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NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle Review

Ryan Summers Avatar
NordicTrack S22i Exercise Bike - Hero

An Affordable, Feature-Packed Home Fitness Solution

NordicTrack Commercial Studio Cycle

If you’re on the hunt for a top-tier exercise bike that can bring the gym experience right to your home, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle is a compelling option to consider. This impressive piece of fitness equipment offers a host of features and functionalities that set it apart from its competitors. Let’s dive deep into what makes the NordicTrack S22i a fantastic addition to your fitness routine.

Pros:

Easy Setup: One of the first things that stands out is the ease of setting up the NordicTrack S22i. The assembly process, while not without its quirks, is manageable, and the included tools make it a straightforward task.
iFit Membership Included: With the NordicTrack S22i, you get the first year of iFit membership included. While there’s a fee after the first year, it’s reasonable compared to some other fitness apps, and it provides a vast library of workout options.
Great Riding Experience: The bike offers a superb riding experience. It features automatic resistance and incline adjustments, keeping your workouts challenging and engaging without manual adjustments mid-ride.
Well-Designed and Equipped: The NordicTrack S22i boasts a well-thought-out design and comes equipped with features like a fan to keep you cool during intense sessions, a large and responsive touchscreen, and even integrated weights for cross-training exercises.
Universal Pedals: The bike includes pedals with toe cages, allowing you and your family to ride without the need for special cycling shoes, which is a significant advantage for accessibility.
Interactive Outdoor Rides: The standout feature of this bike is its iFit integration, offering interactive outdoor rides. This is a game-changer, allowing you to virtually explore trails, roads, and cities worldwide, complete with automatic adjustments for elevation and tension. This creates an immersive and engaging experience that is hard to beat.

Cons:

No In-Home Setup: Unlike some other options, the NordicTrack S22i does not offer in-home setup. This means you might need to handle the assembly and installation yourself or hire assistance.
Lack of Intro Ride: An introductory ride or setup guide for new users would have been beneficial, as adjusting the seat and handlebars can be a bit tricky without proper guidance.
Community Aspect: While the bike does offer live classes, it may not be as community-oriented as some other systems. The community aspect might not be as strong, but this can vary depending on your preferences.
Adaptation to a Non-Freewheel: The absence of a freewheel might take some getting used to, as it means you can’t coast during your rides. This is not a deal-breaker, but it’s worth noting.
Website Experience: Some users have reported that the iFit website experience is lagging behind the app. This could be an issue for those who prefer to use a computer for their workouts.

Features & Functionality

NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle

Image credit: NordicTrack

The NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle offers a wealth of features and functionalities that cater to both casual riders and fitness enthusiasts. One of the standout features is the automatic resistance and incline adjustments. Instead of fumbling with mechanical knobs during your ride, the S22i allows you to focus on your workout, with resistance and incline adapting to the terrain of your chosen iFit workout.

Furthermore, the bike’s integration with iFit brings a whole new dimension to indoor cycling. You have access to an extensive library of workouts, including studio classes and the unique feature of interactive outdoor rides. These outdoor rides are the bike’s best-kept secret, providing a seamless and engaging experience. The bike adjusts its incline and resistance to mimic real-world conditions, making it feel like you’re riding in exotic locations around the globe.

The bike’s 22-inch touchscreen is large and clear, and it even swivels to accommodate off-bike training like yoga and crossfit. It’s a versatile platform that offers various training options. The iFit app is user-friendly and continues to receive updates, adding more functionality over time.

Design & Build Quality

The NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle impresses with its solid construction and thoughtful design. It’s well-packaged and, with some patience and the included tools, can be assembled without much hassle. The bike feels robust and sturdy, even when placed on carpet. The inclusion of a water bottle holder, weights, and a fan adds to its practicality.

One notable design feature is the inclusion of universal pedals with toe cages. This allows anyone in your household to ride without the need for specialized cycling shoes, promoting accessibility. The bike is also heart rate monitor compatible, ensuring you can track your progress effortlessly.

Power & Performance

The automatic resistance and incline adjustments are a game-changer when it comes to performance. This feature eliminates the need for manual adjustments during your ride, allowing you to focus on your workout without interruptions. The elevation and declination capabilities make your rides more versatile, adding a new level of challenge and engagement.

While the bike offers studio classes, it’s the interactive outdoor rides that truly set it apart. You can explore stunning locations worldwide, and the bike adjusts to the terrain automatically. The immersive experience makes it feel like you’re on a personalized adventure, and this feature is a game-changer for those who prefer outdoor cycling.

Size & Storage

The NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle is a substantial piece of fitness equipment, but it’s designed with some thoughtfulness regarding size and storage. It features wheels in the front for easy relocation within a room. However, it’s worth noting that the bike is heavy, so moving it may require some effort.

The bike’s compact design and reasonable footprint make it a suitable addition to most home spaces. It can fit comfortably in a corner or a dedicated workout area.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle?

In conclusion, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle is a standout product that offers a plethora of features and functionality for home fitness enthusiasts. Its automatic resistance and incline adjustments, integration with iFit, and the unique interactive outdoor rides set it apart from its competitors.

If you’re deliberating between high-end indoor bike options and want more than just a studio experience, the NordicTrack S22i is a compelling choice. While it’s not an inexpensive investment, the value it provides, especially when combined with the iFit app, is apparent. However, it would be beneficial if there were introductory and setup rides to ease new users into the equipment.

This bike is a game-changer for those who can’t always access the outdoors and want a truly engaging cycling experience from the comfort of their home. If you’re looking for a premium indoor cycling experience, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle is an excellent choice that’s hard to beat in its class.

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