Bowflex Series 5 Treadmill Review

The Series 5 is a well designed, attractive package that's now keenly priced and bound to sell well in the low to mid-price market.

It certainly appears popular if sales figures and enthusiastic user reviews are anything to go by.

Parent company Nautilus has certainly got the formula right with the Bowflex Series 3, 5 and 7 treadmills - so what makes it stand out in a field packed full of decent contenders?

Bowflex Series 5 Treadmill Review - What's it Like...?

The main difference between each model is the motor, with the Series 5 treadmill having a decent 2.5 HP continuous duty unit.

Whilst the Series 3 is fine for walking or a casual jog, the Series 5 is better suited to running.

With a max speed of 10 mph it's not as quick as some rivals, but is a very quiet operator even when nearing top speeds. The 12% incline provides some added intensity if needed.

My only concern would be the large single ply belt. The generous 60" x 20" running area is huge for this price range, but whether the motor will cope with the belt in the longer term is another matter.

The 'Strike Zone' deck is ok but not as comfortable as the Softrack deck on the Series 7, but nonetheless provides a decent level of joint-friendly cushioning and support without feeling spongy.

The big 2.5" rollers reduce belt friction and strain and make for a smooth ride as they facilitate the 'grab' free travel of the belt.

The Bowflex Series 5 treadmill folds up and the user friendly 'SoftDrop' mechanism makes folding the deck easy. When folded the Series 5 is compact and should stow away in all but the tightest corners.

The electronics are a slight upgrade on the Series 3 with a clean and clear LED console display and 12 workout programs instead of six.

There's no wireless chest strap heart rate monitor, but you do get pulse grip monitors on the handles.

The 'quick-speed' controls on the arms make changing your workout settings a breeze in mid-workout and the three-speed fan in the console provides welcome relief when the going gets tough.

The warranties are pretty good at this price with 15 years on the frame, 10 years on the motor, two years on the parts and a year on the labour.

Whilst the treadmill used to retail at $1,799, Bowflex has reduced the price to $1,299 on its website.

However, if you want a few dollars more off the price and free shipping thrown in, then our Bowflex Series 5 treadmill review found it reduced to $1,289 at Treadmills Central.

Bowflex Series 5 Treadmill Review - How Does it Rate...?

Bowflex has made a smart move with the Series 5 by reducing the price by $500. This undercuts its main rivals and makes it a very attractive proposition.

The Bowflex Series 5 treadmill is not as good as say the Sole F80, but is now at least $200 cheaper and provides a more competitive option.

However, if you want a Bowflex, I'd suggest you spend the extra $200 and go for the Series 7, which with a bigger motor is better value.

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