Sole
E55 Elliptical Trainer Review
"Best Warranty
Available"
When
I recently tested the Sole E55 Elliptical Trainer, I was very impressed with the
overall performance. Once I started up the machine I immediately could tell that
this was a well constructed crosstrainer, equipped with quality components.
I was further impressed with the 5-year parts and 2-year labor warranty.
The
Sole E55 weighs in at nearly 200 lbs. The good news is it is sturdy and solid.
The bad news is don't plan on easily moving it around, particularly from one floor
to another. Much of the weight is the heavy flywheel, which weighs a hefty 27
lbs. When combined with the eddy current brake system, you get a very smooth and
fluid motion. The overall quality is evident when you stop the Sole E55 and it
gradually slows down.
Note: As of 8/6/08 the Sole E55 was selling for $1,499 with shipping. Go to
www.SoleEllipticals.com for the latest price. Optional inside delivery available, at 200 lbs. a consideration.
Extra Note: As of 8/12/08 you can get the Sole E55 for $1,425 with shipping at
Amazon.com
. Although they do not offer optional inside delivery.
Besides
the smooth elliptical motion, I like the 20" stride length. Which is a perfect stride length for average to above average height individuals. It just feels more natural.
When you
get on an elliptical with a smaller stride length you feel constrained and the
motion is bouncy. To get the most reward out of your workout you want a comfortable
stride. When it comes to the stride, the Sole E55 feels like a Precor elliptical.
To further add to the comfort, the foot pedals are adjustable.
Another important
feature on the Sole E55 is the dual wheels that ride on a beveled rail. This provides for a smooth
and stable feel. Many elliptical trainers at this price range use single
wheels per rail. The affect on the stability is evident. With the two wheel design
you have no side-to-side motion.
As we mentioned in the Sole Elliptical
Trainer Review, we have seen better layout and displays on elliptical consoles,
but it is adequate. And when you factor all the other excellent features, it hardly
distracts from the overall value.
Other features worth noting are wireless heart rate control, speakers (With plug-in for MP3 and iPod players.) and built-in fan. It is also equipped with adjustable articulating foot pedals. They are designed to further reduce stress and strain to your feet.
Our Review - Sole E55 Elliptical Trainer
When purchasing an elliptical trainer you want a machine that is built to last, feels sturdy, and has an exacting elliptical motion.
And you want those features without having to take out a second mortgage.
If you spend less than $1,000 you are buying a machine that compromises on the quality, and generally cannot withstand strenuous use. In contrast, you do not need
a commercial grade elliptical to get a quality machine. The E55 elliptical
is a heavy-duty crosstrainer without the heavy-duty price.
Are there better
elliptical trainers? Of course. Precor and the Life Fitness ellipticals are impressive machines, but they cost at least a couple of thousand more than a Sole.
The Sole
E55 is one of the best machines in the $1,500 price range. It is a value proposition
when you factor the features, the quality, and the warranty.
The Sole E55 elliptical
trainer come with the best warranty available - period. In comparison, a pricey Life Fitness elliptical only offers a 3 year parts and 1 year labor
warranty. Sole also has a solid reputation for standing behind their products.
I often get feedback about the customer service of various fitness equipment companies,
and I have never received a complaint about this model.
Sole
products are SUPERIOR!