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Treadmills are stepping up in the world with options like built-in TVs and fans. But defects in some of the ones we tested show that quality control remains an issue.
The 18 models cost $1,000 to $3,500, a large enough outlay to make an in-store tryout essential. Two models, the folding Bowflex 7-Series ($1,500) and the nonfolding Vision Fitness T9200 Simple ($1,300) are CR Best Buys.
High prices notwithstanding, manufacturing defects continue to show up:
* The nonfolding True PS300 did not run at all when we got it. The problem turned out to be a faulty circuit board. Once the board was replaced (under warranty), the True worked properly.
* The folding Horizon Fitness Elite CST4.6 deck was damaged during our durability testing, designed to simulate a year's worth of regular use. A second sample also showed damage during testing.
Even if a faulty treadmill is fixed under warranty, any repair--especially one needed right out of the box--is a hassle.
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