Boasting several improvements over the old 6.25 including a longer belt, higher powered motor, higher user capacity (a sign of increased stability), an mp3 dock with built in speakers and more.
So is it the right treadmill for your needs?
Here's a quick review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1999
Motor: 3.0 HP
Speed: 0.5-12 MPH
Incline: 0-15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes Hand Grip
User Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime Frame & Motor, 5 Years Parts, 1 Year Labor
Strengths:
Extra Long 60" Belt - While the older Smooth 6.25 had a 54" belt, the Smooth 6.45 steps up to an extra long 60" belt. This is extremely useful for taller users or runners. You can pick up the pace and won't feel like you're falling off your treadmill
Deluxe Sound System with mp3 Hookup - You can attach your mp3 player or CD player and listen to your favorite music through 2 premium built in speakers. There's an easy to reach volume control knob in the center of the console that makes adjusting easy
Swing Arm™ Suspension Cushioning - Separate, heavy-duty base and deck frames – similar to health club treadmills – stabilize the deck for a smooth, shake free feel. This system has been proven to reduce the impact of walking and running. Combined with the heavier unit weight of 240 lbs, this makes the 6.45 feel extremely stable.
Strong 3.0 HP Continuous Duty Motor - This type of motor power for a mid-priced treadmill is excellent and the 6.45 outdoes many other similarly priced treadmill brands here.
Dual-Stage, Soft Drop Folding - The 6.45 offers a gas shock-assist mechanism to make folding and unfolding the treadmill much easier on your back.
Excellent Warranty - The warranty can often tell you about the quality of parts used in construction. A long warranty usually means higher quality construction.
The 6.45 comes with a lifetime warranty on the motor and frame, 5 years on parts and 1 year on labor. This is quite good and outdoes several other similarly priced brands on the market.
Weaknesses:
The price on the new 6.45 is a bit higher than the old Smooth 6.25. However you do get a much higher caliber of treadmill. So it's actually priced quite fairly.
Overall Conclusion: Recommended
The Smooth 6.45 is a huge improvement over the older 6.25 model. It gives you a lot - even for runners - at this price point.
With a lengthy 60" belt, stronger 3.0 HP motor, solid cushioning system and excellent warranty, it's gives you the core basics of a strong treadmill.
Plus there are those little extras to get people excited - an mp3 hookup with built in speakers, 9 user profiles to store and track your results, 8 built in workout programs and 3 programs that you customize to your taste.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Smooth 6.45 direct from the Smooth manufacturer. You can usually get free shipping and save on sales tax as well.
