With an extra large walking area, attractive, easy to ready console, built in fan, solid 2.5 HP motor and 12 built in programs it offers decent value in the mid-priced range.
Is it the right buy for you? Here's a review of the to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1099
Motor: 2.5 HP
Speed: 0.5-10 MPH
Incline: 0-12%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes
Workout Programs: 12
Warranty: 15 years on Frame, 10 years on Motor, 2 Years on Parts/Electronics, 1 Year Labor
Strengths:
Long 60" Treadbelt - This is one of the best treadbelt lengths out there for this price. Taller users or those who really want to pick up the pace will appreciate the length of belt.
12 Workout Programs - The 12 workout programs include 1 Heart Rate Control, and 2 user-defined. Other programs include Manual, Cardio, Running, Fat Burn, Speed Interval Jogger, Hill Intervals, Heart Strength-Recovery Test, Calorie Goal, Distance Goal, and Fat Burn HRC.
Solid Warranty - While it isn't the best warranty out there, it's still a good one. The warranty covers the frame for frame for 15 years, motor for 10 years, parts/electronics for 2 years and labor for 1 year.
Folding - The treadmill folds up manually for easy storage - especially helpful if you don't have much space. Plus there are wheels on the bottom for easy movement and storage
Built In Fan - Other nice touches include a 3 speed workout fan, hand grip heart rate monitor and 2 bottle holders.
Weaknesses:
The treadbelt is only a 1 ply belt - whereas most treadmills in this price range offer a 2 ply belt. This can affect the life of your treadmill. And while the warranty is decent, it's not the best one out there.
Bowflex hasn't really updated their treadmills over the past few years and several other brands like Nordic track and Sole are overtaking them with newer gadgets, higher powered motors, better warranties, etc.
Overall Conclusion:
The Bowflex Series 5 treadmill has a lot of the core basics that make up a good treadmill: strong 2.5 HP motor, decent warranty, solid cushioning, lengthy belt and 12% incline. Plus the price has come down over the past few years which makes it a more affordable option.
However in an overly crowded market, it falls short when compared to other similarly priced brands. For other options you may want to compare the Series 5 to a Sole or higher end Nordic Track.
Where To Buy:
You can buy the Series 5 at Amazon. You can read the latest customer reviews and even get free shipping which will save you a few hundred dollars.
