When it comes to finding the best elliptical for home use it is important to first understand why rear drive ellipticals tend to be favored over front drive machines. While they both offer a low-impact alternative to treadmill running, rear-drive ellipticals tend to provide a more natural, balanced stride, with many offering incline features not typically seen on front-drive ellipticals. So what's the difference in construction? Rear drive ellipticals house the motor in the back of the machine so users are in a more upright position which more closely mimics the motion of walking or running.
Originally only seen in commercial gyms, rear-drive ellipticals have become increasingly more available for home gym owners with many specifically designed for smaller spaces. In fact, there are so many available on today's market that choosing the best rear drive elliptical can be a tall task. To help you in your search, and because we here at ACTIVE are fitness junkies, we have done a ton of research, evaluating the best rear drive ellipticals to equip your home gym. In this roundup you will find the best rear drive ellipticals that made the cut, as well as a comprehensive guide on what to look for when making your purchase.
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The Best Rear Drive Elliptical - Our Top Picks
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- NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i
- Life Fitness E5 Cross-Trainer
- ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Recumbent Bike and Elliptical
- Sunny Pre-programmed Elliptical SF-E3912
- NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i
- XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper
NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i
SPECS
- Dimensions: 80" (L) x 32" (W) x 67" (H)
- Resistance levels: 22
- Max incline: None
- Weight: 215 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs.
When it comes to cardio equipment, NordicTrack is one of the more reputable brands out there known for their high-quality, feature-rich machines. As the entry-level model in their rear-drive series, the SpaceSaver SE7i is a solid option for anyone seeking an interactive training experience on a well-designed folding machine. Featuring a 10-inch HD smart touchscreen, two 2-inch digitally amplified speakers, an AutoBreeze workout fan, Bluetooth audio capabilities, Google Maps technology (subscription required), automatic trainer controls, and integration with iFit training platform, the SpaceSaver SE71 is equipped with specs and conveniences not typically seen on entry-level machines.
While this elliptical has folding capability and transport wheels, it weighs a whopping 215 pounds so is not easily moved around. And when folded, the SE7i still measures 80 inches long by 32 inches wide by 67 inches high. As such, you will want a dedicated space for its use.
Its size is directly related to its excellent engineering. Constructed with solid steel, the SE7i has an 18-inch auto-adjustable stride length, 22 levels of digital resistance, and an 18-point flywheel with silent magnetic resistance. Users appreciate the smooth and quiet operation which lends itself to apartment dwellings. Other notable specs include SoftTouch upper-body grips, adjustable oversized cushioned pedals, and an impressive 325-pound user limit. Included in your purchase is a 30-day free trial to iFit, but you will need to pay for membership beyond that time.
What We Like
- HD touchscreen
- Folds easily
- Sturdy
- High user weight capacity
- Immersive training option
What We Don't Like
- Large even when folded
- 18" stride may feel small to some
- Requires paid membership after 30-days
BUY: NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE71
Life Fitness E5 Cross-Trainer
SPECS
- Dimensions: 84"(L) x 34" (W) x 66"(H)
- Resistance levels: 20
- Max incline: None
- Weight: 251 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs.
You have likely seen Life Fitness equipment in commercial gyms as they are constructed with high-quality components capable of supporting multiple users. But, the Life Fitness E5 Cross-Trainer is specifically designed for home use with WhisperStride technology providing a quiet and smooth at-home workout on a premium machine. This versatile cross-trainer features an electronically adjustable stride ranging from 18 to 24 inches, multi-grip handlebars with integrated heart rate sensors, telemetry heart rate monitoring with the included wireless chest strap, and professionally designed workouts which target different muscle groups.
The E5 comes with some notable specs and conveniences including two cup holders, an integrated accessory tray, cushioned pedal inserts, 20 levels of resistance, and a respectable user weight capacity of 400 pounds. Stomping out a footprint of 84 inches by 34 inches by 66 inches, the E5 is not huge but you will need a good amount of floor space to house it.
We'd be remiss not to mention that the E5 comes with a hefty price tag. The price ranges are based on the console you choose when purchasing. Buyers may choose from the Go Console which comes equipped with 13 workouts and one custom workout per profile or either the Track Connect or Track Connect 2.0, both of which come with 15 preloaded workouts and three custom workouts per user profile. Regardless of which console you go with, be prepared to pay top dollar.
