The NordicTrack SpaceSaver Plus Elliptical – The Deluxe SpaceSaver Model

The NordicTrack SpaceSaver Plus elliptical is a fold-up machine that also offers a knob on the rear flywheel so you can adjust the stride length for a 12", 15", or 18" setting. This is the deluxe design over its sister model, the SpaceSaver, and it offers more programs, the iFIT® card technology, and a plug-in for your MP3 device.

What You Get

With the NordicTrack SpaceSaver Plus elliptical, the user has the option of using iFIT®, a series of electronic “cards” with audio coaching that you plug into the console.

On each card, the voice of a certified professional trainer offers instruction and motivation, while the program controls the level of resistance to target different parts of the body. Here’s the full list of specs on this machine:

• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance – 16 levels
• 20 Workout Programs
• Upper body workout handlebars
• StrideSelect™ 12", 15" or 18" Lengths
• iFIT® workout card technology
• iPod® and MP3 Compatible
• EKG™ Heart Rate Monitor
• Rear flywheel
• 275 lb. user weight capacity
• Built-in Fan
• SpaceSaver® Design
• Warranty – 1 year parts/labor; lifetime frame

UPDATE: The SpaceSaver Plus elliptical has been replaced with the all new SpaceSaver SE7i, one of our top picks.

Check out our review here: NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i

The Word on the Street

Experts give the NordicTrack SpaceSaver Plus good marks for adjustability, quiet operation, ergonomics, quality and value. The fold-up design does affect the stability, and that’s a shame because otherwise, it’s a decent workout machine.

Too many ellipticals still have moving arms that don’t offer much for your arms to do, other than hang on while they swing back and forth. But here you’ll find the resistance is also dialed into the handlebars as well as the pedals, giving you a better upper body workout.

The NordicTrack SpaceSaver Plus’ StrideSelect feature helps to target different parts of the legs including the calves, quads, hamstrings and gluts, and it is also a useful feature for households with several users of different heights who need a variety of length adjustments.

There are a number of fans of this model among consumers. They write in elliptical reviews that they get a good workout and enjoy the ability to change up the stride length. It’s a good trainer for women or small adults, but taller and heavier individuals will want a model that has 20" stride length and a higher user weight capacity.

Our Thoughts

The NordicTrack SpaceSaver Plus elliptical has the same slight wobble factor as the basic model, the SpaceSaver. That lack of stability is a turn-off considering this unit sells for $999.

If you like the manual mode and you’re not planning on using the iFit programs, or the iPod plug in, you can go with the less expensive SpaceSaver over this deluxe model.

And if you are still undecided and you want to look at another alternative, we recommend you also take a look at the AudioStrider 990 which is rated as a Best Buy from many consumer magazines, plus it comes with a 30° power incline ramp.

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