|
 Epic
Treadmills are built by Icon Fitness, which is the largest fitness
equipment manufacturer in the world. They also build ProForm, NordicTrack,
Reebok, Weslo and Image.
Icon Fitness not only is the biggest seller of fitness
equipment, but they significantly surpass the next runner up. Due
to the economy of scale, Icon can offer treadmills at a good value.
Their Epic treadmills have become a hot commodity,
especially after they received a "Best Buy" from
Consumer Reports for 2008.
Note: You can buy Epic treadmills direct at www.EpicFit.com .
Most models come with free shipping. Also check out the NordicTrack
Treadmills.
they often have some excellent sales and a wider selection.
 A
perfect example is the Epic View 550 treadmill. For $1,299 with
shipping (As of 3/31/08) you get:
- 7" Flat Screen TV - It takes the boredom
out of running place.
- Intermix Acoustics Sound System - I've heard
this sound system and the clarity is impressive. What really is
unique is the built in subwoofer. A treadmill with a subwoofer
- that's a hoot.
- 20" x 60" Extra Long Treadbelt - Ideal
for taller users and runners.
- 3.0 HP Continuous Duty Motor - Although their
claim that it is commercial grade is pushing it, still this motor
should be able to handle high speeds and speed incline workouts
without straining.
- 2.5" Rollers - When it comes to rollers
the larger the better. Large rollers increase the life of the
treadmill and reduce friction and noise.
Normally a treadmill with a 3.0 HP motor and 60"
long treadbelt would cost in excess of $1,800. When you factor in
the flat screen TV and sound system, this is quite a deal. Click
here to go to the Epic
View 550 Treadmill
product page.
My Visit to the Epic/Icon Corporate Headquarters
I visited the Icon Fitness manufacturing facility
last August and overall was very impressed. They showed me the rigid
testing each model goes through. I learn about the components they
use. For example, they use MacMillan motors, which have a good reputation.
Overall, I was impressed with the direction that
Icon Fitness was heading. They have had a quality control issue
in the past and that seems to be improving.
It should be noted that Icon Fitness also had some
issues with their customer service in the past. Their volume of
sales could not keep up with the demands of service inquiries and
requests. I met with the Director of Customer Service and he assured
me that improving service was their top priority. They were spending
up to $2 million to increase their staff and improve the training.
Our Review - Epic Treadmills
I believe there are some excellent bargains in the
Epic Treadmill line-up, particularly when the Epic View is selling
for $1,299. However, with certain models you can get a better value
with other Icon brands like NordicTrack and
ProForm.
I suggest you shop and compare the Epic, ProForm
and NordicTrack treadmills to guarantee you are getting the best
value. Compare features and warranties. Basically, these brands
all use the same components and are built at the same plant. It
is just a matter of how they mix and match different features for
each model. Click below to go to the treadmill product pages for
each brand and compare models.
www.Epic.om
www.NordicTrack.com
www.ProForm.com
Customer Reviews
On Epinions.com one customer thought the 550 was
an good value. Two complained of various mechanical problems giving
it a poor rating.
Regarding the Epic 425 one customer stated:
"If you're looking for a treadmill w/
a good price and a high weight capacity, this is a great unit.
I use it every morning now and love it."
Note: You may also find certain Epic Treadmills
at Costco for a lower price than on www.EpicFit.com, although the
prices do not include shipping.
|