What We Like
- Heart rate monitoring
- Quiet operation
- Ergonomic design
- Multiple user profiles
- Weight capacity
What We Don't Like
- Cost
- Large
- No interactive training
- 5-7 weeks for shipping
BUY: Life Fitness E5 Elliptical Cross-Trainer
ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Recumbent Bike and Elliptical
SPECS
- Dimensions: 24.5" W x 70.5" D x 60.5" H
- Resistance levels: 16 levels
- Max incline: N/A
- Weight: N/A
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs.
When it comes to versatility, there are few cardio machines on the market that offer up both a recumbent exercise bike and elliptical training experience all in one quality piece of equipment. But with the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Recumbent Bike and Elliptical there is no need to decide between a cycling or elliptical workout as its 2-in-1 design allows for a seamless transition between the two. Suffice to say, this machine offers a good return on investment and here is why.
Whether you are seated in the cycling position or gearing up for an elliptical workout, the 5-inch console pivots to remain at eye level. The engineering is top-notch with an adjustable multi-position cushioned seat when cycling, cushioned and oversized pedals when functioning as an elliptical, a 15-inch stride, and an inertia-enhanced flywheel which supports 16 levels of digital resistance.
Other added conveniences include an integrated tablet holder and dual 2-inch speakers. Included in your purchase is a free 30-day trial to iFit which unlocks access to thousands of on-demand classes that vary in length, type, and intensity. Simply secure your tablet and create your own immersive training experience. Beyond the 30 days it is a paid membership, but is not required in order to use the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT.
The 2-in-1 design offers a lot of variability in your training, but individually neither the bike or elliptical are exceptional. The 15-inch stride length is restrictive to taller users and users report a bit of instability when used by larger individuals.
What We Like
- 2-in-1 design
- Low impact
- Compact
- Affordable
- iFit trial
What We Don't Like
- Lower user weight capacity
- Small stride length
- Unstable with larger users
BUY: ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT Recumbent Bike and Elliptical
Sunny Pre-Programmed Elliptical SF-E3912
SPECS
- Dimensions: 55" L x 23" W x 64.5" H
- Resistance levels: 16
- Max incline: N/A
- Weight: 105 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 330 lbs.
The Sunny Pre-programmed Elliptical SF-E3912 is an affordable elliptical well-suited for those seeking a basic, entry-level, and easy-to-use elliptical to add to their home gym. Featuring 24 built-in programs, a device holder, and 16 levels of resistance, the SF-E3912 offers plenty of training variability. However, the 15.4-pound flywheel and 15.5-inch stride length may not provide enough space or resistance for larger or more experienced trainees.
The small digital monitor displays basic workout stats including calories, distance, heart rate, level, odometer, program, RPM, speed, target heart rate, time, and watts. Utilize either the pulse sensors on the handles or link a compatible heart rate strap to more accurately measure your heart rate and stay in the zone.
The SF-E3912 is compact and lightweight yet supports a 330-pound maximum user weight. But, a few reviews indicate that the machine feels unstable when used by larger athletes.Still, its compact nature lends itself to smaller spaces, a convenience that can not be underrated by those who reside in them.
What We Like
- Compact
- Lightweight
- 24 program options
- Intuitive to use
- Reportedly easy assembly
What We Don't Like
- Basic display
- Small stride
- Not enough resistance for larger users or experienced trainees
BUY: Sunny Pre-programmed Elliptical SF-E3912
NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i
SPECS
- Dimensions: 80" (L) x 32" (W) x 67" (H)
- Resistance levels: 24 levels
- Max incline: 0-10%
- Weight: 218 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs.
A step above the SE97i is the NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i, a versatile rear-drive folding treadmill. Featuring a 14-inch smart HD touchscreen display, two 2-inch digitally amplified speakers, Google Maps technology, automatic trainer controls, and an 18-pound flywheel, this multifunction elliptical trainer offers up to a 10% incline and 24 levels of digital resistance. Combined with its iFit compatibility and included 30-day free trial, users can enjoy an immersive training experience on a quality machine that may be stored vertically when not in use.
Constructed with commercial-grade steel, the SE9i supports a user weight capacity of 325 pounds. While the 18-inch auto-adjustable stride length is smaller than is found on some ellipticals, the SE9i is designed to work for all but extremely tall individuals and boasts oversized adjustable pedals. The slightly smaller stride is due to its easy-folding capabilities, a convenience that is necessary for those in smaller dwellings. It should be noted that this bad boy weighs just over 200 pounds, so while it is easy to fold, moving it around may be cumbersome.
