Table of Contents:
Nordictrack S15i vs S22i: Comparison & Differences | Reviews:
| Items: | NordicTrack S15i | NordicTrack S22i |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 350lbs | 350lbs |
| Unit Weight | 165lbs | 200lbs |
| Flywheel | 32lbs | 32lbs |
| Dimensions | 55.8" L x 22" W x 61" H | 55" L x 21.9" W x 56.9" H |
| Inseam Height | 27″ to 40″ | Not stated |
| Display (monitor) | 15" HD touchscreen | 22" HD touchscreen |
| Adjustable Seat | 4-way adjustable | 4-way adjustable |
| Adjustable Handlebar | 2-way adjustable | 2-way adjustable |
| iFit Programs | * 16,000 iFit Programs | * 16,000 iFit Programs |
| Screen Swivels | Screen Swivels 360° | Screen Swivels 360° |
| Resistance Levels | 24 | 24 |
| Features | Belt drive system AutoBreeze Workout Fan SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance 10% decline and 20% decline Comes with 1-year iFit membership Comes with two 3lbs dumbbells & dumbbell holder Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity Built-in speakers, Audio auxilliary port Adjustable display mount | Belt drive 2 fans Silent magnetic resistance 10% decline to 20% incline 1-year iFit membership Comes with a two 3lbs dumbbells Manual or powered resistance adjustment Compact footprint Handlebars have grip bar extensions Water bottle holder |
| Warranty | 10-year frame 2-year parts 1-year labor | 10-year frame 2-year parts 1-year labor |
| Price? | Check Price | Check Price |
Both are upright bikes from the same manufacturer and share the same collection. These bikes were created to match the attractive and hip models of bikes on the market. Which of the two options is best?
Over ten years, I’ve been in the fitness industry and have had the privilege of trying out many bikes from different brands. NordicTrack’s upright bikes are high-performance and durable.
The S15i Studio Cycle and the S22i Studio Cycle are currently the best-selling bikes from NordicTrack. No matter which bike you choose to look at, there is a lot to be found in each. Today, we will be comparing them and seeing how great they are:
Technical Information of Nordictrack s22i vs s15i:
NordicTrack’s approach to making these two sleek indoor bikes was, “If it’s not broken, don’t repair it.” This approach can be disastrous if the existing systems are not working properly or have other issues. These bikes are not affected by this. These bikes are very similar, with minor differences only in the realms of their monitors (which will be discussed later).
The S15i and S22i both have a maximum user weight limit of 350 lbs. This is quite a good limit. Most users will meet the limit, and even those who do not will find it difficult to reach. It is not like someone who is 350 lbs could climb on the bike and cause them to collapse.
It would be absurd, and it doesn’t happen. The bikes are well-suited for different sizes. Although there is no specific height range, the widths, lengths, and seat accommodations are all designed to accommodate most users.
| NordicTrack S22i | NordicTrack S15i |
|---|---|
| 350 lbs / 159 kg | 350 lbs / 159 kg |
| 180 lbs / 81.6 kg | 180 lbs / 81.6 kg |
| 5’0” - 6’10” / 152.4 cm - 208.3 cm | 5’0” - 6’10” / 152.4 cm - 208.3 cm |
| 55 inches / 139.7 cm | 55.75 inches / 141.6 cm |
| 22 inches / 56 cm | 22 inches / 56 cm |
| Commercial Grade Steel Frame | Commercial Grade Steel Frame |
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S15i vs S22i: Drivetrain and Frame
This section doesn’t include as much detail as other bikes because NordicTrack doesn’t have it, even in their manuals. There is enough information to get a general idea of the capabilities of the S22i/S15i. The main difference between the two bikes is in their monitors, not the bikes’ physical construction.
They both have unnamed Poly-V transmissions belts, magnetic resistance systems, and 32 lb flywheels. It is possible to enjoy a very quiet ride thanks to the flywheel and magnetic resistance system. Both have a Q factor of 150mm.
The Q-Factor, the distance between the pedals, is a measurement that tells you how far apart they are. If the Q-Factor is too high, your legs can bend in awkward ways and cause discomfort when you exercise.
If the Q-Factor becomes too small, the legs may bend inwards and cause injury. NordicTrack indoor bikes have an excellent balance.
NordicTrack’s pedals are high quality. They allow your feet to slip in tennis shoes easily, thanks to the integrated toe cages. These pedals ensure that your feet are in one place as you spin around. However, they can also be removed easily once you’re done
They are a great bonus and deserve to be celebrated. They are not compatible with specific studio cycling shoes.
This means that if you want to make your pedal efficient even more, you’ll need to purchase a pair of dual-sided spin bikes pedals.
| Items | NordicTrack S22i | NordicTrack S15i |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | 24 Electromagnetic Resistance Levels | 22 Electromagnetic Resistance Levels |
| Drivetrain | Poly-V Transmission Belt | Poly-V Transmission Belt |
| Ratio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| Q.Factor | 150 mm | 150 mm |
| Flywheel | 32 lb flywheel | 32 lb flywheel |
| Notes | Cage Integrated Pedals | Cage Integrated Pedals |
S22i vs S15i: Handlebars & Saddle
Both the handlebars on the S15i as well as the S22i feel remarkably good. This is where the spin bike feels like it can do the job well and doesn’t go any further. These are still excellent pieces of equipment; we don’t doubt.
