NordicTrack S24 Studio Bike Review | Smooth Cycling

Dimensions/Storability

Exercise bikes are one of the best pieces of equipment for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of space. They are portable, and even with a large screen, like on the S24, it isn’t too difficult to move them around regularly. I just lift the rear stabilizer on the S24 and wheel it wherever I need it to go.

Just watch out for the large screen so that you don’t knock it against anything.

The NordicTrack S24’s dimensions are 56.4” x 21.8” x 62.7”. It weighs 205 lbs as it comes shipped, but a little less on its own, of course. I recommend trying to find a space for the bike where you have room to do mat classes because the screen rotates so that you can see strength and yoga classes with iFIT.

If you want to use the screen for off-bike classes, keep that in mind when choosing a location for the bike.

Onboard Workouts & Apps

If you are looking for a bike that you can jump on and get training with little setup, it’s not this one. But if you are looking for an exercise bike that gets to know you, texts you reminders to work out, and guides your every pedal stroke, the NordicTrack S24 might be your match.

Log into iFIT for expert-led cycling classes to improve your routine.

iFIT is the subscription-based training service on the NordicTrack S24. When you log in, you are greeted by an assortment of iFIT classes. The more classes you take, the more iFIT will learn your style and recommend classes from the same or similar series. There are thousands of classes—something for everyone.

In an iFIT class, a coach leads the way along a trail. iFIT films classes outside and in some of the most entrancing locations. It makes passing the time on the S24 much easier.

The bike’s resistance adjusts automatically throughout the class. You can follow the preset class levels or use the SmartAdjust (the default setting). This feature factors in your training capability when adjusting the resistance. Every time you override the preset, iFIT learns and adapts.

One limiting factor for the S24 is the lack of incline. Most iFIT classes are designed to work with the incline (found on the X24 Bike). You can still take every class, but some of the trainer’s cues may not apply to your workout.

Switch on SmartAdjust for automatic resistance adjustments tailored to your fitness level.

AI Coach Tailor is an optional feature that you can turn on in the settings. When enabled, the AI Coach texts you with workout motivation and tips. You can ask Tailor questions related to fitness. The main benefit of the coach is that Tailor can schedule and recommend iFIT classes for you. These will appear in the “Calendar” tab on the S24.

Yet, if you aren’t in the mood for iFIT classes, you have a few options to switch up your workout routine. You can create interval and target programs. There are also templates to build from. My favorite custom feature is Google Maps, which works with the S24 to create virtual routes. The resistance on the S24 will automatically adjust to replicate the incline grade along the route.

Draw your very own route with the Google Maps setting.

There are also entertainment apps. These include Netflix, Prime Video, Spotify, Pluto TV, Audible, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio. You can use these apps with iFIT, when training in a custom program, or in a manual workout. The apps are only accessible with an iFIT membership.

Several apps are available on the S24 with an iFIT subscription.

The training options on the S24 are much more limited without an iFIT subscription. I recommend not connecting the S24 to Wi-Fi if you don’t create an iFIT account at all. With this option, you can only train in manual mode. If you create a free iFIT account, you can access several preset programs and use manual mode. I counted 20 programs at the time of writing this review.

In manual training mode, this lap screen with your metrics is all you can see.

Console

A 24” touchscreen sets the S24 apart from other exercise bikes. It pivots side to side, so you can use the iFIT content on and off the bike. IFIT isn’t just for the S24; it’s a fitness platform for your strength and mobility training, too.

All the buttons and controls are on the screen. The S24 doesn’t even have a resistance knob. It must be adjusted onscreen or with one of the automatic iFIT features. However, I wish there was an offscreen option for anyone who does not train with iFIT and wants to manually control their resistance.

These onscreen resistance controls are the only option for adjusting the resistance.

The iFIT experience wouldn’t be complete without audio. And on the S24, you have a set of front-facing speakers. These have good audio quality, and the bike is so quiet that it’s not hard to hear anything else.

You can also pair Bluetooth headphones if you prefer to train quietly. It’s very easy to connect a new Bluetooth device from the workout settings menu. Bluetooth also lets you pair a heart rate monitor. Most devices should connect, but Apple Watches do not, unfortunately.

Pair headphones or a heart rate monitor with Bluetooth.

Between the screen and the speakers, there are two fans. These fans are powerful enough to provide a refreshing flow of cool air. There are three speed settings, and there is also an auto mode. The auto mode adjusts the fan speed according to your training intensity—setting it low when you are pedaling easy and high when you are cycling hard.

Beneath the fan, there are fans and speakers.

The NordicTrack S24 has one water bottle holder on its frame. Because it doesn’t have an additional compartment for a phone, I stash my phone here for shorter rides when I don’t need water.

You can place a water bottle or even your phone here.

The only other storage is the dumbbell rack behind the seat. The bike comes with two 3-lb dumbbells. These are a nice extra. Just remember to remove them when moving the bike around. We have had ours fall out, so be careful.

The 3-lb dumbbells are included with the NordicTrack S24.

