ProForm ZE9 vs. the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990
Feb0
Reader’s Question on what is a better value, the ProForm ZE9 vs. the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990.
Dear Mr. Waters,
I enjoyed reading your reviews of elliptical trainers. I have been distressing about buying an elliptical to get in shape. A little bit about myself. I’m a tall guy, 6′6″ tall, built like a baseball player (235 lbs), but I’m out of shape. Once upon a time, about a decade ago, I had a great routine involving running and using an elliptical. I’d like to get back on the elliptical again, and am shopping for one. I anticipate that I’ll be using it an hour a day for about 2 months (to get in shape for skiing), and then a few times a week after that.
I am comparing two models. My preferred is the Proform ZE9, which is on sale at Dicks for $799. And the other is the Nordic Track Audiostrider 990 Pro, which is $990 at Sears. They are very similar, except the Proform has a longer stride.
My only concern is that I cannot find a review of the Proform ZE9 anywhere! I’d like to do my homework to make sure I get a decent product, and I’d like to hear from others to make a decision as to whether to buy the warranty.
Can you help me? Is the ZE9 a newer version of a comparable piece of equipment? Would you recommend the extended warranty? Any advice you can give would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!
Response:
Regarding the durability of these machines. They both qualify as budget models. They have a decent track record, but these are not heavy duty machines. It looks like the ZE9 is the better value.
If you have a Dick’s in your area I also recommend you check out the Sole E25. It cost $999, but has a 3-year parts warranty. It has an incline feature, but it is manual. All the Sole ellipticals have a very good service record. The quality of the Sole E25 surpasses both the NordicTrack and the ProForm.
I hope that helps.
Fred
Viewer’s Question on Sole F80 vs. Spirit 385
Feb0
Dear staff at treadmill-rating-reviews
I’ve been reading your reviews and insight on various models of machines and I had a couple questions with which I hope you can help. Your answers will greatly benefit me when deciding which machine to purchase.
I’m down to deciding between three treadmills. Sole F80, Spirit XT 385, and Spirit XT 485. I am looking to use the machine five days a week running between 5-7 miles a day at speeds of 7 or 8mph. Although I am a male, I am much shorter and weigh only 135 lbs so in truth can all these machines handle the demands I will put on them. According to your review, Sole F80’s 3.0 motor can handle running but I noticed where your review stated that Spirit XT385 with a similar sized motor could not handle serious running. Is this the case?
If I go with Spirit is it best to go with Spirit XT485 considering the heavy demands I will put on it. It is only me so no other users will be on this machine.
Thank you!
Elliptical Trainer Question – Sole vs. NordicTrack!
Jan0
Hi Fred –
My wife and I are contemplating buying an elliptical for use in our home. There are so many brands and models out there it’s hard to know what’s best for us. I am 5’9” 180 lbs and my wife is 5’4” 125. Do have any advice on what elliptical we should consider in the $1,200 – $1,300 range and under. Either front, center on rear drive models. My wife prefers the look of the front and center drive versions but it is not a necessity. I would say that we would each use it about 5 times per week on average. I enjoy a more strenuous work out as well if that matters.
Any advice or guidance you could provide would be appreciated!
Response
Hi Kyle,
Probably the best value, and best built machine in that price range is the Sole E35. It comes with a 5-year parts and 2-year labor warranty. The feedback has generally be very positive. Here is my review. http://www.fitness-equipment-source.com/elliptical-reviews/sole-e35.htm
Regards,
Fred
Customer Response
Thanks Fred –
I have read your review on the E35 as well as other reviews and it seems as though as you stated that the reviews are very favorable. My only concern with that machine is the size at 81”’s it takes up a lot of space. I’m still leaning towards that machine but do you have a front or center drive option with less of a footprint that you like that I might consider? Also, do you have a recommendation for a machine under $1,000 as well?
Thanks for your help,
Kyle
Response
Kyle,
NordicTrack and ProForm have a center drive machine. The basic design and components. are the same The difference is the features. They range from $699-$899. They are decent machines, but by no means as heavy duty as the Sole E35. Also, their warranty is 1-year parts and labor. You may be able to find a version at your local Sears.
Here are the links.
http://www.fitness-equipment-source.com/elliptical-reviews/proform-crosswalk-850.html
http://www.fitness-equipment-source.com/elliptical-reviews/nordictrack-act-elliptical.htm
Fred
Customer Response
Thanks Fred.
Are there concerns regarding the durability of the ACT? If we extended the ACT warranty by a year at approximately $100 that would make the E35 about $300 more than the ACT but it appears the quality you get with the E35 is probably worth it.
