With a little more substance than previous Smooth models, it offers a stronger base, high 350 lb user weight capacity and long 60" belt so you can really pick up the pace.
Plus there's a softer side: A deluxe sound system in the console with it's own volume control so you can plug in you iPod or mp3 player and get lost in your personal workout mix.
So is it the right treadmill for your needs? Here's what you need to know about the Smooth 6.45:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1549 (+ 5% Off - See Coupon)
Motor: 3.0 HP
Speed: 0.5-12 MPH
Incline: 0-15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
Water Bottle Holders: 2
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes Hand Grip w/ Optional Chest Strap
User Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
iPod Dock With Deluxe Sound System
Warranty: Lifetime Frame & Motor, 5 Years Parts, 2 Years Labor
Strengths:
1) Deluxe Sound System with iPod Port and Console Volume Control - You can plug in your mp3 player, iPod or CD player and listen to your favorite music through 2 built in speakers.
What makes this system really handy is the volume control knob in the center of the console. So you don't have to fumble with the volume control on your mp3 player while running or walking.
2) Swing Arm Cushioning For Lower Impact Workouts - This is Smooth's own high end cushioning system for their deluxe treadmills. Separate, heavy-duty base and deck frames – similar to health club treadmills – stabilize the deck for a smooth, shake-free feel.
With this type of cushioning muscles contract at a lower peak intensity for a longer period of time, so they burn 14%-23% more calories.
3) Fitness Test Monitor - This is one of the coolest things about the 6.45. It lets you monitor your actual cardiovascular fitness level so you can track your progress over time.
Your score is determined by measuring how much your pulse slows down in the first minute after finishing your workout. The faster your pulse slows down, the better your physical fitness level.
4) Quiet Operation - Smooth treadmills in general are known for their quiet operation. The 6.45 uses a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) circuit board - typically found on commercial treadmills.
This, along with optical speed sensors help to give smoother, more quiet speed changes. Several user reviews have commented on how quiet the 6.45 treadmill runs.
5) Extra Long 60" Belt - While the older versions of this treadmill had a 54" belt, the new Smooth 6.45 treadmill improves on it with one of the longest belts on the market - an extra long 60" belt.
This is extremely useful for taller users, runners or just anyone who wants more space. You can pick up the pace and won't feel like you're falling off your treadmill
6) 9 Different User Profiles - This is a convenient feature if more than one person will be using the treadmill. The 6.45 saves the age, weight and target heart rate information for up to 9 different people. So there's no re-keying in your data every time you start your workout.
7) Excellent Warranty With 2 Years On Labor - 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 2 year on labor. This is one of the best warranties at this price point - especially the 2 years labor coverage since most treadmills only give you 1 year if you're lucky. So this can save you a lot of money if something should happen to your treadmill.
Weaknesses:
The 6.45 doesn't have some of the bells and whistles that the higher end Smooth models have (TV, power folding).
Overall Conclusion: Highly Recommended
The Smooth 6.45 is a huge improvement over past Smooth models. 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, quiet operation and excellent warranty, it's gives you the core basics of a strong treadmill.
Then there's the fun stuff that make your workout more enjoyable - an mp3/iPod hookup with deluxe speakers and volume control on the console, Fitness Test so you can track your progress, 9 user profiles to store your results, and 8 built in workout programs. All in all, a great value that rates highly with runners and walkers.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the 6.45 treadmill direct from the Manufacturer and get Free Shipping which will save you about $150.
Plus, they've given our readers an exclusive discount coupon - Get 5% Off the 6.45 treadmill - use promo code smooth5 at checkout.
