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tried the NordicTrack Elite 1300 elliptical trainer when I was
recently at their corporate headquarters. This is definitely one of the best ellipticals offered by NordicTrack, and when it is on sale it is worth considering. I'm surprised it isn't more popular. Although it lacks some of the bells and whistles found on other models.
In comparison to most of the NordicTrack ellipticals, the Elite 1300 has a longer stride, is more durable
and has a very solid feel. The 1300 stands out not only for the
features, but also for the competitive price.
Note: The NordicTrack Elite 1300 typically sells for $1,299 with shipping. Go to www.NordicTrack.com for the latest price.*
NordicTrack Elite 1300 Elliptical Features:
20" Stride Length - Nothing is worse than working
out on an elliptical trainer that has too short a stride length.
I am 5'8" and find an 18' stride adequate, but a 20"
stride length better suites me. It feels more like and elliptical
motion, rather than a bouncy circular motion. If you are under
5'4" you may want a machine with an 18" or less stride,
but for the average user the 20" is just right.
 15
Workout Programs - The 1300 has a generous selection of
workout programs that change up your workout and make exercising
more challenging. The programs control the resistance level,
varying from easy to hard resistance intervals. They can help
to avoid boredom and further motivate you.
Console and Display - You get six readout windows and
a large progression window. You'll get simultaneous feedback
on time, calories burned, heart rate, distance and resistance
level. There are also two good-sized fans that actually offer
relief. Most machines have tiny fans that do little to cool
you off.
One other feature to the console is one touch buttons to access
all 12 levels of resistance and the 15 different workout programs.
Our Review - NordicTrack Elite 1300 Elliptical Trainer
Overall, the Elite 1300 has a smooth and comfortable stride. When
I tested the machine, it was very quit. It appears to be solid
and stable, and the staff claims it has a good service record.
It really is a step above all the rest of the NordicTrack Ellipticals.
A couple of notes. I would at least upgrade the warranty another
year. The standard warranty is one-year parts and labor. In
addition, I would not buy this elliptical if you are over 250
lbs. Their suggestion that it can handle a 350 lb. user is a
bit absurd.
For more information go to www.NordicTrack.com.
Customer Review
When I first started looking at Ellipticals, there were some, I wouldn't
bother taking home, so I won't even consider them for discussion. If it
made noises, wasn't smooth, or looked like a cheap/bad haircut, I walked
away. I tried the NordicTrack 800/880 series, and while I felt these were
machines high on value, with features like adjustable step level, and
smart portability), I wasn't sure I was at the "Value" price point I was
seeking for the best bang for my buck. (I would however strongly
recommend trying these machines if you are looking for an 18" step
machine.) Yes, you've got to analyze which step length is right for you,
and not even consider machines that don't have that step.
My research here, led me back out to question my 800/990 possible decision
once I started reading about 20" steps. I started looking at a NT 1000.
Seemed like a good value, and was a fairly quite machine, was smooth
except for what I felt was a slight shift in the elliptical motion which I
wasn't keen on. I did adjust to it after some use. but still wasn't
sold. At it's price point, probably good value, but I did read a
questioning review, so I moved on.
I then got to the NT 1300 series machine (actually the 1600 at Sears).
WOW, was I ever impressed with the smoothness, quiteness, and overall
quality of this "ride"! Oh, $2400 list, was more than my budget could
swallow. Ok, but, the price is much better online for the 1300 series,
and indications were it's about the same machine if not 100% the same
under the covers. So maybe this was it I thought. Everything pointed to
my having made a great decision with the 1300, and reviews backed it up.
Ruggedly built, 20" step, a physical workout, a nice display, and at that
time, very reasonably priced.
But I felt I had to question my decision once more before I could feel
good about it. I wanted to see one more quality product line. So, I
evaluated a Sole E35 and E55. Both were close enough in price to warrant
consideration and were available at local store for showroom trial use.
At first glance, construction quality seemed similar to the 1300/1600.
Finally, a rep let me test the machine. What I found:
E35/E55:
1. The showroom equipment wasn't in top form. There were creaks and sort
of pops at various points through the motions. That gave me cause for
concern as I wanted a totally quite/tight ride. Overall, the machines did
have smooth elliptical motion, the 20" step was good, and it would be a
difficult choice had the demo equipment been in top form. But it wasn't,
so it was reason to doubt it's overall quality for continued home use
since that was my only basis for decision making.
2. I was not overly fond of the use of plastic covers over the rail ends,
a good thing to break eventually possibly or loosen anyway. There seemed
to be quite a bit of plastic here and there.
3. The noises seemed to be emitted from some plastic interaction that
could get worse with time or always be present to some degree. But again,
this was demo equipment. So, difficult to say for sure.
4. The control panel on the Sole was not overly intuitive to me. The
product display said it had many levels of resistance. But I never saw a
resistance level control. Does it have to be this difficult? It's like a
treadmill I got on, and was unsure what button to press. Ok, if I press
this, is it gonna throw me like a mule? While an Elliptical won't throw
you likely, it's still better if it's simple to control.
In the end, while possibly still a good value at their respective price
points, I didn't feel the E series were the machines for me.
Nordic Track 1300/1600
Alternately, the 1300 has clearly defined buttons for resistence, to
enhance, not detract from your workout. A quick single button action and
your there, back with hands where they belong while riding. I like it.
The Elite control panel gives you multiple LCD readouts, so over time, you
will learn exactly which window to view for the status information you
seek. No machine I tried had any smoother elliptical motion than the 1600
at Sears,(1300 equipvilent product) and the 20" step was ideal for my 6'
frame. This is a well thought out and designed product.
Adding an additional warranty gave me further piece of mind, that I had a
great machine, a solid company, and hopefully a good warranty. Bingo!
That's my machine. So, I am amxiously awaiting arrival of my NordicTrack
1300. I'll check back after I've had some in home trial time. Well, that
is after I get it assembled. :>)
Doug
(Note: Thanks Doug for an indepth review - Fred)
Our 1300 wasnt used the first year and we have only been using it for a few months. There appears to be a manufacture defect as the piece that holds the arm bars broke off of the main frame. Norditract is unwilling to stand behind their product. This broke while my 120 lb daughter was exercising she could really have been hurt. I did some web searching and found multiple listing of similar complaints from other owners. I spent a lot of money for a 'quality machine' and feel all I didnt' get what I paid for. Look at the photos. I'd recommend staying far away from this machine.
Also check out the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990, with power incline.
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