HealthRider Treadmill Review
Hmm, I'm not so sure. HealthRider's treadmills sit firmly within the intensely competitive low to mid-range market and range from around $600-$1,600. Owned by the giant Icon Health and Fitness, HealthRider is overshadowed somewhat by other better known Icon brands like NordicTrack and ProForm, which are far more popular. On one hand this is a plus, as to develop market share HealthRider's treadmills are competitively priced and contain features that are designed to appeal to potential buyers. However, I'm not so sure. Once you get through the marketing gimmicks there isn't a treadmill there that delivers a great workout and is backed up by the warranties and customer support that other brands selling treadmills at similar prices offer. So how do HealthRider's treadmills rate...?
HealthRider Treadmill Review - First Impressions...
At first glance our HealthRider treadmill review would suggest that times may be tough for this brand. Just check out the discounts available online, which add up to nearly 50% on some models.Either the treadmills were overpriced to begin with or they're not selling too well. Other aspects to HealthRider's treadmills that caught my eye were the motors and belts - both for good and bad reasons. With 2.0-2.5 HP motors, several of the models are suitable for no more than walking. Without wishing to state the obvious, larger motors tend to be less prone to wear and tear as they have the power to handle the strain that daily workouts demand. Now these aren't exactly powerful motors, but they're better than many in this class. The spacious walking area and well-cushioned belts were also a pleasant surprise. The generous 60" x 20" belts are much bigger than the average and are more often found on $2,000 plus machines - not those under $1,000. The SoftTrac cushioning was also a pleasant surpise as it was very comfortable to run on, although a little too soft underfoot for my liking. I did have a nagging thought, though - a belt as big and thick as this has got to be tough for a motor to move, particularly when they only generate 2.0-2.5 HP. And this for me is the Achilee's Heel of these treadmills. Some further research confirmed my suspicions, with review after review citing problems with the motors caused largely by the thickly padded belts. I can believe it as during my relatively short test the motor sounded like it was straining and there was more than a hint of 'grab' underfoot as the belt caught on the rollers. There are positives, though as the treadmills generally look well designed and are iFit.com compatible. However, there's an awful lot of plastic around and the components look cheap - not good when the warranties are short and likely to be needed! Looking for the best price on HealthRider treadmills? Let our Treadmill Buying Guide help you.
HealthRider Treadmill Review - So What do we Think...?Well, our HealthRider treadmill review found things to like about the treadmills in the range, but more negatives than positives.The biggest problem is that the motors are just not powerful enough to cope with the large, thick belts and may not last too long. There are some huge discounts though, which may be needed to pay for the repair bills! The H550i can be bought for under $800, though and at this price is the best model in the line up and well worth a look. For more information and the latest deals check out our detailed reviews. HealthRider H550i Treadmill Review
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