Smooth 9.45ST Treadmill Review

Smooth released the 9.45ST last fall, and I had a chance to go to the corporate offices in December 07 and check it out. The 9.45 replaces their 9.25X treadmill, which was a solid machine, with an excellent service record.

The 9.45 ST takes the best of the 9.25X and adds several attractive features.

What you get with the Smooth 9.45 ST…

Lifetime Warranty - That's right, you get parts, frame and motor coverage for the life of the machine. I have not read the warranty, so I can't say there are exceptions, like you get with Landice, but the lifetime warranty says something about the quality and the durability of this machine. The labor warranty is for one year.

Note: As of 8/5/08 the Smooth 9.45 ST was selling for $2,499, with shipping. Go to www.SmoothFitness.com for the latest price.

Swing Arm Cushioning - Smooth has some of the best shock absorption decks in the industry. The swing arm cushioning is designed to absorb the shock when you impact the deck towards the front, and then give you a solid lift off from the rear.

Hydra-Suspension System - On the 9.45 ST you not only get good impact reduction, but you can also adjust the cushioning. Some like a harder surface, some like it soft. Now you can adjust accordingly.

Motion Control - Some may find this features gimmicky - I like it. You can control the speed of the treadmill by waving your hands over sensors in the sidebars. Wave with your right hand and you speed up, wave with the left and you slow down. This is a great option for runners because you can speed up or slow down with out having to break your stride and lean forward over the console.

3.0 Continuous Duty Motor - The power of this motor should handle runners and multiple users. You will find this motor is quite and does not strain at high speeds or steep inclines.

20" x 60" Running Belt - The belt is long enough to accommodate runners and taller individuals. I find running, and I mean not jogging, can be discomforting on a 54" belt. You feel like you are falling off the end.

400 Lb. Unit Weight - The weight is evidence on how heavy duty this machine is. You definitely want to get the in-door delivery option.

Our Review - Smooth 9.45 ST Treadmill

When selling for $2,500, with shipping, the 9.45 ST is a strong contender. It is a solid machine, and also durable. It has a good service record. It also has a nice selection of features. And let's not forget about the lifetime warranty.

Here is a interesting side note: When I went to their headquarters I met with the head of their customer service. I asked, what has been the most common service issues? He said, "We get few service calls, most are just checking to see when their machine will be delivered. Our treadmill just hold up well". The durability is what makes a Smooth treadmill appealing, and why they can offer the lifetime warranty on the 9.45 ST.

Another recommendation is the Sole S77. It is about $600 cheaper and comes with a 3.5 HP motor and 60". Does not have a lifetime warranty on parts. Comes with lifetime coverage on the motor, 5-years on parts and a generous 2-year labor warranty.

For further details on the 9.45 ST got to SmoothFitness.com.

Also check out the Smooth 9.45TV treadmill, it is the Smooth 9.45STwith a 15" LCD Flat Screen TV.