The NordicTrack T 6.5 Si sits at the sweet spot of the treadmill market — under $800, a large 10-inch touchscreen, and iFIT integration that gives you on-demand classes and Google Maps routes. We've put over 200 miles on ours. Here's the real verdict.
Setup and Build
Assembly takes about 90 minutes for one person. The fold mechanism (SpaceSaver design with hydraulic assist) is smooth — you press a lever, grab the deck, and it unfolds to the floor without effort. The footprint is 77.1 x 35.3 inches when unfolded, and folds to about 35 x 42 inches.
The frame feels solid. No flex or wobble at speeds up to 12 mph. The motor is noticeably quiet for its class.
The Running Experience
The 20 x 55-inch belt is adequate for jogging and light running. Serious runners with long strides may want more deck length (the Commercial 1750 offers 60 inches). The FlexSelect cushioning is noticeable — the deck is meaningfully softer than budget treadmills.
The 2.6 CHP motor maintained consistent speed through intervals without any surging or dropping. At sustained 8 mph the motor is smooth and quiet enough for a normal conversation.
iFIT Integration
iFIT requires a subscription ($15/month for a family plan, $39/month at full price). The content is genuinely excellent — studio classes, outdoor runs shot with Google Maps technology, and a coach who adjusts your treadmill speed and incline automatically.
If you won't use iFIT, this treadmill's value proposition drops significantly. Buy based on the content subscription, not just the hardware.
Minor Issues
The 10-inch screen is good but reflective in sunlit rooms. The fan is barely functional — high-end treadmills have better fans. The side rails are narrow.
Verdict
For the $799 price range, the T 6.5 Si is the best-value smart treadmill available. The motor is reliable, the cushioning is legit, and the iFIT content library justifies the subscription cost for anyone who trains consistently.
Rating: 4.4/5