A Review of the NordicTrack AudioRider U400 Exercise Bike

Buying a NordicTrack recumbent exercise bike may be a good investment for some. It very much depends on what level you are at in terms of fitness and what features and programs you want. What follows is a review of the AudioRider U400 that will hopefully help you decide if this model is right for you.

There are currently two models of NordicTrack recumbent exercise bikes; the SL710 and the AudioRider U400. They cost around $430 and $500 resp. Of the two, it is better to buy the more expensive U400. The SL710 comes with fewer workout programs and a reduced user weight capacity of 250 lbs. Its biggest selling point is its Step-In design, which means the center of the bike has been lowered as much as possible, making it easier to get on and off. So if going up and down isn’t a problem for you, you can rule out the SL710.

The AudioRider U400 is a feature rich kit. It comes with magnetic resistance so it is very smooth and quiet. A lot of thought went into the design of the console and it shows; it’s great, easy to read and understand, and it’s very easy to use. Many first-time stationary bike users may be confused or intimidated by the console, but that won’t happen with this machine; it’s as easy to use as it sounds. You get the following feedback readings; speed, time, distance, resistance, pulse, RPM, carbs burned and calories burned.

Another nice feature is the adjustable AutoBreeze fan. You can choose low, medium, high, or AutoBreeze settings; AutoBreeze automatically changes the airflow to match your speed.

iFIT technology is becoming more prevalent in all types of fitness equipment. It is a really cool piece of software that gives a great motivating result. Each card is designed by a certified personal trainer and plugs directly into the bike’s console. You listen to the voice of the virtual trainer while you train helping you to reach your goals.

You can also connect your mp3 player to the console, so you can listen to music during your workout.

This NordicTrack recumbent exercise bike comes with 20 built-in workouts; 18 personal trainer workouts and 2 heart rate workouts. Personal trainer workouts automatically adjust to keep you “in the zone,” helping to maximize your workout.

All in all, it’s a feature packed kit at a very competitive price. But it has some drawbacks.

First, there is the warranty. You get one year on frame, parts, and labor. While the one year labor is pretty standard, other manufacturers give 2 years on parts and 5 year, 10 year, or lifetime warranties on the frame. It would be better if the warranty was longer and would help instill consumer confidence that the company would stand behind its products more.

Also, the seat fit is good but not as good as others. It would be better if the seat and pedals could be adjusted so that the feet are much higher compared to the shoulders, since the shoulders are quite a bit higher than the pedals.

But enough criticism; The NordicTrack AudioRider U400 exercise bike is a good machine and will be a very attractive proposition for many.