Other notable specs include an AutoBreeze workout fan, SoftTouch upper-body grips, adjustable oversized cushioned pedals, integrated handle controls, rear-mounted transport wheels, and a water bottle holder.
What We Like
- Decently sized screen
- Touchscreen
- Stable
- Adjustable pedals
- 30-day free iFit trial
What We Don't Like
- Cost
- Smaller stride
- iFit requires paid membership after trial
BUY: NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE91
XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper
SPECS
- Dimensions: 52.1" (L) x 14.7" (W) x 50" (H)
- Resistance levels: Not indicated
- Max incline: Not indicated
- Weight: 132 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
If you are debating between a bike or an elliptical, the XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 may be an option for you. This uniquely designed machine offers a low-impact workout that minimizes stress on lower-body joints. It does so by combining the motion of a semi-recumbent bike and elliptical to provide a linked 13-inch stepping action with articulated padded hand grips. These rotate 360 degrees and therefore recruit both lower and upper-body muscle groups.
Users appreciate the ease of use and overall comfort of the RSX1500. Thanks to the mesh back seating, ratchet-style pedal straps, walk-through frame, and adjustable position handles, the RSX1500 will accommodate users of different sizes and abilities. The console features a basic blue and yellow backlit LCD screen on which you can monitor speed, distance, calories, and heart rate and choose from 24 workout options that come pre-programmed.
There are several reports that the RSX1500 is difficult to assemble so be sure to set aside a chunk of time for assembly. While some users found the operation to be loud, others indicated that with proper assembly the RSX1500 is quiet.
What We Like
- Unique design
- Easy to use
- Low impact
- Sturdy
- 24 onboard programs
What We Don't Like
- Difficult assembly
- Reportedly loud
- Questionable customer service
BUY: XTERRA Fitness RSX1500 Seated Stepper
What Is a Rear Drive Elliptical?
Rear drive elliptical trainers have the motor under the hood in the back of the unit rather than the front or middle. Often preferred to their front-drive counterparts, rear-drive elliptical trainers provide a more natural stride in an upright position that best mirrors the motion of walking or running.
What to Look for When Buying a Rear Drive Elliptical
Price
Rear drive ellipticals can be found at almost every price point. More affordable choices can be found at well under $1,000 while premium rear-drive ellipticals may cost over $2,000. Here is the thing: Your budget really drives your entire search when buying any fitness equipment. And you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to get a good rear drive elliptical, but you do need to know what your spending limit is and look for a machine that provides the best value for its cost.
Size
Although you can find some folding rear drive ellipticals, most take up a decent amount of floor space. Be sure to measure the area in which you plan to use and keep it, taking into account ceiling height and room for the pedals when in motion. It is generally recommended to add 20 inches of free space on all sides.
Programming
If you are someone who prefers interactive programming and the guidance of real-life coaches via a virtual training platform, you will want a machine that has this compatibility and most likely an HD touchscreen monitor. Most require a monthly subscription. But, many ellipticals come equipped with onboard workout options which offers plenty of training variability for some trainees.
Resistance
The resistance on ellipticals generally falls into one of two categories: air and magnetic resistance. Magnetic resistance allows users to increase or decrease levels while air resistance is directly related to how fast you pedal. Generally speaking, magnetic resistance is preferred as it offers users more concrete control over their training intensity.
Weight Limit
Find a rear-drive elliptical with a weight limit high enough to support the largest user who intends to train on it. The higher the weight capacity of the machine, the less likely it is to be unstable or shaky when in use.
FAQs About Rear Drive Elliptical
Are rear-drive ellipticals better than front-drive ellipticals?
Rear drive ellipticals are designed in a way that encourages a more upright position which allows for larger and more natural strides. While both types of ellipticals are good choices, you are more likely to find incline options on a rear-drive elliptical.
Should an elliptical be on a mat?
You will want your elliptical on a mat not only to protect your floor but also to provide more stability. A floor mat under your elliptical will reduce noise, provide better stabilization, and extend the lifespan of your machine.
Are you supposed to lean forward on an elliptical?
No, you do not want to have too much of a forward lean when using the elliptical. To prevent injury, you want to remain as upright as possible with good posture and form.
About the Author
Kristine has been immersed in the fitness world for nearly 20 years. She has competed in marathons and Ironman races and earned a spot to compete in the 2012 Age Group National Championship Olympic Triathlon.
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