Nautilus E514 Review

Several Nautilus E514 reviews compare this elliptical trainer favorably to machines they've used at the gym. Nautilus E514 reviews on sites like Abe's of Maine comment on the smooth, quiet, and sturdy operation, although a few users near to top of the weight limit report a bit of swaying. The budget price, feature set, and intuitive control panel draw approving comments, as well. About the only features lacking, says one Nautilus E514 review on Sports Authority, are speakers (BTW, there's no MP3 port) and an adjustable incline, although this particular user says he's never fussed with an incline anyway. While we did read quite a few reviews on Amazon commending this machine, several gripe about problematic electronics: a motor that quits, for example, or a console monitor that gives out. Customer service is apparently polite about such matters, but users lament that the problems don't get fixed.

The Nautilus E514 is a front-drive elliptical with 16 levels of resistance and 17 total workout programs, including 11 profile workouts, four heart rate programs, and the opportunity to create two custom programs for two users. The 18-inch stride is typical for budget models, as are the 300-pound weight limit and heart-rate sensor on the handlebars. There's also a fan, water bottle holder, and backlit LCD display. Two unusual features for a budget model are the wireless chest strap to monitor heart rate (a plus, says one user, who reports that it's accurate and lets you keep your arms moving to give you that total-body workout) and articulating foot pedals that rise up in the back. The Nautilus E514 weighs 165 pounds and measures 62"x26"x71".

In exchange for a modest price tag, you give up a few comfort features and some adjustability with the E514. But if a wide array of programmed workouts and heart-rate monitoring are important to you, you won't miss what's not there. All in all, a good cheap elliptical trainer.