NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle Review

NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle: The Value Proposition

The NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle picks up where the S15i leaves off. A luxury ride equipped with a vibrant 22-inch, 360-degree swiveling screen built to view iFit workouts, it also brings 24 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance to the home for $1,899, which includes a 30-Day iFit Family Membership valued at $39.

For those familiar with the S15i, consider this model as nearly identical aside from an additional eight inches of screen space and two extra levels of resistance. The S15i is part of a NordicTrack offering where the bike comes free when they purchase four years of the iFit workout app at at $39 per month, or $1,872, meaning it’s effectively now half the price of the S22i.

Recently, the MYX II Fitness Bike entered the category as a more affordable alternative at $1,399 (read the full review of the MYX II Fitness Bike here). We’d also suggest that the ProForm Studio Bike Pro at $1,299. It offers a good comparison/contrast with the NordicTrack bikes. In terms of value, the S22i does bring a solid 10-year warranty on the frame, two-year guarantee on parts, and one year on labor. Compared to other models these days, that’s very respectable, although everyone would love to see lifetime guarantees across the board. Built with comfort in mind, the 2022 model also features new Bluetooth headphone capability so riders can better interact with their live iFit training community or enjoy music. A solid, commercial steel frame with a maximum user weight of 350 pounds, the S22i is certainly at the upper-end of its category in terms of price, but it is bringing quality to the counter.

One of the most unique value-added benefits of the S22i is the fact that it features a -10% decline and 20% incline option which works in conjunction with the iFit program. This feature is augmented by an improved DC Incline/Decline motor and welded stabilizers. For an inside studio bike to offer incline and decline is rare enough, but for it to work with the trainer-controlled programming is quite an impressive feature. For serious riders seeking the hills and hollers of road bikes, this in and of itself may make the decision for them.

Bike Build Quality

NordicTrack brings a reputation for solid machinery, and in the case of the S22i, that appears to be the case once more. The maximum user weight of 350 pounds and commercial steel construction serve as good indicators of overall durability. A 22-inch Smart HD Touchscreen with tilting display and a full 360-degree rotation is also a big draw for the those seeking multiple uses of the bike. The tilt and rotation allow riders to hop off and perform floor work with the included three-pound dumbbells. Resistance is generated through Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR), and the 24 levels are digitally controlled. Magnetic resistance is rated as among the smoothest of styles on the market.

Although quipped with an improved ergonomic padded saddle, it’s a little uncomfortable, so you may want to purchase a seat cover, but this is pretty common in spin bikes. The seat can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally. The non-slip, multi-position handlebar has also been upgraded for the 2022 model and ensures riders of varying heights can use the bike. The AutoBreeze Workout Fan is a nice touch, as are the two 2-inch digitally amplified speakers. This model also features dual water bottle holders and is compatible with standard road bike pedals and seat. It’s also easy to move about the home gym by way of front-mounted transport wheels. With Bluetooth headphone and heart rate connectivity powered by twice the RAM as in previous models, tracking stats and staying entertained is made easy. The 2022 model includes two digitally-amplified speakers and hybrid SPD-plus-toe clips.

The Experience: Resistance and Ride

The 24 levels of digitally-controlled magnetic resistance is a big draw for many, but the real gem here is the bike’s incline/decline option. Not many bikes offer this feature, but the S22i sports a -10% decline and 20% incline, and this can be controlled remotely by the professional trainers of the iFit community. When participating in iFit classes of any kind, whether with live trainers or pre-programmed, the bike can auto-adjust accordingly. With this incline/decline function, riders get the real feel of mountains, trails, or hills. New Quiet Drive technology makes this function smooth irrespective of the degree of angling or intensity of the ride. All of this is managed easily with One Touch controls.

Unlike older friction resistance models, the magnetic resistance is quiet and smooth. The 22-inch screen’s ability to swivel and tilt combined with the adjustable seat and handlebars allow users of any height and weight up to 350 pounds to achieve an incredible workout every time.

NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Bike Vs. The Competition

In the battle of the indoor bikes, the S22i is certainly among the higher-priced models, although not by much with all things considered. At $1,899, the purchase price comes with a 30-day iFit Family Membership. The other NordicTrack model, the S15i, comes free with the purchase of a four-year iFit package. The bigger bike brings an additional eight inches of screen and two additional levels of resistance.

The ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 would serve as a comparison/contrast here. Priced at $1,299, the bike also comes with a 30-day iFit program and, in many ways, would seem like the same bike. Both offer 24 levels of magnetic resistance and a 22-inch screen which swivels. One big difference is the ProForm bike does not offer the incline/decline function, and, instead of a 350-pound weight max, it offers 250 pounds. Both bikes even offer a set of three-pound dumbbells and the same warranty.

