Bowflex Series 3 Treadmill (Discontinued)

• Reviewed On: December 01, 2011

• Reviewed By: David Hu

MSRP: $989, Price As Reviewed: $989, Model Year: 2007

Where To Buy : Visit Our Best Buy Section

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We have discontinued our coverage of this model as of December 1st, 2011. Please visit our Best Buy Section or visit our home page to see our latest reviews.

Summary of What The Experts Say

Experts like the look of the Bowflex Series 3 treadmill, thinks the warranty is acceptable given its price, and likes the fact that it weighs a good chunk (heavier generally means a sturdier feel.) Experts didn't really like the mid sized belt and are split on how good the deck feels. Experts also feel the motor is weaker than it needed to be. Overall, opinions ranged from lukewarm to slightly cold.

Summary of What The Users Say

Users of the Bowflex Series 3 treadmill are generally satisfied giving it at least a 4 out of 5 star rating. Among the major complaints are delivery issues (curb side, not inside house), belt was a little short and the heart rate sensor taking too long to give a reading. Among the praises received, the Bowflex was cited as quick and easy to assemble (by half the reviewers), it was heavy, it felt good jogging on with little vibrations and a comfortable deck, some have even said that the machine feels as good as ones they've used in a fitness center.

What You Should Do

This is a tricky one. If you've seen a Bowflex infomercial, you might have developed very positive associations with the Bowflex brand. However, if you were to objectively analyze the reviews left by users and experts, the Bowflex really isn't as perfect as its infomercials have made it out to seem.

Users are generally very positive about the machine but all the reviews were written from a standpoint of limited use and limited strain on the machine. Not one of the user reviewers have used it for a heavy workout with the hardest exercising user only jogging (not even running). From this, you should be skeptical of how it would hold up in the long term. Experts have wondered the above point as well and actually discovered the treadmill falling apart even under moderate use.

With seemingly contradictory experience from users and experts, we say you should be a bit more cautious and not jump at anything that has the Bowflex label attached to it. Thus, we’re going to offer the following verdict.

Verdict: For walking, the treadmill is fine in terms of durability and feel. For jogging or running and especially if you intend to do it regularly, you might encounter durability problems. Due to these durability concerns, you are better off with a different model from a different brand if you intend to use it for anything more than regular walking.

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