The Sole E25 Elliptical Trainer is considered an "entry-level" elliptical trainer. Retailing at approximately $1200 (seen as well as $999 on sale) and sometimes including free shipping, it is about mid-level price compared to other trainers on the market.

Description

The Sole E25 Elliptical Trainer gives users a total body workout in the comfort of their own homes. It has an EC8 magnetic resistance drive system, which can go both forwards and backwards. It has a 19-pound flywheel and a high gear ratio for smooth operation and plenty of resistance at its maximum. The electronic console has a blue backlight LCD display. The machine also has a water bottle holder and a built-in cooling fan.

The handles are stationary, with built-in pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring and a chest strap if you want to go wireless. The foot pedals are oversized for comfort. The pedals themselves have a two-degree inward slope to reduce knee and ankle stress. The rails themselves are heavy-duty, with four rear wheels for a smooth and stable feel and reduced side-to-side foot pedal motion. It also comes with polls so that you can work your upper body as well as your lower body.

Pros

The machine itself is packed with features, such as:

· A 20 inch stride

The longer stride length lets you work your muscles fully and burn more calories. This is also beneficial if you happen to be taller or have long legs compared to average users.

· Properly aligned footpads, with a two-degree inward angle

Properly aligned footpads mean that your body itself stays in alignment more easily, to reduce injury and unnecessary fatigue. This specifically protects your back, knees and ankles from stress and strain, which could lead to further injury.

· Poles, so that you can work your upper body as you work out your lower body

This helps you increase calorie burning and get a total body workout. The handles are custom molded and give you a more comfortable feel.

· An easy-to-read console

The display makes it easy to keep track of your progress and pulse.

· Cooling fan

· An eddy current brake system for smooth stoppage

· 16 levels of resistance

The many levels of resistance means that everyone, from beginner to advanced athlete, can use this elliptical trainer without difficulty and still be challenged.

· 19-pound flywheel

In general, this is a good solid workout machine for most users.

Cons

· Some features that are included on other higher great ellipticals are not included on the E25 Trainer and really should be. These include heart rate control, foam cushioning and user programs.

· Its weight capacity is relatively low, with a maximum user weight of 325 pounds.

· It is not as stable as some of the other high-end ellipticals.

· Its warranty leaves something to be desired, given its price.

· The frame is under warranty for a lifetime, with electronics and parts under warranty for three years and labor under warranty for one year.

In sum, this is a good solid workout machine for most users, but you may want to consider a warranty upgrade or an upgrade to the next level of this trainer, the E35; this retails for approximately $200 more than the E25 does.