NordicTrack T6.5 Si Treadmill Review
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The NordicTrack T6.5 Si treadmill is the lowest priced model in their incredibly popular T-series range. There are slight differences across the T-series machines, but perhaps the main feature that keeps the sales going, is the clever i-Fit software included with all of them. More on this later, but briefly, i-Fit is a hi-tech training system with pre-set programs and even includes real-time sessions with a personal trainer - much like the Peloton bikes.
NOTE: This review is for the T6.5Si - an upgraded version of the T6.5S. The main difference is the Si has a large 10" touch-screen screen and comes with 1-year iFit family membership. While the S has a 5" screen (not touch) and no iFit membership: the treadmill nuts and bolts are the same. T6.5 Si ReviewASSEMBLY This is a two-person job and takes around 30 - 45 minutes. The T6.5Si requires more assembly than other models as few parts are pre-assembled. Two people are required as some parts (such as the console and the rails) need to be held in position while the other connect the wires and terminal blocks. A few processes are fiddly, but with a steady hand and patience, it's no more challenging than flatpack furniture and wiring up a plug (when did anyone last do that, eh.)
FEATURES & FUNCTIONS Perhaps the standout function on the T6.5Si is the large, 10" touchscreen monitor. We've more to say on this and the iFit programs in the 'Console' section below, but for the price, it's a great feature. The deck is a good size for a compact treadmill, measuring 20" x 55", it's big enough for all but the largest runner (or nervous treadmill user) to feel comfortable running on.
The deck cushioning can be adjusted using the NordicTrack FlexSelect™ system - see photo below. If you mix road and treadmill running, this is a very useful function. You can choose to have a cushioned deck to protect your knees and joints, or make it feel like the road, that is, no cushioning and unforgiving :0) This is a useful feature that may be the deciding factor for those who supplement road running with a treadmill routine. The NordicTrack T6.5Si has a maximum speed of 10 mph. You can find other treadmills for a similar price that go up to 11 or 12 mph, but unless your a sprinter, 10 mph is quite enough. The same applies to the 10° incline. Try running for more than a few minutes at that level and you'll see why it's sufficient for most :0) The motor deliver a continuous 2.6 horsepower - see Need Help section below to find out what this means. But briefly, a CHP motor is more efficient and reliable than a straight HP. The motor on this model is quiet and smooth-running. Nordic class it as a commercial motor so it should be capable of taking the punishment if your whole family are going to use it. The NordicTrack T6.5Si is a folding machine, so when you're done, it can easily be folded up and wheeled out of the way. NEED HELP? 
Not sure what any of this means? Confused by the techno-jargon?
For more info on consoles, pre-set programs and user profiles, click here >>> For help with treadmill motors and components, click here >>> Unsure if a treadmill is right for you? See our guide here >>> CONSOLE & WORKOUT PROGRAMS The 10" color touchscreen is the standout feature of the T6.5Si. And it's not just for looks: the functions behind the screen are impressive. Before we get onto those, let's take a look at the usability. As with a new smart TV or gadget, you'll have to set up the treadmill to access your wi-fi. You can then enter your time zone, initialize your iFit ID for all the workouts and features - see below.
The console has one-touch buttons to select speed and incline settings, or alternatively, use the 'increase' and 'decrease' speed and incline buttons below the console. You can listen to music or audiobook with an audio cable plugged into your device and into the jack socket on the console. The two speakers produce a reasonable sound, and you can alter the volume with the buttons below the screen. So now onto perhaps the main reason people choose the NordicTrack T6.5Si - the iFit and online workouts. However, if you prefer to workout alone, at your own pace, or want to stay totally in control, you can simply select manual and run to your heart's content :0) And note, you CAN use your treadmill without registering for iFit if you choose not to.
iFit is great if you need advice and/or motivating if you struggle to maintain a workout routine by yourself. If offers practically unlimited workouts, including live interactive sessions (just like Peloton). The trainer can control your speed and incline to keep you in the appropriate heart rate zone. You can, of course, override this, or just get off, power down and go take a rest in a quiet, dark room if the trainer gets too bossy :0) You can also choose to run in an increasing number of locations globally - you see the sights while you run! IFit will also track your performances, so you'll see your progress (hopefully!!), plus you can register up to four people, each with their own profile. The machine is fitted with grips below the console so you can monitor your heart rate, but to get the full benefit out of the heart rate training programs, it's best to get a chest strap (not included) so your pulse is constantly monitored. But do check the manual first to find out which straps are compatible with your machine. Other features of iFit include suggested daily workouts to keep you motivated. A full-year membership is included when you purchase this model, but note, it's $39 per month for the whole family once the period is over. There are a number of other options available.
NordicTrack T6.5 Si:
NordicTrack includes 1 year iFit family membership (worth $468)
T6.5 Si REVIEW SUMMARY:The NordicTrack T6.5Si does offer the sort of features you'd expect to find on a commercial machine, but at a lower price. NordicTrack were one of the first home fitness equipment brands to develop training software and therefore are still ahead of most when it comes to functions and what's on offer. It's a reasonably compact machine so it won't take up a huge amount of space (dimensions below), but it doesn't feel like a small model.
If you're not into all the online, trainer-led training, then the additional costs involved will be a waste of your money - see below for alternatives. But if you love the connectivity and all the fancy bits and pieces, then the T6.5Si will deliver - and at a pretty good price. PROS:
CONS:
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QUICK REFERENCESpeed / Incline
Top Speed: 10 mph / Incline: 10%
Click images to enlarge
NordicTrack T6.5 Si Treadmill
Advanced 10" Touchscreen display and console
You select the cushioning on the deck
Finished? Fold it up and store it away
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BOILERPLATE STUFF:
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Motor:
Speed: Incline: Belt size: Dimensions: Weight: Max. User weight: Warranty: |
2.6 CHP DC (commercial)
1 - 10 MPH 10% (1% steps) 20" W x 55" L Unfolded: 73" L x 36" W x 54" H / Folded: 38" L x 36" W x 65.5" H 203 lbs 300 lbs / 136 kg Frame: 10 years / Parts: 2 Years / Labor: 1 Year |
ALTERNATIVES:
For less money, the LifeSpan TR1200i is a similar machine but without the fancy iFit workouts.
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