NordicTrack Commercial VR23 Review
The comfortable Commercial VR23 is a mid level recumbant bike good for a variety of user types with a multitude of options and features.
NordicTrack Commercial VR23 Specs
| Rating | 9 |
|---|---|
| Type | Recumbent |
| Console display | 7" backlit screen |
| Resistance | 25 Resistance Levels |
| Seat type | Seat with Lumbar Support |
| Programs | 32 |
| Flywheel | 23 LBS |
| Weight capacity | 350 LBS |
| Dimensions | 61.2" L x 23" W x 68" H |
Why You Should Trust Our Reviews
Please note: The NordicTrack VR23 has been discontinued. We recommend the Commercial VU29 Elite as a great replacement.
Why You Should Trust Our Review Of The NordicTrack Commercial VR25 Elite Review
At ExerciseBike.net, we bring you comprehensive reviews of exercise bikes so you can decide which one is right for you. Our staff thoroughly test all the exercise bikes we review. We install them, ride them, and try out all of the features. We get to know each and every exercise bike we review extremely well. Our reviewers log miles riding. We listen and record the sound of the motor, try out all aspects of the console and try the bike’s features, such as the associated apps.
Every exercise bike we review undergoes the same rigorous process. That way we can compare and contrast them and give you an honest review of what we think.
Our reviewers are exercise bike and fitness experts. Brian, the author of this review, is a competitive bodybuilder, and is a 7-time national qualifier in both men’s bodybuilding and classic physique within the NPC competitions. He has coached and been coached on cardiovascular training, HIIT, and nutrition, particularly as it pertains to weight loss for competitions. He is an expert at exercise bikes, has been on this bike, and you can trust his opinion on all of the bikes he reviews.
In Brief
Although discontinued, you might find a NordicTrack VR23 for sale as a used bike, and if so, it’s worth a look. In my experience, a lot of bike shoppers are looking for a deal, and used bikes can often fit the bill. Whether in a neighbor’s garage or online, this bike still has value if it’s been maintained. Built with a recumbent frame, the bike features 26 levels of magnetic resistance and 32 built-in workouts, as well as iFit-compatibility. What I like about this model is it does bring built-in workouts along with iFit-enabling which is a rarity with the newer models which tend to rely on iFit alone. Measuring 61.2″ x 23″ it has a 350-pound weight maximum. Equipped with transport wheels and wireless heart rate monitoring, the unit is easy to move in and out of your living room or home gym.
To a large extent, the recumbent NordicTrack Commercial VR23 recumbent exercise bike is similar to top-of-the-line Commercial VU29 Elite. The main differences are that the Commercial VR23 has a simpler console and a slightly lighter flywheel. This unit in this recumbent bike review has a standard 7″ LED screen, a 23-pound flywheel, 32 preset workouts and iFit wiring.
When sold new, the unit included a lifetime frame and brake warranty, three years of parts protection and no labor costs during the first year of ownership. You’ll have to check with the seller to see if that’s still in effect.
Here are pros and cons of buying the NordicTrack Commercial VR23 recumbent exercise bike.
The Great
- Recumbent Frame: Exercise with less stress. Unlike an upright bike, a recumbent bike lets you recline and takes pressure on your back. If you have joint issues, or like me, lift weights, this can be a big bonus. Plus, the VR23 and most other stationary recumbent bikes are very easy to mount and dismount; there’s a step-through design and no bar in your way. Handgrips are provided for stability.
- Seat with Lumbar Support: The NordicTrack VR23 supports your lower back with a ventilated chair-like seat. The seat is cushioned for comfort. I’m 5’10 and have no problem fitting into this model.
- 26 Resistance Levels: This bike provides a good range of resistance levels for beginners and mid-level exercisers. Changes are made digitally with One-Touch buttons. (On older designs the resistance is changed with a knob.) In my experience, 26 levels is more than enough to satisfy the average user.
