New Balance 9.0e Elliptical Trainer Review

The first impression of the New Balance 9.0 elliptical trainer is that it has a sleek, contemporary design. Of course, what's most important is the engineering and the mechanics. New Balance is relatively new to the elliptical trainer business, but they appear to be learning fast, and their 9.0e proves it. With a price of $1,000 this machine is worth considering.

When I tested the 9.0, I was impressed with the smooth motion and the solid feel. It has a moderate stride length at 18", which should handle all but tall individuals. It weighs 176 lbs, which makes it fairly stable. We would prefer to see more resistance levels. At only 8 the change from one level to the next could appear significant. Sometimes you just want a slight increase in the resistance.

One of the unique features, only found on a couple of other brands, is the heart rate monitor located on the moving handlebars. Because of the complexity of wiring the handgrip monitors in the moving parts, most elliptical companies locate it on the stationary handlebars. In order to get your heart rate reading you have to forego the upper body workout. That defeats the benefit of getting both a lower and upper body. It also gives you a false reading since you are only exercising the lower body. More elliptical trainer manufacturers need to incorporate this feature into their design.

The warranty covers the electronics for 2 years, and parts and labor for 1. Of course, the electronics is the least likely to breakdown. Also plan on this elliptical taking up some space, the overall length is 85".

Fitness Source New Balance 9.0 Review

The New Balance 9.0 is a reasonable value at $1,000. It surpasses comparable ProForm and Horizon models.

We recommend this unit for moderate use. If you plan to have more than one user, and/or you are looking for a machine for regular, strenuous workouts, consider a machine at the $1,500+ price range. Their 300 lbs maximum user limit is ridiculous. This machine is for someone 200 lbs or less.

Consumer Reports Review

CR rated the New Balance 9.5 as "Very Good" for ease of use, ergonomics, and exercise range. They gave it a "Good" for quality. When you consider the price, overall that is a good rating. The 9.5e is structurally the same as the 9.0e, but includes heart rate control.

Also consider the Sole E25. Slightly more, but better warranty and 20" stride.