Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill Review

In short - very well, particularly given what appears to be a permanent reduction in the price.

Bowflex is a trusted name in the home exercise market and as one of the most popular lines from Nautilus Health and Fitness, their treadmills sell well.

Having tried out the Series 7 it's not hard to understand why.

This is the top of the line Bowflex treadmill and with its powerful motor, large deck and overall build quality looks a good bet for runners.

It's practically identical to the cheaper Series 5 with a few extra features, but with the price cut for me it's the better bet.

Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill Review - What's it Like...?

The Bowflex Series 7 treadmill comes with a remarkably quiet 3.0 HP continuous duty motor that makes it ideal for runners.

Even when operating at its top speed of 11 mph, the motor exhibits little sign of strain, which considering the big and well cushioned belt is a good sign.

One small gripe would be that the belt is only single ply, whilst 2 ply is more common in this price range. Perhaps one area where corners have been cut to keep the price down.

The running area is a generous 60" x 20", which gave me plenty of room on which to stride out.

The 'Strike Zone' deck is nice, inclines to a 12% gradient and has a comfy cushioning system that provides just enough give on landing without compromising a firm take off.

The big 2.5" rollers facilitate the smooth travel of the belt, reducing friction and any resultant tension on the belt - as well as cutting down on future maintenance and replacement costs!

The Bowflex Series 7 treadmill folds up easily due to the 'SoftDrop' mechanism and takes up little space between workouts when folded.

The electronics feature a functional, backlit LED console display with a user friendly readout and 15 workout programs.

The Series 7 includes a hands free chest strap for heart rate monitoring, which the Series 5 doesn't have as well as pulse grip monitors in the handles.

As far as the controls go, there are easy to reach, 'quick-speed' keys on the arms that make changing speed and elevation settings mid-workout a one touch affair.

There's also a built in three-speed fan to help keep you cool as you train.

The warranties are good but not quite class leading with 15 years on the frame, 10 years on the motor, two years on the parts and a year on the labour.

Whilst the Bowflex Series 7 treadmill did retail at $1,999, you can now get it direct from Bowflex for $1,499.

However, you may find a better deal online if you search around. For instance, you can currently get it for $1,389 with free shipping from Treadmills Central.

Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill Review - How Does it Rate...?

The first time I reviewed this treadmill I was impressed, but wasn't quite convinced that it was competitive at $1,999. However, at $1,499 or less it represents tremendous value for money.

At this price, if it weren't for a few cheap components and with better warranties, the Bowflex Series 7 treadmill would be pushing the best from Sole to the wire.

If you're looking for a solid treadmill to run on, the Series 7 represents a bargain. We recommend you take a look.

Return to Bowflex Treadmill Review from Bowflex Series 7 Treadmill Review