The Smooth Fitness 5.25 treadmill is an upgraded version of the company's 5.15 model that delivers much better performance than its affordable price might suggest. The 20-inch wide running belt is accompanied by excellent cushioning for a treadmill in this price range; the unit's Swing Arm suspension system does a great job at reducing the impact on knee, ankle and hip joints as you walk or run. The length of the running surface is 53 inches, which is not ideal for very tall users with extra long strides; the relatively short length does, however, help to make the 5.25 more compact. The 2.5-horsepower motor offers a variable speed from 0.5 to 10 mph. Smooth Fitness also provides an impressive lifetime warranties on the 5.25's motor and frame.
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One year of in-home service from the manufacturer is included in the purchase price of the 5.25, along with a 3-year warranty on parts; for a treadmill that is priced this low, this is an extremely strong warranty. The 5.25 is not perfect, of course; while folding this unit is a breeze, the treadmill is not the easiest to move on carpet, so we wouldn't recommend storing it in one room and moving it to another for use.

We find that this treadmill delivers a smooth, stable workout, even when operating at maximum speed; the console readout is not the easiest to see when you're running, though, and the six preset programs don't offer as much variety as many higher-end models. We were also frustrated that the console was unable to display time and distance simultaneously. You won't find a host of extra features on the Smooth 5.25; there is no built-in cooling fan or integrated iPod port. Instead, the Smooth 5.25 promises years of rewarding workouts for an affordable price.


Pros: Impressive lifetime warranty on frame and motor, 20-inch-wide belt, excellent suspension and cushioning, affordable price
Cons: Difficult to move, 275-pound user weight limit

Warranty
Lifetime, frame and motor; 3 years, parts; 1 year, labor (with in-home service)