Smooth 6.45 Treadmill Review

Smooth 6.45 treadmillreview The Smooth 6.45 treadmill is an upgrade from their popular 6.25. The Smooth 6.25 has been a solid performer with and excellent service record. Building on a proven technology, they beefed up the 6.45 with a longer running surface, better shock absorption, bigger motor and a sound system on their (M) model.

One of the drawbacks of the previous Smooth 6.25 was the length of the treadbelt. If you are a runner or above average height, you may find the 54" belt to confining. The Smooth 6.45 treadbelt is 60" long, giving you a comfort zone of an additional 6". You are less likely to have that sensation you are about to fall off the end.

Note: As of 7/23/08 the Smooth 6.45 treadmill was selling for $1,599 with shipping. The model with the sound system is priced at $1,699. Go to for the latest prices and deals.

Other Features on the Smooth 6.45

3.0 HP Continuous Duty Motor - At 3.0 HP this motor is sufficient to handle jogging and running. Smooth has always used quality motors, engineered to run efficiently. You'll find that this motor is quieter than most.

Swing Arm Shock Absorption System - This patented shock absorption system reduces the impact to your ankles, knees, hips and back. There are two pivotal arms towards the front designed to absorb the impact of your stride. They are like rocker arms on a car. Meanwhile, there is less cushioning towards the rear of the deck, giving you a solid push-off. This design is an improvement over your typical elastomers decks, which initially absorb the shock, but bounce back a degree of the impact.

Sound System with Input Jack - The speakers may not match the quality of your home system, but they are not bad. I personally do not like jogging with headphones, particularly since I sweat so intensely. You can plug in an iPod, MP3 player, CD player or other audio devices. There is also a separate, enlarged volume control on the console.

Wireless Heart Rate Control - The Smooth 6.45 is equipped with wireless HRC, and a heart rate exercise program. There are those that will only buy a treadmill with HRC. If used properly, it can optimize your workout. Smooth charges extra for the wireless belt, which I feel should be included with the cost of the treadmill.

Console & Display - I find most Smooth treadmills have decent looking consoles. The Smooth 6.45 has four LED windows that monitor your speed, distance, calories, time and pulse simultaneously. There is also a speed profile display showing the intensity of every stage of the workout.

Also included are eight typical workout programs, three user defined programs and nine storable user profiles.

Heavy Overall Weight - The 6.45 is very solid and stable, weighing in at 240 lbs. When it comes to a treadmill, the heavier the better. However, you don't want to have to move this treadmill. The free standard delivery is to the curb, so consider opting for the in-room placement. I've moved a similar sized treadmill and it was a bitch.

Warranty - As mentioned, you get lifetime coverage on the motor. You also get 1-year service and 5-years parts replacement. The 5-years parts coverage is above average.

Our Review - Smooth 6.45 Treadmill

If you are a jogger or runner, and your budget is limited to under $2,000, the Smooth 6.45 treadmill is a worthy contender. The motor, the treadbelt length, and the shock absorption accommodates the rigors of running.

Normally I would be concerned about the fact this is a fairly new treadmill, and often there can be some initial bugs. However, I inquired with the company and learn the 6.45 is built on the same frame and use many of the same electronics as the 6.25. In fact, the console is exactly the same on both models. The Smooth 6.25 has been out for several years and has an excellent service record.

Furthermore, I previously owned a Smooth 9.17 treadmill and was quite satisfied with the performance and the workmanship.

One note, although I rate the Smooth 6.45 as a jogging and running machine, I suggest upgrading if you are a serious runner training for marathons. The 6.45 is a durable machine, but it is not commercial quality for the home. Plan on spending in excess of $2,500 for that kind of quality.

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