The NordicTrack T9 ci Treadmill – Good Buy for Less Than $1200

The NordicTrack T9 ci treadmill is a solid performer that offers an easy-to-use touch display on the console, and comes with the same quality components you find on other mid-priced NordicTrack treadmills.

The Machine

In addition to the standard readouts of time, distance, etc., the high-resolution Grafixx™ display also has the Training Zone Indicator, an intensity measure that interprets your workout level and shows it on a light meter. Another option on the touch screen display is the Competition Training Center – where you can race head-to-head against a variety of competitors.

The full specs on the NordicTrack T9 ci treadmill are:

• 2.5 HP DurX™ Motor
• 0-12 mph 1-Touch™ Speed
• 0-12% 1-Touch™ Incline
• 20" x 60" Quiet Tread Belt
• Durastride™ Adjustable Cushioning
• 12 Workouts; 8 weight loss, 4 custom
• iFit® Workout Card Technology
• Touch Screen Display
• Intermix Acoustics™ 3.0 Sound System
• CardioGrip™ Heart Rate Monitor
• 325 lbs User Weight Capacity
• SpaceSaver® Folding Design
• Warranty: Lifetime motor & frame, 1-year parts and labor

The Buzz

UPDATE:  The NordicTrack T9 ci treadmill has been discontinued and replaced with all new upgraded models.  For a comparable machine check out the newest NordicTrack treadmills here.

The NordicTrack T9 ci treadmill has fewer programs than other NordicTrack models but you can expand your workout selection by using the interactive iFit® workout card (a separate purchase) which plugs directly into the treadmill’s console.

The software automatically adjusts speed and incline during each workout while the voice of a personal trainer gives tips and instruction. The rest of the components and overall design of the T9 ci are matched by other NordicTrack models, so it really comes down to price on this one.

Treadmill Doctor gave the NordicTrack T9 ci fairly high marks – but that was reviewing it at a $1,099 sale price. Keep in mind that the current price/value ratio greatly affects treadmill reviews. At the regular MSRP of $1,599, the value ratio drops significantly.

The T9 ci will have to be held to higher standards when you are asked to pay 33% more. In other words, the T9ci is a good value at $1100, but not so good when asked to pay $1600.

Don’t worry about the short warranties on NordicTrack treadmills since it really isn’t an issue when you understand why they do it that way. With a short warranty of one year, they can keep the price discounted.

But you should figure on buying an extended warranty for the T9 ci (about $140 for an additional 3 years) to arrive at a true price/value ration. You can even purchase NordicTrack’s Premium Warranty, which includes everything covered in the standard plan, plus comes with an annual in-home maintenance check-up.

What We Say

NordicTrack offers great machines with the electronics and features you want, and they have frequent sales plus free shipping, always a good deal. If you can wait and get the NordicTrack T9 ci for less than $1,200, then it’s a good buy.

However, we would choose NordicTrack’s best-selling and enormously popular Commercial 1500 when it goes on sale for $1,299 over the NordicTrack T9 ci treadmill.