NordicTrack VR25 Recumbent Exercise Bike Review

NordicTrack just went one better! After working with NordicTrack fitness equipment for years, the design of the updated R35 Recumbent exercise bike blew me away.

And then you look at the innovations ‘under the hood’.

For a bike which you’ll be proud to own (and will last for years!), the R35 Recumbent is perfect.

Below is the review for the older (R25) model, which has been replaced. Keep your eyes open for a new review dedicated to the VR35 bike soon.

Check out the close ups of the newest NordicTrack design for yourself – over on this dedicated R35 recumbent page at NordicTrack.co.uk

Alternatively – my detailed review of the R35 Recumbent is right here.

Detailed Review of the NordicTrack VR25 Recumbent Exercise Bike

NordicTrack used their own ‘StepThru’ design with the VR25 recumbent. This lets you straddle the bike easily, before adjusting the seat to match your size. The design is stunning, with the curved underside providing a solid, stable base and contrasting with the sharp angle of the seat adjustment platform.

This is a big bike, nothing like those rattletraps you get from no-brand makers over on Amazon these days.

It is 173cms long, 152cms tall and 56cms wide.

Note that the box it arrives in is even bigger. The bike weighs 72kgs. There are roller wheels on the front to shift it around. NordicTrack recommend a max user weight of 158kgs.

You get the generous NordicTrack warranty. This covers you for a full 2-year parts and labour, along with five years for the frame.

Solid Build with Comfort-Focused Features

Everything about the build of the VR25 recumbent says ‘comfort’. It starts with the solid steel commercial grade build and goes all the way through to those tiny details like the bottle holder and front mounted transport wheels.

The seat shows the quality. This is robust, cushioned and has a lumbar (back) support built in. You slide it back and forward, with the slope allowing people of all sizes to reach the peddles. Speaking of peddles, those are extra-wide, have a grip to make sure you don’t slip, and include adjustable straps.

VR25 bikes include a workout fan using the latest ‘AutoBreeze’ technology, a pivoting tablet holder, built-in Bluetooth speakers and that all-important water bottle. Monitor your pulse rate using both the chest strap and EKG grip on the handlebar.

26 Digital Resistance Levels: NordicTrack VR25 Recumbent Bike

This model has an 11kg flywheel. Silent Magnetic Resistance is standard for commercial-grade exercise bikes from NordicTrack. You get smooth, predictable resistance – without the noise. 26 resistance levels can be changed with a single touch from the electronic console. If you are enjoying a trainer-led workout, those levels will be changed remotely by your trainer.

A free 30-day trial of iFit comes as standard with your VR25. This will give you enough time to try out the video library, live trainer led workouts, stats tracking and social elements of NordicTrack’s premium service.

With Bluetooth tech, you can use a rival app or streaming service instead.

*Note, this iFit view is from a different model!

Feedback: What iFit Users Said About the VR25 Recumbent Bikes from NordicTrack

This is a brand-new addition to the NordicTrack exercise bikes line up. With longer term feedback not yet available, I have covered iFit and general views of the ‘V’ recumbent bikes range here instead.

The enthusiasm for iFit is universal. Words that come up over and over are ‘positivity,’ ‘loved it’ and ‘motivating.’ This fits with other fitness equipment that uses iFit. There is something about a real trainer that gets you to work that little bit harder and get that little bit fitter.

When it comes to the more general feedback, NordicTrack get a lot of loyalty. You really can’t compare these units to those ‘no brand’ alternatives. People might get fooled by the lower prices, though end up buying a toy, instead of the real thing.

I do recommend you check the latest feedback for yourself, and to make sure that you register your warranty within 28 days of purchase.

Wrapping Up: Is the VR25 Recumbent Exercise Bike from NordicTrack Any Good?

The newest model in an extensive line of ‘VR’ exercise bikes has a stunning new design. It is also packed with the same technology that appears on far more expensive commercial-grade equipment.

If you enjoy the comfort of a recumbent but want to ensure you get fit – and even challenge yourself on occasion – then the VR25 definitely ticks all the right boxes. You get a built in HD monitor, SMR resistance, Bluetooth and even a fan. All in a unit which is built to last and last.

I’m a fan of the VR25, and once you see it in action, I’m sure you will be too.

Update: The new version (called R35) is a stunner – make sure you check it out , over on this dedicated R35 Recumbent page at NordicTrack.co.uk!

More Popular NordicTrack Fitness Equipment:

• S27i Commercial Bikes from NordicTrack (upright model)
• The Amazing EXP7i Treadmills
• RW600 Home Rower from NordicTrack
• New! The redesigned VU 29 upright bike
• Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes