Is NordicTrack VU 29 Bike Good for Home Use?

The NordicTrack VU 29 Bike is more than just a bike because it has features that can make your workout experiences immersive. One such feature includes Google Maps workout technology which allows you to virtually train everywhere.  

The bike comes with a 30-day family membership that opens the door to several features such as live stream and on-demand workout videos, plus access to an iFIT trainer who can remotely auto-adjust your resistance (if you allow that), and much more.  

That said, users have complained about how the iFIT app is not designed to go with an upright bike such as this. Thus, it was utterly useless to them.  

So, is the NordicTrack VU 29 Bike Good for Home Use? Affirmative! This unit is solidly built, and it brings the gym to the comfort of your home, so long you don’t care how the iFIT turns out. 

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The Frame and Construction 

The NordicTrack VU 29 Bike with model number NTEX12921 has a commercial construction that comprises quality oval steel tubing. It is doubly coated with anti-corrosion gray paint that keeps and conserves its original form and quality.  

Hence, the frame has a warranty of 10 years, and the bike supports 325 lbs./147 kg maximum user weight capacity.  

Other parts of the upright bike are made of quality plastic, and they include the drive train shrouds, the console coverings, the water bottle holder, and the stabilizer end caps. These parts are mainly for protective and cosmetic reasons.  

Speaking of the stabilizers and stability, the bike is sturdy due to the overall construction, and precisely, base framework. There are also adjustable levelers at the rear stabilizer bar for more control over how stable the unit should be on any surface.  

Moreover, the bike’s assembled weight is 115 lbs./52.16 kg. This boosts the overall stability of the bike. However, the use of a protective rubber mat might come in handy to prevent floor damage.  

As is the case with most upright bikes, this unit is compact and portable. Its overall assembled dimensions are 41.49’’ long by 24.86’’ wide by 55.29’’ high. Thus, it requires an area with measurements of 3’45’’ (105.38 cm) in length by 2’ (63.14 cm) in width for workout activities.  

Also, 2’ clearance is recommended to be left around it for easy access and convenience.  

The Seat of the NordicTrack NTEX12921 VU 29 Bike 

The seat on this bike is fairly large with a groove on the top surface for air breathability. It is padded with a vinyl covering for maximum comfort.., well, at least as it is intended to provide.  

However, the seat can further be improved for comfortability using extra cushions on it, especially, the use of a gel seat cover.  

It is 4-way adjustable with several holes on the post for vertical levels of adjustments, and a few inches for horizontal adjustments via the top slider. Hence, users of different heights can be accommodated without issues.  

The adjustment knobs are easy to use and won’t take a moment to adjust the seat to a desired level and position.  

The Handlebar 

The bike integrates a handlebar with a simple design. It is attached to the slightly curved front post and cannot be adjusted. However, it is strategically positioned to fit and be comfortable for all users. 

There are no heart rate sensors on the handles as is the case with some upright bikes. Nevertheless, even though there are no heart rate sensors on the handlebar, you can still observe your heart rate via the use of a Bluetooth heart rate chest strap.  

The handlebar handles are padded with soft anti-slip rubber foam designed to keep the user’s grips firm and comfortable through a prolonged workout session.  

The Pedals  

The NordicTrack NTEX12921 VU 29 Bike features a set of self-leveling pedals that are made of quality plastic and metallic core.  

Each of the pedals has a textured surface and an adjustable safety strap that was designed to keep the foot comfortably secure. They can also accommodate different foot sizes.  

Their crankset and crank arms are strong and reliable to support the stipulated maximum user weight for the bike.  

The Drive 

The NordicTrack VU 29 has a belt drive system. This means it has an anti-stretch belt, a pulley, and a perimeter-weighted flywheel that weighs about 19 lbs./8.6 kg which is weighty for an upright bike.  

So, the drive system provides stable, quiet, and smooth operation. Users can exercise with the bike in places that might be considered noise-free areas without tripping off the alarm. Therefore, they can choose to exercise at any time of the day or any place without having to be concerned about being in other people’s space.  

Another advantage of a belt drive system is that it doesn’t require maintenance that may include adjustments or lubrication.  

It would be best if you didn’t think of pedaling on this bike while standing because it is designed for seated workouts only. In other words, it is not a spin bike that can be ridden while seated or standing.  

The drive system is bidirectional. This implies that users can pedal in reverse if they wish, but coasting must not be done.  

The Resistance 

The NordicTrack NTEX12921 VU 29 Bike is equipped with a motorized resistance system. Simply put, it has a resistance system that requires electricity to function. Thus, a power adapter comes with the package which will be used to connect the bike to a power outlet.  

The major elements the resistance system has include a magnetic brake pad, a small servo motor, and the flywheel. The motor is responsible for shifting the position of the magnetic brake either closer or farther away from the flywheel so that the resistance might be strong or weak.  

This takes effect when the resistance is adjusted via the -/+ buttons on the console or automatically when a certain workout program is selected.   

There are 24 resistance levels to select from, and they provide a range of workout difficulties for all users.  

An eddy current magnetic resistance system such as this has a couple of advantages. First, it doesn’t make noise, and its transition from one level to another is seamless. Second, no part wears or tears since no friction occurs while generating resistance.  

