If you’re looking to make the most of your at-home workouts but struggling to find a suitable cardio option, then look no further than the NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Recumbent Bike.
Don’t be fooled by the name, whilst the bike is suited to commercial gym settings, it’s relatively light frame and 7 inch Smart HD Touchscreen, allowing you to enjoy over 12,000 on-demand home workouts and personalised training options, makes it the perfect addition to your home gym.
Now, let’s get in to it. Why choose a recumbent bike? Any cyclist, whether they’re a seasoned pro or an occasional dabbler knows the risk for back pain that comes with holding the classic cycling position for any extended period of time. Most have felt the pang of discomfort that hits once they descend from the saddle. The recumbent bike provides the answer. An adjusted seat position which focuses on lumbar support, ergonomic design and pedals extended in front of you, all combine to create a more stable cycling experience, without taking away from the cardiovascular aspect of the activity.
This leaves us with one last question, why choose this recumbent bike? The NordicTrack website claims that this product offers ‘dynamic workouts’ in ‘diverse locations’ and we have to agree.
At the most basic level, this product is a great option for those looking to get a great workout from home, whilst minimising aggravating the back pain that so many people experience nowadays.
On a more technical level, this particular product gives users the chance to experience a huge range of at home workouts, special technology from Google Maps, which allows you to cycle anywhere virtually and statistic tracking to see your progress. All this in combination with 26 digital resistance levels and an 11kg inertia-enhanced flywheel and Step Thru design.
A great package all round. Let’s get in to the full details now in our NordicTrack VR25 review.
NordicTrack VR25 First Impressions
The sleek first impression of the NordicTrack VR25 Recumbent Bike is certainly one of comfort. The supportive, ergonomic seat really does look appealing and for those unfamiliar with the recumbent bike, it seems far more inviting than the often hard saddle of a traditional indoor bike.
The seat itself may somewhat resemble a desk-chair like design, but NordicTrack have found a way to ensure that this is in keeping with the rest of the structure, whilst still maintaining functionality.
Speaking of functionality, the seat also features some handy bottle holders, as well as easy gliding adjustments to make sure the equipment can be adjusted to your precise measurements and comfort.
The next feature to stand out was the 7 inch Smart HD Touchscreen, which lends the NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Recumbent Bike an air of technological finesse and makes the entire product feel more at home in today’s market, where the possibility for integration with other devices and sleek appearance is a major selling point for most consumers.
A closer inspection of the screen will tell you that the bike comes with Smart BlueTooth (BLE) Chest Belt Compatibility, which will allow users to see in depth data about their heart rate and structure their workout around it, a technique which has been gathering momentum this year. To improve their heart rate and health readings, buyers will also be entitled to a full year of iFit family membership, which will work out to over £300 in savings.
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VR25 Specifications
We’ve discussed first impressions of the NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Recumbent Bike, now let’s get into the finer detail.
NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Recumbent Bike dimensions:
- Height: 68”
- Width: 23”
- Length: 61.2”
- Max user weight: 350lbs
Screen and Computer Features:
- 7” web-enabled touchscreen in full color.
- iFit Coach compatibility, giving you unlimited access to workouts set all over the world using special Google Maps technology.
- 35 built-in workouts designed by top professional trainers to help you reach and surpass your training goals no matter your level.
- Calorie-based target workouts.
- Intensity training option for efficient workouts.
- Performance training for goal-orientated users or those working towards a race or training event.
- 26 digital resistance levels, which can be easily and quickly adjusted through OneTouch® technology controls.
- A wireless chest strap is included, allowing you to connect for heart rate monitoring.
- If you prefer an old school heart rate reading, CardioGripTM sensors on the handle bars are also included.
- Finally, an AutoBreezeTM workout fan automatically adjusts to the intensity of your workout to keep you cool and help you go harder for longer.
How do I put the NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Recumbent Bike together?
- The Commercial VR25 can easily be assembled at home using the provided instructions.
What about the warranty?
- The Frame & Brake: Lifetime warranty
- Other Parts: 3 years warranty
- Labour: 1 year warranty
- NordicTrack also provides a 30-day money back guarantee, if you purchase the NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Recumbent Bike but decide it’s not for you.
Using The NordicTrack Commercial VR25
Undoubtedly one of the best things about the NordicTrack VR25 is that it is so simple to use, with very little set up time and practically no expert knowledge or technique required.
Getting a workout in with the VR25 is as simple as hopping on, adjusting the seat to the correct position for you, based on leg length and height and then you’re away!
The seat adjustment is simple and very smooth, meaning even those with back pain don’t need to worry about jarring or jerking movements as they adjust the equipment.
Perhaps the only part of the process which could be considered even remotely complicated is the set up and linking of the VR25’s computer with the heart rate monitor and any other equipment (phones, tablets or smart watches) that you should wish to connect for integrated data about your workouts and performance. Even this slightly trickier aspect though is so simple compared to other equipment within the same price range and all you really need to do is follow the onscreen instructions. Should you need a bit of extra help, NordicTrack have a support team who are happy to help.
Once you’re all set up, you can access the huge range of workouts and programmes through the easy-to-use touch screen, which most users will find intuitive and convenient. Even if this screen doesn’t do it for you, the VR25 comes with a built in tablet stand, so you can always enjoy the use of your own tablet or phone as you pedal.
Now we’re on to the workout itself, both beginners and experienced cyclists can enjoy the features of the VR25. Less confident users can simply follow a workout programmed by a leading, fully qualified trainer, helping them to build fitness and technique whilst enjoying the comfort and safety of the ergonomic seat and extra-wide adjustable pedals.
More experienced users can enjoy these workouts, programme their own or make use of the built in programmes to adjust workouts based on their goals; the VR25 has settings which utilise calorie goals, performance goals and intensity training systems for those looking to get in an efficient session with maximum impact.
The 11kg inertia-enhanced flywheel will provide a suitable challenge for those just starting out and whilst this may not be as weighty as some other commercial products on the market, this won’t get in the way of progress with so many pre-programmed workouts on offer, all designed to make the most of the equipment.
Should you want to rearrange your home gym or move the VR25 for any reason, you can take a second to thank the lord for the front-mounted transport wheels. Anyone who has ever tried to move equipment without these wheels will know exactly what we mean…
NordicTrack VR25 Verdict
All in all, the NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Recumbent Bike is a fantastic option for at-home users of all levels.
One of its biggest pros is the sleek 7 inch touch screen display, which adds a touch of sophistication as well as providing you with practically limitless opportunities for entertainment and progress. This particular feature is always popular with less experienced cyclists, who will love the motivation and encouragement of the online training element, as well as the opportunity to keep every workout different and exciting.
One potential downfall of the VR25 is the slightly lighter weight fly-wheel, in comparison with some other options within the same price range. Some users who may be used to heavier options will find it hard to match the intensity of their training using other recumbent bikes.
The verdict? The range of options in terms of on-board entertainment is huge, as well as the integrated technology, both allow users to get the most out of their training no matter where they decide to put their recumbent bike.
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