Nautilus Treadmill Review

  About Fred Waters

Nautilus has been a major player in the fitness equipment industry for a number of years.  What really put them on the map was their BowFlex Treadclimbers.  A sort of hybrid treadmill and stair stepper that was promoted mostly through infomercials. 

They also produce the BowFlex treadmills and the Schwinn treadmills and elliptical trainers.   I've been a big fan of the BowFlex treadmills and the Schwinn ellipticals for a number of years.  Both are excellent values in their price range.

Note: Some of the best prices I've found on Nautilus treadmills are from Amazon.com, and they include free shipping. The Nautilus T516 was priced $200 less than at Nautilus.com. Also Nautilus charges $299 for shipping.

They've recently released two treadmills under the Nautilus name, and I am curious why they do not have more models in a wider price range.   So now Nautilus offers two Nautilus treadmills, two BowFlex treadmills and two Schwinn treadmills.  They are all around the same price and it appears that they are similar in engineering and design.  I also do not understand the competing brand logic.

So let's talk about the two Nautilus treadmills.  There is the Nautilus T514 and the Nautilus T516.  Depending on where you are buying from they range in price from $800 - $1,599.  Note:  You don't want to buy from the Nautilus site. The prices are about 40% higher than at other sites.

Nautilus Treadmill Pros

Like the BowFlex treadmills, the Nautilus models are extremely heavy, providing a very solid feel.  It also allows these treadmills to handle heavier individuals in comparison to comparably priced treadmills.

The motors in both treadmills are adequate to handle both walkers and joggers.  You probably could get by running on the T516. The T514 has a 2.75 continuous duty HP motor, while the T516 has a sizable 3.2 HP motor.

The Nautilus T514 comes with an average sized 55" treadbelt, while the T516 has a slightly larger 58" belt.  The decks on both do a decent job of shock absorption.   

Both models come with a wide range of installed workout programs.  You get 19 on the T514 and 26 on the T516.  I personally like to change up my workout routine to break the monotony of running in place.

Both machines include heart rate control with four Polar heart rate programs. A telemetry belt comes standard for wireless heart rate control.  Normally at this price you would pay extra for the belt option, if it was available. Using your heart rate to define your level of exertion is a very efficient way to maximize your workout.

You have incline and speed controls on the handle bars so you don't have to break your stride and reach to the console to make changes.

Assembly is fairly easy.  You basically have to raise the console, screw in place and add the handlebars.  The real bitch is moving the machine.  Note: If you are putting it in a room that has a small entrance, move the treadmill first and assemble later.   You'll need to tilt the treadmill.  Also you will need someone to help you move the treadmill indoors once it is delivered.

Nautilus Treadmill Cons

The warranty on the motor and other parts is about average (10 years motor, 1 year electronics and 2 years other parts).  Where Nautilus falls short is on the labor coverage and the belt.  You only get 6 months service and 90-days for the belt.  There are a couple of companies offering 2 years labor and 3-5 years parts on their $999 models.

The console and display are not really noteworthy.  The design looks a bit cheap.  At least the LCD display is backlit, so you can see it in poor lighting. There is a fan built into the console.  The output is not going to blow you away, but at the high speed it is not bad.

There are no speakers or MP3 input.  That has become a standard feature on most treadmill priced over $599.  Not everyone will use them, but it is convenient having the sound pointed towards your  head.

Our Review - Nautilus Treadmills

Overall the quality of the Nautilus treadmills seems to be comparable to the BowFlex models.  BowFlex treadmills have a reputation for being sturdy, stable and durable for the price.  I'm sure they are built at the same plant and utilize some of the same engineering .   The Nautilus treadmills are relatively new and do not have a long-term track record, but if the service record of the BowFlex treadmills (Not the Treadclimbers) are any indication, the Nautilus should be low maintenance machines.

I would do some comparison shopping.  For example, check out the BowFlex Series 7, which has won several  "Best Buy" awards and has some very positive reviews on Amazon.  Also look at the Smooth 5.65 which comes with a lifetime motor, 3-year parts and 2-year labor warranty.