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 Although ProForm offers some of the best value for elliptical trainers, there comes a price point where you need to walk away. The ProForm ErgoStrider 3.0 is a perfect example. It is priced usually around $350 with shipping. When you subtract the cost of shipping and factor in a reasonable profit for the company, there is not much left to put into the machine itself. So you end up with a crosstrainer that is built with cheap components and inherently is not very durable.
Note: As of 6/8/11, the ProForm ErgoStrider elliptical trainer was no longer available. Go to the ProForm Elliptical Trainer Reviews for the latest models.
ProForm ErgoStrider 3.0 Elliptical Trainer Features...
14" Elliptical Stride - This is an extremely short stride length. I'm 5'8" and have an elliptical with a 20" stride length, which for me feels comfortable and natural. At 14" you get a very choppy and circular motion, rather than an elongated elliptical motion. For an average height individual you will find that this short stride length puts a strain on your knees.
118 lbs. Unit Weight - With an elliptical trainer you have the dual upper and lower body motion. This means machine stability is a very important factor. The overall weight plays an important part in stabilizing the machine. At 118 lbs., the ErgoStrider 3.0 is very lightweight, and consequently it will tend to rock when used aggressively or by overweight individuals. It's best if you don't weigh more than the machine.
Flywheel - They do not list the weight of the flywheel, but you can assume if the elliptical is lightweight, so is the flywheel. The flywheel plays an important part in giving a smooth and natural motion. You'll find on higher priced ellipticals it takes some effort to get the motion going and when you stop the elliptical gradually stops. Sort of like pedaling a bike.
Warranty - The feature that speaks volumes to the quality of the ProForm ErgoStrider 3.0 is the warranty coverage. You do get a 5-year warranty on the frame, which seldom breaks, but you only get 90 days parts and labor. This suggests the company is not very confident that the ErgoStrider will last. However, the majority of people will probably get years of problem free use. You'll just have an increased chance for service issues than with a higher priced elliptical.
Our Review - ProForm ErgoStrider 3.0 Elliptical Trainer
From my perspective there is only one reason you would want to purchase the ErgoStrider 3.0 - the price. At $350 if your intentions didn't follow through with action, you are not out a lot of money. I like to set a threshold price of a minimum of $600 for an elliptical trainer. You'll get a more stable and durable machine. Still not great quality, but adequate to get back into shape and lose weight.
Customer Review
The portion of the machine that was pre-assembled had a sheered off bolt upon set-up, which required getting further into the workings then was intended, and replacing the bolt with a new one. It is clear that this particular piece is under a lot of pressure, and the quality of the hardware within the machine isn't good enough to constantly support a user of around 215 lbs or more without consistent and frequent repairs. Even in it's best shape, it is a little clunky and noisy.
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