The Smooth 5.45 treadmill is an exceptional value, especially after they dropped the price to $899 and included a 2-year labor warranty. The next least expensive treadmill with a similar warranty starts at $1,500.
Are there better treadmills? Of course, but if you are looking for a reasonably priced treadmill for walking or light jogging, you are not going to find a better value.
The reason why the Smooth 5.45 is a good value is because of its' reliability and durability. It is a very low maintenance machine, which is an overriding consideration when shopping for a treadmill.
Most treadmills selling for around $1,000 are what I consider budget machines. Consequently, you have to be very selective in finding brands that have good service records.
Smooth 5.45 Treadmill Features...
20" x 55" Treadbelt - The Smooth 5.45 has a longer treadbelt than the 5.25. The 55" length of the belt is ideal for average height walkers and joggers.
2.5 HP Continuous Duty Motor - Smooth equips their treadmills with very reliable motors, and that is why they are backed with lifetime warranties. You can expect this motor to run smooth and reasonably quiet, even at higher speeds.
210 Lbs. Unit Weight - The Smooth 5.45 may be one of the heaviest treadmills at this price. The extra weight means you are getting a machine that is stable and feels solid. You'll find that some brands won't even list their unit weights, simple because they are lightweights that shift when jogging or with heavy users.
However, you don't want to have to move this treadmill. Since the standard free shipping is to the curb, opt for the inside delivery option. It is not that much more money.
Swing Arm Shock Absorption System - This patented shock absorption system reduces the impact to your ankles, knees, hips and back. It is built with two pivots in the front that absorbed the impact of your stride, while giving you a solid lift off towards the back of the deck. I've jogged on this deck, and it is definitely an improvement over the typical elastomers decks, which initially absorb the shock, but then bounce a portion of the impact.
LCD Console - Although the guts of the 5.45 treadmill are impressive, the LCD display is very basic, and changing the incline and speed requires scrolling up and down. On the other hand, it is very simple to use. You get six exercise programs and nine storable user profiles.
Warranty - As mentioned, the Smooth 5.45 treadmill comes with a lifetime motor warranty. You also get a 3-years parts and 2-year labor warranty. The 3-years parts coverage is above average, while the 2-years labor is exceptional.
Our Review - Smooth Fitness 5.45 Treadmill
With every new version of their entry treadmill, Smooth keeps on giving you a better value. With the Smooth 5.45, they took a proven design and beefed it up.
What makes this a value proposition, is the fact that the 5.45 is one of the most solid and durable machines for under $1,000. Which is not necessarily the case with many treadmills at this price range. For tens years Smooth has sold one of the best models at this price range. They continue their winning track record with the Smooth 5.45 treadmill. That is why it is a "Best Buy" at that price range.
Note: This treadmill is recommend for walkers and light joggers. Runners will want to upgrade.
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