Sole treadmills have been used in major hotels like Hilton & Omni for years and have recently become available to the home market.
With a high torque 3.0 HP motor, extra long 60" running deck, Custom Flex cushioning, built in speakers for your iPod/mp3 and health club console, it continues to outshine the competition at this price point.
Is the S73 treadmill a good value for you? Here's a quick review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1699.99
Motor: 3.0 HP
Speed: 0.5-12 MPH
Incline: 0-15%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: No
Cooling Fans: 2
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Hand Grip Pulse Monitor
(+ Free Wireless Chest Strap included)
User Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame, Motor and Deck, 5 Years on Electronics/Belt/Rollers, 2 Years on Labor
Strengths:
1) 3.0 HP Ultra High Torque Motor - This is a one of the highest motor powers at this price point. The motor uses a large diameter, balanced flywheel which causes it to run cooler with less amp draw. This extends the life of the motor and gives a much more stable feel.
2) Cushion Flex Reduces Impact By 40% - Good cushioning is crucial to protect your knees, back, hips and ankles.
Cushion Flex is one of the best cushioning systems on the market and has been shown in a university study to reduce impact by 40% compared to running on asphalt.
3) Whisper Deck with Lifetime Warranty - Whisper decks are one step up from the standard Phenolic coating found on most home treadmills. It helps to make the treadmill run more smoothly and quietly.
Plus, Sole offers a Lifetime Warranty on the deck. No need to flip your treadmill deck, if you wear it out, Sole will replace it - free.
4) iPod/Mp3 Port with Built In Speakers - You can plug in your iPod or mp3 and listen to your favorite music through the built in speakers. There's also a headphone jack if you prefer, which many other treadmills don't offer.
5) Best Warranty On The Market - The Sole S73 comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame, deck and motor. Electronics, belt and rollers are covered for 5 years and labor is covered for 2 years. This is one of the longest warranties on the market and gives you an idea of the quality of construction.
Of special note is the 2 years on service. With other brands, you usually only get 1 year on service. So this can save you a lot of money
6) Speed & Incline Controls on the Handrails - This isn't an essential feature, but it's still nice to have. Instead of leaning forward - possibly too close to the running hood or throwing off your stride - you just press the speed and incline buttons at your side on the handrails.
Weaknesses:
Although this isn't really a weakness, the S73 does not fold up. If you want a similar treadmill that folds, with the same bells and whistles as the S73, you might want to see the Sole F83.
Overall Conclusion: Highly Recommended
Sole makes their treadmills with a higher grade of construction than most other brands and you can see that in the Sole S73 treadmill. With a strong ultra high torque motor, excellent cushioning, extra long 60" belt, club-like scrolling console and extra long warranty, the S73 is a top contender in this price range.
To top it off the new 2009 models come with built in speakers for your mp3 player, built in workout fans and speed/incline controls on the handrails.
The one thing people may not like is that the S73 does not fold up (see the Sole F series for that). Overall though it's a great value if you're looking for a commercial grade treadmill that will hold up over the long run.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can save money on store markup by buying the Sole S73 treadmill directly from the Manufacturer. They're also currently offering Free Shipping and you save on sales tax which will save you a few hundred dollars.