The MYX Fitness Bike is another lower priced alternative to the S22i (read the full review of the MYX Fitness Bike here). Priced at $1,399, the MYX II Fitness Bike brings its own proprietary workout app with more than 500 classes as opposed to the iFit community’s trainer-led workouts. The MYX II app is $29 per month compared with iFit at $39 after the trial membership is up. Equipped with a 21.5-inch screen which swivels, its weight max is also 350 pounds. The warranty offers less coverage with one-year as opposed to the NordicTrack family’s 10 years for frame, two years for parts, and one year for labor.

Workout Programs

If you decide the iFit program isn’t for you after the trial, the bike can be used without the iFit membership in manual mode. Users can also park it in front of a smart television or use another app. That said, the iFit program offers a lot of excellent features.

With any NordicTrack cycle trainer, 24/7 personal training from the iFit Family Membership is a highlight. The iFit app is built into the NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle and can be downloaded to iOS and Android devices. The mobile apps offer a host of benefits, effectively providing ‘round-the-clock health and fitness coaching. Upon waking each morning, you can check an estimate of calories burned while sleeping. The app also provides a calorie intake suggestion for the day and automatically calculates and logs calories burnt for walking, swimming, and other activities when paired with a wearable activity tracker.

The iFit program includes dozens of LiveCast spin class videos plus an unlimited number of virtual outdoor bike workouts with Google Maps street views. All iFit workout files, including the bike class videos, can control the S22i resistance and incline to support the workout goals. With HD resolution, the extra-wide display can help riders immerse in studio bike classes or take simulated vacations with scenic Google Maps footage.

The outdoor rides are excellent with iFit as you are riding behind a professional instructor in various locations around the world. The live-streamed rider/instructor advises on posture, cadence, and resistance and can adjust the bike’s controls remotely.

Fitness App Compatibility

On an exercise bike already fitted with an integrated screen and iFit streaming, there’s no need to start looking at workout apps that focus on training instruction of any sorts. That said, if you’re looking for more in-depth training metrics to complement your fitness journey, we have some options for you. The Strava App has become a go-to for cardio enthusiasts. Runners and cyclists alike will use the app for tracking rides and runs. This app is especially helpful if you also enjoy running outdoors (weather permitting), both because you can compile all of your workouts in one place and the community aspect will help outdoor runners find new and challenging routes that have been shared by other users.

Read Our Strava App Review

Google Fit—the simple fitness tracking software that’s compatible with countless Android smartwatches—could also prove useful to you. Use it to track your cardio and other workouts (yoga, strength, HIIT, and others), and maintain an easy-to-digest record of your progress. While both Strava and Google Fit are free, Strava does gatekeep some of its “premium functionality” for paid subscribers.

Read Our Google Fit Review

Features

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can you use NordicTrack S22i without a subscription?
  Yes, the bike does work without the iFit program by way of a manual mode. That said, riders can also park their bike in front of a smart television and enjoy any number of entertainment options.
• Can you watch TV on the NordicTrack S22i?
  Yes, you can bypass the iFit program and surf the Internet.
• Is the NordicTrack S22i a spin bike?
  Yes, and it’s built to provide spin classes through the iFit program and automatic trainer control.
• Is the NordicTrack S22i easy to assemble? 
  Yes, the entire process should take about an hour. That said, it’s always easier when a friend helps, and white glove delivery is available.
• Is the NordicTrack S22i loud?
  No, thanks to the Silent Magnetic Resistance with which is operates, the NordicTrack S22i is very quiet.

What’s Changed for this Year

Each year, manufacturers upgrade their models by adding more features, particularly to the tech and screen elements. This can be confusing for those shopping online. Let’s take a look at some exciting changes to the NordicTrack S22i spin bike.

New for 2022 over 2021

• Better Pedals: Hybrid SPD+Toe Clips offer more comfort and footwear options.
• Improved Audio: The 30W Premium Audio addition improves interactive programming and music enjoyment.
• Improved Incline/Decline: An upgraded DC Incline/Decline Motor and welded stabilizers make the automatic switches much more smooth.
• More Comfort: Improved ergonomic padded saddle with vertical and horizontal seat adjustment, as well as new handlebar adjustment.

New for 2021 over 2020

• Better Screen: The 22-inch Smart HD Touchscreen features improved HD graphics and added processor cooling.
• Faster Connectivity: Improved dual 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi Connectivity make for faster performance, along with 2X more RAM.
• Improved Access: The 2021 model features improved Bluetooth headphones and heart rate connectivity.