ProForm 6.0 GSX Treadmill Review Size Width: 36.5” The ProForm 6.0 GSX Treadmill is one of many treadmills made by ProForm. This model is pretty much a step above the base model made by ProForm. This model features the Space Saver Design, which allows you to store the treadmill vertically when you are not using it. This feature will come in handy for anyone who might be a little short on room to keep their equipment. Speed/Incline Control Speed: 0 -10 MPH This model features what is called Quick Speed Control, which allows you to change speeds up and down to anything between 0-10 mph instantly with one touch of a button. This allows you to lower your speed when you need a quick break and increase the speed for a quick challenge when you feel the urge. This treadmill also features Power Incline Control, which allows you to electronically control the slope of the treadmill from anything between 0-10%. This allows the user to add the challenge of running uphill, which also adds variety to your workout. This treadmill uses a 19-inch by 50-inch self lubricated treadbelt. ProForm describes it as an “extra-durable, non-slip treadbelt that maintains itself.” The treadbelt features AirTek Impact Absorption, which is said by ProForm to reduce impact on joints by up to 15% compared to running on the road. It runs on a 2.75 THP MachZ Motor (1.75 continuous duty). This is a self-cooling, quiet, drive system. Being quiet and self-cooling usually extends the life of the motor. Display/Console Matrix Console 5” x 7” Display Programs 6 Built-in Workouts:
ProForm wasn't specific as to the details of the programs, but I am going to reasonably assume a few things. First off, the 4 “smart” programs are probably designed to burn fat, which means their designed to keep your heart rate around the 65% capacity range. This is the fat burning range because the body tends to burn fat more than carbs at this intensity. Normally programs like this will be called things such as “Manual”, “Random”, “Hill”, “Interval”, etc. Second, the 2 “heart” programs are almost definitely designed to increase aerobic endurance/capacity. These will be more challenging, designed to keep your heart rate around the 80% capacity range to challenge your aerobic endurance. Durability Maximum User Weight: 300lbs I have my doubts about this particular treadmill holding 300 pounds for any extended periods of time. To hold a 300 pound person, running at a brisk pace, it's difficult to say, whether or not, it will last any length of time - Especially if the incline feature is used. Again, Proform isn't known for it's high standards of durability. However, for the price that it is ($599), a 250 pound person might be able to get away with moderate use of this treadmill. The heavy duty tread belt is supposed to be built to last, although I have my doubts about the durability of the AirTek Impact Absorption feature if this treadmill is put through a lot of work. Heart Rate Monitor Yes I am thrilled to see that there is a Heart Rate Monitor on this model. I would love to see this feature standard on all pieces of cardio equipment. This will help you get the most out of your workouts, so long as you utilize the feature. Warranty and Service Motor: 10 year The warranty on the motor is ok. The parts and labor warranty, on the other hand, shocks me. I don't see how you can warrant a motor for 10 years and the other parts for only 3 months, aka 1/40 th of 10 years. It might not be a big deal, but something gives me a bad feeling about the briefness of the parts and labor warranty. I would purchase an extended version if possible just to be sure. 1 year warranty: $69.95 Now, I have a real hard time with Proform's standard warranty. Their standard warranty is one of the worst, if not, the worst warranty in this particular price range. It's the fact that they would tag this weak warranty on this particular product and than have you pay "extended coverage" for your confidence. I believe this is where Proform makes most of their profit from. By adding an additional 3 year warranty of $119 to the original price, it brings the overall price of the product close to $700. I don't know about you, but as a consumer and exerciser, this makes me very hesitant about the quality of their product. With that being said, if I were buying this treadmill, I would go with the 1 or 2 year warranty, at the max. There is just no way I am going to pay 1/3 of the price of the treadmill for a warranty that should have been solid in the first place.
Proform's component parts are somewhat questionable and they don't have the best reputation for a solid construction process . Also, Proform is not known for smooth customer service, especially when it comes to warranties so, be very careful when deciding what warranty to purchase. Here is Proform's official return policy: “ We give a 30-day trial period on all products. If you are not satisfied for any reason please call 1-866-896-9777 to receive a return authorization number. Put your machine back in the box and take it to your curb to be picked up. We will send a freight carrier to pick up your machine. When your machine has been returned to the warehouse and closed out to your account we will refund the purchase price (price of machine and tax) less to and from shipping charges. If you were not charged for shipping on your initial delivery you will only be charged for the return shipping. All products must be returned in good condition, and with all paperwork, parts and accessories included to insure a full refund. You may be charged a 20% restocking fee if your product doesn't come back in good condition. You can expect a refund in the same form of payment originally used for purchase within 30 days of our receiving your returned product. ” Fair? Compared to similar products in this price range, it seems ok. Price/Cost Effectiveness $579, Free Shipping (at the ProForm.com website) This is an ok price considering all that you are getting with this treadmill. This treadmill offers you all of the basics that you'll need plus a few luxurious extra features. This is a budget treadmill and meant for light use. If you're looking for some features on your treadmill, this may be for you. However, Proform isn't know for it's quality component parts so this treadmill is fine for light to moderate use but questionable at very heavy use. Treadmill Rating I have no major, structural concerns about this treadmill. However, my concerns are the short parts and labor warranty, and the tread belt. You have to remember that this is not going to be a gym quality treadmill. This is a low end, budget treadmill meant for low to moderate use. This treadmill has all the bells and whistles of the high end treadmills, but that's as far as it goes. In all honesty, your probably not going to find the features of a Proform treadmill on any other treadmill. The $500 to $800 dollar range is Proform's territory and something they are masters of. By mass producing cheap treadmills with high end features, they can effectively market their products to a wide ranging audience. If your looking for a treadmill to get started with, this may be something that you may want to look into. That being said, this is a half decent treadmill that you will find in this price range. Grade: C |