The NordicTrack T 6.5 S treadmill is a value-for-money treadmill suitable for walking, jogging, and light running sessions. It first became available in 2015.
While its price is mid-entry-level, while not high-tech, its features are anything but basic.
Included among these are a range of preprogrammed workouts, heart rate monitoring capability, and adjustable motorized incline.
One-Touch controls make for convenient incline and speed adjustments on the fly at the press of a button.
Workouts are smooth and quiet. Thanks to the machine’s large running surface and NordicTrack’s FlexSelect cushioning system, they are also comfortable.
This unique system lets you adjust the deck’s surface from soft for low-impact sessions that are easy on the joints to firm that simulates exercising outdoors.
Add to this a warranty on par with that of far more expensive models, and it’s easy to see why this one is incredibly popular with buyers.
This NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill review covers its specs, key features, pros, and cons.
We will also look at the newer 2019 model, the NordicTrack T 6.5 Si, to see how the two machines differ.
Table of Contents
Who will the NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill Suit?
The NordicTrack Treadmill T 6.5 S will suit the majority of most new and intermediate-level users looking for a treadmill with various programs and features to enhance their workouts.
A generous weight load limit means that most people will be able to use it, while its soft-surface option will appeal to anyone who needs to do very gentle workouts.
Able to accommodate people up to 6′ 6″ tall, it’s an excellent option for taller than average individuals.
Being foldable, it will suit individuals with limited space for fitness equipment.
If you’re a seasoned athlete who wants to do very fast-paced running, you will need a treadmill with a more powerful motor and a higher top speed.
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill Specs
Assembled dimensions – The NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill measures 67.5″ (L) x 35.75″ (W) x 73″ (H)
Folded dimensions – When folded, the treadmill is about one-third of its assembled length
Step up – The running surface is about 8″ above floor height, with the front lifting another couple of inches when the deck is fully inclined, making the overall maximum elevation approximately 12″
Tread belt measurements – The tread belt measures 20″ (W) x 55″ (L)
Weight – It weighs 203 lbs
User Weight – The user weight limit for this model is 300 pounds
Color – It comes in black with dark gray highlights
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill Overview
Drive –
The NordicTrack T 6.5 S is an electric model with a 2.6 CHP motor. It can accommodate long-duration workouts 
without the motor overheating or choking, even if you are working at maximum speed.
Being an electric motor, you will have to connect the treadmill to a power circuit of 15 amp, 120-v. The package includes a power plug and a 6-foot long cable to use for this purpose. It attaches via the front base.
Constructions & Finish –
This NordicTrack Treadmill has an alloy steel frame that is powder-coated to protect it from corrosion, chips, and scratches.
1.9” precision-machined and balanced non-flex rear rollers minimize wear on the belt, motor, and drive system, increasing their lifespan.
The treadmill has a heavy-duty one-ply belt and a deck featuring FlexSelect cushioning, which reduces joint impact by up to 25 percent, so your workouts will be safer and easier on your hips, knees, and ankles.
Stability, Smoothness, & Noise level –
The treadmill’s robust construction and small flywheel provide smooth and stable sessions with no unwanted movement even when exercising at top speed.
Two pairs of non-marking rubber pads at either end of the machine add support. The rear pair also act as deck stabilizers, adjusting manually to enable you to use the treadmill on slightly uneven floors.
A 2.6 CHP provides “continuous horsepower,” so the motor can maintain and hold any preset speed, resulting in smooth performance.
The treadmill’s cushioning system allows you to change the firmness of the desk at the turn of a dial.
Choose the cushioned option for a soft surface that absorbs impact for gentle, low-impact workouts. Turn the dial in the other direction to switch to a rigid surface. Whichever option you choose, your workouts will be fluid.
Speed and Incline –
The treadmill’s speed ranges from 0.5 MPH to a top speed is 10 MPH, with adjustments able to be made in 0.5 MPH increments.
The NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill deck features a One-Touch Automatic Lift System that provides up to 10 percent incline, so you can increase or decrease the intensity of your sessions’ or do interval training.
The adjustments are automatic when using the preset programs. Manual adjustments are made by pressing a console button to implement a slope between 1% and 10%.
Programs –
The NordicTrack T 6.5 S has 20 preprogrammed workouts that cater to a range of different fitness goals. The intensity of the workouts varies, as does the distance you will travel, your speed, incline, and other metrics. There’s also the option of entering customized calorie, time, distance goals, etc., using Manual mode.
With so many preset programs to choose from, your workouts will feel fresh, and you will be able to mix things up for more significant fitness gains.
Heart Rate Monitor –
Dual pulse rate sensors incorporated into the handlebars allow you to track your heart rate and stay in your best training zone.
While this system is not as accurate as a Chest Strap, it is still useful.
LCD –
A 5″ backlit LCD monitor on the console features large, clear digits which show workout stats, including Elapsed 
Time, Time Remaining, Incline, Distance, Speed, Calories Burned, 1/4 Mile Track, Pace (minutes/miles), and Heart Rate.
