NordicTrack S15i Review: The Good and The Bad

When searching for a high-quality indoor cycling experience, I wanted a bike that could replicate the thrill of real outdoor riding — complete with inclines and declines. Initially, I considered the Wahoo bike, a top-tier option with impressive features, but its price tag was steep. After extensive research, I settled on the NordicTrack S15i, which offered similar features at a more accessible price. I chose to purchase it through Amazon, leveraging their hassle-free return policy — a better option compared to buying directly from NordicTrack, where returns can be costly.

Delivery was straightforward, and given the bike’s heft, I opted for in – room delivery, which was worth every penny. Assembly was relatively simple, with most of the bike arriving pre – assembled including flywheel and transmission. A helpful YouTube video from NordicTrack and a friend’s assistance made the setup process smooth.

The S15i delivers as promised. Finding the ideal seat and handlebar adjustments took a bit of time, but once dialed in, the ride was excellent. I chose the 15-inch screen, which is more than adequate, and the automatic resistance and incline adjustments work seamlessly. The three-speed fan is a great addition, particularly when the workout heats up. My only gripes so far are the paused/cancelled iFit live cycling classes, uncomfortable seat, locked and limited display and the fixed flywheel, which doesn’t allow for coasting as you would on an outdoor bike.

At $160 yearly Individual Package iFIT, the integrated training platform, adds tremendous value. Not as good as the Peloton platform but I’ve enjoyed a mix of instructor-led rides and custom Google Maps routes, which simulate real-world terrain. Although the visuals don’t always align perfectly, the experience is immersive and motivating. The variety of workouts, including mountain bike sessions and spin classes, keeps things interesting. Now let’s compare the S15i vs S22i and S27i and then we talk about some alternatives to consider and we continue with the Nordictrack S15i review.

NordicTrack S15i vs. S22i vs. S27i: Which Studio Cycle is Right for You?

When deciding between the NordicTrack S15i, S22i, and S27i, it’s essential to understand how each model has evolved and what features set them apart. These exercise bikes share a lot of the same DNA, but the S22i and S27i have brought some significant upgrades that might influence your purchase decision.

NordicTrack S15i: The Solid Foundation for an Affordable Price

The NordicTrack S15i is the base model in this lineup, and it’s an impressive machine on its own. With a 15-inch HD screen, 22 levels of electronic magnetic resistance, and a 360° rotating screen, it offers a comprehensive indoor cycling experience. It also supports iFit, comes with dual bottle holders, and has a weight capacity of 350 lbs, making it suitable for most users. However, it lacks some of the premium features found in its more expensive siblings, like Bluetooth connectivity, SPD pedals, and the gas-assisted handlebar adjustment.

NordicTrack S22i: Enhanced Features for an Improved Ride

The NordicTrack S22i builds on the S15i’s solid foundation with several key upgrades. The most noticeable difference is the larger 22-inch HD screen, which offers a more immersive experience during workouts. This model also includes 24 levels of electronic magnetic resistance, making your ride even more challenging if needed. The S22i introduces Bluetooth headphone connectivity and USB/HDMI ports, offering more ways to enjoy your workout. The bike’s graphics and sound quality are also enhanced, thanks to processor cooling and 30W speakers. While the handlebar adjustment remains manual, the S22i includes these upgrades without a significant increase in price.

NordicTrack S27i: The Ultimate Indoor Cycling Experience

The S27i is the pinnacle of NordicTrack’s Studio Cycle lineup. It’s designed for those who want the best of the best. The 27-inch HD screen is a standout feature, offering unparalleled clarity and engagement during workouts. This model also includes SPD pedals, which provide more flexibility for riders who prefer clip-in shoes. One of the biggest enhancements in the S27i is the gas-assisted handlebar adjustment, which makes finding the perfect riding position easier and quicker. Like the S22i, it has 24 levels of electronic magnetic resistance, but it also features improved graphics, 30W sound, and the same Bluetooth and port options as the S22i.

NordicTrack S15i Specs, Accessories, and Easy Assembly Guide

Assembling the NordicTrack S15i is no walk in the park, especially if you’re flying solo. Let me tell you, this bike is a beast — gorgeous and solid, but definitely a challenge to put together on your own. It’s not impossible, but if you can, grab a buddy. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.

I’m not exactly a mechanical genius, but after years of wrestling with Amazon flat-packs, I decided to tackle most of it myself. And I actually did pretty well—until I got to the screen. That’s where things got real. Mounting that screen is a two-person job, no question. You need at least three or four hands in play at the same time, which is a bit tricky when you’re flying solo.

The assembly process is pretty straightforward otherwise: you’ll attach the front and rear frames, seat, pedals, handlebars, and finally the screen. Here’s a pro tip: when you’re tightening the seat, don’t hold back. If you don’t crank it down tight enough, it’s going to shift around when you hop on, and that’s just annoying.

