ProForm ZE9 vs. the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990
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
Smooth Agile DMT Review
One of the problems with the fitness equipment industry is a lack of innovation. There really isn't much going on. The exception is a new product from Smooth Fitness, called the Smooth Agile DMT.Â
Although similar in many ways to an elliptical trainer, it has several unique features that make it more of a hybrid. In fact, when I talked to Smooth about their new product, they did not call it an elliptical, but rather a "Dynamic Motion Trainer."