Strengths:
18 Inch Stride Length - Many cheaper ellipticals offer stride lengths of only 14 or 16 inches. The larger stride length ensures you work the full range of leg muscles and burn maximum calories. Although the higher end elliptical usually offer you up to 20" stride lengths, 18" is still quite decent - especially at this price point.
Incline (1 Step Power Ramp) - Incline (not the same as resistance) allows you to automatically increase your workout slope and work different muscle groups to burn the maximum amount of calories. Incline is a feature that isn't found on most elliptical trainers (unless you want to spend $2800+ on a Precor) so it's an excellent feature to find on the Nordic Track CX 1055 elliptical.
300 lb Weight Capacity - A sign of the stability of the elliptical trainer is seen in how high a user weight capacity it offers. The higher the user weight capacity, the more stable the elliptical trainer (other things being equal).
19 Built In Workout Programs - Each workout is designed by a certified personal trainer, and adjusts speed or incline automatically to help you reach your goals and stay in your target heart rate. There's also a program that lets you create your own workouts.
Heart Rate Monitor - You can monitor your heart rate with the pulse sensors built into the handlebars and stay in your target heart rate range.
SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance - Magnetic resistance is the best kind of resistance on elliptical trainers and gives you a smooth, quiet ride. You can also choose from 10 intensity levels to target specific workout goals.
Weaknesses:
We would have liked to see a longer parts warranty on the Nordic Track CX 1055 (parts and labor are covered for 1 year but you can buy extra coverage on checkout).
Summary:
For an economy elliptical, the Nordic Track CX 1055 elliptical is one of the better values out there. You get a decent 18" stride, fairly solid 300 pound weight capacity, lots of workout programs, heart rate monitor, workout fan, easy-to-read console and more.
We also really like the incline capability which will help you get a more efficient workout overall. Plus Nordic track has moved the pedals closer together on this model (step-through design) which gives you a smoother, more comfortable ride. Not a commercial machine - but for the money, an excellent value buy.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can save $300 on the Nordic Track CX 1055 by buying it direct through the Nordic Track closeout site. You can often also save on shipping and sales tax.
Offering an 18" stride length, 300 pound user weight capacity, 19 built-in workouts and incline capability, it stands up very well against similarly priced ellipticals.
So is it the right buy for you? Here's a review of the Nordic Track CX 1055 elliptical to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $699 (Web only - Regular $849)
Stride Length: 18"
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 10
Built In Workout Programs: 19
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Warranty: 1 year on Frame, Motor, Parts & Labor
(extended warranties available)