App compatibility –
The NordicTrack Treadmill is Bluetooth enabled and iFit compatible.
You will receive a free 30-day iFit subscription when you buy this model. This will enable you to sync to your tablet or laptop via Wifi to expand the treadmill’s benefits.
Included among these are access to new workouts every day and the option to use Google MapsTM to replicate virtual runs.
You can stream thousands of trainer-led workouts during which your treadmill’s incline and speed will automatically adjust.
You will also be able to customize your sessions further, directly monitor your progress, have fun competing against your friends, and do a whole lot more.
While not a requirement, if you like what iFit offers and want to remain a member, you will need to get an iFit® membership for continued access.
Folding/Unfolding –
The EasyLift Assist System enables the treadmill to be folded to store and lowered to use with almost no effort at all.
Accessories –
The treadmill’s sound system, which has two x 2-inch digitally amplified speakers, produces better than average audio, and it is compatible with most tablets, smartphones, and MP3 players.
Other accessories include a media holder and two water bottle/cup holders.
Assembly –
The treadmill comes with the deck and motor preassembled, so all you will need to do is attach the two upright posts, the console, connect the console’s wires, and secure the grounding wire.
Written assembly instructions and detailed diagrams make this pretty much fool-proof.
Set aside 60 to 90 minutes to assemble the treadmill. The parts are heavy, so having another person help will speed things up. You will need a Phillips screwdriver and an Allen wrench, as these aren’t supplied.
Warranty –
The warranty covers 10 years for the frame and motor, 2 years for parts and electronics, and 1-year for labor.
The treadmill also comes with a 3-day money-back guarantee.
Next, in this NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill review, we will examine its pros and cons.
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill Infomercial
Pros
- Great value
- Suitable for most potential users
- The motor has sufficient power to support walking, jogging, or
mid-paced running workouts.
- Generous user weight limit
- User-friendly computer
- Robust and durable construction
- Smooth, Stable & Quiet workouts
- There are 20 preset programs to choose from, plus Manual mode
- Grip pulse monitoring in the handlebars enables you to track your pulse rate
- An easy-to-read backlit monitor displays useful workout stats
- The FlexSelect Cushioning System allows you to change the deck from cushioned to firm at the push of a button
- EasyLift Assist provides effortless deck folding and unfolding by pressing a button
- The sound system is of high quality with clear sound
- This model has a media tray and two integrated water bottle holders
- When you purchase this model, you will receive 1 30-day free iFit trial
- The assembly process is straightforward
- The NordicTrack T 6.5 S comes with a solid warranty
Cons
- Not as smooth at lower speeds
The deck can sometimes stall slightly when the treadmill is used at speeds under 4 MPH.
- Not telemetry compatible
The NordicTrack Treadmill T 6.5 S is not telemetry-enabled, and you won’t be able to use it with an HR chest strap. This means that you will only be able to monitor your pulse rate via the sensors incorporated into the front handlebars.
- Heft-
Because its parts are heavy, it may take two people to assemble the machine.
- Lacks a fan
This model does not come with a fan to help cool you during workouts. This should not be a deterrent, as the fans on most models create minimal air movement.
- It doesn’t have transport wheels-
The NordicTrack Treadmill T 6.5 S does not have transport wheels. It is heavy, so it’s best to find a sport for it and leave it there.
- Defective parts
Some buyers had a problem with the incline breaking or not working at all. Unfortunately, this can happen with any item. Contact customer service if it does.
How the NordicTrack T 6.5 S and the NordicTrack 6.5 Si Differ
The NordicTrack T 6.5 S and the NordicTrack 6.5 Si share many similarities.
They have the same construction, motor, deck, and user weight capacity. Both models fold and have 20 preset and 1 Manual program, a 0 to 10% incline, and a 1 to 10 MPH speed range.
The most apparent difference between the two models other than their price – the 6.5 Si being the more expensive – is their screens.
The 6.5 Si’s is a 10″ touchscreen instead of a 5″ LCD screen. The benefit of this is that you can change your incline level, speed, volume (when using a training program), etc, at a touch.
The 6.5 Si is black and light gray, while the older model is black with dark gray.
The NordicTrack 6.5 Si comes with a 1-year iFit subscription compared to the 1 month the 6.5 S offers.
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill Summary
The NordicTrack Treadmill T 6.5 S lacks the bells and whistles of some other models, but it has more than many others in its price bracket.
This includes an adjustable incline, a decent top speed, heart rate monitoring, and a range of workout programs rivaling many pricier models.
Add to this a deck an easy to raise and lower deck that can be made softer or firmer to suit the individual’s requirements and an excellent warranty, and you’ve got a treadmill that is well worth considering.
While it has a few negatives, its good points outweigh these, and it has everything most people will need to experience the benefits of treadmill exercise.
Not the right model for you? To read reviews of other popular treadmills, click this link.
Click here to view the NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill on Amazon.
Or to find out more about the NordiTrack T 6.5 Si on Amazon, click this link.