If you run into any snags, NordicTrack’s support team is solid. I shot them an email at ce@NordicTrack.com, and they got back to me fast.

Now, here’s something to look out for — the newer NordicTrack models have a power switch that’s kind of tucked away. It’s right above where the power cord plugs into the back of the bike, and it’s recessed, so it’s not exactly easy to spot. If you’re struggling to find it, check out page 6 of your manual — there’s a handy little picture that’ll help you locate it.

On the accessories front, this bike doesn’t skimp. It’s got more features than most magnetic spin bikes I’ve ever seen. There’s an adjustable cooling fan that’s a lifesaver in summer, a solid phone holder, and a dumbbell holder you’ll need to install above the handlebars. They even throw in a set of 3-pound dumbbells, which I’ve been using for those iFit classes that mix weights with cycling. But, fair warning, there’s no floor mat included. I ended up buying one because this bike is seriously heavy and could mess up your floor or carpet. Oh, and the water bottle holder? Not bad at all.

NordicTrack S15i Touchscreen & App Connectivity: What to Expect

When I first got my NordicTrack S15i, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I could do even without an iFit subscription. Right out of the box, all the essential tracking features were available in manual mode — things like RPM, wattage, resistance level, speed, distance, heart rate, and calories burned. It’s pretty cool that you don’t need a subscription to access these, but obviously, you won’t get the full iFit experience.

I started with the 1-month free iFit membership that came with the bike, but I’ve heard that sometimes they offer up to a full year for free, which is worth about £400. Whether you get a month or a year, I’d say give it a go and see if it’s your style. Personally, I found that iFit content wasn’t as engaging for me as Peloton, mostly because I really enjoy those live leaderboard classes that Peloton offers, which iFit doesn’t. But if you’re more into on-demand classes or love the idea of biking through beautiful outdoor landscapes from around the world, iFit has an edge over Peloton.

If you end up liking iFit and only have the NordicTrack studio bike, I’d recommend going for the iFit Individual subscription rather than the Family one. At around £150, the Individual package is less than half the price and still offers a ton of content to keep you entertained.

Now, one thing to note is that the bike doesn’t come with streaming apps like Netflix or YouTube out of the box. But there’s a little trick to getting these apps on the touchscreen monitor. You can activate what’s called “privilege mode” by tapping on the screen in a specific pattern — on my bike, it was 10 taps, a pause, then 10 more taps. Once you’re in, you can swipe up from the bottom to access the Android menu, open a web browser, and either stream Netflix directly or install the app. Just be sure to put the bike into manual ride mode before switching over to watch your favorite shows.

One thing I noticed is that with privilege mode active, the iFit app doesn’t automatically start when you turn on the bike. You’ll have to start it manually from the home screen, or you can deactivate privilege mode with the same tapping method.

As for connectivity, while the bike doesn’t automatically sync with Apple Watch or Samsung Watch fitness apps, there is a workaround. If you install the ECHO app on your phone, the S15i will pick up your heart rate when the app is active. You get 20 minutes of use for free, or you can pay $15 to use it for the whole workout.

Now, I was eager to connect the bike with Zwift or similar apps, but I quickly found out that the bike’s screen doesn’t have the hardware to support Zwift, and the system is pretty locked down. But there’s a workaround for that too! You can install the QZ Companion App on the bike’s display and the QZ app on your phone, then run the Zwift app on your tablet or iPad (three apps installed on three devices). It’s a bit of a process, but it’s doable if you really want that Zwift experience with Nordictrack indoor cycling bikes.

NordicTrack S15i Resistance & Transmission: Smooth, Quiet Performance

Let’s talk about the resistance and transmission on the NordicTrack S15i — this is where this bike really steps up its game. Now, when I first saw that it had 22 resistance levels, I thought, “Okay, pretty standard,” but here’s the twist: as the incline changes, the resistance subtly shifts behind the scenes. So even though it’s technically 22 levels, the combination of incline and resistance makes it feel like you’ve got way more options to play with.

What really blew me away is how quiet and smooth the resistance is. We’re talking about electronically adjustable magnetic resistance that feels like butter — no friction, no annoying wear and tear. And the best part? The resistance controls are right there on the handlebars. Just a quick push of a button, and you can crank up the intensity without fumbling around with a knob.

Plus, iFit classes can automatically adjust the resistance for you, so you can focus on your workout instead of constantly tweaking settings. The whole setup is super intuitive, everything is within reach, and it’s dead silent. Seriously, you can hear a pin drop while this thing adjusts resistance.

Another thing I appreciate is the mechanical emergency brake — simple, effective, and easy to use. It’s just a push-down knob on the main frame, right next to the brake pad that keeps the flywheel in check.

