Precor EFX 576i Elliptical

Pros

Treadmills411 Editor Comments

21.2" TO 24.7 Adjustable stride

Just like the EFX 546i, you have the pleasure of choosing the right stride length that'll be comfortable for you. The EFX 576i can be set between 21.2" and 24.7" making it possible for multiple users of different stature to select their corresponding stride lengths. A single user can also benefit from this adjustable stride to train different muscles groups. You focus on different muscle groups depending on how long or short your strides are.

13 to 40 degrees adjustable incline

In combination with this model's 20 resistance levels, you'll further add intensity to your workouts with the EFX 576i's incline feature that goes up to 40 degrees. This angle is among the steepest we've seen offered by any manufacturer.

Comes with a fitness test

Among the features offered by this machine is a fitness test so you can assess your progress from Day 1 of your training. Knowing that you're on the right track would further encourage you to do better while on the other hand, you can make the necessary adjustments when you feel you're not hitting your goals.

Comes with light commercial warranty and 10 years on parts for residential use.

The EFX 576i comes with a light commercial warranty. More than saying you can use this for small gyms like in a hotel or condominiums, this warranty is a reassurance this machine is built to last and can handle multiple users for extended periods of time.

Cons

Treadmills411 Editor Comments

$1000 for 4 programs

Although the EFX 576i now comes with 14 programs that are already in the average range for high end ellipticals, it can hardly justify its $1000 price increase from the lower model EFX 546i that offers only 10. Judging from today's trend in technological advancements, workout programs won't cost manufacturers that much to produce.

Poor labor warranty

Even with its $7295 price tag, the 1-year labor warranty is definitely a turnoff. We've seen several sub-$1000 ellipticals offer up to 2 years labor warranty. This goes to show that manufacturers can provide a longer warranty on labor even without its expensive price tag. We're hoping Precor consider extending its labor warranty since this aspect is among that factors that's pulling it down in the rankings.

No fans, no sound system, no reverse stride, and no free chest strap

For lower end ellipticals, a $1000 price upgrade is a leap in features particularly with the machine's bells and whistles category. It's so disappointing that the EFX 574i is among the most expensive ellipticals we've seen yet it lacks features that will give comfort and entertainment to its users. This model doesn't have cooling fans, no sound system, doesn't allow you to pedal backwards, and it also doesn't include a wireless chest strap heart rate monitor. These features we mentioned (although not all of them) are usually found in many less expensive machines.

No enhancements on foot pedals and handlebar grips

This elliptical promotes their trademark EFX motion that claims to provide a more natural stride movement that simulates natural walking but it lacks other enhancements expected for high-end ellipticals. We're expecting it to come with an adjustable angle or cushioning to give you a more comfortable workout experience. When you come to think of it, for the whole time you're on this elliptical, your feet never leave the pedals so it's just but right to put enhancements on these. Same goes with the handlebar grips that come without cushioning or moldings.