Kyle
Response
Kyle,
If I were to choose, I would pay the extra $300. I would put the NordicTrack ACT in the budget elliptical category. For the money it is not a bad machine, but not nearly as durable as the Sole E35.
There is a cheaper version of the Sole E35, which is the Sole E25 at $999. Structurely, they are the same machines, but on my review you can get a list of the differences. http://www.fitness-equipment-source.com/elliptical-reviews/nordictrack-act-elliptical.htm
Readers Question About the NordicTrack X3 Incline Trainer
Jan0
i am interested in buying the incline trainer however i have 1 question…can you run on this machine? obviously its not advised with the incline up but if the incline is laying flat is the motor quick enough for a light jog to a slow run? i have been told by a few people that its not fast enough to run on and its just a machine to walk on…i hope i can run on it…please let me knwo when you get the chance! thanks – amandaHi Amanda
Response
Yes, you can run on the Incline Trainer. It goes up to 10 mph. There is one issue. You have a 54″ long treadbelt. That is aan dequate length for an average height individual to run on. However, the way the Incline Trainer is designed, when you lower the treadbelt a portion of it is positioned in front of the console. You are going to lose several or more inches of running area when you have the belt at a level position. Take a look at the photos on the left and you will see what I mean.
ProForm vs Horizon Treadmills
Sep0
The two major players in the budget treadmill face off are ProForm and Horizon. You’ll find many of their models at many of the large sporting goods strores and at the big name retailers. ProForm is built by Icon Fitness, the largest seller of fitness equipment in the world. They also manufacturer NordicTrack, Welso, Image, Epic and Reebok. Horizon treadmills are built by Johnson Health Technology, which also builds Vision Fitness equipment. Both brands sell in the $500-$1,200 price range.
NordicTrack Treadmills vs ProForm Treadmills
Sep0
I often get inquiries on which treadmill is a better value, the NordicTrack or the ProForm. In fact, they are built by the same company on the same assembly lines with many of the same parts. I witnessed that personally when I was out at their manufacturing facilities. There are some models that are unique to each brand, but others are almost identical. They’ll mix and match features like motor size, deck length, iFit technology, workout programs, sound systems and built-in fans.
Sole Treadmills vs Smooth Treadmills
Sep0
I often get inquiries as to which is better a Sole treadmill or Smooth treadmill. First, I have to confess that I use to work for Smooth several years ago, however, I believe both brands offer quality equipment at a value price. Here are some considerations.
Both Sole and Smooth offer 2-year labor, 5-year parts and lifetime motor warranties on most of their models. This says something about the durability of their machines. They would go broke with that kind of warranty if these treadmills did not hold up.
NordicTrack Treadmill Sale – 5% Off This Weekend!
Aug0
NordicTrack has been running ocassional 5% discount sales on all their treadmills. They usually only last a couple of days. This weekend the offer is back on (8/22/09). Go to my NordicTrack Review page for the lastest info and the models it affects. I recommend the models which are the best value.
Bargain Shopping for Treadmills
Jul0
Here are some deals you may want to checkout. First, NordicTrack came out with a replacement for their previous C2155 treadmill – the NordicTrack Z7Xi (See Review). As of 7/30/09 it was selling for $699. Not bad for a budget treadmill. This treadmill has some limitations, but if you are a walker and have a limited budget, it is a consideration.
NordicTrack brought back the NordicTrack XT, a TV equipped treadmill with a huge 3.5 HP motor and 60″ long treadbelt. They are offering it at a bargain $1,399 (See Review).
Finally, I got an exclusve discount on extended warranties for NordicTrack treadmills – 10% off. I know the right people. Since NordicTrack gives you only a 1-year parts and labor warranty, it makes sense to protect you investment. You can learn more at my NordicTrack Review.
NordicTrack Reflex Deck
Jul0
NordicTrack Reflex Deck
I received an email from my contact at NordicTrack. He was trying to boost sales for a couple of treadmills that use their patented Reflex deck. It actually is an intriguing design. The deck is made from a slab of poplar wood. The same wood they use for snow boards. What makes this deck unique is the way it absorbs shock.
Unlike typical treadmills that use shocks or grommets to absorb shock. The Reflex deck bends with the impact of your foot and then rebounds, giving a slight jolt. It may be the most forgiving deck in the industry, and ideal for individuals who want minimal shock to their lower joints. According to my contact at NordicTrack, the Reflex treadmills are extremely popular with the executives in the company who are over 50.