Bowflex Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

"Impressive Features at Value Price!"

The Bowflex treadmill is manufactured by Nautilus, which also builds the TreadClimber. For those not familiar with the TreadClimber, it is a hybrid cardio machine, combining elements of a treadmill, elliptical and stepper. It is an interesting concept that falls short on quality control and engineering. In contrast, the Bowflex Series treadmills seem to have it together.

The combination of features, quality components and design make Bowflex one of the better values in their price range. For example, the Bowflex Series 7 is equipped with a 3.0 continuous duty motor, 60' long running surface, 2.5" rollers and wireless heart rate control. It sells for around $1,400. (Usually includes delivery.)

Note: You can get Bowflex treadmills at a considerable discount with Free Shipping at Amazon.com. As of 11/16/09 the Bowflex Series 7 was selling for $399 less at Amazon than the Bowflex website ($1,798 w/ship).

Of course, features are secondary to the overall quality of the machine, and from the feedback of customers and a "Best Buy" rating from Consumer Reports, it appears these treadmills are holding up well in a residential environment. For example, a Series 7 owner who weighs 300 lbs. mentioned he owned his treadmill for over a year, and has had no problems. That is impressive. Most treadmill manufacturers greatly exaggerate the weight limits of their machines.

In most cases, the Bowflex treadmills out weigh their competition. Why is that important? A heavy treadmill is often a more stable machine. You'll notice that the Bowflex treadmills are solid as a rock when you walk, jog or run on them.

However, if you are looking for a folding treadmill that you can move around, this is not the one. For example, the Series 7 weigh a hefty 298 lbs. Although it is easy to fold, it is difficult to move around. In fact, if you purchase one, you'll want to consider getting the in house delivery service.

Our Review - Bowflex Series Treadmills

Bowflex offers three models; Series 3, Series 5 and Series 7. I feel the Series 5 and 7 are a value proposition, and have a good array of features for the price. The 60' running surface is an excellent example. It can accommodate runners and tall individuals. I've tested the Series 7 and found the deck to give adequate cushioning, while providing a solid lift off. When I cranked up the speed it was very quiet, and the motor did not appear to be straining.

My only criticism is the warranty. It is average at best. For example, the Series 7 has a 10-year motor, 2-year parts and 1-year labor coverage, the Sole F80 treadmill comes with a lifetime motor, 5-year parts and 2-year labor warranty. Extended warranties are available on all Bowflex models.

The Series 3 treadmill recently upgraded their motor to 2.5 HP. This treadmill should be considered for walking and light jogging. You may also want to check of the Smooth 5.45, a durable machine with a good service track record.

Customer Reviews - Amazon.com

Bowflex Series 7 - 128 reviews
Bowflex Series 3 - 16 reviews
 

The majority of the customer reviews suggest the Bowflex treadmills are easy to assemble, and they appear to hold up well under normal conditions. There were a few complaints about the customer service, but overall the company seems responsive.

Consumer Report

CR gave the Bowflex Series 7 their highest rating for a folding treadmill. They rated it "Very Good" for quality and "Excellent" for range of use.

Also See:

Bowflex Series 5 Review

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