The Smooth 6.75 Treadmill is one of Smooth's new 2010 models which replaces the popular 2009 Smooth 6.45.
Designed especially for runners on a budget, the 6.75 offers a powerful 3.0 HP motor, longer 60" deck and even speed/incline controls on the handrails.
It's easy to fold up or down with dual-stage shock assisted folding and there's also a port for your iPod or Mp3 so you can listen to music while you workout.
So is it the right treadmill for your needs? Here's what you need to know about the Smooth 6.75:
Quick Stats:
MSRP: $2297
Sale Price: $1399
Motor: 3.0 HP
Speed: 0.6-12 MPH
Incline: 1 -15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
Water Bottle Holders: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes Hand Grip
User Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
iPod Dock With Deluxe Sound System
Warranty: Lifetime Frame & Motor, 5 Years Parts, 2 Years Labor
Strengths:
1) Longer 60" Belt
This is one of the longest belts that Smooth offers - and gives you a lot of room to move and pick up the pace. Runners and taller users will especially appreciate the extra space.
2) iPod Port With Speakers
You can plug in your iPod or Mp3 player and listen to your favorite workout music while you workout. There's also a jack for headphones if you want to keep you workout quiet.
While this is becoming a fairly standard feature with treadmills, it's still a nice addition that can make your workouts more enjoyable.
3) Incline / Speed Controls on the Side Handrails
This is hand - especially for runners. Instead of reaching forward, you can just change the speed or incline from the side handrails controls. It may seem like a little thing, but it can be very handy as reaching forward can sometimes throw off your stride.
4) Target Heart Rate Chart / Reading Rack
You can easily see what your target heart rate should be for your age - or use it as a reading rack to browse a magazine or read your favorite book. Since reading racks are usually sold separately at an extra cost, it's a great feature to find here.
5) Blue Backlit Console Window
The console window is backlit and bright blue which makes it easy to see your workout stats like speed, time, distance, incline, calories burned, and heart rate in a clear, easy-to-see format. If lighting is limited in your workout area, you can still view your stats easily.
6) Gas-Shock Assisted Folding
The 6.75 treadmill comes with gas-shock assisted folding with a foot lever for easy fold up and let down. This means you can save space by folding your treadmill, without the strain on your back of lifting a heavy deck.
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 6.75 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:
While it does have some of the strong essentials that you want in a well made treadmills, the 6.75 does not offer some of the "extras" of the higher end Smooth models like the 15" TV on the Smooth 9.45 or the extra long 62" deck on the 7.35.
Overall Conclusion: Recommended
The Smooth 6.75 treadmill is especially great for runners on a budget. It has a strong, stable base which doesn't shake or wobble when you pick up your pace. Plus the longer 60" deck gives you more room to move.
While it doesn't come with some of the luxury features of the other Smooth models, it still has several features to make your workout a lot more enjoyable (iPod dock, reading rack) and comfortable (side handrail controls, 2 speed fan).
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the 6.75 treadmill direct from the Manufacturer and get Free Shipping which will save you about $150.
