One of the most popular Sole Treadmills is the F80. Rated one of our "Best Buys" in previous years, it packs some great value into a treadmill under $1500.
Quick Stats:
Price: $1499
Motor: 3.0 HP
Speed: 0.5-11 MPH
Incline: 0-15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
Cooling Fans: 2
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Hand Grip Pulse Monitor
(+ Free Wireless Chest Strap included)
User Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame, Motor and Deck, 5 Years on Electronics/Belt/Rollers, 2 Years on Labor
Strengths:
1) 3.0 HP Ultra High Torque Motor - The motor is the heart and soul of your treadmill. It can also be the most expensive part to fix. So you need a tough, strong motor that will keep running smoothly, even for longer workouts.
The F80 uses a 3.0 HP ultra high torque motor with a large diameter, balanced flywheel. The flywheel causes the motor to run cooler with less amp draw. This extends the life of your motor and gives a much more stable feel. You also get a lifetime motor warranty which helps protect your investment.
2) CushionFlex Cuts Down on Joint Impact By 40% - Another essential to have in a treadmill is a well made cushioning system. Cheap cushioning can damage your joints, back, ankles, knees and hips.
The Sole Cushion Flex system in the F80 treadmill has been shown in a university study to reduce impact by 40% compared to running on asphalt. So you get great protection for your joints with this system.
3) Speed and Incline Controls on Arm Rests - You can easily change your speed and incline with the controls on the side arm rests. There's no reaching up to the front console if you don't want to.
This comes in handy, especially when you pick up your pace and don't want to reach up to the console - which can often throw off your stride.
4) Quiet Running Operation - Sole's Whisper Deck is more quiet than even standard Phenolic coated decks. The deck also comes with a lifetime warranty so you never have to worry about replacing the deck. Sole will do it for you - Free.
5) Strong Deck That Can Take a Pounding - Sole decks are also extremely strong so they can take a pounding. When we compared them to several other department store brands, they just felt more solid, especially when you pick up the pace.
6) Excellent Warranty With 2 Years On Service To Protect Your Investment - The Sole F80 treadmill includes a lifetime warranty on the frame, deck and motor. Electronics, belt and rollers are covered for 5 years and labor is covered for 2 years. This is one of the best warranties on the market.
Be aware especially of the 2 years on service - which is excellent. With other brands, you usually only get 1 year on service if you're lucky. This alone can save you quite a bit of money over the long run.
Plus, in my experience Sole goes out of their way to service treadmills still under warranty - unlike other brands who seem to disappear when you need something fixed.
Weaknesses:
Taller users or runners may prefer the higher stability of the Sole F83 or F85 which are built with a bit more substance. These treadmills also offer slightly higher speed limits and more advanced consoles.
Overall Conclusion: Highly Recommended
Although not as flashy as the F83 or F85, if you want a stable, well-built treadmill that feels like a commercial machine for under $1500, the Sole F80 treadmill is one of your best options.
It's built with a higher grade of construction than many other similarly priced treadmills. You also get excellent cushioning, stable feel, attractive, bright console and the best warranty in the industry.
Plus the iPod/Mp3 hookup with speakers mean you can listen to your favorite tunes while working out - another plus to make workouts more enjoyable.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can get the Sole F80 treadmill directly from the Manufacturer. They're also currently offering Free Shipping and you save on sales tax which will save you a few hundred dollars.
