TTR Review

More and more in today’s economy price tends to be a large consideration when purchasing large ticket items like a treadmill. Hence treadmills in the $1000 and under category are selling extremely well.

A good example of a treadmill in this lower price tier is the ProForm 785E treadmill. At first glance—as with many Proform models—the 785E is good looking and comes equipped with scads of funky electronics.

Upon further inspection, the 785E falls short in some key performance categories.

The first thing we noticed was the jerky startup motion. This is not only an uncomfortable way to begin your workout, it’s also dangerous if you’re not expecting it.

Once we got going, something really odd happened. At slow speeds (walking) the belt slowed to almost a stop under each step, then ramped up again when no pressure was on the belt. The problem went away at higher speeds, but still made us uneasy about the overall quality of this machine.

One thing we did enjoy about this machine was the shock absorption system. The deck provides a little more cushion than other machines in this price range and it makes running on the 785E comfortable and less tiring.

Other features we liked include the built-in heart rate monitor, iFIT™ capability, one-touch speed and incline control and an iPod input that allows you to play music through integrated speakers in the console.

The 785E lists a user weight capacity of 325-lbs., but we’d suggest a limit of around 250-lbs seeing as our 180-lb tester nearly stopped the belt at a walk.

We’ve also heard about above average repair claims on this model ranging from the motherboard in the console to the treadmill deck itself. So make sure you know how to get it serviced. Also the warranty on the motor and frame is lifetime, but only a year on parts and labor for everything else.

TTR Recommendation

The ProForm 785E treadmill. we tested was priced at $899. For a treadmill at the higher end of the $1000 and under category we felt like it should’ve been a bit higher quality. Yes, this treadmill has plenty of creature comforts that are fun and unique, but at the end of the day, you can probably get a higher quality treadmill that’ll last longer and perform better, for the same price or less.