The multi-position handlebars included with the bikes are sturdy. They are solid and capable of doing the job, but they don’t do more than necessary. The same goes for the saddle. It is comfortable and does the job well, better than most spin bikes on the market.
You will notice the extra parts of the spin bike, such as the handlebars or saddle. The water bottle holders are the first thing to notice. This is common that water should not be drunk while working out—congratulation to those who didn’t know this.
Now you have discovered the importance of hydration. It’s even more awesome than the bike includes two water bottle holders. Hydration is key!
You should also consider the 3-lb dumbbells included with these bikes. Although they won’t make your upper body look like Dwayne John, they can be a great way for cyclists to get their upper body exercise in. They also have a fan that cools down those who can ride one of their bikes.
| Items: | NordicTrack S22i | NordicTrack S15i |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustments | Adjustable vertically and horizontally | Adjustable vertically and horizontally |
| Handlebar | Non-slip, Multi-position Handlebar | Non-slip, Multi-position Handlebar |
| Dumbbell Holder | Two 3 lb dumbbells included | Two 3 lb dumbbells included |
| Bottle Holder | Dual Water Bottle Holders | Dual Water Bottle Holders |
| Saddle | Ergonomic Padded Saddle | Ergonomic Padded Saddle |
| Notes | It comes with an AutoBreeze Workout Fan | It comes with an AutoBreeze Workout Fan |
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Nordictrack s15i vs s22i: Monitors and power meters
We now get to the best parts of the NordicTrack spin bike. This is also where the bikes are most different in terms of production & build. The S22i’s monitor is 22 inches long, and the S15i’s monitor is 15 inches. The names of these bikes are much clearer and less fun.
Fun is the sheer amount of content these monitors can bring to the table. The S22i’s 22-inch monitor does not have any buttons on its side. Instead, it relies solely on its touchscreen. Although the S15i mainly relies on the touchscreen, it has some buttons that can control certain functions.
These bikes are unique because of their monitors. They come with a one-year iFit subscription that allows you to track various workout statistics, explore the world via various workout destination videos, and train with a range of professional coaches in real-time.
The iFit subscription is great for anyone looking to learn how to ride these bikes. The best thing about the iFit subscription is that you don’t have to follow their instructions when changing your resistance or incline settings. Your bike will follow the trainer’s instructions and adjust accordingly.
You can simulate climbing up or down different terrain using the monitors that control an incline/decline function. This can be used in conjunction with the videos of nature we have mentioned, and it also adds variety to your regular workout routines.
Coaches and pre-made workout programs often use this incline capability to make the exercises more challenging and intense. The OneTouch patented controls that come with NordicTrack indoor bikes can control both of these incline systems. This means that the screen can be controlled via touchscreen rather than physical buttons.
If you want to use the tilting and 360-degree screen, OneTouch control can prove to be very useful. We don’t know why if you aren’t using the iFit membership to spin the screen, which is a valid reason. But if you want to turn it around to see if it can, you have that option.
The S15i and S22i both have 2-inch speakers, so it is possible to hear the instructions coming from the bikes. Although they are called “Digitally Amplified”, we doubt that this is a marketing slogan. They are very well-made and will provide high-quality sound for whatever music you listen to while riding. Although it is not the most important feature of the technology, we feel it deserves recognition.
These quality monitors have one major drawback: they require iFit membership to function at their full potential. Along with the 22 levels of magnetic resistance, they come preprogrammed workouts.
The NordicTrack spin bike’s enjoyment, progression, and overall benefit are reduced if you don’t have an iFit subscription. It seems unreasonable to expect people to continue to pay for these bikes, which already cost over $1600.
| Items: | NordicTrack S15i | NordicTrack S22i |
|---|---|---|
| Statistics Tracked | iFit tracks calories, watts, RPM, speed, time, and distance | iFit tracks calories, watts, RPM, speed, time, and distance |
| Monitor Size | 15 inches / 38.1 cm | 22 inches / 55.9 cm |
| Ports | None | USB and HDMI |
| Speakers | Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers | Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers |
| Incline/Decline | -10% – 20% Incline | -10% – 20% Incline |
| Notes | Includes 1 year iFit membership | Includes 1 year iFit membership |
Nordictrack s22i vs s15i: Prices and Warranties
The NordicTrack bikes’ prices are quite reasonable compared to some of the best-selling spin bikes. The S15i is a solid $$$$, and the S22i is about $400 more. Each bike comes with a 10-year warranty.
Other parts of the bikes may have more generous warranties. The parts warranty lasts two years, while the labor warranty lasts one year. We are not usually critical of warranties on spin bikes. The warranty should be sufficiently long to allow the user to see if it will break.
