The NordicTrack GX2.5 Upright Bike – Slightly Better Than the GX2.0

The NordicTrack GX2.5 upright bike is new in 2013 as a step up from their GX2.0 model. It's an inexpensive model that lists for $600 but can be found on sale for about $296.

The Bike

The GX2.5 features a battery operated, 4" console screen that tracks all of the usual functions, including speed, time, distance, calories burned and pulse. The 20 pre-programmed workouts let you choose multiple options for aerobic, endurance, performance, weight loss and training goal programs.

The specs on the NordicTrack GX2.5 upright bike are:

• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
• 20 Workout Programs
• Compatible Music Port for iPod® w/speakers
• Intermix Acoustics™ 2.0 Sound System
• iFit Live™ Compatible*
• Handlebar grips with heart rate monitoring
• Pedals with Adjustable Straps
• Maximum user weight: 275 lbs.
• Dimensions: 41"L x 22.5"W x 60"H
• Warranty: lifetime frame, 1-year parts and labor

The Buzz

UPDATE:  The GX2.5 has been discontinued and replaced by the upgraded NordicTrack VU19 upright.  Check that one out to see if it's the right one for your home gym.

The initial reviews for the NordicTrack GX2.5 upright bike are decent but not great. As a step up from the GX2.0, it has two more levels of resistance and two more pre-set programs, giving you a bit more variation in your workouts from a bike that's already got lots going for it.

While reviewers like these improvements, they are more interested in the amped-up comfort of the cushioned seat, which adjusts both vertically and horizontally for comfort and the proper seating position no matter how tall or short you are.

There are some complaints about the difficulty assembling the machine and the customer service, which seems to be spotty when problems come up.

Our Take

This is a slightly better machine than the GX2.0 upright bike, but only by a small margin. This is a low budget machine that tries to be more than it is by adding lots of entertaining features like iFit compatibility and speakers for your iPod, but the 275 pound maximum weight limit and some noise issues will remind you that this is a lower end machine.

You can find other exercise bikes at a comparable price with weight limits well over 300 pounds that have finely tuned parts for a better fit and smoother, quieter ride.

It's a nice attempt by the manufacturer, but the NordicTrack GX2.5 upright bike still has a way to go. In the future, we hope they'll focus more on the basics so that the bells and whistles are backed up by better overall performance.