Strengths:
iFit Workout Card with Speakers - The Elite 2900 is designed to fit the new iFit workout cards. Each card is designed by a certified personal trainer and plugs directly into the treadmill's console.
It then automatically adjusts your speed and incline to suit your workout goals. The voice of the personal trainer talks to you through the speakers, guiding you through your workout.
Grafixx™ High-Resolution Display - The console is quite unique on this treadmill: You get an animated graphics display that uses motion captured male & female models so you can you watch yourself walk, jog, or run. It also monitors your speed, time, pace, distance, incline, calories burned, carbs burned and pulse.
One Touch Incline and Speed Controls - The ZipIncline and ZipSpeed controls let you change your incline and speed by sliding your finger to your chosen incline setting. This means you don't have to scroll through the options on the display. While this is a little thing, it's still a nice option to have.
DuraSoft™ Impact Reducing Cushioning - A good cushioning system is crucial to your treadmill - as it helps protects your back, knees, hips and ankles. This system reduces impact on your joints by up to 28%, as compared to road running.
Extra Long 60" Belt - Runners or taller users will appreciate the extra length of this belt as you can pick up your pace without feeling like you're falling off the treadmill. Also the 2900 has the motor power (2.75 HP) to back it up.
Weaknesses:
We would have like to see a longer parts warranty on the treadmill - parts and labor are only covered for 1 year. However you can get extended warranty coverage upon checkout.
And while the high resolution grafixx display is a fun feature, we did find it a bit dark so make sure you place the treadmill in a well lit area.
Overall Conclusion: Recommended
The Nordic Track Elite 2900 treadmill is a huge improvement over past Nordic Track mid-priced treadmills.
It gives you a stronger 2.75 HP motor, 12% incline, decent cushioning, high 350 pound weight capacity (which adds to the stability) and an extra long 60" treadbelt. This also makes it a bit more substantial feeling than the economy Nordic Track models.
Plus you get some great fitness tracking tools like 21 personal trainer workouts, 4 user profiles with miles tracker, workout intensity meter, carb counter and iFit card reader (with speakers).
While it's not a commercial machine, if you're looking for a Nordic Track that's a bit more substantial than the economy units, it's a good value.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can save on the Nordic Track Elite 2900 treadmill when you buy direct from the Nordic Track Closeout Store. They have some great discounts and you can often also save on shipping costs.
With a strong 2.75 HP motor, extra long 60" deck and higher 350 lbs weight capacity, it offers a stronger, more stable unit than those under $1000.
Plus you get iFit card compatibility with speakers, 21 workout programs and ZipSpeed™ and ZipIncline™ controls (instead or pressing button, you slide your finger to the desired setting).
Is the Elite 2900 right for your workout needs? Here's a review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1199 (Sale - Regular $1999)
Motor: 2.75 Commercial DurX™ Motor
Speed: 0 -12 MPH
Incline: 0-12%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
350 lb Weight Capacity Deck
Lifetime Motor Warranty, 1 Year parts and Labor