- 32 Built-In Workouts: You can certainly benefit from the guidance of a certified personal trainer. The 32 programs included on the NordicTrack Commercial VR23 were designed by an expert to target three objectives: calorie burn, endurance and performance. The big value I see here is you can’t run out of essentially free programs if you want to rely on those instead of a paid app.
- iFit: Speaking of paid, apps, as far as training programs go, iFit is terrific. An iFit subscription costs extra ($39/month for the family plan) but truly transforms the machine. With iFit you can virtually ride your exercise bike anywhere mapped by Google Street View! Sync the machine with your tablet computer to see the streaming images. You’ll also get to download a customized iFit workout every day, access personalized nutrition advice and more. I like the automatic trainer control which can adjust the resistance of the bike on it’s own, or in conjunct with a live trainer.
- Attach Your Tablet: Bring your own technology. You can use your favorite apps and files during workouts by adding your tablet computer to the Commercial VR23 bike. A bracket can hold your tablet at eye-level without obscuring your view of workout data. This helps if you’re like me and enjoy Netflix while riding.
- Extra-Wide Pedals: Extra-wide pedals allow you to reposition your feet during workouts. This can help you endure for longer. Straps are included to help prevent slippage.
- Wireless Heart Rate Monitoring: A Bluetooth heart rate receiver makes it easy to monitor your pulse and make the most of workout time. The required chest strap is sold separately. You can also use the grip heart rate system built into the bike’s handlebars.
- Self-Adjusting Fan: Get the perfect breeze! The NordicTrack Commercial VR23 has an AutoBreeze fan that responds to your speed. Manual override is an option too.
- Water Bottle Holder: Hydration is made easy with a convenient water bottle holder.
- Transport Wheels: Move the VR23 from room to room with ease. Wheels are mounted to the front.
- High Capacity: The official user weight limit is 350 pounds.
- Size: This bike doesn’t take up too much space. Its footprint measures 61.2″ x 23″.
- Warranty: The warranty was quite good when in production. It included lifetime coverage for the recumbent frame and brake, three years for parts, and one year of labor. But, if you’re buying used, you’ll want to check to see if that’s still in effect.
The Not-So-Great
- 23-Pound Flywheel: A 23-pound flywheel doesn’t match a machine with “Commercial” in its name. Heavier flywheels provide smoother rides and can support more challenging workouts. However, heavier flywheels also add significantly to the price of an exercise bike. With the NordicTrack Commercial VR23 you’re paying for other features, particularly the built-in programs and iFit.
- Workout Screen: The 7″ LED isn’t problematic but it’s nothing special given the model year. Recumbent exercise bikes with full-color touch-screens and web browsers are becoming common. The Commercial VR25 Elite offers that technology. On the other hand, you can add your tablet computer. That might be even better than a built-in option because it can always be updated.
- Discontinued Model: As a discontinued model, you’ll want to inspect this unit before purchase to ensure it’s in good working order.
Who Should Use The NordicTrack Commercial VR23 Recumbent Bike?
The Bottom Line
The combination of a tablet holder, 32 built-in programs, wireless heart rate monitoring and optional iFit upgrade makes this bike attractive at first glance. It has a pretty good warranty too. If you just want to kick back and burn some calories, then this might be your ride! But with only a 23-pound flywheel the NordicTrack Commercial VR23 might disappoint someone seeking a truly “commercial” feel. If you are still looking, then check out our best exercise bikes page to help you narrow down the top options for each type.
NordicTrack Commercial VR23 Specs
| Rating | 9 |
|---|---|
| Type | Recumbent |
| Console display | 7" backlit screen |
| Resistance | 25 Resistance Levels |
| Seat type | Seat with Lumbar Support |
| Programs | 32 |
| Flywheel | 23 LBS |
| Weight capacity | 350 LBS |
| Dimensions | 61.2" L x 23" W x 68" H |
