It offers several unique features that will specifically appeal to runners incuding the Swing Arm™ technology (which is similar to what is used in health club treadmills), commercial quality parts and a very quiet running treadbelt.
So is it the right treadmill for your needs?
Here's a quick review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1399
Motor: 2.75 HP
Speed: 0.5-10 MPH
Incline: 0-15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 54"
Folding: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes Hand Grip
Warranty: Lifetime Frame and Motor, 5 Years on Parts, 1 year on Labor
Strengths:
Unique Swing Arm™ Suspension System - Separate, heavy-duty base and deck frames – similar to health club treadmills – stabilize the flat or inclined deck for smooth, shake-free running. This system is proven to lessen the impact of walking and running. Combined with the heavier unit weight of 260 lbs, this makes the 6.25 feel extremely stable.
2.75 HP Continuous Duty Motor - This type of motor power for a mid-priced treadmill is rare and the 6.25 outdoes many other similarly priced treadmill brands here.
Dual-Stage, Soft Drop Folding - The 6.25 offers a gas shock-assist mechanism to make folding and unfolding the treadmill much easier on your back.
Excellent Warranty - You get lifetime coverage on the frame and motor as well as 5 years on parts and 1 year on labor. This is as good as it gets at this price point. We especially like the 5 years on parts - which is exceptional at this price.
Commercial Grade Components - The triple-laminated phenolic deck and 2.5" commercial grade rollers help to extend the life of your treadmill.
Advanced LED Console - The 6.25 treadmill comes with an attractive, advanced console with easy-to-read displays showing separate speed and incline hill profiles. Also you get 9 different user profiles so up to 9 people can store their age, weight, height, sex and target heart rate.
High Expert Reviews - The Smooth 6.25 was rated the #1 Folding Treadmill and the #1 Budget treadmill by About.com.
Weaknesses:
We would have liked to have seen a longer belt length. 54" is alright, however taller users or runners may prefer a 58-60" belt. (You can find longer belts on similarly priced Nordic Track models.)
Also the Smooth 6.25 is being phased out - replaced by the Smooth 6.45 which has a longer belt, higher powered motor, sound system and higher maximum speed.
Overall Conclusion: Recommended
The Smooth 6.25 has a lot of things going for it and is a great option for runners on a budget.
It gives you some strong features like a high powered motor, high 15% incline, 9 user profiles, advanced console, excellent warranty, commercial grade parts and a construction specifically designed to be stable and shake-free.
While taller users or runners may want to step up to a longer belt, overall the 6.25 is a good value. However keep in mind that it's being phased out in favor of the Smooth 6.45 (which explains the lower price right now).
Where To Buy:
You can buy the Smooth 6.25 direct from the Smooth manufacturer. They often offer you free shipping plus you can usually save on sales tax.
