Diamondback Elliptical Trainer Reviews

I recently checked out the line-up of Diamondback elliptical trainers at ProSource in Raleigh. In addition, I spent about an hour discussing the pros and cons of their machines with Dan Young, their sales expert.

Diamondback is best known for their exercise bikes, which are very popular and found at numerous sporting goods stores. However, their ellipticals have gotten some serious exposure after the Diamondback 1260Ef received a top rating from a popular consumer magazine.

What makes Diamondback ellipticals unique is they come in both front and rear drive models. When you think about it, it makes sense. The rear and front drives have different feels, with different appeals. Some like the free-floating feel of the rear drive, while others prefer the front leaning motion of the front drives.

Diamondback 1190Er Rear Drive Elliptical

The rear drive Diamondback ellipticals have a 21" stride. This is longer than your average ellipticals. I felt it gave it a nice smooth stride, and was comfortable for my height. I would imagine it would also satisfy taller users.

The foot pedals angle with the motion, reducing the possibility of numbness. Each comes with wireless heart rate control. The main difference is the Diamondback 1260 has:

• Upgraded console and display.
• Better selection of programs, including customizable programs.
• Adjustable handlebars - you can adjust the handlebars forward and backwards. Making it more comfortable for different size users.
• No need to plug-in, there is an on-board alternator

Diamondback 1260Ef Front Drive Elliptical

The front drive on the Diamondback 1260Ef design is similar to an Octane, but considerably less money. Moreover, unlike a Sole elliptical, the pedal sits on a wheel at the front of the pedal, rather than on a rear rail. The 1260 has a 19" stride. I thought the stride was more circular on the front drive models, but Dan felt the rear drive felt more circular.

What makes the Diamondback 1260Ef stand out is the ability to adjust the elevations, similar to adjusting the incline of a treadmill. There are only a couple of other high-end ellipticals that have this feature - Precor and Octane. Both cost at least a $1,000 more than the 1260Ef.

The advantage to adjusting the elevation is the ability to isolate and workout different parts of your leg muscles.

It should be noted that the 1260Ef and 1190Er come with an optional light commercial warranties. That says something about their durability.

Our Review - Diamondback Elliptical Trainers

In general, we found the Diamondback ellipticals to all have a smooth elliptical motion. The ellipticals were relatively quiet. I really liked the adjusting elevation feature of the Diamondback 1260. That is a sweet option.

Diamondback has been building ellipticals for the last 9 years. Their models are strong contenders in $1,500-$2,000 price range.

Overall, Diamondback ellipticals are a solid value. You can find them at local fitness equipment specialty stores or at Amazon.com

See Diamondback 1260Ef Elliptical Trainer Review