Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

A major concern for some treadmill buyers is space. Their living area may limit the room they have for exercise equipment. Consequently, they need a treadmill that is not only compact, but also easy to move.

The Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill fits the bill. It is specifically designed for people who want the convenience of a treadmill in their home, but who lack enough space to have a treadmill constantly in place. However, with any compact treadmill there are some compromises. You can't have a lightweight machine, that is easy to move without sacrificing in some other areas.

Note: As of 2/7/10 the Horizon Evolve SG was selling for $599 with shipping. Go to HorizonFitness.com for the latest price.

Also see the LifeSpan TR200 Compact Treadmill review. It comes with an incline feature.

Features of the Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill.

Compact, Compact, Compact - The treadmill is designed to store either upright or flat. When upright you can store it against a wall or in a closet. When folded flat you can store under many beds. The folded thickness is 10". There are some treadmill that when they fold take up over 2', and most do not fold flat.

Lightweight - The good news is this treadmill only weighs 99 lbs. So once it is folded it is easy to move the Evolve SG Compact around on its' wheels. There are folding treadmills out there that weigh in excess of 250 lbs., and they are a bear to move. This treadmill is designed to easily move around. However, with a lightweight treadmill you have issues of stability. Obviously, a 99 lbs. treadmill is not going to be as stable as a 250 lbs. treadmill. Only buy this treadmill for walking, the design does not make sense for jogging.

Small Motor - You get a 1.5 continuous duty HP motor. This motor is designed primarily for walking and although they put the user weight limit at 250 lbs. I would not recommend this treadmill for someone over 210 lbs. Also not recommend for multiple users.

17" x 45" Walking Surface - Your walking surface is limited. Most treadmills have a 20" width, and at least a 54" length. Realize that you will be walking on a 17" width. If you take a tape measure you'll see that is not very wide. And with a 45" length, this treadmill is best suited for someone under 5'9". There was a comment from a customer that stated the "cushioning is non-existent." It should be noted you are unable to incline this treadmill.

Easy Set-up - The Horizon Evolve SG Compact may be the easiest treadmill to set-up out of the box. It arrives fully assembled. You just unfold it and plug it in.

Other Features - You only get two programs - manual and weight loss. There are speakers built-in. The quality is not that great, but they are convenient. You can plug in your MP3 player, but an adapter isrequired. The console is very basic, but it displays time, speed, distance and calories. There is a thumb sensor that shows your heart rate.

Warranty - The coverage is about average for this price range. You get lifetime on the frame, 5-years on the motor and 1-year on parts and labor. You may want to opt for an additional year on the parts and labor.

Our Review - Horizon Evolve SG Compact Treadmill

There are several brands that offer compact treadmills. Some are built like toys and are not recommend. The Horizon Evolve SG is a contender, and is one of the more popular compact models.

But once again, realize you are sacrificing power, cushioning and stability for a compact design and mobility. If you have the space, consider a heavier treadmill with a larger walking surface and a more powerful motor.

Customer Review (From Amazon.com)

The treadmill came completely assembled so when it arrived, i just threw the packaging away and used it the same day. when i saw that it would fit under my bed, i was skeptical but lo and behold, IT FITS. how nice since my apartment is so small. no problems with delivery or anything. everything was exactly as i expected, i would recommend for anyone looking for a very compact, easy to use basic treadmill.

---

I specifically wanted a fold up unit so if I need the space where this is, it could be made. To be able to pull this out of the box, plug it in and go was a real treat! It is better than I expected.

Go to HorizonFitness.com to learn more.