Pros and Cons of the New Nordictrack Elite 12.9 Crosstrainer
The new Nordictrack Elite 12.9 elliptical is an upgraded replacement to the very popular Elite 12.7 model (which is slowly being phased out).
Elite series trainers are front drive ellipticals which are built with more substance than Nordictrack starter models.
They also have heavier flywheels, color consoles and better warranties.
The 12.9 crosstrainer has the same features that made the 12.7 model popular like the full color web browser, iFit LIVE and 20 degree incline – plus it adds a few more like the new tablet holder and arm bar controls .
So is it a good value for you? Here’s a brief review to help you decide:
The Basics:
Price: $1499 + Free Shipping
Resistance Levels: 26
Stride: 20″ – 21″
Folding? No
iFit? Yes – Built In
iPod Dock? Yes
Weight Capacity: 375 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime Frame Warranty, 5-Year Parts Warranty, 2-Year Labor Warranty
Pros of the Nordictrack Elite 12.9 Elliptical:
#1 Full Color Web Browser
The 12.9 trainer comes with a full-color web browser built right into the console.
So you can surf the net, read emails or watch Youtube videos as you workout.
This alone will make your workouts much more enjoyable. The browser is a touch screen, bright and easy to use.
#2 Heavy 32 Pound Flywheel Gives You Extra Stability
A heavier flywheel gives you a smoother feeling ride without the jerky stop-and-start motions you often get with cheaper ellipticals.
The flywheel on the Elite 12.9T elliptical is a whopping 32 pounds and gives you an ultra-smooth ride. Plus the extra weight adds stability to the machine. So you can really work this trainer without any wobbling or shaking.
#3 Built-In Tablet Holder
This is a new addition to the 12.9. Nordictrack has put a sturdy bracket on the top of the console to hold your tablet.
The tablet will sit at eye level so you can watch it without straining your neck.
Plus, since it’s separate from the console, you can watch the tablet and surf the net (or see your workout stats) at the same time!
#4 iFit LIVE
The Elite 12.9T trainer comes with iFit LIVE built-in (you don’t need to buy the extra module). iFit connects your trainer to the Internet. From there you can download new workouts from Jillian Michaels or track your workouts over time.
You can also run famous trails all over the world. iFit works with Googlemaps to let you see the actual terrain you’re running with landmarks passing you by in the console screen – very virtual reality.
#5 Up to 20 Degree Power Incline
Incline changes the slope of your elliptical path and helps to work different lower body muscle groups.
You get from 0 to 20 degree incline with this elliptical. It’s power incline – so you can change it from the console without having to get off the machine.
#6 Adjustable Footpedals
The pedals on this elliptical have a 3-option toe-heel angle adjustment. So you can customize the workout feel to your liking.
It’s also great for other users in the house since everyone can find the right fit for them.
Cons of the Nordictrack Elite 12.9:
#1 iFit LIVE Subscription Required
While you do NOT need iFit to use this elliptical, if you want to try out everything iFit has to offer, you will need to eventually get an iFit LIVE subscription – which is around $99 a year.
#2 Not Really an “Adjustable Stride”
Nordictrack advertises the 12.9T as having an adjustable stride from 20 – 21 inches. But that’s a little misleading. The stride changes as you change the incline – you can’t just set it and go as with some trainers.
Bottom Line?
The Elite 12.9 is a premium elliptical coming in at a low to mid-range price. It steps up from the 12.7 model to give you a sleeker console, added tablet holder and Bluetooth wireless chest strap.
While it doesn’t carry some of the toys of the more expensive Elite models, it’s still one impressive machine that gives you a lot more for the money than other ellipticals at this price point.
Where To Buy And Save:
You can see more reviews and get the new Elite 12.9 model direct from the Manufacturer here.
They’re also offering Free Shipping to your home which will save you about $150.
Click Here to Save on the Nordictrack Elite 12.9 Elliptical
