Sole treadmills have been used in major hotels like Hilton & Omni for years and have recently become available to the home market.
It steps up to an extra long 60" belt, strong 3.5 HP motor, health club scrolling console, commercial grade deck, and 400 lb user weight capacity.
Is the F85 right for your workout needs? Here's a quick review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1999
Motor: 3.5 HP
Speed: 0.5-12 MPH
Incline: 0-15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
Whisper Deck
Heart Rate Control: Yes - wireless chest strap included
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame, Motor and Deck, 5 Years on Electronics/Belt/Rollers, 2 Years on Labor
Strengths:
Powerful 3.5 HP High Torque Motor - This is a one of the highest motor powers at this price point. The motor uses a large diameter, balanced flywheel which causes it to run cooler with less amp draw. This extends the life of the motor and gives a much more stable feel.
Cushion Flex Reduces Impact By 40% - Good cushioning is crucial to protect your knees, back, hips and ankles.
Cushion Flex is one of the best cushioning systems on the market and has been shown in a university study to reduce impact by 40% compared to running on asphalt.
Extra Long 60" Belt - This one of the longest belts you'll find at this price point. It's excellent for runners, taller users, or just anyone who wants extra space. You can pick up your pace without feeling like you're going to fall off the treadmill.
Double Horseshoe Folding Frame For Higher Stability - The specially built double horseshoe frame was designed originally for the hotel market.
With most folding treadmills, you sacrifice a bit on stability. However this design actually makes the F85 more stable than many non-folding units.
Whisper Deck with Lifetime Warranty - Whisper decks are one step up from the standard Phenolic coating found on most home treadmills. It helps to make the treadmill run more smoothly and quietly.
Plus, Sole offers a Lifetime Warranty on the deck. No need to flip your treadmill deck, if you wear it out, Sole will replace it - free.
iPod/Mp3 Port with Built In Speakers - You can plug in your iPod or mp3 and listen to your favorite music through the built in speakers. There's also a headphone jack if you prefer, which many other treadmills don't offer.
Best Warranty On The Market - The Sole F85 comes with 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 longest warranties on the market and gives you an idea of the quality of construction.
Of special note is the 2 years on service. With other brands, you usually only get 1 year on service.
Speed & Incline Controls on the Handrails - This isn't an essential feature, but it's still nice to have. Instead of leaning forward - possibly too close to the running hood or throwing off your stride - you just press the speed and incline buttons at your side on the handrails.
Weaknesses:
No weaknesses - except that it's the first Sole model to sell out at peak times during the year.
Overall Conclusion: Highly Recommended
The Sole F85 is a commercial grade luxury machine with pretty much everything you could ever want in a treadmill.
With a high powered motor, Whisper Deck, Cushion Flex cushioning, health club console, highly stable feel, iPod dock and one of the longest warranties on the market, the Sole F85 feels like a health club machine - without the commercial price tag.
While occasional walkers can probably save a bit and go with the F80, the Sole F85 is the ideal treadmill for runners. It will hold up well over the long run, even if you use it every day.
Where To Buy at A Discount:
You can get the new 2009 Sole F85 model directly from their manufacturer's website. You save on store mark-up and can also get free shipping.