Therefore, you won’t be required to lubricate or replace any part over time.  

The Console 

The NordicTrack Upright Bike has a smart touchscreen console that features a 14’’ display screen. However, there are quick push buttons for the fan, the resistance, and the volume below the screen. 

The console is Bluetooth and iFIT enabled. This means that the bike can connect to iFIT workout app via iFIT account and WiFi connection. So, if you don’t already have an account, you will be prompted to open one and a 30-day family trial will be activated.  

However, the activation requires a credit card, and after the end of the trial, you will be automatically charged and activated for subsequent subscriptions unless you cancel before the expiration date.  

There are a lot of resources available on the iFIT app. Users can have access to several workout programs, explore the world by exercising on virtual trials through Google Maps, experience studio live streams and on-demand classes led by professional trainers, and more.  

In the event you choose not to use the iFIT workout app, there are built-in workout programs you can use, and the display tracks workout progress as well.  

As aforementioned, users can track their pulse rate by using a Bluetooth HR chest strap or armband (not included in the package).  

Accessory 

The NordicTrack VU 29 comes with a cooling fan which is located below the display screen and built-in speakers located at the top of the display. The speakers can be connected to a device (smartphone, MP3 player, etc.) via Bluetooth or directly with a cable to the auxiliary port on the console.  

Both the cooling fan and the speakers’ volume can be adjusted by the buttons on the console.  

Furthermore, a water bottle holder is included for proper hydration management.  

Storage 

The NordicTrack Upright Bike is heavy but has a small footprint. In other words, it doesn’t take up too much space for storage. Even though it weighs about 115 lbs./52.16 kg, there are transport wheels integrated into the front base for an easy relocation process.  

Pros/Features Overview 

• Construction is sturdy and solid 
• It has a small footprint and can be moved via the integrated transport wheels 
• The operation is smooth, quiet, and stable, thanks to its belt drive system and the 19 lbs./8.6 kg perimeter weighted flywheel 
• It supports 325 lbs./147.4 kg maximum user weight capacity 
• The oversized seat is padded and grooved for breathability and comfort 
• The handlebar is padded for firm and comfortable grips 
• The pedals are self-leveling, and textured; they have adjustable safety straps for secure and comfortable foot placement 
• Features 14’’ touchscreen display  
• Compatible with iFIT workout app that avails a range of workout resources such as live stream and on-demand workout classes, online workout tracking, and more 
• iFIT 30-day free trial 
• Google Maps Technology allows you to train on virtual routes  
• Built-in workout programs 
• Eddy current magnetic resistance system with 24 adjustable levels 
• Built-in speakers 
• The console is telemetric (compatible with Bluetooth HR chest strap) 
• Cooling fan integrated 
• Water bottle holder integrated 
• Easy to maintain 
• Assembling it is not difficult 

Cons  

• Heart rate chest strap not included in the package (purchase separately) 
• Workout programs on the iFIT are not tailored for upright bikes 

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Warranty 

• Frame: 10 Years 
• Parts: 2 Years 
• Labor: 1 Year 

Product Dimensions and Specifications 

• Length: 41.49’’ 
• Width: 24.86’’ 
• Height: 55.29’’ 
• Shipping Dimensions: 42.91’’ L x 25.2’’ W x 15.46’’ H 
• Net Weight: 115/52.16 kg  
• Gross Weight: N/A 
• Maximum User Weight Capacity: 325 lbs./147.4 kg 
• Frame: Steel 
• Drive: Belt 
• Resistance: SMR (Silent Magnetic Resistance) with 24 adjustable levels 
• Seat: 4-Way adjustable 
• Handlebar: Nonadjustable 
• Pedals: Self-leveling, wide, textured, adjustable safety straps 
• Display: 14’’ Touchscreen 
• Programs: Yes 
• IFIT enabled 
• Built-in Speakers 
• AutoBreaze Workout Fan 
• Bluetooth connectivity 
• Bluetooth HR connectivity 
• Transport Wheels 
• Water Bottle Holder 

Shipping  

The NordicTrack VU 29 Bike comes in a single nicely packaged box that weighs over 115 lbs./52.16 kg with dimensions of 42.91’’ long by 25.2’’ wide by 15.46’’ high.  

Amazon ships out the product upon completion of the order, and a tracking code is sent out to the buyer to enable them to track its progress in transit.  

It usually gets delivered in a couple of days, sometimes, a week(s) depending on the destination. However, if you want an expedited delivery, you can choose a premium shipping option at checkout.  

Assembly 

The unit does not require an expert assembly because only a few parts need to be attached to the core unit.  

The process takes less than an hour to complete.  

Moreover, an instruction manual and the tools needed for the assembly are included in the package.  

Maintenance 

The bike needs basic maintenance such as keeping it clean always and making sure it is stored in a cool, dry, and clean area.  

Further information is outlined in the owner’s manual.  

Conclusion 

The NordicTrack VU 29 Bike with model number NTEX12921 is a solid upright bike. It delivers in terms of good and productive workout experience.  

It supports 325 lbs./147.4 kg maximum user weight capacity which means multiple users can utilize it. This is even true considering that it is customizable as well.