Readers question on best elliptical for around $1,500.

Hi Fred,

Do you have a specific elliptical machine recommendation for me? I’m 6’5″, 255 lbs. I’m looking to spend around $1,500 or less. Thanks!

Response:

Hi Scott,

The Smooth CE 7.4 is an option. It is a rear drive elliptical that comes with a 21″ elliptical stride. There are those that prefer the rear drive design because of how it positions the body and it has fewer moving parts. It is backed with a lifetime braking system, 7 years parts and 2 year labor warranty, and overall the CE 7.4 has an excellent service record. It is also the company’s best seller.   See the Smooth CE 7.4 elliptical trainer review. .

The other consideration is the Sole E55. This elliptical also has a very good service record and has the incline feature. This is a front drive model. See the Sole E55 elliptical trainer review.

Both these ellipticals have been around for over 4 years and are proven model. Although through the years there has been numerous upgrades.

I just released by 2012 Best Buy Elliptical Trainer Video on YouTube.  My picks include the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 Pro, Smooth CE 3.6, NordicTrack E15.0, Yowza Captiva and the Precor 5.33.  These models represent a continuing trend in the elliptical trainer industry.  You tend to get more for your money, including better quality and more innovative features.   See which crosstrainer is ideal for your body and your budget.

I recently had the following question from a viewer:

“How does the Yowza Captiva elliptical trainer compare to the Bowflex Treadclimber TC20? (for a reasonably fit 50+ year old female)”

My response:

I feel the Yowza Captiva elliptical trainer is a better built machine, which is evident in the warranty. Also, the Core Cardio Training offers the ability to trim and tone the upper body, which the TC20 does not. In addition, the variable motion targets more lower body muscles. Although the most important reason to buy the Captiva over the Treadclimber TC20 is the price difference.  When you factor the various discounts you can get the Captiva for about $800 less.  That is a significant savings.

It is unfortunate you cannot try out either machine to see which feels right for you.  Both our sold strictly online.

Schwinn announced the recall 10,000 Schwinn 460 elliptical trainers.  There were some issues with the pedals breaking off, causing injuries to the users.  If you have a Schwinn 460 you may want to discontinue using it until it is repaired. The Schwinn 460 is sold through Dick’s Sporting Goods, Nautilus.com and Amazon.com.

Amazon has the Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer on sale for $1,169 with shipping as of 5/13/11.  That is $130 less than Dick’s Sporting and the Sole web site. The Sole E35 has a proven track record over the years for being very durable and requiring low maintenance.  Evidence is the lengthy 5-year parts and 2-year labor warranty.  At this price you won’t find a better value.

Reader’s Question on what is a better value, the ProForm ZE9 vs. the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990.

Dear Mr. Waters,

I enjoyed reading your reviews of elliptical trainers.  I have been distressing about buying an elliptical to get in shape.  A little bit about myself.  I’m a tall guy, 6’6″ tall, built like a baseball player (235 lbs), but I’m out of shape.  Once upon a time, about a decade ago, I had a great routine involving running and using an elliptical.  I’d like to get back on the elliptical again, and am shopping for one.  I anticipate that I’ll be using it an hour a day for about 2 months (to get in shape for skiing), and then a few times a week after that.

I am comparing two models.  My preferred is the Proform ZE9, which is on sale at Dicks for $799.  And the other is the Nordic Track Audiostrider 990 Pro, which is $990 at Sears.  They are very similar, except the Proform has a longer stride.

My only concern is that I cannot find a review of the Proform ZE9 anywhere!  I’d like to do my homework to make sure I get a decent product, and I’d like to hear from others to make a decision as to whether to buy the warranty.

Can you help me?  Is the ZE9 a newer version of a comparable piece of equipment?  Would you recommend the extended warranty?  Any advice you can give would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

Response:

Regarding the durability of these machines.  They both qualify as budget models.  They have a decent track record, but these are not heavy duty machines.  It looks like the ZE9 is the better value.

If you have a Dick’s in your area I also recommend you check out the Sole E25.  It cost $999, but has a 3-year parts warranty.  It has an incline feature, but it is manual.  All the Sole ellipticals have a very good service record.  The quality of the Sole E25 surpasses both the NordicTrack and the ProForm.

I hope that helps.
Fred