Spirit XT9 Treadmill ReviewThe problem is that pretty much the best treadmill under $1,500 is the Spirit XT10, which only costs a couple hundred bucks more than the XT9. Whilst the XT9 is undoubtedly worth considering, it doesn't quite offer the total package that the XT10 does. So, is there any reason why you should buy the XT9?
Spirit XT9 Treadmill Review - What's it Like...?To look at there's very little to separate the treadmills at the lower end of the Spirit XT series - look below the surface however, and there are some pretty fundamental differences.The XT9 is an attractive treadmill, which on close inspection is well put together with quality components and a real attention to detail. The quietly composed 2.5 HP continuous duty motor handled our test run with no signs of strain at all and even at the top speed of 10 mph was quiet enough for us to hold a normal conversation. Serious runners will need a larger motor, but for most home exercisers this unit should meet expectations. The large 1" thick, 1 1/2 ply belt provides a roomy 55" x 20" running area that accommodated me with no trouble and should suit most users. The deck itself is stable underfoot and the big 2.5" rollers smoothed out the travel of the belt, reducing any friction so there was no belt 'grab'. In the long term large rollers like these should auger well for the life of the belt. The power incline on the Spirit XT9 treadmill elevates the deck to a maximum 14%, which can then fold away when not in use. If space is tight at home, a folding deck is a good option to go for. I found the 12 quick change keys on the arms very handy, which meant no stretching out to change the speed and incline whilst running. I'm not a huge fan of the large dot matrix display console, but it's functional and slightly better than that found on the Spirit XT8. There's only one display window, although it presents your workout data clearly and a message window would have been a nice addition. The 10 workout programs include five preset, one manual, two user defined and two heart rate control programs - more than enough to choose from. Heart rate monitoring is via pulse grips in the handles, but there's no hands-free telemetry belt as standard, which you need to get the most out of the heart control programs. Spirit's warranties are excellent with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, three years on the parts and a year on the labour. Whilst it has a list price of $1,499, our Spirit XT9 treadmill review found it for $1,199 at Elite Fitness Equipment.com with free shipping within the US.
Spirit XT9 Treadmill Review - How Does it Rate...?
This is a decent treadmill - well built, quality components and a generous warranty. Trouble is for an extra $200 you can buy the superb XT10, which overall is a better treadmill for the money. If your budget will stretch, go for the XT10. Get the current price and additional information on the Spirit XT9 treadmill at Elite Fitness Equipment.com
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