Overall Rating:	4-stars
Compact / Folding:	Yes
Incline:	0-8 degrees power adjustable incline
Stride Length:	18 inches
Flywheel:	18 LB
Programs:	24 Workout Apps
Fan:	Yes
Weight Capacity:	325 LBS
Dimensions:	80" L x 32" W x 771" H

Our Least Favorite Features

Does not have a wireless pulse receiver
Relatively small screen without HD technology; the pricier SE9i has a 7” touchscreen
Flywheel produces less smooth rides compared with heavier drives
18” stride is too short for some trainees

The Bottom Line

The NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i is best for shoppers seeking a compact elliptical trainer that’s more durable and feature-rich than many of the portable alternatives. This trainer isn’t meant for heavy traffic but can be a great value for certain households when it’s obtained at a discount. Compared with other NordicTrack ellipticals the SE7i does get a lower score from our review team.

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