And let’s not forget the incline and decline features. The automatic, software-driven changes in incline make you feel like you’re really riding up and down hills. With a -10% decline and 20% incline, it’s like you’re right there in the great outdoors, without ever leaving your living room.

When it comes to transmission, the S15i doesn’t disappoint. It’s got a high-quality poly-v belt drive system, which is a massive win in my book. No need for lubrication, less friction, and minimal noise compared to those old-school chain drives. The result? An unbelievably smooth ride and near-total silence, even when you’re pushing your limits.

NordicTrack S15i Pedals, Q-Factor & Flywheel: What You Need to Know

At this point of the review, let me tell you about the NordicTrack S15i’s pedals, Q-factor, and flywheel — because I’ve got some firsthand experience, and it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

After about 20 rides, each clocking in at around 30 minutes, the left pedal on my S15i decided to bail on me. It fell off mid-ride. Not ideal, right? I tightened it up as best as I could, and it held on for a couple more sessions, but then, like clockwork, it would pop off again about 25 minutes into the ride. Frustrating doesn’t even begin to cover it. So, I swapped those bad boys out for SPD clip-in pedals. That change was a game-changer. Suddenly, I could engage more muscles throughout the pedal stroke, and the rides felt way more solid.

The stock pedals come with toe clips and 9/16” pedal straps, which are pretty standard. If they don’t break, they’re comfortable and stable enough that slipping off mid-ride isn’t an issue. Plus, if you’re switching between cycling and cross-training with dumbbells, these pedals are versatile enough to keep up without having to change shoes when you are out of the bike.

The S15i runs on a three-piece crank arm system with a narrow 150mm Q-factor. Now, for those who aren’t knee-deep in bike jargon, the Q-factor is the horizontal distance between the pedals. The narrower the Q-factor, the more natural and comfortable the ride feels, especially for your legs. Trust me, your knees will thank you for that 150mm setup which is similar to road bikes.

Now, onto the flywheel — it’s a 14.5 kg (32 pounds) beast. What I can tell you for sure is that this flywheel, paired with their inertia-enhanced drive and resistance system, gives you one of the smoothest rides you’ll ever experience. No jerks, no stutters — just a consistent, fluid motion that feels fantastic underfoot.

But here’s the kicker: there’s no ratchet mechanism in the hub of the flywheel, so coasting is out of the question. The engineers behind this bike wanted to keep it cost-effective while still being able to simulate real cycling to a certain level, so they slapped on a heavy flywheel and dismissed the freewheel mechanism. Once that thing gets going, stopping it is like trying to halt a runaway train. They did include a large red panic button to slam on the brakes, though, which I’m guessing was as much for our safety as it was for keeping the legal team happy.

NordicTrack S15i Adjustability, Comfort, Warranty & Support Review

Let’s get real about the adjustability, comfort, and support with the NordicTrack S15i. Starting with the warranty — technically, it’s a one-year deal, and yes, you can buy an extended warranty. But honestly, brace yourself. Their customer service is a nightmare. If you go for it, do yourself a favor and grab that extended warranty and accidental damage insurance. Seriously, Icon (the company behind the support) is notorious for being painfully slow and unhelpful. If your bike’s under warranty and something breaks, don’t hold your breath waiting for a repair. Demand a replacement right away. If luck’s on your side, you might actually end up with a bike that works.

Now, let’s talk handlebars. They adjust vertically by about 8 inches, but there’s no forward or backward movement on the S15i. You can only move the seat closer or farther from the handlebars. But here’s the kicker: these handlebars tend to slip down during rides. Imagine this — you’re in the middle of a 40-minute session, and suddenly, the bars drop by 2 inches. Not exactly what you want during a workout, right? And raising them back up is like lifting a ton of bricks. Honestly, for a 1,500 studio bike, this shouldn’t be happening. A better design, like holes for the bars to lock into or a gas-assisted lift like what Nordictrack did on the S27i, would make a world of difference.

The limited adjustability isn’t just annoying — it’s a real comfort issue for some people. I’m 5’7”, so pretty average height, but I have to crank the seat up mid-way to keep my knees from screaming at me. If you’re under 5’2” or over 6’3”, good luck finding that sweet spot. It’s like they forgot not everyone fits into a standard mold.

And then there’s the seat. It’s thin, and maybe some folks will find it okay, but I needed a wider seat to make it through a ride without discomfort. Sure, you can swap it out, but the mounting bracket is custom-designed for this bike, which is a pain. I ended up removing the bracket and slapping it onto a Velmia seat, which worked out, but it shouldn’t be this complicated.

