The NordicTrack GX 4.4 Pro Improves on Previous Models

The new GX 4.4 Pro joins the 4.6 Pro in NordicTrack's upright exercise bike series, with a nice array of features, especially for the price.  With iFit technology built in, you're sure to be entertained while you pedal, which can certainly help to keep you motivated.

The Bike

The GX 4.4 Pro has a 5” backlit display that shows a variety of workout data including time, speed, distance, pulse, resistance, calories burned, and calories burned per hour. It also shows a quarter-mile racetrack graphic to make it easier for you to monitor your progress.

• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
• 22 resistance levels
• 28 workout programs
• Compatible Music Port for iPod® w/speakers
• iFit Enabled
• CardioGrip heart rate sensors
• Extra wide ergonomic pedals
• Maximum user weight: 300 lbs.
• Dimensions: 43.5"L x 24.85"W x 59.5"H
• Warranty: lifetime frame, 2-year parts, 1 year labor

The Buzz

UPDATE: The GX 4.4 Pro has been discontinued and replaced with the all new NordicTrack Commercial VU19 Upright. Check out our review of that model and see if it's the right choice for your home gym.

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The GX 4.4 Pro is designed similar to a road bike. The pedals are located right below the seat, which allows you to sit down or stand up while riding the bike. It has a small footprint and takes up little space, which is a characteristic of most entry-level models from NordicTrack.

The bike has 28 built-in workout programs designed by professional fitness trainers. You can choose from ten calorie workouts, nine intensity workouts, and nine performance workouts.

The bike has 22 levels of resistance and the transition between the levels is smooth and frictionless thanks to the Silent Magnetic Resistance system. You can use the OneTouch controls to adjust the resistance and increase or decrease your workout intensity instantly.  

The cushioned seat can be adjusted vertically as well as horizontally for the optimum seating position. The extra-wide foot pedals with straps allow you to reposition your feet for increased comfort and stability and keep your feet firmly in place while you pedal away.

The 4.4 is iFit enabled, which adds a completely new dimension to your workout programs. You can download customized goal-based training programs, replicate real life running trails with Google Maps, and track your progress for better results. It makes your workout sessions a lot more interesting, productive, and efficient. The iFit subscription, however, is not included in the package and has to be purchased separately.

The handlebars have grip sensors to monitor your heart rate during workouts. The bike is also compatible with a wireless chest strap, if you prefer hands-free heart rate tracking.

The 5” display shows all your workout data in an easily readable format. The combination of a wide viewing angle and backlit screen makes it easier for you to read the data even in a dimly lit room. Right to the back of the console is a tablet holder, where you can keep your iPad or tablet.

Note that the up-level GX 4.6 Pro has a web-enabled touchscreen if that is something that appeals to you.

The AutoBreeze workout fan has impressive cooling power. It has three different settings – low, high, and auto. You can switch between low and high speeds manually using the on-console controls. If you choose the auto setting, the fan adjusts its speed automatically based on the intensity of your workout.

The bike has a user weight capacity of 300 lbs, which is pretty good for an entry level model. The warranty is also solid – lifetime on the frame, two years on parts, and one year on labor.

The bike has a set of transport wheels and an integrated water bottle holder.

The only major downside with the GX 4.4 Pro is the 19 lb flywheel. It is rather light, even for an entry level bike. It is also surprising, considering lower-priced models like the GX 3.5 Sport have heavier flywheels. So, the bike may not be able to keep up with more challenging and strenuous workouts.

Our Take on the GX 4.4 Pro

The GX 4.4 Pro is the quintessential entry-level bike from NordicTrack. It is compactly sized, affordably priced, and has a nice set of core features.

The iFit connectivity and wireless heart rate tracking help you add more variety to your training and track your workout progress to get faster results. It also has a number of additional features like transport wheels, cooling fan, water bottle holder, and tablet holder.

The lack of a heavy flywheel is a problem, especially if you are someone who likes to train hard. In that case, you can opt for the GX 3.5 Sport, which has a much heavier flywheel.

It, however, lacks iFit connectivity, wireless heart rate tracking, cooling fan, and many other features that the 4.4. Pro has. So, ultimately, you have to make a decision based on your needs and workout routine.

To sum up, the GX 4.4 Pro is a quality entry-level bike that offers great value for your money.