Horizon T901 Treadmill Review

  About Fred Waters

The Horizon T901 treadmill competes in the very aggressive $999 price range. It offers a new twist in treadmill sales - a selection of colors. Hmmm!

The T901 is a less expensive model than their popular Horizon T1201. It has some characteristics similar to those found on the Horizon T1201, yet it doesn't quite measure up to the T1201. For instance, the belt is a bit smaller on the T901, and the parts warranty is only one year as compared to a 4-year parts warranty on the T1201 (Actually there is conflicting information on the Horizon site. They list both 1 and 2 year parts warranty). Nevertheless, this treadmill has some very nice features!

Let's take a look at some of the features that come on the Horizon T901 treadmill:

20" x 55" running surface: This running surface measures 5 inches shorter than the running surface on the T1201. It's adequate for people with a shorter stride.

Incline: The incline capacity is the same as that on the T1201-from 1 to 12%.

Speed: Can reach speeds up to 10 mph. This speed range is average on today's treadmills and is sufficient for most people. Unless you're a sprinter, chances are slim that you'll be reaching 10 mph, and even slimmer that you would maintain that speed (if you reached it) for an extended period.

Two large LED windows: Consoles with LED display windows are generally better quality than those which have LCD displays. The LED displays on the T901 are easy to see. At first I wasn't crazy about this console, but after looking at it again, it does have a nice clean and contemporary look. And don't forget, you get a choice of colors.

2.25 hp continuous-duty motor: This motor is adequate for walkers and light joggers. Constant pounding from an avid runner could prove to be too much for this particular motor after awhile. Nonetheless, the motor does come with a lifetime warranty! At this price there are several manufacturers that offer larger motors.

7 workout programs: With a variety of workout programs from which to choose, the user doesn't have to stick with the same old routine everyday. Workouts don't become tedious, and fitness goals may become easier to reach. In general, you will find Icon treadmills, like ProForm and NordicTrack, will offer a more generous selection of programs at this price. In fact, some are equipped with iFIT technology.

iPod docking station: This feature has become pretty common on treadmills in this price range or higher. It's a nice feature for those who love to listen to their favorite music while exercising. Music certainly can make the workouts less boring, and with speakers built into the console, you won't need to wear headphones.

Heart rate monitor: If you want to check your heart rate to make sure that you're getting an optimal workout, there's a contact heart rate monitor on the hand rails.

Folds for easy storage: A nice feature to have when you have limited space.

One of the things I love about the Horizon T901 treadmill is that it comes in several colors! You can choose from "electronic black, cobalt, slate, or salsa".whichever fits your taste and personality.

According to Horizon, the T901 has a sturdy, heavy frame. (It's probably a little lighter than the frame on the T1201, which DID seem relatively sturdy.) Just as with the motor, the frame comes with a lifetime warranty.

Our Review - Horizon T901 Treadmill

All-in-all, I think the Horizon T901 treadmill is a good folding treadmill for users of average weight and stature, who plan to use the machine primarily for walking or light jogging. And If you want a choice of colors then this model is an ideal choice.

However, there are some other excellent choices at around $999. They include several NordicTrack and ProForm models, in addition to the Smooth 5.65 and the Sole F63. Both these models come with a 3-year parts warranty.

Go to HorizonTreadmills.com for further details.