The Nautilus E616’s initial version was released in 2014. However, Nautilus produced a new version of this elliptical trainer, the 100671, in the second half of 2017.
We’ll talk about the updated version in this post. However, the earlier 100392 version is still available; you can get a good deal on it HERE. If you’re curious about the changes between the two machines, the newer model includes a new console compatible with the Nautilus Trainer 2 software and is painted black.
The MY17, also known as the Nautilus E616 100671, is an elliptical trainer with a build similar to a light commercial model. It includes motorized resistance and inclination and a long list of other functions. We’ll go through all of them in this review.
Even though the Nautilus E616 has a motorized incline mechanism, its structure is quite similar to the lighter E614 model. The primary frame section, rail assembly, legs, arms, cranks, console mast, and bases are all-steel tubing.
Heavy-duty plastic is used for the flywheel and pulley housing and various other aesthetic and match- and rust-resistant paint is applied twice to all metallic components. In contrast to the previous model, the 2017 model has a black paint finish.
Three bases are included in the frame. At the extremities of each of them are beautiful plastic shrouds. Adjustable stabilizing feet are included on the center and back bases.
The front base is supported by two rubber cushions and lacks stabilizers, and is fitted with caster wheels, making transporting the assembled gadget much easier.
However, the entire machine is somewhat hefty. Relocating it once it has been constructed is difficult at 174 pounds (79 kg). The elliptical should be hoisted onto its front wheels by its rear base and pushed to the appropriate position.
Dimension
This Nautilus elliptical trainer, like other elliptical trainers, has a rather big footprint, measuring 71.5″L x 26.7″W (about 182 x 68 cm). To this, add at least two feet on each side, both at the back and front of the machine.
On the other hand, the elliptical is not very space-saving, and its frame does not fold. It is, however, still significantly less in length than other versions, such as the SOLE E95.
The accessory shelf, located on the console mast, immediately under the console, is one last feature to discuss the frame. This piece has a large compartment containing your phone, MP3 player, water bottle, and other items. It also serves as a shroud for the machine’s moveable arms joint.
Stride and Incline
A motorized, automated inclination mechanism is included with the Nautilus E616. The inclined arm is attached to the machine’s rail assembly, which lifts it as the slope is raised.
Because the inclination is motorized, controlled only from the unit’s console, the user may change it manually, or it will self-adjust if you’re doing one of the onboard incline exercises.
The maximum inclination isn’t particularly steep. The elliptical has a maximum slope of about 10 degrees.
There are two crucial characteristics of this workout machine’s inclination that you should be aware of.
First, depending on how you set your feet on the footrests, its highest level provides you quite an elevation, adding around 27″ to 29″ (68.6 – 73.6 cm) to your height.
So multiply this number by your height to see if your home has the right ceiling height for you to use the machine comfortably.
Two, the elevation’s sensation is considerably different from the slope provided by a treadmill. If adding an incline to a treadmill resembles rising, adding an incline to this elliptical simulates going downhill.
This isn’t always negative because it makes your workout more intense while also focusing on your glutes and hamstrings.
This elliptical trainer has a medium-range, non-adjustable stride. With a height of 20″ (51 cm), the unit is suitable for users with a height of 5’3″ – 6’0″ (160 – 183 cm). This stride range should no longer be an issue for taller users. It should be suitable for users up to 6’5″ (195.5 cm) in height.
However, depending on their inseam, people shorter than 5’3″ (160 cm) may find the stride to be too excessive.
Resistance
This exercise machine’s drive may be highly smooth and silent because the pulley and the flywheel transmission are done using a belt rather than a chain.
The flywheel is perimeter weighted and balanced, giving the pedaling motion more smoothness. The pulley is larger in diameter than the flywheel, and it has two incredibly strong crank arms that can support individuals weighing up to 300 pounds (136 kg).
The machine’s footrests are spacious enough to suit a wide range of foot sizes. Precision PathTM foot motion technology is included, providing a very pleasant touch and pedaling action. The footrests, in other words, have a cushioned, ribbed deck with articulation.
The machine’s arms and grips are the final points to mention here. Like other commercial ellipticals, this type has both fixed and moveable grips. Pulse sensors are included in the fixed grips, allowing the console to measure your heart rate.
The grips on the moveable arms are long enough to allow users of various heights to comfortably position their hands and, of course, to promote a wider range of exercise positions. Both the fixed and movable grips are cushioned with rubber foam for a more comfortable grip.
