Bowflex 5 Series Treadmill Review

This Treadmill has been discontinued please try our Compairson table to find the right treadmill for you

The Bowflex 5 Series Treadmill is an efficient, quality-built and reliable machine with a good selection of programmes to keep most users satisfied.

Coming in at the lower end of the mid-price range machines there is a lot of competition that may offer better value.

However, the ease of use due to the excellent folding mechanism make this a popular choice for those with limited space who need to store the machine away when not in use.

A good sized running deck combined with Bowflex’s with Strike ZoneTM deck suspension make it a comfortable treadmill to use even for the novice runner.

The Bowflex warrant covers the frame for 15 years, the motor for 10 years and all other parts and electronic components for 2 years. Also included is 1 year on site labour.

Best Price

The is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

Review Summary - In Brief

The 5 series is great for home usage due to its versatility and flexibility. It is easy to store and move thanks to Bowflex's SoftDropTM technology and built-in wheels. However, there are some limitations which other models of a similar price do not have. If you can afford another £175 or so you'd get much more with a Bowflex 7 Series Treadmill

Specifications

  • 2.5 horsepower (HP) motor
  • 0 – 18 km/H speed range (0 – 10.9 mph)
  • 0-12% Incline
  • Welded, bent and bolted steel frame
  • 64 mm front and rear roller
  • Fold-up treadmill using soft-drop decline position
  • 4-window LED display with 10 x 21 dot matrix
  • Quick start, 12 programmes
  • 1 heart rate control programme
  • Quick key’s for speed operation
  • 3-speed fan cools you while exercising
  • Large 51 x 152 cm walking/running surface
  • Maximum user capacity weight of 135 kg (300 lbs)
  • Grip and telemetric heart rate monitor
  • Strike ZoneTM deck suspension provides soft landing and firm lift-off
  • 1 ply walking belt

Bowflex 5 Series Treadmill - Console / Display Unit

Bowflex 5 Series Treadmill - User Reviews

The Pros

  • The features most users liked about this treadmill were its folding mechanism, portability and clean looks - a definite plus for those with limited space
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  • The ability to change programmes at a touch of a button and the well-laid out display console are also given the thumbs up
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  • The speed range and incline of up to 12% were felt to be adequate to set a varied and challenging training programme
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  • The large running area made runners feel safe, important for novice runners and those new to treadmill training
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  • The motor was up to the challenge of long training sessions
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  • Although a lightweight model it felt solid, stable and safe even during fast runs
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  • The maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs was also a deal-clincher for the err... larger runners
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The Cons

  • Although the 5 Series comes with a heart monitor many felt having to use the hand grips to check your pulse was a hassle, especially when using one of the heart rate controlled programme. A wireless belt monitor would be a better option
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  • Its top speed is below that of other comparable models
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  • A number of our reviewers felt the machine was noisier than others they had used
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Bowflex 5 Series Treadmill Reviewer Ratings

Power - 7.5
Appearance - 8.5
Running Area - 9
Comfort - 6.5
Reliability - 7
Noise - 4
Ease Of Use - 8
Controls - 7.5
Warranty - 7.5
Value for Money - 7
Best Price

The is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

Also see our Treadmill Comparison Table

Whilst every effort is made to give you accurate information we cannot guarantee the technical specification. Models change on a regular basis and may differ slightly from the above review. We recommend you contact the retailer if you have a question regarding technical data. Please read our Legal Disclaimer

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