Horizon CST 4.5 Treadmill Review

Horizon CST 4.5 Treadmill $1,000

The Horizon CST 4.5 treadmill is the upgraded version of the popular CST 3.5.

For $200 more you get:

• Maximum 12 mph speed in comparison to 10 mph. Although I wouldn't buy this treadmill for the purpose of reaching speeds of 12 mph. This is basically a walking treadmill.
• 2.25 hp motor, which strained when cranking up to higher speeds. I felt this treadmill was under powered.
• 15 year motor warranty. The difference between a 12 year and 15 year motor warranty is insignificant.
• 2 more programs, offering a bit more variety.

Do these minor upgrades dictate an additional $200? Maybe!

As with the CST 3.5 the Horizon CST 4.5 comes with a sizable 20"x 55" running surface. This size surface is capable of handling most users.

Horizon CST 4.5 Treadmill Reviews

Our Review

I'm normally not that impressed with Horizon products, both their treadmills and elliptical trainers. What makes me take a second look is the Consumer Reports rating (See below). CS really puts these machines through the mill, and they found it acceptable.

Considering other models in this price range, I would suggest you do some comparison shopping. For example there is the Smooth 5.25. It comes with higher quality components and better coverage with the warranty.

Consumer Report

Besides are ratings, Consumer Reports are some of the best. Rather than getting sample machines directly from the manufacturer, they go out and purchase them from the retailer. The intention is to get an average of a treadmill, not one that has been tampered with. For some companies the results have been disastrous.

In their review of the CST 4.5 they rated it "Excellent" for exercise range and "Good" for ease of use, ergonomics and quality. It ranked 7 out of 13 in the folding treadmill category.

Horizon CST 4.5 Treadmill Specs:

• 2.25 hp continuous duty motor, 21 lb.,
  
• 0-10 MPH/0-12% incline
  
• 300-pound capacity
  
• 20 x 55 inch belt
  
• Tapered rollers
  
• hydraulic lift system
  
• Blue backlit main w/LCD window
  
• Backlit speed/incline
  
• 1/2 speed/incline keys
  
• 8 programs
  
• Odometer and pace
  
• Contact HR

Warranty - Lifetime frame/15-year motor/1-year parts and labor

Also see the Horizon T83 Treadmill Review.

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