Best for Home Use
Best for Serious Runners
Best for Walkers
Best for Seniors
Smooth 13.75 TL Treadmill Review
Powerful and impressive are two words to describe the new 13.75 TL model top of the line treadmill by Smooth Fitness.
With one of the most powerful motors ever seen in a treadmill at this price point and built-in wireless connectivity, this model cuts no corners on either performance or entertainment options. And they haven’t left out comfort features either, designing this deck with Reflex™ cushioning technology which features with a wood core to reduce shock and impact on joints when running or walking. The lesser of these two models, the 11.25, is comparable to the 13.75 TL but with amazing upgrades.
Smooth Fitness has designed this treadmill to offer something for everyone, from the techy to the marathon runner, and the result is an impressively reliable treadmill with remarkable entertainment and performance features that is also affordable at just under $4,000.
What We Like:
- Console: The 13.75 TL comes with an attractive, user friendly console area that is equipped with the basic comforts like a large 8 inch cooling fan, reading rack, accessories tray, two water bottle holders and an audio jack, but there’s also much more. A 10 inch full-color touchscreen display with an Android® powered browser is also featured, which is compatible with iFit® technology and 9 built-in workout programs. And users can make easy speed and incline/decline changes with the 1-Step™ Speed, Incline and Decline keys that are directly on the console.
- Wireless Connectivity: Built-in wireless controls make it possible to connect the treadmill wirelessly to Cardio Theater, Broadcastvision™ Entertainment, MYE™ Entertainment (cardio integrated TV audio receivers), CardioVision and Fantaay™ audio broadcasting. Treadmills with integrated MYE wireless receivers provide audio from any TV connected to TV audio transmitters by simply plugging in headphones and selecting desired TV number from cardio console.
- Advanced Goal Tracking: Smooth Fitness offers a really neat option with this model called the Set-a-Goal workout center. This feature allows users to set up their workout goals so that as they workout, the treadmill automatically adjusts the speed, incline, etc. to help meet and maintain that workout goal.
- Entertainment Options: From the Android® powered browser to the iFit® compatible console, this treadmill does not lack when it comes to entertainment features. Users can browse the internet, check emails or connect on social media or they can access thousands of workout programs and fun tracks using the iFit® program (membership sold separately).
- Deck: The running area on the 13.75 TL is pretty spacious at 20 inches wide by 60 inches long. This 2-ply deck is also durable and maintenance free, and features Reflex™ cushioning technology for top shock absorption and comfort.
- Incline/Decline: This treadmill can decline to -3% and incline up to 15% using the 1-Step™ Incline and Decline controls. This feature is excellent for working multiple groups, interval training or simulating varying terrains like hills and downhill slopes.
- Motor: Few treadmills at this price point will offer such a powerful AC drive system. A 5.0 CHP AC commercial pro motor combined with a 400 pound weight capacity and 3.5 inch spin-balanced rollers means that users can expect an incredibly powerful, quiet and smooth operating treadmill. This impressive motor is what you would typically see in a commercial treadmill as most residential treadmills feature DC, or direct current, motors, and not AC, or alternating current motors.
What We Don’t Like:
- Wireless Heart Rate Monitoring: While the console features dual grip sensors and wireless heart rate monitoring compatibly with any Polar® wireless chest strap, the chest strap is not included.
- iFit® membership not included: Built with iFit® technology, users must purchase a membership separately to use this technology.
- Warranty: At this price point, it would be nice to see a lifetime warranty on the motor, but Smooth Fitness offers only 5 years. There is also a limited warranty on the touch screen with only 1 year offered. Other warranty offerings for this model include a lifetime on the frame and 3 years on parts and labor.
Our Verdict:
As a whole, Smooth’s 13.75 TL treadmill is incredibly hard to beat because there’s really nothing they have not thought of. From a smart and intuitive entertainment package to a powerful operating system and advanced shock absorption system, there are few things to gripe about with this model. And beyond all of these features, this treadmill has a very sleek, modern and ergonomically sound design. This treadmill is well worth your money.