NordicTrack S15i Bike Pros

• Durable Construction: Built with a robust steel frame, the S15i supports users up to 350 pounds, ensuring long-term durability and stability.
• Silent Magnetic Resistance: The magnetic resistance system, paired with the flywheel and Poly-V belt drive, offers an ultra-quiet, smooth, and consistent riding experience, perfect for home environments.
• 14-Inch HD Touchscreen: The large, swiveling 14-inch monitor delivers high-resolution visuals, enhancing readability and immersion during workouts.
• Smart Performance Tracking: The smart screen accurately tracks and displays key performance metrics, including direct watt readings, helping you monitor and improve your workout.
• iFit App Integration: Syncs seamlessly with the popular iFit app, which offers a vast library of workouts and comes free for the first year, adding immense value.
• Automatic Incline and Decline: The S15i offers rare incline and decline features, simulating real outdoor terrain and elevating your indoor cycling experience.
• Low Maintenance: Thanks to its Poly-V belt transmission, the bike requires minimal maintenance, saving you time and effort.
• Included Dumbbells: Comes with a set of 3-pound dumbbells, making it easy to incorporate cross-training exercises into your routine.

NordicTrack S15i Bike Cons

• No Tablet Holder: The bike lacks a tablet holder or reading rack, which can be inconvenient for users who like to multitask with their devices or books during workouts.
• iFit Subscription Required: After the initial free year of iFit, users must pay for a subscription to continue saving workouts and accessing the full range of workout programs, which can be a drawback given the limited onboard options.
• Limited Warranty Coverage: The warranty could be more comprehensive, especially regarding coverage for labor and parts, which may be a concern for long-term ownership.
• Pedal Durability Issues: Some users have reported issues with the durability of the stock pedals, which may need to be replaced sooner than expected.
• Heavy and Difficult to Assemble: The bike is quite heavy at 203 lbs, which can make assembly challenging, especially for one person.
• No Freewheel Mechanism: The bike lacks a ratchet mechanism in the flywheel hub, meaning you can’t coast. This might make the ride feel less natural for some users.
• Complexity in Using Third-Party Apps: While you can use third-party apps like Zwift, it requires a complicated setup involving multiple devices, which may not be user-friendly.
• Limited Music Integration: The iFit music integration is limited and doesn’t offer the same level of control or variety as competitors like Peloton.

Top NordicTrack S15i Alternatives: Peloton Bike+ and Echelon EX5S

When you’re shopping for an indoor bike, it’s always smart to consider a few alternatives, especially if you’re trying to find the perfect fit for your workout style or budget. Two great alternatives to the NordicTrack S15i are the Peloton Bike+ and the Echelon EX5S. Here’s why you might want to check them out:

Amazon.co.uk

Nordictrack Unisex's S15 Studio Cycle Exercise Bike, Black, One-Size

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Amazon.co.uk

Echelon EX-5s Smart Connect Exercise Bike with 21.5" integrated touchscreen + 45 days free Echelon membership

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Amazon.co.uk

Peloton Bike+ | Indoor Stationary Exercise Bike with 24” HD, Anti-Reflective Rotating Touchscreen

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Peloton Bike+: Ideal for Competitive Cyclists

If you’re the kind of person who gets a kick out of a little friendly competition, the Peloton Bike+ might be right up your alley. One thing Peloton really nails is its leaderboard feature, which lets you see how you stack up against other riders during live and on-demand classes. It’s super motivating and adds a fun, competitive edge to your workouts—something you won’t get with the NordicTrack since iFit had to ditch their leaderboard feature due to some legal drama with Peloton.

Another perk of the Peloton Bike+ is the comfort factor. It comes with a comfier seat and Look Delta pedals right out of the box. Sure, you can swap out the seat and pedals on the S15i, but if you prefer a bike that’s ready to go without any tweaks, the Bike+ has you covered.

Echelon EX5S: Top Value for Budget Riders

Now, if you’re watching your budget but still want a quality ride, the Echelon EX5S is definitely worth a look. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles like the NordicTrack S15i—no cooling fan or fancy incline/decline system—but it does have motorized magnetic resistance, which gives you a smooth ride without breaking the bank.

One thing I really like about the Echelon EX5S is how easy it is to hack. You can connect it to third-party apps like Peloton and Zwift, which is great if you like to mix things up or use different platforms for your workouts. That flexibility can be a game-changer, especially if you don’t want to be locked into one ecosystem like you are with the S15i and iFit.

Final Verdict: Is the NordicTrack S15i the Right Studio Cycle for You?

In summary, I’m impressed with the NordicTrack S15i. It’s not a cheap investment, but given how much I’ve used it in just the first months, it’s been worth every penny. The added Amazon warranty gives me peace of mind, especially considering NordicTrack’s limited warranty outside the US. My only concern is the bike’s weight — it’s a beast to move! Also, if you’re outside the US, be prepared for some challenges with support. Despite these minor issues, the S15i has proven to be a fantastic addition to my home gym. However, I only recommend it if you like the content on the iFit app. Wouldn’t recommend it for Zwift or Peloton enthusiasts.