Finally, there is a brake on the S24’s frame. This brings the flywheel to a stop when you press it. A friction brake like this one is necessary for bikes that do not allow freewheeling so that your legs and the pedals don’t fly around and around, dragged along by the heavy flywheel. It’s helpful for making fast speed changes.

Press down on the red brake to stop the flywheel and pedals.

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Build Quality

The NordicTrack S24 reminds me of the old ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22. It makes sense because both NordicTrack and ProForm are iFIT brands. While there are a few tells that this is a more affordable bike than NordicTrack’s incline trainers (like the adjustment knobs and the height range), the S24 feels premium and performs very well.

Frame

With a weight capacity of 350 lbs, the NordicTrack S24’s steel frame proves its stability. The bike has two sturdy stabilizers with adjustable feet in the back to prevent any rocking.

The NordicTrack S24 has an impressive and durable build.

Flywheel

NordicTrack doesn’t disclose the weight of the S24’s flywheel. Based on our previous experience with NordicTrack bikes, we assume that the flywheel is about 32 lbs. Even if that is not the case, the flywheel is still heavy and creates a smooth pedaling experience, so I have no complaints!

The S24 has a heavy flywheel for smooth and stable pedaling.

This bike uses a belt drive, so it feels very smooth. It does not allow free wheeling, so be sure to make use of the red brake on the bike frame to slow the flywheel as needed. It’s a huge help when you are doing sprint intervals with slow recovery.

I have to work hard to get through the top resistance level (level 24).

As for resistance, there are 24 magnetic resistance levels on the bike. The resistance is very quiet and feels smooth. While the resistance ranges from very easy to very challenging, there are not as many levels as you will find on many studio bikes. I wish that the S24 had more resistance levels since it lacks incline.

Handlebars

1st, 2nd, and 3rd cycling hand positions are possible on the S24, though I would like more of a center grip.

The handlebars are comfortable. They have multiple grip options and a nice rubbery texture that keeps your hands from sliding around even if you get pretty sweaty. Though these handlebars are pretty simple, I like them.

The handlebar past adjusts up and down adjusts the screen height, too.

Adjusting the handlebars is easy. They just move up and down. Unfortunately, they are not as adjustable as NordicTrack’s other studio bikes have been. This bike only has four levels of adjustment. If you are really tall, they might feel low. If you are really short, they might feel too high.

Saddle

The saddle is not the plushest nor the firmest, so be wary of saddle soreness if you are new to cycling.

With ten levels of adjustment, the saddle is more adjustable than the handlebars. You can also adjust it horizontally through a short range, which helps improve your reach and alignment over the pedals.

The saddle is more adjustable than the handlebars with a larger height range and horizontal adjustment.

Comfort-wise, the saddle is decent. I had no problems with saddle soreness, but newer cyclists may not be as comfortable. You can swap the saddle out or add padding if you prefer.

I’m 5’4” and feel comfortable with this bike’s adjustability. There is room to adjust the saddle lower, so it should suit cyclists down to 5’ or so. The saddle also adjusts higher to accommodate cyclists over 6’.

Pedals

Slip your feet into the toe cages if you don’t have cycling shoes.

The S24 has hybrid pedals. On one side, you have flat pedals with toe cages. These work with any athletic shoe. They have adjustable metal clips on the straps to get a secure fit. The other side is SPD for your cycling shoes.

You can swap out these pedals if you have a set of pedals you would prefer to use. I think the pedals that come with the bike are just fine.

Should You Buy the NordicTrack S24 Exercise Bike

I enjoyed using the NordicTrack S24 Studio Bike. The automatic resistance adjustments from iFIT helped me concentrate on my ride and give my best effort. When I wanted to take things easier or be distracted from the grind, Netflix and the other entertainment apps helped the time fly by. Of course, you need an iFIT membership to access these features.

The NordicTrack S24 is best when used with iFIT’s subscription service, so you can unlock all of the premium features on its 24” touchscreen display. The screen rotates from side to side so you can also view iFIT content for yoga and strength from the bike. If you choose not to subscribe to iFIT, this bike may not be the best choice for you.

With a belt drive and smooth magnetic resistance, the S24 is one of the quietest bikes I have tested. Though it has only 24 levels compared to the 100 levels of competitors, the range is enough to challenge beginners and experienced cyclists alike.

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NordicTrack S24 Exercise Bike Q&A / FAQ

Can you use the NordicTrack S24 Bike without a subscription?

Yes, you can use the NordicTrack S24 without a subscription. If you create a free iFIT account and connect to Wi-Fi, you can access a few featured iFIT classes and onboard workouts. If you do not want an iFIT account at all, do not connect the bike to Wi-Fi. Then, you can only train in manual mode.

Which bike is better, NordicTrack or ProForm?

NordicTrack and ProForm are owned by iFIT. Their bikes and other fitness equipment have very similar features and constructions. NordicTrack is the more premium brand, while ProForm offers great quality for a lower price.

How heavy is the NordicTrack S24 Studio Bike?

The NordicTrack S24 Studio Bike weighs 205 lbs as it comes shipped in the box.

How much does iFIT cost per month?

iFIT is $39/month. You can also buy a year or multi-year package for a discount.

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