| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Stride | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NordicTrack SE7i Check Discounted Price | L:80" W:32" H:67" | 325 lbs | Eddy current, 22 levels | 18" | 24 workouts, iFit enabled, Bluetooth |
The NordicTrack SE7i is pretty similar by design and range of features to the SE9i that we’ve already reviewed here. However, it comes with a smaller monitor, offers fewer workout programs, and only has 22 levels of resistance, as opposed to 24 offered by the SE9i model. Although it’s not meant for commercial use, this machine definitely offers a construction and range of features pretty close to commercial machines.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 80L x 32W x 67H inches (203L x 81W x 195H cm)
- Shipping weight: 215 lbs (97.5 kg)
- Flywheel weight: 18 lbs (8.1 kg)
- Supported weight: 325 lbs (147.4 kg)
- Stride: 18 inches (46 cm)
- Incline: Automatic, 0°-10°
- Pedals: Cushioned, angle-adjustable
- Resistance system: Eddy current, 22 levels
- Console: 24 workouts, Bluetooth, iFit enabled
- Extras: Sound system, workout fan, tablet holder, bottle holder
- Warranty: Frame 10 years / Parts 2 years / Labor 1 year
Frame construction
The NordicTrack SE7i elliptical machine features a heavy-duty steel frame combining oval and cylindrical 
tubes in its construction for improved sturdiness and aesthetics. All the steel parts are double-coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish. The colors used are gray for the pedal bars, moving arms, and console mast and black for the base bars. These are the only colors available for this machine.
The fully assembled unit is fairly large. It is approx. 80″ (203 cm) long, and 32″ (81 cm) wide. Plus, it is recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it for ease of access and save usage. So, it may not fit too well in a small room or apartment. Also, its highest point is given by the top of the tablet holder which reaches approx. 67″ (195 cm) above the floor.
On the other hand, the NordicTrack SE7i elliptical is foldable. There’s a locking knob at the base of the console mast and a latch at the front of the machine which allow you to unlock the whole front upright section and fold it down over the base frame. Also, the unit can be stored vertically resting on its rear section.
The machine is fairly heavy. Its net weight is close to 200 lbs (90.7 kg). This being said, the packaged unit should be carried by two people. However, once the machine is assembled, it can easily be moved and handled by only one person. Both its base stabilizers have transport wheels and the front base also has a handle so you can easily lift it and move it around.
Like most other similar ellipticals, the SE7i features two sets of handlebars, one fixed, one mobile. The fixed handlebars integrate pulse sensors. The mobile handlebars have slightly longer grips but do not have any controls or sensors integrated into them. The moving arms are attached to the pedal bars so they cannot be locked to remain stationary; they will continue to move for as long as you pedal.
Pedal construction and incline
The NordicTrack SE7i is equipped with an automatic incline system. It consists of a lever assembly attached at
the front section of the unit. It’s fully motorized, so the incline adjustment can only be done from the console. Some of the iFit programs or pre-set programs also adjust the incline automatically.
The unit’s incline range is between 0% and 10%. It can only be adjusted gradually; there are no quick incline settings on the console as is the case for the resistance.
The machine offers a medium-range stride of 18″ (46 cm). The length of the stride is non-adjustable, but by adjusting the incline, the elliptical path changes its angle. So, given the 18″ stride length, this elliptical machine is perfect for users between 5’3″ and 6’3″ (160 – 190 cm). Taller persons should also be able to use this machine but they may not benefit from a complete range of motion.
with a set of large, durable pedals. The pedal trays are made from thermoplastic material and are attached to solid steel bars. Both the pedals and the crankset are rated for a maximum user weight limit of 325 lbs (147 kg).
The pedals are pretty large, approx. 15″ (38 cm) long, so they can accommodate athletic shoes of all sizes. They have side guards for improved foot stability. They are cushioned for extra impact absorption. They’re also angle-adjustable. Each pedal has a latch at the rear which allows you to adjust its angle which is quite a plus.
One last important aspect to mention here regards the maximum pedal height. With the incline set to maximum, the highest pedal point is approx. 27″ (69 cm) above the floor. Therefore, it is recommended to use this machine in a room with a ceiling that is at least 30″ (76 cm) higher than the tallest user.
Resistance and drive
The NordicTrack SE7i elliptical machine is equipped with an eddy current magnetic resistance system. It
features a US standard 3-prong plug with a power cord and requires an external power source in order to power up the console and adjust the resistance and incline. Also, the console can adjust the resistance and incline automatically, depending on the selected workout program.
