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Of
all of the Icon budget treadmills the Image treadmills tends to stick out and
generally receives the highest ratings. In fact, the Image treadmill is probably
your best deal in the $400 - $800. (See Individual Image
Treadmill Reviews)
Your
first impression when you see an Image treadmill like the 19.0Q
is that it's big and beefy and it comes with some impressive electronics. Don't
let the exterior look fool you. This is a budget treadmill with a budget warranty.
It is not built for serious users, but is primarily designed for walking. (The
Image 10.4QL could accommodate light jogging).
The
IFit interactive electronics is a unique feature, but with a treadmill you need
to be concerned more about the quality of the construction and less about the
"bells and whistles." What is under the hood and how will it last on
the long run, or walk. The decks on the higher priced Image treadmills are reasonable.
They claim to have a good size motors, but there are no standards on treadmill
motors and manufacturers tend to over inflate the actual size. Furthermore,
you should always be concerned about a treadmill that comes with a 90 day warranty.
That is not to say there are not a number of Image treadmills that last for years.
If your
budget is less then $800 the Image may be your best bet, but we recommend that
you increase your spending to $1,000 and go for a treadmill like the Smooth
5.45 or the Sole F63.
Image Treadmill Ratings
Consumer
Search Image 10.0 Review The
Image 10.0, along with other less expensive models, has only a 90-day warranty-the
shortest in the industry. Even so, experts say the Image is fine if your home
fitness plans include light walking. This treadmill has a wider belt than others
(18-inches) and a stronger motor (2hp) than other budget models. Even so, more
regular walkers and runners will need a more durable machine. About.com About.com
rates the Image 10.6Q and the 10.4Q as one of the top ten budget treadmills.
Customer Reviews
My husband and I have had our Image 8.25 for a year. Our use was moderate and the machine is already broken. We are both in good shape, neither over weigh, but the metal frame is broken. I am very disappointed.
Image 8.25 Treadmill: Bought mine at Walmart about a year ago. The main structure is several metal bars welded together by the manufacturer. The welding broke while a was using the machine and I nearly killed myself. DON'T BUY THIS MACHINE! It is poorly made and has a warranty of only 90 days.
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