The resistance system’s main component is an eddy current brake. A magnetic pad is used in this brake, located behind the flywheel. As resistance is modified from the unit’s console, a servo motor changes the magnet’s pull.
With Manual mode, you may modify resistance while you workout, or you can use one of the onboard workout applications to adjust resistance automatically.
The Nautilus E616 has a total of 25 resistance settings. The lowest settings give a very gentle workout, which is ideal for those undergoing rehabilitation therapy.
In contrast, the greatest resistance settings and the inclination provide a strong cardiac workout.
This machine must be linked to a power circuit because it employs an eddy current brake. It comes with a UL-listed adapter rated for 120VAC, 60 Hz input, and 2A.
The adaptor has an American system plug and should be used in a grounded outlet. The adapter connector is located towards the front base of the machine.
Console
The Nautilus U616 upright bike dashboard is quite similar to this one. It has two LCD screens backlit with blue light and is simple to see.
The larger display’s top shows current program information, workout intensity and resistance, heart rate zone, user profile, and goal progress. The bottom display shows speed, time, distance, calories, RPM and resistance, and heart rate.
This dashboard allows you to establish and track time, distance, and calorie objectives. It also includes 12 profile workouts, 9 heart rate monitoring workouts, 2 fitness tests, 4 custom workouts, 1 recovery workout, and 1 quick start workout.
Four Fun Rides, four Mountain courses, and four Challenges are included in the 12 profile programs. You may construct your exercises or store key parameters to use at other times using the custom programs.
This feature is also useful if numerous people utilize the elliptical. The remaining programs are self-explanatory. The heart rate programs emphasize aerobic training and various HR intervals; the fitness tests are designed to determine your current fitness level; the recovery program is designed for active resting; and the fast start program is a free exercise program.
USB connection is available on the console. You can store and export your exercise data using a USB device. The Nautilus E616, on the other hand, has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to immediately sync with other Bluetooth devices running the Nautilus® Trainer 2 software.
NautilusConnect or MyFitness Pal can export and manage your data. For compatible devices, the USB port also serves as a charging port.
The console unit of this elliptical machine has many features, including a music system, a 3-speed fan, and a tablet tray. Two acoustic chambered speakers located at the bottom of the console make up the sound system. It works with the majority of MP3 players, cellphones, and tablets.
However, the sound is controlled by your device. In addition, for such a little device, the sound produced is very clear. One major feature of the sound system that should be addressed is that it does not work with Bluetooth.
Only your workout data is transferred via Bluetooth technology on the console. You must connect your music device to the console via cable to use the sound system.
The fan, which the speakers flank, is similarly positioned at the bottom of the console. It isn’t a particularly strong fan, but it does provide some cooling. The tablet shelf is situated beneath the console’s main monitor, designed to accommodate a tablet in landscape mode.
Last but not least, the console unit is equipped with telemetry. This indicates that it can communicate with a wireless chest strap transmitter to obtain a pulse measurement. The strap, however, is not included.
Assembly
Although assembling this elliptical trainer is not difficult, it is time-consuming for two reasons: first, the machine is heavy and takes two people to install, and second, there are numerous parts and pieces to connect. As a result, putting it together might take up to two hours.
The good news is that the drive and resistance systems have already been built and shrouded.
The back section with the rail, the legs and arms, the frame bases, the console mast, the inclined arm to the rail assembly, and, of course, the console must all be connected.
The user’s handbook is printed on paper, and the tools for assembly are supplied.
The gliding rails must be cleaned regularly for maintenance. Retightening joints is necessary from time to time. Lubrication may also be required if particular sections begin to creak.
It’s recommended to put the machine on a mat because it’s rather hefty. This not only prevents harm to your floor or carpet but also increases the device’s stability.
Summary
The Nautilus E616 elliptical trainer has a long list of functions identical to those found on many commercial-grade ellipticals. Its medium user capacity, limited inclination, and set stride are the only features that keep it from this group.
Overall, it’s an excellent machine for home use, an elliptical with excellent construction that can provide a full-body workout for users of all abilities. It’s a machine excellent for muscle toning, cardio training, stamina building, and weight loss, with a minimal impact on the joints.
It’s not exactly the most affordable model out there, but for the consistent amount of features and functions that it offers, it’s safe to say that it comes for an excellent price/quality ratio.
