The best way I can review the Horizon EX66 elliptical trainer is to compare it to another popular model that is similarly priced - the Schwinn 430. Actually, the Schwinn 430 is usually selling for $100 less.
The Horizon EX66 sells for around $699, which puts it in the category of being a budget elliptical. At this price range, you need to manage your expectations. You are not getting a commercial quality machine. It is best designed for moderate use, and I would put the weight limit at approximately 220 lbs.
What I liked least about the Horizon EX66 is the stability. This is a front drive elliptical, with the pedals running on rails in the rear. You will find on many of the budget models you will have a single wheel per pedal running in a grove in the rail. This is the design on the Horizon EX66. You will notice with the elliptical stride there tends to be a slight left to right shifting. The Schwinn 430 has a concave wheel that runs over a hump on the railing. I find this reduces left to right shifting.
In general, I found the Horizon EX66 was not that solid. When I was on top of the machine I shock it, and you could feel the elliptical wobble. This can be contributed to several reasons.
- Small, compact footprint
- Relatively lightweight
- Overall, budget design and engineering
The Horizon EX66 comes with an 18" elliptical stride. I'm 5'8" and I found it just barely comfortable. I tend to prefer a 20" stride, although not all stride lengths are the same with different brands. I would say the comfort zone on the 18" stride on the Schwinn 430 was similar.
The one feature where the Horizon exceeds the Schwinn is the warranty. The Horizon comes with a 1-year labor warranty, while the 430 has only 90-days. However, the 430 comes with 2-years parts, while the Horizon has only 1-year coverage. Regardless, I would probably purchase an extended warranty on either model.
Our Review - Horizon EX66
Overall, I would have to go with the Schwinn 430 over the Horizon EX66, and I may not be the only one that came to that conclusion. If you go to Amazon.com, you will find the Schwinn has over 140 reviews, while the EX66 has one. Some of the popularity of the 430 can be attributed to the "Best Buy" rating from Consumer Reports.
However, I want to reemphasize that both these ellipticals are budget machines. If you are looking for a heavy-duty elliptical trainer, you need to consider spending in excess of $1,500.