Smooth 6.17 Treadmill Review

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The Smooth 6.17 is no longer available - See the Smooth 6.45 Treadmill.

The Smooth 6.17 treadmill is part of their new generation of treadmills. It shows a focus on the future, with a stylish treadmill that offers some decent features for the price.

The Smooth 6.17 Treadmill Features...

Slick Design - First, I have to say this is one of the most stylish treadmills on the market. The design is exceptional. I never understand why some manufacturers are stuck on building treadmills that are so unimaginative in style. Of course, it is what's under the hood that makes or breaks the treadmill.

2.5 HP Continuous Duty Motor - This is about an average size motor for the price, although some brands offer 3.0. Still, the motor is adequate for walkers and joggers.

20" x 56" Treadbelt - The belt on the Smooth 6.17 is a couple of inches longer that a typical 54" belt. Those couple of inches can make a difference when jogging, or if you are slightly above average in height. If you are tall, you will want to consider a 60" length.

Wireless Heart Rate Control - I personally have never used the heart rate feature on a treadmill, but many swear by it. By controlling the level of your exertion by the rate of your heart, you can optimize your workout by targeting certain heart rate zones.

Swing Arm Shock Absorption - This is one of the stand outs on this treadmills. The front of the deck is supported by swing arms and hydraulics. The concept behind the design is to absorb the shock of your foot as it impacts towards the front, and to give a solid lift-off towards the back of the deck. It makes sense and it works. Smooth has employed this patented deck for years on a number of their treadmills.

LCD Console with Touchscreen Controls - A different approach. I am not aware of another brand that has touchscreen control. The display is definitely brilliant. I am not sure if I prefer a console with multiple windows. Makes it easier to visualize the different types of feedback. However, the aqua green display is attractive against the black background.

Workout Programs - You get 8 popular workout programs, including 3 custom programs. In addition, you get nine storable user profiles. It is nice to store individual personal settings and retrieve them at the start of your workout. However, nine is an overkill.

Warranty - You get lifetime on the motor, which is starting to be standard at this price range. Also standard is one year labor, however the five year parts coverage is generous.

Our Review - Smooth 6.17 Treadmill

I would recommend this treadmill for both walkers and joggers. Runnners will want to upgrade. The Smooth 6.17 incorporates some excellent features like the Swing Arm Shock Absorption system, which is an improvement over your typical decks.

The Smooth 6.17 had some electronic issues when it first came out, but they seem to have been resolved. Not unusually for the first delivery of a new model. The feedback I get now is that it is a low maintenance machine.

I also really like the look of this treadmill, particularly the console. Depending on the price, this treadmill is worth considering.

Customer Review

"I've just been through my first few workouts on my new 6.17 treadmill, and now it's official: this was a great investment. The presets and the user programs give me just the variety to keep me dedicated. I would never have guessed that a machine that looks this good could feel so strong and sturdy. Nice work, Smooth!

Learn more about the Smooth 6.17 at SmoothFitness.com.