Horizon
Fitness E95 Elliptical Trainer Review
When
you consider the Horizon E95 elliptical trainer the one thing you need to keep
in mind is the price. You can get one at Dick's Sporting for only $600, that is
cheap. For the price, you can not be too critical as to what you get.
I
will say, in testing the Horizon E95 I found it relatively quiet, which is a good
indication of the mechanics. Of course, with any elliptical trainer in this price
range you will find that it is not very sturdy and stable. One problem I have
encountered with a number of Horizon ellipticals is that the handlebars are loose.
I understand they are put through a fair amount of abuse when they sit on the
floor of a large sporting goods chain, but the majority of the models I have been
on had handlebars were loose.
The other issue I have with many of Horizon's
bargain elliptical trainers is the 14" stride. The stride is just too
short for an average height individual. I'm 5'8" and I find the 14"
stride to be restrictive. The elliptical motion is short and choppy. It is not
so much elliptical as circular. A plus is you get pivoting pedals that angle with
your elliptical stride.
The
console and display is not all that impressive, but once again you are only paying
$600. It has a 3 window LCD console. The main window monitors your progress.
The
E95 comes with a reasonable warranty, considering the price. You get 7-year
coverage on the brake, which seldom brakes down (No pun intended). You also get
1-year parts and labor.
Other features include 10 resistance levels, 4
pre-set programs and handgrip heart rate monitor. To get your heart rate you must
hold on to the stationary handlebars.
Fitness Source Review
- Horizon E95
Should you purchase a Horizon E95 elliptical trainer?
If you read my other reviews you notice that I encourage people to get a machine
that is built to last and provide a pleasurable exercise experience. In the sub-$1,000
price range, that is a stretch. When you buy a cheap elliptical trainer there
is usually some type of compromise.
I realize not everyone can afford a
$1,500+ machine. In the sub-$1,000 market Horizon does offer some of the better
value, and since they back their elliptical with a 1-year parts and labor warranty,
if you do run into any problems the repair is on them.
I highly recommend
you try out any Horizon elliptical before you make a purchase. Make sure you feel
comfortable with the 14" stride. I don't.
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