The bikes’ prices are cheaper than their competitors, so it is reasonable to offer shorter warranties. However, if NordicTrack happens upon this, we recommend that they increase those warranties a little. NordicTrack also offers payment plans for those who cannot afford to pay the full cost of the bikes.
| Items: | NordicTrack S15i | NordicTrack S22i |
|---|---|---|
| Parts Warranty | 2-year parts warranty | 2-year parts warranty |
| Labour Warranty | 1-year labour warranty | 1-year labour warranty |
| Frame Warranty | 10-year frame warranty | 10-year frame warranty |
| Shipping | FREE Scheduled Delivery | FREE Scheduled Delivery |
| Price? | Check Below: | Check Below: |
Other notable qualities:
This section discusses all features of the NordicTrack bike that don’t quite fit in the other sections. The main difference between the two bikes is the monitor. Other than that, they are very similar.
It feels more like a decision about how much you are willing to pay for a 7-inch upgrade in monitor size than it is about the quality of your bike. This is a good thing. It means that the S15i doesn’t cost as much as the S22i. It also raises questions about the value of the S22i compared to its NordicTrack counterpart.
It is possible to assemble the bikes yourself, but they don’t come pre-assembled. The manual is fine. However, it does tell you what to do and how; it’s not the easiest manual we’ve seen. It does a great job covering all aspects of the monitors and the iFit membership. [1]
Who will be the greatest beneficiaries of the S15i and S22i Spin Bikes?
NordicTrack studio bikes are great smart bikes that can be used by all ages, whether they’re beginners or experts.
This indoor exercise bike is the perfect fit for those who want to be motivated to ride and get on the bike.
I can attest to the fact that cardio equipment in my home gym can be monotonous and boring. But with the HD touchscreen displays on the S15i/S22i, you’ll have a new home gym workout as you have never experienced.
Remember that the NordicTrack S15i & S22i bring the gym experience to you at home with live streaming and on-demand classes.
Smart cycles are great at this, but if you don’t have the time or desire to go home, you can stick with a regular stationary bike. [pdf]
Summary:
Nordictrack s15i vs s22i: Similarities
The flywheel weights of the NordicTrack S15i, as well as S22i, are the same.
Each exercise bike has a flywheel that is 32lbs in weight.
Both seats can be adjusted 4-way.
The NordicTrack S15i as well as S22i offer 4-way seat adjustment. These bikes are more adaptable for different sizes thanks to adjusting the seat height, back, front and back.
Both offer the same options for adjustable handlebars.
The handlebars of the NordicTrack S15i or S22i can be adjusted either up or down.
The NordicTrack S15i, as well as S22i, have identical inseam heights.
The inseam height for both exercise bikes is between 27″ and 40″.
Both exercise bikes can hold the same maximum weight.
The NordicTrack S15i or S22i can accommodate users up to 350lbs.
Both have similar resistance levels.
The S15i NordicTrack and S22i both have 24 resistance levels.
Both the NordicTrack S15i & S22i offer the same warranty.
A 10-year warranty covers the frame and parts of both exercise bikes. A one-year warranty covers labor.
Nordictrack s22i vs s15i: There are differences
Each exercise bike has a different unit weight.
The NordicTrack S15i, which weighs 165lbs, is lighter than the S22i, which weighs in at 200lbs.
Different dimensions are available for the NordicTrack S15i & S22i.
- The NordicTrack S15i measures 55.8 inches in length, 22 inches wide, and 61 inches high.
- The S22i measures 55 inches in length, 21.9 inches wide and 56.9 inches tall.
Both offer different display monitors.
Both exercise bikes feature HD touchscreen monitors. The NordicTrack S15i has a screen size of 15 inches, while the S22i measures 22 inches.
Final Thoughts
You can’t lose with any bike, no matter what brand. These bikes are excellent examples of the amazing things that spin bikes can do in modern times. The only difference is how large their screens are. During your first year, you will have access to thousands of iFit workouts, allowing you to integrate them into your routine.
After that, the bikes come with Google Maps integration which allows you to view the world from your bike. You can now take the iFit lessons on the streets around the globe, whether you’re riding in the Tuscan countryside or through the many streets of Amsterdam.
This comes with the downside that you will have to pay an iFit subscription every year after your initial membership ends. The monitors with the iFit subscription can still be used, however.
Both bikes are superbly built. These bikes are very well-made, well-designed, and easily adjustable for any cyclist.
You don’t have to work hard to hear NordicTrack bikes run due to their magnetic resistance or belt drive. Even during intense workouts, the pedals allow anyone to keep their feet in place.
Anyone who wants to get on the bike can adjust the saddle and handlebars in any direction. It also comes with a fan that keeps the rider cool, something that many bikes overlook.
No matter which bike is chosen, the owner will have a high-quality bike. They should remember that both the iFit subscription and the warranty on the bikes will eventually need to expire. These bikes are fantastic and would be a great addition to any indoor cycling collection.
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