Bowflex Treadclimber TC3000 Cardio Machine (Discontinued)

• Reviewed On: December 01, 2011

• Reviewed By: David Hu

MSRP: $1699, Price As Reviewed: $1699, Model Year: 2007

Where To Buy : See 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

One expert said this is the best treadclimber under $2000. Another expert said that if you're thinking of getting the TC1000, you might as well spend a little bit more on the Bowflex Treadclimber TC3000. At first glance, the above seems to be an endorsement but you must take what's being said into context.

It's the best treadclimber under $2000 but only Bowflex out of all the companies out there, sells the treadclimbers. If you read the TC1000 Treadclimber review on this site, you would know how poorly it rated. So when experts are saying this is the best treadclimber under $2000, that’s not saying much as the TC1000 is the only other model out there. Seeing how poorly the TC1000, what the experts are really saying is that you might as well spend a little extra and get the TC3000 that’s less prone to problems.

Experts generally recommend you get something like a treadmill or elliptical instead which has a proven track record in providing an effective cardio exercise.

Summary of What The Users Say

This is a confusing one. Even though the reviews were generally poor for the TC1000, users of the TC3000 are (with a few exceptions) pretty fanatical about the product even after parts start breaking. Users have also noted the product is pretty safe to exercise on once you get used to the motion. Users have cautioned against trying to change the resistance or wipe your sweat during the workout as that could lead to the user tripping. Some have made note of the fact that the Bowflex Treadclimber TC3000 is not meant for the advanced athlete and is more suited for beginners.

We should note how a few users commented on the machine as being not worth the money paid for. Despite all these problems and warnings, users have rated the treadclimber 4 out of 5 on average. Perhaps they are more impressed with the results they are getting from exercising than the actual architecture and durability of the machine.

What You Should Do

If you really have to get a treadclimber, the TC3000 is not too bad of a choice. Experts are not wild about the machine but with the improved warranty over the TC1000 and upgrades in the console and electronics department, the Treadclimber TC3000 by Bowflex is the better choice of the two. Like mentioned earlier, users seem to be more fanatical about the results they are getting than really objectively analyzing whether this is a good piece of equipment that will last a long time. But if the machine gets the user to adopt a regular exercise program because of its easy motion, then even if the machine costs a premium, it may be money well spent. [Close Reviews]

Verdict: Note that if you buy this machine, you can expect difficult assembly, high possibility of parts breaking (with Bowflex/Nautilus' sub standard customer service as users have noted) and a type of machine with a short and unproven history. For advanced or even moderately advanced athletes, get a treadmill or elliptical. If you are a beginner exercise and you need to get rid of the Treadclimber itch, the TC3000 is probably the best choice.

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