NordicTrack VX 450 Exercise Bike Review

NordicTrack has consistently turned out high-quality, good value fitness equipment for decades, growing from small beginnings into a respected global brand. The NordicTrack VX450 upright exercise bike is yet another feature-packed model that’s been designed for typical family use. Here we take a look to see just what you’re getting for what is a substantial asking price for an upright bike.

Like most exercise bikes, the VX 450 comes flat packed and needs to be assembled. The assembly process is short and simple, though it definitely helps if you have a second person to assist. It’s roughly a 30-minute build and the end result is a fairly substantial looking bit of kit. A quick shake test confirms that this is quite a sturdy bike and this impression is backed up by the stated maximum user weight of 130kg (20st 6lb).

A good riding position is always important on an exercise bike, especially an upright bike. You want to be comfortable, of course, but more importantly, you want to make sure that you’re not putting unnecessary strain on your body in order to minimise the chance of injury. There’s a well-padded gel saddle that’s adjustable vertically and horizontally, but regrettably, the handlebars cannot be adjusted. Adjustable handlebars make a difference, and while on cheaper models we can live without it (though it’s often present on these cheaper models), it’s disappointing to see that a bike at this price level is missing this function. Still, it’s possible to get comfortable enough for a good workout.

After the first minute of riding it’s easy to see that NordicTrack hasn’t cut corners on internal components. And although at 7kg the flywheel is lighter than we’d expect to see, the VX 450 is smooth throughout the cycle. This along with that gel seat, large pedals and decent riding position make for a solid riding experience, though we really wouldn’t expect anything less given the price.  There are 20 levels of resistance that are computer controlled and while this is fewer than it’s direct rivals it’s still plenty enough to be getting on with. On the maximum setting, the resistance level is high enough to feel punishing after a just few minutes so even if you’re already in good condition you should still find that this bike can provide a challenge.

The console display is a back-lit LCD that can be adjusted for brightness and contrast and you can also change the unit measurement into MPH, which is a nice touch. There are 20 preset workouts to choose from and these are focussed on weight loss and cardio improvement, while there’s also a manual mode. The buttons are easy to understand and well laid out, though you’ll need the user manual at first in order to get your head around how things work. There’s a tablet holder that’s positioned at the top of the console so when a tablet is being used, you can still see and access all the console functions which makes using a tablet on this bike a viable option.

In addition to the built-in programmes, it’s possible to connect a tablet to the console to access the interactive functions that are available via iFit. Subscription to the iFit service is around a £100 a year and provides a whole wealth of interactive features such as HD workout videos featuring pro personal trainers to guide you through your workout, and a whole lot more. For more information on what iFit offers it’s worth visiting the iFit website for full details.

The VX 450 is covered by NordicTrack’s 2 year on-site parts and labour warranty.