Best Buy Picks
Bowflex, Inc. is best known for its tension-based home gyms, but the company also became a significant player in the treadmill market. The moderately-priced Bowflex 3, 5, and 7 Series treadmills have been discontinued but are widely available secondhand. The Bowflex company is now promoting TreadClimbers – hybrid treadmill-stairclimbers – instead. How do the discontinued models rate?
Not necessarily for runners: The Bowflex Series 5 and 7 treadmills are suitable for joggers and some runners, though not marathon trainers. The Series 3 motor is rather weak with just 1.75 HP and has a short track.
What We Like
- Convenience: Bowflex treadmills fold for easy storage.
- Console: Bowflex consoles have sleek, attractive designs with bonuses such as cup holders and three-speed fans. The Series 7 treadmill includes 15 programmable workouts.
- Motor: While the 3 Series Treadmill has a weak motor, the Bowflex 5 Series has a respectable motor with 2.5 HP. The 7 Series machines boast strong 3.0 HP motors.
- Speed: The Bowflex Series 5 and 7 treadmills support running speeds of up to 10 mph, but the Series 3 is best suited for walking.
- Warranty: Bowflex offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, but the guarantee and warranties do not apply to second owners.
What We Don’t Like
Not necessarily for runners: The Bowflex Series 5 and 7 treadmills are suitable for joggers and some runners, though not marathon trainers. The Series 3 motor is rather weak with just 1.75 HP and has a short track.
Our Verdict
Bowflex is a reputable company that built solid mid-level treadmills. Star ratings for individual treadmill models vary: the Series 3 treadmill is not highly recommended, but the Series 7 is a good value for those who don’t need many special features and don’t mind the absence of a warranty.
When the Bowflex 7 treadmill was still being manufactured, it earned a “Best Buy” award from Consumer Report. If it’s available for a great price, give it a try. Otherwise, it would be wise to purchase a new treadmill that is sold with buyer protection.
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