92 of 93 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Initial Observations, December 24, 2007
This review is from: Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer (2008 Model, DISCONTINUED) (Sports)
I am providing an initial review of the Sole E35(2008 model). This review covers the delivery, assembly, and initial observations of the machine in use. I feel this is information many people will want ASAP since purchasing this type of merchandise online is often a leap of faith (was for me). For in depth reviews and ratings, I highly recommend treadmilldoctor.com and treadmillsensei.com. I will post a followup review in about 30 days (after hard use of the machine) and may adjust my rating based on continued use of the machine. I am a residential home user.
Delivery
I ordered the machine directly from Sole for the same price as Amazon. I would have ordered from Amazon (I try to order everything from Amazon), but they did not offer an inside delivery option which cost an extra $99.00 from Sole (basic delivery is free). I RECOMMEND THE INSIDE DELIVERY OPTION due to the bulkiness of the machine parts (particularly the flywheel housing)unless you have three people who can help with the unpacking. The inside delivery option, performed by a contracted freight company, includes removal of all parts from freight package and placement inside your house at a location you specify (up to one flight of stairs). The freight company will also remove the packaging material for you unless you want to keep it.
First observations during asasembly
Assembly was easier than expected. I would allow two hours (taking your time). There are basically four steps to assembly. The machine requires assembly of major components to the flywheel and rails and does not require assembly of minor (small) components. All hardware is nicely packaged and tools are included (although I recommend a socket wrench to make life a little easier). The instructions are very simple to follow-just be sure to read them twice since there are minor variations among the screws, bolts, and washers ( compare the parts to the manual sizing chart).
I am impressed with the quality and sturdiness of all parts including bolts, screws, washers, and even tools provided. The welds on the frame are incredible. Each part feels like it belongs in a real gym. The paint (powder coating) on all parts is top notch and the machine did not appear to have so much as a blemish or scratch anywhere (a testament to production and packaging processes). Each part fits nicely with others and there is no "looseness" following assembly. Tolerances appear very tight, making for a demonstrably solid machine and feel. In fact, it is hard to believe this machine is not intended for real gyms (at least small gyms). All electronics worked right out of the box and they include wired and wireless heart rate monitoring.
The only problem I experienced during assembly was the length of the main computer cable. It should have been a little longer to allow for an easier connection during the console mating to the console mast. I am also a little worried the connection may eventually disconnect, requiring me to remove the console and reconnect (a 5 minute job). I may contact Sole and see if they have an extension available.
First observations on use
The machine is as solid as I could have imagined. The machine is rated for 375 lbs and feels it. I have the machine on berber carpeting and their is no instability when in use. However, I would suggest a heavy duty mat (solid-not soft) to ensure stability on carpeting, protect the flywheel from dust, and reduce vibration and noise. The machine is incredibly quiet so much so, I am actually surprised. However, I will have to report back on this point since these machines often become noisier as they break in. The machine is very smooth.
I hope this review helps people in their decision. I know I spent at least 13 solid hours doing research prior to making my decision. My price range was $1,000 to $1,500 when searching for a machine.
JANUARY 26 UPDATE (on continued use)
The machine still performs flawlessly and remains quiet (not silent). Another reviewer noted an unusual amount (comparatively) of noise. Machine appears to be holding up nicely under moderate use. I reiterate that when assembling the machine, lubricate the critical parts (they are obvious). I think the lubrication has a lot to do with noise.
I do agree the display is basic when compare to other brands. However, it provides all data you would ever need including displaying laps. I suspect they will upgrade the display next go around as this complaint is prevalent.
On a final note, I continue to compare this machine to lower end models typically in the sub-799 range. There is a big difference in the machining and design of the product. However, the flywheel appears to be the biggest advantage of the Sole over all lower priced brands. When you stop the workout, you really feel the smoothness and weight (resistance) of the flywheel, just like in a big gym model.
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15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
My baby can sleep when using it, LOVE IT!!, March 21, 2008
This review is from: Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer (2008 Model, DISCONTINUED) (Sports)
I did a lot of research as to what elliptical to buy. I wanted to stay as low as possible but get a good machine. After much research I was going to go with the Schwinn 431 since it has some good reviews. I ran across a buyers review that suggested to not buy an elliptical until you check one out personally. I thought the 18" would be a good choice. I was wrong. I went to a local store and tried the 18" versus the 20" and it was a big difference. I am 5'3" and my husband is 5'10" so I needed one that would work for us both. To me an 18" was too short and my husband felt the same way.
I ended up finding the Sole brand ellipticals to be one of the higher rated in it's price range. I first was going to go with an E25 but after reading some people had the track come off the rail on that model I decided to spend a little more for the E35. It has a wireless heart monitor included which I love.
It took about 90 minutes to put it together. Not hard at all. We used our own tools although it does come with them. We have now had it for almost a month. I love it and I am glad I went with this one. It is the BEST on the market for the PRICE. If you want to spend a lot more then yes you can get a better one. But this one is great for the normal home user. You can get it moving pretty fast with good resistance too.
It is quiet as well. I have a 6 month old and she has fallen asleep on the floor within 5 feet of my elliptical and I can work out on it for a full workout without waking her. She is a light sleeper and will wake up if her sisters are too loud. I enjoy that I can watch her and workout without waking her up. The only thing I would change is a stronger fan. It is also not as big as I had read. I bought a mat that was 78" and it fits exactly on it, but it does not have any extra room left in the length. It is not nearly as bulky as the Reebok machines I had seen. I have it in my living room and it is not an eye sore like other ellipticals could be. Overall it is worth it for the price. This is an excellent machine that I get a lot of use out of. It is heavy duty and will last for a long time.
One note is that I did not buy from amazon due the length of time to receive. I was not patient enough to wait at least 6-8 weeks to receive it. The item was in stock yet would still take 6-8 weeks to receive. I purchase directly from manufacturer which they shipped for free and give a 30 day money back guarantee. I received my elliptical two weeks after ordering.
UPDATE: about ONE YEAR LATER
I still love it. I use up to 4 times a week some weeks. It is still very quiet. My only complaint is since the tracks are exposed with lubricant they can get some dust on them and it will clump up after a while. I completely clean them off and re-lubricate them. I have only had to do this two times. I have covered the tracks with a piece of plastic and a towel to weight it down to stop the dust from hitting the tracks. It may sound odd that I have that much dust but it is mainly noticeable after a workout since the rolling kinda lumps it together. Other than that great product. Love the different programs. I don't think I will be bored with the programs.
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13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best choice for an elliptical trainer !!, February 8, 2008
This review is from: Sole E35 Elliptical Trainer (2008 Model, DISCONTINUED) (Sports)
If you cannot be satisfied with this Sole E-35, I guess you have a very unrealistic expectation for an elliptical trainer.
I'd like to point out that every joint of this trainer has a bearing, so the movements of joints are very smooth and silent. A few weeks ago, I ordered another brand, but I had to return it due to poor manufacturing.
Now I realized the important things for an elliptical are a sturdy frame and joints with bearings. Sole trainers are displayed at Dick's shop. I stongly recommend you go there and check it out.
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