Horizon T82 Treadmill Review

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The Horizon T82 treadmill is a decent budget treadmill designed primarily for walking. It is built on the same frame as the T83 and the T84. The difference between the models is in the motor, console and treadbelt.

In fact, if all you plan to do is walk, the Horizon T82 is probably your best choice of the three, and is the least expensive.

I've had some issues with Horizon treadmills in the past for two reasons. First, the models I tried in the stores were literally falling apart, which is often the case due to the abuse they suffer. Second, I've received several negative reviews. However, Horizon sells thousands of treadmills, and a few bad experiences do not reflect the majority of happy customers.

I feel the T80 series is improvement on Horizon's past attempts. There appears to be better quality control, and most customer reviews I've read are positive.

The Horizon T82 Treadmill Features.

2.25 Continuous Duty HP Motor - This motor is adequate for walking, but if you plan to jog, I would upgrade.

Variable Cushioning Deck - The deck is designed to absorb the impact as you step down, but provides a firm push-off towards the rear. In other words, there is more cushioning towards the front and less in the back, which is how you want it. The T82 is not equipped with the orthopedic belt you will find on the T83 and the T84, however, I do not believe it makes that much of a difference in the shock absorption.

20" x 55" Treadbelt - Long enough for walkers who are average or slightly above average in height.

Unit Weight - At 187 lbs. you will get a solid and stable feel.

Console and Display - To be expected, at this price range, you get a very basic display. Included in the console are built in speakers, with MP3 input. The speakers are small and not the greatest quality. There is also a fan.

You also get a generous selection of 14 workout programs. This gives you added variety to help keep you motivated while burning those calories.

Warranty - Lifetime motor and 1-year parts and labor. This is about typical for this price. In fact, some comparably priced treadmills only offer 90-days parts and labor. You may want to consider upgrading to a 2 or 3 year warranty.

Our Review - Horizon T82 Treadmill

At $799 the only other major contenders are NordicTrack and ProForm treadmills. I would say the quality of their treadmills is about the same as the T82, although sometimes you will find more bells and whistles on these other brands.

It is important to note that this is a budget treadmill. At this price you encounter limitations in the performance and durability. But, if your budget is limited and you only plan to walk, then the t82 is worth considering.

One further note, they list the user weight limit at 300 lbs. I would put the limit at 225 lbs.

Customer Reviews

There were seven reviews on Amazon.com for the Horizon T82, and the feedback is mixed. Several very happy customers and two very disatisfied customers.

My first treadmill was the typical cheapo from a discount store. It quit working. This time, I did some research because I was now willing to spend some money. Horizon won, hands down. And I chose the T-82 because it had a bigger motor. It weighs nearly 200 pounds, so getting it in the house and then putting it together was a challenge. But the directions were concise and each assembly step had it's own hardware bag.

I love it, love it, love it. It is extremely smooth and quiet. It is very substantial -- and the cushioning system makes walking easy on the knees.

I was very happy for this treadmill especially for the price! It's not loud and easy on my knees (so far). Fairly easy to put together as well - just HEAVY to carry down stairs!

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