NordicTrack Commercial R35 Review (2024): A Recumbent Bike with Interactive Programming

Although I like going hard in the paint (as the great Waka Flocka once said) as much as the next person, I know there is a time and a place to take it easy. With exercise, this philosophy couldn’t be more true. Say you’re nursing an injury, have had recent health concerns, or don’t have stellar balance. You still may want to find a way to get some movement in without exacerbating any issues. What is one to do? Luckily, recumbent bikes––like the NordicTrack Commercial R35––can be a good option for lighter exercise days.

In this NordicTrack Commercial R35 review, I’ll dive into the ins and outs of this iFIT-enabled recumbent bike. We’ll compare the R35 to industry standards and analyze its general useability to determine if this is a good purchase for you. 

RELATED: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Review

Cycling through the Best Recumbent Bikes

Whether we’re talking squat racks or recumbent bikes, we’re no stranger to a good piece of fitness equipment. In fact, our team of expert product testers and reviewers has had our hands on hundreds of the hottest treadmills, dumbbells, barbells, and tons more. Plus, we have the know-how to back it up––we’re certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and former college athletes.

RELATED: Best Recumbent Bike

NordicTrack Commercial R35

NordicTrack Commercial R35 Exercise Bike

The R35 is a high-quality model in NordicTrack’s line of recumbent bikes. It boasts some impressive features, including 26 levels of digital resistance, silent magnetic resistance technology, a 14-inch HD smart touchscreen display, and two 2-inch digitally amplified Bluetooth speakers.The combination of its 25-pound flywheel, 26 levels of resistance, and SMR technology results in a fluid, quiet, and smooth ride with plenty of variability in intensity. Additionally, SMR is a frictionless magnetic resistance which not only minimizes noise emission, but also reduces the wear-and-tear on the flywheel.Included in your purchase is a 30-day family membership trial which provides access to thousands of on demand professional trainer-led classes which range in length, type, and intensity.When using iFIT, riders have the option to utilize the automatic trainer control to adjust resistance or to override this feature for manual control. Beyond the 30-day trial, a paid membership is required to access classes. Unfortunately, there are no pre-programmed workouts on the R35.As most recumbent bikes do, the R35 carries a hefty footprint and, even with front transport wheels, its shape makes it cumbersome to move around. So you will want a dedicated spot for this machine.

CHECK PRICE

A Quick Look at the NordicTrack Commercial R35 

The NordicTrack Commercial R35 is a part of the recumbent bike series, which only features one other bike––the Commercial VR25. However, it is worth noting that the VR25 is on closeout, so you won’t be able to get it for much longer. 

Luckily, the R35 is no slouch. This recumbent bike has a touchscreen (with which you can view iFIT programming), a supportive seat, and clocks in at less than $1,500.

My Tips

• Take advantage of the 30-day free iFIT trial offered with the purchase of the R35!

NordicTrack R35 Video Review

Is the NordicTrack Commercial R35 Worth It?

I’m a straight shooter––it’s what I’m known for. I don’t like to sugarcoat things and always prefer direct communication. Since I’ve decided we’re friends, dear internet reader, I will give you the gift of stone-cold honesty. Let’s dive into if I think the NordicTrack Commercial R35 is the right recumbent bike for you, or if you should look into something else.

NordicTrack Commercial R35 Specs

Crushing Home Fitness with the NordicTrack Commercial R35 

After I had my ankle reconstructed, using a recumbent bike was one of the first ways I was able to exercise, so I was eager to try the R35. Recumbent bikes have a special place in my heart because they’re an accessible way for a lot of people to workout.

RELATED: Recumbent Bike Workout

Let’s talk first impressions: The R35 is sleek-looking for a recumbent bike. The 14-inch touchscreen is attached to a curved silver mount, which made the bike look vaguely futuristic. The black seat attached has a high, textured back and felt very supportive. You’re able to adjust the seat on the track so you have enough room to pedal. Simply pull up on the lever underneath the seat to adjust the positioning.

If you’re worried you’ll have to invest in clip-in biking shoes, let me assuage your fears––you’ll only find regular foot pedals on the R35. All you have to do is slip your foot through the loop and tighten the strap. 

After pedaling for a bit, I was impressed by the sturdy construction of the bike. I did not feel any play in the frame or general structure, even when I cranked the resistance up. I was also excited to note that the weight capacity is 350 pounds on the R35. The industry standard for an exercise bike is around 300, so this is better than the average. Any features that make a piece of equipment more inclusive, I’m here for it.

The 25-pound flywheel is lighter than what we usually see on traditional exercise bikes, but that isn’t really a bad thing. You won’t be standing up to pedal for any hill climbs, so your recumbent bike doesn’t need to have the strongest flywheel in the game. 

Plus, thanks to the silent magnetic resistance, the R35 is surprisingly quiet. This is a good option for someone who shares a space with others and doesn’t want to disturb them.

Footprint and Portability

The footprint of the R35 is pretty standard when compared to other recumbent bikes. However, I would suggest having a dedicated space for the bike to live, as it cannot be compacted or folded at all. 

The bike is also close to 200 pounds, so you’ll need to grab others to help you move upstairs or downstairs. Although there are transport wheels attached, it is slightly unwieldy to move, even just around a room.

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

If you’re into interactive programming, you’re in luck. The Commercial R35 has a 14-inch HD touchscreen, which can be used to view iFIT programming. NordicTrack is currently running a promotion where you get a 30-day free iFIT trial with your purchase. This is a good opportunity to see if you like the on-demand programming before you commit to a subscription. 

