The Nordictrack Audiostrider 1490 Elliptical is a popular rear-drive elliptical that also folds flat to save space.
The 1490 is actually an update to the popular Audiostrider 990 trainer that has been around for several years and received several “Best Buy” awards.
The 1490 adds a few more premium features, like a full-color touchscreen web browser, a free wireless heart rate monitor, and controls on the movable armbars.
Nordictrack recently changed the name of the 1490 trainer to “Nordictrack Spacesaver SE9i”. So it can be a bit confusing when you are trying to find the 1490 elliptical but can’t find it. Just know that this machine now goes by a different name: SE9i.
Here’s an overview of the main benefits of the 1490 Audiostrider:
#1 Full Color Web Browser
The 7-inch touchscreen web browser is built right into the console and uses your home’s wireless connection to connect.
You can read your emails, surf the net, or watch YouTube videos while you train, which can make your workouts much more enjoyable (and last longer!).
#2 Incline/Resistance Controls on Arms
You can change the incline or resistance from the console and from the swing-arm bars.
The advantage of this is that you don’t have to reach for the console if you don’t want to miss a beat.
#3 folds flat to save space
It’s hard to find a folding elliptical these days that isn’t cheap or wobbles when you use it. But the Nordictrack 1490 is heavier than most ellipticals and built to be more stable than cheaper folding models.
It comes with a 325lb user weight capacity and a heavy 18lb flywheel that helps add stability to your workouts.
#4 Super easy assembly
One thing people hate about ellipticals is spending hours putting them together, looking for missing parts and trying to screw things into places that don’t fit.
You don’t get that with the 1490. The 2014 model comes almost fully assembled in a box and is ready to go in about 3 simple steps.
#5 iFit LIVE
iFit LIVE works with your web browser to get you online. From there, you can track your workouts over time, set new goals, and even download new workouts to your elliptical from celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels.
You can also chart new running trails around the world using iFit and watch waypoints pass by on your console screen.
Here are some of the main benefits of the Nordictrack 1490 Audiostrider. Are there any drawbacks? Well, you have to keep in mind that while this trainer does come with incline, it doesn’t give you the incline range that you sometimes get with other trainers.
Also, keep in mind that to try iFit LIVE, you need an online subscription that costs around $99) per year. Still, you don’t need iFit to use this trainer; it will work fine without it.
Those are a few things to know about the Audiostrider 1490 elliptical. If you’re looking for a folding elliptical that feels more stable than other folding units, and keeps you entertained, this is a great option to consider!