The machine’s resistance system consists of a magnetic brake incorporated into the flywheel system and a servo motor connected to the console and to the brake. Therefore, when you adjust the resistance from the console, or when a program is in use, the motor changes the magnets’ pull on the flywheel which increases or decreases the pedaling load. The main advantage of the magnetic brake is that there is no internal friction between it and the flywheel, so the usage of the machine is whisper-quiet.
This NordicTrack elliptical machine offers 22 levels of resistance. The first resistance settings provide very little resistance great for recovery training or a workout warm-up. Conversely, the highest resistance settings offer the possibility to perform a much more intense cardio workout, great for toning muscles, improving stamina and strength, and losing weight.
The unit’s internal flywheel weighs 18 lbs (8.1 kg). It’s not super-heavy as the flywheels on spin bikes but does offer a fairly decent consistency to the ride even at a low resistance setting. It is bi-directional. In other words, the machine offers the possibility to pedal in reverse. When pedaling in reverse, the console continues to count your distance, time, and the other metrics. Also, the resistance remains constant when pedaling in reverse, given by the selected tension level.
Like most other fitness machines with a magnetic resistance system, the SE7i features a belt drive system. This being said, you don’t have to worry about its lubrication. Also, it generates less vibration than a chain, so it contributes to the overall smoothness of the ride.
Console
Although the NordicTrack SE7i doesn’t have the tablet-like console as the SE9i model, it does come with a 
multi-function console. To begin with, it features an LCD display with LED backlight for improved readability. It indicates time, distance, speed, incline, pulse, average pulse, calories, calories per hour, RPM, average RPM, watts, and average watts. Speed and distance are by default set to imperial units, but there is also the option of metric units. For the pulse reading function, you can either grip the sensors integrated into the fixed handlebars or wear a wireless HR chest strap (not included).
The console is Bluetooth enabled, is compatible with iFit, and the machine comes with one month of free iFit membership. This being said, you can sync it with your phone or tablet, and use iFit workouts, interactive workout videos with different trainers, or run on a virtual trail based on recordings from different areas in the world. It also offers the possibility to track your progress online, compete with other members, keep a healthy diet, sleep schedule, and more.
Renewing the iFit membership is not necessary, though. The console has a pretty decent workout base built-in its memory. It offers 24 pre-set workout programs. Some of these programs have an interval layout, some will progressively increase and decrease the resistance throughout their duration, some focus on helping you burn more calories, while others are heart rated based, adjusting the resistance based on the selected BPM zone.
The console offers multiple other extra features as well. It has built-in speakers, a workout fan, and an adjustable tablet holder. There is an AUX port on the console so you can connect your phone, tablet, or MP3 player to play your music through the integrated speakers. Volume buttons are also included. The fan has three speeds. And finally, the device holder is attached to the top of the console and it can adjust to accommodate tablets of various sizes.
Assembly and Maintenance
One of the main pluses of this elliptical trainer is that it comes almost fully assembled. You only need to remove it from the box, attach the two base stabilizers, unfold the mast with the moving arms and secure them in the upright position, add the device holder, and that’s pretty much it. The manual provides clear assembly instructions.
For maintenance, it is recommended to keep the machine clean and periodically check for loose bolts and parts. The internal mechanism is pre-lubricated from the factory and shouldn’t require any further lubrication for a long period of time.
The Pros
- Extremely sturdy construction – can hold users up to 325 lbs;
- Folding design – can also be stored vertically;
- Transport wheels on both bases;
- Adjustable stabilizers on both bases;
- Angle-adjustable and cushioned pedals
- Fixed handlebars with pulse sensors;
- Silent drive system;
- Motorized incline, with up to 10%;
- Automatic eddy current resistance system with up to 22 levels;
- LCD display on the console that shows multiple readings simultaneously;
- The console is Bluetooth and iFit enabled;
- One month of iFit membership included;
- 24 pre-set workout programs;
- The possibility to set workout goals for time, distance, and calories;
- Sound system included;
- Cooling fan included;
- Tablet holder included;
- Bottle holder included;
- Very little assembly required;
- Very little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- No USB charging port;
- iFit membership requires renewal after 1 month (but this is not necessary to use the machine).
Summary
The NordicTrack SE7i is a heavy-duty elliptical trainer made for home use. It is equipped with a 22-level eddy current resistance system, an automatic incline system, and a 24-program console that is also Bluetooth and iFit enabled. It also has a folding frame and a set of adjustable pedals. In all, it’s a solid machine, great for light to high-intensity cardio training, interval training, muscle toning, and weight loss.