If you do decide you like the bevy of strength training, yoga, and biking classes they offer, there are two subscription options. You can choose between an iFIT family membership, which is $396 per year, or an individual subscription, which costs $180 for a year. 

I also like the AutoAdjust feature that comes standard on the R35. While you’re taking an iFIT class, your R35 will automatically adjust the resistance on your bike to match the instructions from the trainer. This is a good way to stay engaged in the class without having to fumble for the controls. 

While you’re enjoying an iFIT class, you’ll be able to view a few different metrics across the top of your touchscreen. Expect to see things like resistance level, cadence, time elapsed, and watts.

Besides all the iFIT accouterments, you’ll also be able to enjoy Google Maps, Bluetooth audio capabilities, a workout fan, dual cup holders, and high-quality speakers on the R35. 

Comparison to Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike

Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

Not everyone needs a recumbent-style bicycle, but if you're someone who does then the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike is one of our top picks. At only $500, with free shipping, this bike comes with 16 levels of magnetic resistance, only weighs 80 pounds, and has Bluetooth connectivity so you can use it with any heart rate monitor or fitness tracker you want.One of the other great features of this bike is that you can connect to apps like Zwift or Explore the World for live and on-demand workout classes. The bike comes with its own media stand, so you can place your iPad or other smart device on the console when you're ready to ride.The bike is made with lots of plastic, which we generally don't like, and the console isn't backlit, but all told those are minor problems. If you're simply looking for a bike that can help you maintain or improve your cardiovascular fitness, you'll want this one.

CHECK PRICE

The NordicTrack Commercial R35 isn’t the only solid recumbent bike on the market. The Schwinn 230 is an excellent option, but how does it stack up to the R35? Check out our quick comparison chart below to see all the similarities and differences.

Want to learn more? Take a look at our full Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike review.

Customer Experience 

The NordicTrack R35 has the same warranty that the brand gives for each of its cardio machines: 10 years on the frame, two years on parts, and one year for labor. 

If we look at the industry standard for an exercise bike, we’d expect to see at least a 15-year frame warranty. For $1,500, this is slightly disappointing. Even more so disappointing when we consider that the Schwinn 230 boasts the same warranty for less than half the price. NordicTrack, your move.

The return policy is pretty standard for NordicTrack. You have 30 days to return your machine if you aren’t satisfied. It is worth noting that you will be charged $250 for shipping and you could also be charged a restocking fee if the R35 isn’t in new condition. 

Ordering and Assembling the NordicTrack Commercial R35 

You can order the NordicTrack Commercial R35 via the NordicTrack website, or through other retailers like Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods. 

Currently, you can purchase the R35 for right around $1,500, or you can break it up into chunks with financing through TD Bank. If you qualify, you may only pay $39 per month for 39 months with 0% APR. 

At checkout, you’re able to choose between free standard shipping, or pay an additional $199 for professional assembly.

According to our NordicTrack rep, he said assembling the Commercial R35 isn’t overly difficult.

“It is a pretty easy assembly, you’re basically just attaching the seat and the touchscreen,” he explains. “It would be best completed with another set of hands to run the wires up to the screen, otherwise you’ll likely get frustrated.”

However, since the machine is almost 200 pounds when it arrives at your door, I wouldn’t recommend going at this process solo. 

Final Verdict of Our NordicTrack Commercial R35 Review

The NordicTrack Commercial R35 is a mid-range recumbent bike with a lot going for it. Here are my key takeaways after trying this bike out:

• There are 26 levels of resistance, which is above the industry standard of 12.
• The R35 is a stable machine and very user-friendly. 
• If you’re looking for a foldable cardio machine, this isn’t it––you cannot compact the R35 in any way.
• The 25-pound flywheel is a little light, but that isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker for a recumbent bike. 

NordicTrack Commercial R35 Rating

NordicTrack Commercial R35

Check out our NordicTrack Commercial R35 review to see if this recumbent bike is right for you.

Product Brand: NordicTrack

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 1499.00

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.975

NordicTrack Commercial R35 FAQs

Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1

Caroline is a former NCAA D1 Women’s College Soccer player who also played in the WPSL, the second highest level of professional women’s soccer in the United States. Although soccer was her first love, Caroline eats, sleeps, and breathes all things fitness. She credits her high school’s football coach, Jason Estep, with teaching her how to properly use a barbell at 15 years old and inspiring an enduring love for strength training. Caroline is also a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. Content wise, Caroline has a background in Public Relations and previously worked in the Communication department at Appalachian State University. When Caroline isn’t writing or working out, she works with dachshund rescue groups and listens to way too many true crime podcasts.

Further reading

Best Protein Powder for Pregnancy, Approved by an RD (2024): When Bodybuilding Takes on a New Definition

by Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD

If you're expecting, you want the best for you and baby. That's why we're curated a list of the best protein powder for pregnancy, with a dietitian's stamp of approval. Read more

Best NordicTrack Financing: 5 Ways to Pay Over Time

by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CNC, CES, CF-L1

Looking for information on NordicTrack financing? Our guide covers how you can get a NordicTrack machine and pay over time. Read more

1st Phorm BCAA Review (2024): It's Popular, But Should It Be Your First Pick? 

by Sydney Lappe, R.D.

While popular, 1st Phorm BCAA may not suit everyone. In our 1st Phorm BCAA Review, nutrition experts guide whether it should be your first pick. Read more

Why Do I Have Knee Pain From Treadmills?

by Lindsay Boyers, CN

Poor posture and/or wearing the wrong shoes are the most common causes of knee pain from treadmills, but there are some other contributing factors too. Read more