The NordicTrack Commercial VR23 - Strong & Capable

The Commercial VR23 is a recumbent exercise bike from NordicTrack. It has a commercial-grade steel frame, recumbent seating, and a 23-lb flywheel, along with a number of other features including 32 workout apps, 26 resistance levels, heart rate monitor, iFit connectivity, and a cooling fan.

The Bike

The VR23 has a 7” backlit display that shows your workout data such as time, distance, resistance, pulse, and calories burned. You can also see your progress visually in the form of a quarter-mile racetrack.

Let's take a closer look at the relevant specs...

• 26 Resistance Levels
• 32 Workout Programs
• iFit Enabled with Google maps
• 7" backlit display
• Extra wide pedals
• iPod compatible sound system
• Step-thru design
• Max user weight – 350 lbs
• Pulse and wireless heart rate
• Dimensions: 61.2"L x 23"W x 68"H
• Warranty: Lifetime frame/brake, 3yr parts, 1yr labor

The Buzz

UPDATE:  As of 2017 the VR23 is no longer available, replaced by the VR21. Check that one out as it is nearly identical.

The VR23 is built with high quality, commercial grade steel and is quite sturdy. It's a nice upgrade from the original VR series model. It can support up to 350 lbs. Yet the bike is not too heavy and the front-mounted transport wheels make it easy for you to move it around.

The bike has 32 built-in workout apps for you to choose from. There are 26 levels of resistance and you can shift from one level to another with a single touch, thanks to the OneTouch controls. If you are a beginner or a mid-level trainer, you can start at the lower levels and work your way up for more challenging workouts.

The lumbar supported seat is the USP of the bike. It is large, fully cushioned and very comfortable to sit on, even if you are a bit on the heavier side. It allows you to work out in a relaxed manner without putting too much strain on your lower back. Unlike traditional bikes, it does not have a bar, so you will find it easy to get on and off the bike.

The handgrips on either side of the seat offer increased stability and support for your workouts. The best part about these grips is the integrated handle controls, which allow you to choose a workout program and adjust the resistance instantly without taking your hands off. This is a huge advantage as you do not have to break your stride, lean forward, and fumble with the buttons on the console to choose a workout or change the resistance.

iFit connectivity has always been one of the major selling points of NordicTrack exercise bikes. You can add more variety to your workout routine by replicating real life training routes from different parts of the world using Google Maps. You can try new workouts, customize your workouts based on your goals, track your fitness progress, and share the results with the iFit community for support and motivation.

The bike has grip sensors to measure your heart rate during training. If you have a Bluetooth based chest strap, you can use it as well.

The bike has a cooling fan, which adjusts its speed automatically to match the speed and intensity of your workouts. You can also change the speed settings manually. There is a built-in water bottle holder and tablet holder as well.

The VR23 has a 23 lb flywheel, which is not the most impressive, especially at this price range. While it is sufficient for beginners and mid-level trainers, the serious trainers among you may need a heavier flywheel to support strenuous workouts.

The bike is wireless chest strap compatible, but the strap is not included in the package (it is on the up-level VR25 though). The backlit display shows you all the workout data you need, but a full-color touchscreen or a web enabled console might have been a better choice at this price point.

Our Take on the VR23 Exercise Bike

The VR23 has all the features you expect to see in a quality recumbent bike – solid build, smooth and silent resistance, lumbar supported seat, ergonomically designed foot pedals, and easy-to-use controls to change your workout and resistance.

Also available is the iFit option, which makes your training more challenging and interesting and helps you make the most out of each and every workout.

With so many features and capabilities, and at only about $799 when it's on sale, it is an excellent choice for beginners and mid-level trainers, and has enough to keep you motivated to reach your fitness goals.