The NordicTrack C 7.5 Review - A Solid Entry Level Choice

The NordicTrack C 7.5 is the entry level model in the front-drive series, but that doesn't mean it is lacking features or capabilities.  

As a replacement for the previous E 8.9 model, it has incline capability, a large number of workout programs and Bluetooth iFit technology (we'll explain that below).

Let's jump right into our review to see if this elliptical is worth buying for your home gym...

C 7.5 - What You Get

The C 7.5 comes with a 5" backlit display that shows you distance, speed, pulse and calories burned. It features AutoBreeze automatic fans, dual 2 inch speakers and easy touch controls.

There are stationary and moving handlebars to change things up, and comfortable cushioned footpads.

Here are the most important specs....

• Front driven flywheel mechanism 
  
• 5” backlit display
• 20 degrees power incline
• iFit® Bluetooth Smart enabled
  
• 19" adjustable stride
• 22 resistance settings using SMR® technology
  
• 26 workout applications
  
• AutoBreeze workout fan
  
• Music dock/speakers
• Adjustable, oversized pedals
  
• Transport wheels 
  
• CardioGrip heart rate monitoring
  
• SoftTouch upper body grips
• Lifetime frame, 2 years parts and 1 year labor warranty

What's the Word on the Street?

UPDATE: As of 2020 it looks like the NordicTrack C 7.5 might be discontinued. To find a comparable replacement take a look at our NordicTrack elliptical reviews page.

Some industry experts are wondering why NordicTrack introduced the C 7.5 elliptical since it isn't too different from the model it is replacing, the E 8.9.

Comparing the specs side by side, the only real difference is the C 7.5 has iFit Bluetooth Smart technology, which means you can connect your phone or tablet to the machine and take advantage of NordicTrack's iFit package.

iFit offers additional workout programs on top of the 26 that are already built into the machine.  

It also allows you to track and share your results and, perhaps best of all, simulate a workout anywhere in the world using Google map integration.  So it's as if you are working out in that location, which is very cool.  iFit does require a yearly subscription but most users agree it is well worth the price.

Everything else about the machines seems identical...flywheel weight, number of apps, incline levels, resistance levels, etc.  

Perhaps the company is making a transition to Bluetooth for all of their lower priced machines...that's a strong possibility as we have seen it on some other lower end models as well.

Note that the NordicTrack C 7.5 has a 5" backlit display.  If you want a touch screen display with internet capability, you'll have to look at the C 9.5, which was also recently released.

The up level C 12.9 and Commercial 14.9 are also web-enabled.

How Does the C 7.5 Compare to the Other NordicTrack Elliptical Machines?

The C 7.5 is the entry level model in the NordicTrack Front Drive Series, so it is definitely more of a beginner's elliptical built for lighter usage than the others.

If budget is a concern for you, and it's just you using it for easy workouts, then it will be just fine and you'll save yourself a little money.  

However, if you want something a little more advanced, or if the machine will see more use by multiple individuals, you'll be much better served with one of the other models.

The C 9.5 is a step up with more resistance levels and workouts, and also adds a 7" touch screen, as opposed to the basic display you'll get on the C 7.5.  It gives you multi position handlebars as well.

The C 12.9 will give you even more resistance levels and workout programs, plus a higher max weight capacity and wireless heart rate monitoring for more accurate readings.

The Commercial 14.9 will be your most advanced, most durable model with the same basic makeup as the C 12.9, but with a 10" HD Smart touch screen instead of the 7" one on the C 9.5 and C 12.9 ellipticals.

So you definitely get a lot more out of the upper level C Series models, but at only $799 on sale the C 7.5 is very appealing.  If you can do without the touch screen and wireless heart readings by all means go for it.

You can't really compare the C 7.5 or any of the Front Drive models to the FreeStriders, SpaceSavers or Commercial Series.  

Those NordicTrack ellipticals are much different in the way that they operate, so you should definitely choose a type: font drive, mid drive, rear drive before you start thinking about a model.

NordicTrack C 7.5 Elliptical Review - Bottom Line

We were fans of the E 8.9 because of all that it offered for just $799 on sale.  Since the NordicTrack C 7.5 is similarly priced, and not much has changed, we can say at this early stage that we like this machine as well.

It gives you 26 workouts to choose from, iFit workout tracking and map integration, up to 20 degrees of power incline, iPod compatibility and 22 different resistance levels.

That's a lot of features and capabilities, especially given the price.  There are elliptical trainers well over $1000 that don't give you all of that. So this one is definitely worth a closer look.

If you want a touch screen console, consider the C 9.5, and if you want something that can stand up to heavier use, look at the C 12.9 and the top of the line Commercial 14.9 ellipticals.