Home Elliptical Machines

The NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 elliptical trainer was introduced in 2007 and takes the original space saver model to a new level. For $999, you get one of the most unique space saver ellipticals on the market, because it has adjustable power incline levels and can fold up. The only concern is how the incline mechanisms will hold up over time if the elliptical machine has folding parts. With a standard 1-year warranty on the parts, you might want to take advantage of the extended warranties offered by the company. This machine is the same as the Reebok 1000 ZX elliptical.

Pros

• 2 heart rate control programs
• 18″ stride length
• space saver design
• power incline

Cons

• no chest strap
• 1 year warranty on parts

Pedals and Motions

The 18″ stride length should feel comfortable for people who are taller than 5’6″ and shorter than 6’0″. In addition to the resistance levels, you can vary your workout with 5 levels of incline between 10 and 30 degrees to target various muscles and mimic hills.

Programs and Console

The LCD console is a new white, backlit display showing time, revolutions, ramp incline level, carbs burned, RPM, resistance, calories burned, pulse, distance, etc. There are 20 workouts, 2 programmable programs, and 2 heart rate control programs. Without a chest strap, the heart rate control programs require constant grip of the stationary handlebars. The console has built in iFIT technology and speakers allowing connection of your MP3player.

Product Design

This is a unique folding elliptical that also has adjustable power incline. The folded footprint is 48″ L x 26″ W x 77″ H allowing you to store your elliptical machine in smaller spaces. Because of the folding and incline mechanisms, and extended warranty would probably be a good idea. But at 245 lbs, it may be difficult to fold up.

Extra Accessories

Water bottle holder, MP3 jack with built in speakers,magazine rack, iFIT Workout Card compatibility, console fan

Price and Where to Buy

You can purchase this machine online at NordicTrack or Sears. But don’t let Sears fool you. They say the cost is $1299 and that you are saving $300 but do not ever pay that much for it. Check out the reviews at the Sears site though. There are very mixed reviews and it seams people either love it or get stuck with a bad experience.