Strengths:
Power Incline (Motorized Power Ramp) For More Effective Workouts - Incline (not the same as resistance) allows you to automatically increase your workout slope and work different muscle groups.
This helps you burn more calories, get a better workout by targeting different muscle groups and helps to avoid overtraining. Incline is a feature that is usually only found on $3000 commercial models however Nordic Track is starting to put it on some of their machines.
The 990 comes with Power Incline which means you don't have to get off the machine to adjust the incline manually - you just press a button while on the machine to change the incline.
Folds Up To Save Space- While many treadmills fold up, there are very few elliptical trainers that fold (and still feel stable). If you're short on space, the ability for the Nordic track 990 elliptical to fold up will come in very handy. It also makes the elliptical easier to move (for cleaning or if you have to store it away.)
iFit Card Reader For Interactive Workouts - iFit cards are unique to ICON products like NordicTrack. They contain 8 weeks of interactive workouts on each card.
Each card has a specific goal focus - weight loss or performance for example. You just plug the card into your console, the machine remembers where you left off and starts you on the next workout.
You get the voice of a personal trainer talking you through your workout. Nordic Track has even teamed up with Jillian Michaels (the personal trainer on The Biggest Loser) to make iFit cards with her coaching you through Jillian's specially designed workout. It's like having a personal trainer in your machine (without the extra cost).
iPod Port With Built In Sound System - You can plug your iPod or MP3 player into the built-in audio jack and listen to your favorite music through the premium speakers built into the console. This alone can make your workouts a lot more energetic and enjoyable.
20 Personal Trainer Workouts, 2 Heart Rate Workouts and 2 Learned Programs - In addition the iFit card workouts, you also have 20 pre-designed workouts, 2 programs based on your heart rate and 2 that you can customize yourself. Instead of scrolling through all your different workout options, each workout has it's own button and diagram, making it easy to choose the one you want.
Weaknesses:
We would have liked to see a longer parts warranty on the Nordic track 990 elliptical. (parts and labor are covered for 1 year but you can buy extra coverage on checkout).
However at this price point, all warranties are pretty much the same (or even less) than this.
Summary: Highly Recommended
The Nordic Track Audiostrider 990 elliptical combines the core basics of a good elliptical with some bonus features you won't find on other ellipticals under $1000.
You get a decent 18" stride, higher 325 lb weight capacity (which adds to stability), lots of workout programs and a white backlit, easy-to-read console. Plus the 990 folds up for easy storage and cleaning and it gives you a iPod port with sound system.
We also really like the incline capability which helps you target different muscle systems and gives you a more efficient workout overall. Not a commercial machine - but easily one of the best values under $1000.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can get the Nordic Track 990 elliptical direct through the Nordic Track manufacturer. They're offering Free Shipping which will also save you about $150.
Plus for a short time, they've also given our readers a special coupon code where you can get 5% off the purchase price - just enter NT5off on checkout.
(Note: NordicTrack has reserved the right to revoke this code at any time - as of this writing however, the code still works).
With it's longer 18" stride length, power incline (which helps you crosstrain different muscles), and 325 lb user weight capacity, it outshines other ellipticals under $1000.
And the iPod dock with built-in sound system along with iFit card reader adds a softer, more enjoyable side to the 990.
So is it the right buy for you? Here's a review of the Nordic Track 990 elliptical to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $899 (Sale)
Stride Length: 18"
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 15
Built In Workout Programs: 20
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
Footprint: 26" x 77"
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame, 1 year on Parts & Labor
