Bow flex treadmills are owned and manufactured Nautilus Fitness who have been in the fitness equipment business since 1986.
Nautilus also owns the Schwinn, Stairmaster and Trimline brands. They're the second largest producer of exercise equipment in North America (after ICON).
Bowflex is perhaps better known for their range of home gyms and of course, the famous Treadclimber. However Bowflex also produces several economy to mid-priced treadmills.
Starting around $999 and up, Bowflex offers 3 treadmill models: the series 3, series 5 and series 7 treadmill.
Strengths:
#1) Aesthetically Appealing - Bowflex units are sleek, attractive machines. They're certainly impressive to look at and if aesthetic appeal is important to you, you won't be disappointed with a Bowflex.
#2) Large Walking Areas - The Bowflex Series 5 and Series 7 have extra long treadbelts of 60" - along with strong motor powers to back them up.
This extra length is especially useful for taller people or runners who want to pick up their pace.
#3) Decent Warranties - Bowflex machines offer decent warranties which cover the frame for 15 years, motor for 10 years, parts/electronics for 2 years and labor for 1 year.
Overall, there are better warranties out there however compared to your average department store treadmill, the Bowflex warranty is superior.
#4) Excellent Bowflex Treadmill Reviews - As of this writing, users gave the Bowflex Series 3 treadmill 5 stars out of 5 (not bad considering it's an economy treadmill).
Popular features with buyers included the solid, stable feel of the units. They liked the long running surfaces on the Series 5 and Series 7. Several reviews also commented that the setup and assembly was easier than expected.
As for expert Bowflex Treadmill reviews, a leading consumer magazine also rated the Bowflex Series 7 treadmill a 'Best Buy' in 2006.
Weaknesses:
As far as we can tell, Bowflex hasn't updated their treadmills in a few years (that may mean they don't want to mess with a good thing but still...). That may also mean they're going to discontinue them which may mean you want to go with a more up-to-date brand.
Other similarly priced treadmills like Sole are pulling ahead in terms of what they give you for the money (higher motor powers, longer warranties, built-in speakers with iPod hookups, TV's etc.)
Conclusion:
Bowflex home treadmills offer some sleek looks, large walking areas and decent warranties on their treadmills. Plus they have great user and expert reviews.
Other similarly priced brands like Sole are starting to pull ahead of them in terms of value for your dollar. However, overall Bowflex units are solid, stable, good value buys.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can find Bowflex treadmills at a discount online. You can often get free shipping which will save you around $150.
