Smooth
CE 2.1 Elliptical Trainer Review
Best Buy - Mid-Range
The
Smooth CE 2.1 elliptical trainer is their entry level model. When selling in the
$1,300 price range it is a solid value. It is one of the most durable and solid
machines at this price range.
The
frame, brake system and the flywheel are exactly the same as the higher priced
Smooth CE 3.2. Both have a heavy-duty flywheel combined with the Electromagnetic
Braking System. These features contribute to a very smooth and fluid elliptical
motion, which is the most important function of an elliptical trainer.
How
do you tell when you have a superior engineered machine? It is obvious when you
stop your exercise and the flywheel gradually slows down. You'll find other models
in this price range tend to have an erractic motion, that jerks and grabs. A smoother elliptical motion gives you a better exercise experience.
Note: As of 9/10/08, the Smooth CE 2.1 was selling for $1,499 with shipping. I was contacted by Smooth and they have a special where if you use this coupon - CE21 - you will get $300 off. Go to SmoothFitness.com
for the latest price.
The
CE 2.1 includes pivotal foot pedals. One of the outstanding benefits of an elliptical
trainer is the reduced impact on your joints. With pivotal foot pedals you further
reduce the strain by allowing your feet to pivot with the elliptical motion. The
entire base of your foot tends to always be aligned with the pedal.
The
machine weighs in at a heavy 175 lbs, giving it a very solid and stable feel.
It also has a 76" length, which further contributes to the stability. You
can really notice the difference from a lighter weight model.
The
Smooth CE 2.1 elliptical comes with heart rate monitoring sensors on the handgrips,
but does not have wireless HRC. The CE 2.1 does have a heart rate control program,
that is monitored through the hand sensors. Locating the sensors on the upper
arm grips is an innovative idea found on only one other brand.You
get the benefits of heart rate control without having the wireless strap.
Most
elliptical trainers have the sensors in stationary hand grips in front of the
console. In order to monitor your heart rate you have to discontinue the upper
body workout. How can you get a true heart rate read-out without the upper body
exercise.
I
personally never use heart rate control. I prefer to control my workout manually.
That doesn't mean there are not benefits from HRC.
If you are uncertain about the benefits of heart rate control, check out the article
on Heart Rate Control.
Wireless heart rate control is available on the CE 3.2
The
CE 2.1 has the less expense LCD display, in comparison to the dot matrix LED display
on the 3.2. The CE 2.1 does has 9 challenging programs, including an endurance,
heart rate control and interval program. Interval training is the hot new training
exercise. According to Smooth:
Fitness
Source Smooth CE 2.1 Review
The
Smooth CE 2.1 elliptical trainer is an excellent value if it is on sale for $1,299
(The price should include shipping.). It is one of the best buys at that price
range, especially when you factor in the 3-year parts and lifetime brake system
warranty.
In addition to a quality elliptical machine, Smooth Fitness has an excellent
reputation for customer service. The company sells direct and is responsible for
all repairs. You'll be hard press to find a better machine in this price range.
For more information go to www.SmoothFitness.com
Customer Reviews:
My experience with CE 2.1. Only had it a week, 8/22/08, but appears to be well-made and quiet. However I would upgrade to the next level CE 3.2 for the controls and matrix screens. The LCD is mediocre at best and the computer is difficult to read for settings. The two units are mechanically identical, so performance is not an issue. 4 stars for the product, not for Smooth Fitness as a company.
Make sure you track all transactions with Smooth Fitness. Smooth Fitness attempted to send a used unit, but I caught the price difference and called/emailed them on it. Not a big deal, but... Another order for a 6.25 treadmill was delivered and turned out to be a used machine that was partially packaged. The treadmill was upside down in the box with missing and broken Styrofoam pieces. Obviously, it was a customer return that was never tested or repackaged. The huge box was in good shape with no dents, no cuts, no holes. The delivery issues are the result of Smooth Fitness sending a used rather than a new unit for which I paid. This is the second time that Smooth Fitness has done a "bait and switch". Good equipment, but not a company with which I choose to do business.
Patrick
Note: Last I looked Costco was selling the Smooth CE 2.1 at a lower price than at www.SmoothFitness.com.
*This
Smooth CE 2.1 Elliptical Trainer Review is based on not only testing the equipment,
but also comments, testimonials, reviews and ratings of customers and third parties.
We attempt to be as accurate as possible. Warranties, features and prices can
change without notice.