Nordictrack Pathfinder Elliptical

Pros

Treadmills411 Editor Comments

18" to 20" adjustable stride

Taller users need elliptical machines with longer stride lengths. Likewise, not so tall users would be more comfortable with short stride lengths. This is why elliptical machines with adjustable stride lengths are better since it can accommodate multiple users of different stature. About half of all ellipticals available in the market today only have one or fixed stride lengths.

15 to 30 degrees incline ramp

With the Pathfinder's adjustable crossramp, you can add intensity and make your workouts even more challenging. Choose from between 15° to 30° incline levels depending on how intense you want your workout sessions to be.

20 programs

The Pathfinder comes with 20 workout programs to help you with your training. With more programs, you get better choices to cater to your workout needs. Most elliptical machines selling below $1000 only have around 11 programs or less.

Offers a folding feature, MP3 player support, and an innovative shock system

The Pathfinder's additional features give more value to your money. You can fold this elliptical to save space in your home when not in use; It also has a built-in sound system that supports your MP3 players so you can listen to your favorite music; and, it has a unique shock system that stimulates more muscles by creating a dynamic and adjustable path.

Oversized, slip-resistant foot pedals

You get better traction with this elliptical's slip-resistant pedals. You can also position your foot in this spacious oversized foot plates so you'll be more comfortable especially if you intend to stay on this machine for a good number of hours.

350-lb maximum user weight capacity

A 350-lb maximum user weight limit is impressive considering this is a $999 elliptical since many sub-$1000 models accommodate only up to 325lbs. It’s just unfortunate that we don’t know the Pathfinder’s actual unit weight making us unable to verify this elliptical’s claim that it can handle this 350-lb capacity.

Cons

Treadmills411 Editor Comments

Unknown unit weight

Among the known weaknesses of Nordictrack ellipticals, with the Pathfinder included, is its unknown unit weight. We would have wanted to know how heavy this elliptical is so we can verify its claim having a 350-lb maximum user weight capacity.  Though the Pathfinder scored extra marks for having a 350-lb user weight limit, it scored low in the unit weight section for not disclosing how heavy this machine is.

No brakes warranty

Since the Pathfinder's website didn't state if its braking system is magnetic, there's a possibility that it uses a conventional braking system using brake pads or drum brakes. If this is the case, then having no brakes warranty definitely will count among its weaknesses. This will potentially case you parts expenses after it wears out. With no brakes warranty stated, the parts warranty applies but that isn't any consolation at all since the Pathfinder only comes with 1 year warranty on parts.

15 digital resistance only

Although 15 levels of resistance is still acceptable since this machine costs just $999, we're used to seeing ellipticals come with 16 to 20 resistance levels.