The Smooth CE 3.0DS elliptical trainer is their entry model. It competes at the very competitive $999 price. It is a front drive elliptical with a magnetic drive. When I tested it at the corporate headquarters, I found the elliptical stride to be very smooth, with a natural feel, and it felt very stable and solid. Something you do not always get with an elliptical at this price range. I was told by Jim Mugford, head of Customer Service, that it has a very good service record.
Note: The Smooth CE 3.0DS elliptical typically sells for $799 with shipping. They currently have it marked down to $699, which is a good value. Go to
www.SmoothEllipticals.com for the latest deal.*
Smooth CE 3.0DS Elliptical Trainer Features...
Extended Handlebars — You will notice that the handlebars extend about 12" higher than your typical handlebars and they angle in. There are two benefits to this design. First, you can place your grip at different positions and workout different upper body muscles. Second, the way they design the handlebars you do not find yourself leaning forward. The one drawback to many front drive ellipticals, like Sole, is that you tend to have to lean forward when using the upper body handlebars.
175 Lbs. Unit Weight — The heavier weight adds to the stability and reduces any rocking motion. You will also find that the Smooth CE 3.0DS utilizes oversized tubing that further adds to the stability and the durability. They say that the CE 3.0DS is compact, but I do not consider an 83" length to be compact. However, compact elliptical can often compromise on the stability.
18" Elliptical Stride — Although the stride is 18", it felt like the stride length of some 20" models. Although I would probably not recommend this elliptical to individuals over 5'10". The elliptical stride felt much more natural than the Sole E25.
12 Preset Programs & 1 Heart Rate Control — You get a decent selection of programs designed towards different fitness goals. The Smooth CE 3.0DS elliptical trainer also includes one heart rate control program. This allows you to define your rate of exertion by your heart rate. A workout technique used by many professional athletes. The wireless belt is extra.
Console and Display — You get a dual color LCD display, which is a nice touch. Also the console has tabs for a tablet and there are speakers with an MP3 input. What is missing is a fan, but often the fans on ellipticals are useless.
Warranty — Lifetime on the brake system and frame, 3 years on the parts and 2 years on labor. There is only one other company that I know of that offers 2 year labor at this price. The warranty is a good reflection of the quality of the machine.
Our Review — Smooth CE3.0DS Elliptical Trainer
The Smooth CE 3.0DS elliptical trainer is a serious contender at the competitive $999 price range. It gets kudos for a comfortable and natural elliptical stride, stability and for being low maintenance. In addition, the 2-year labor warranty makes it a standout. A solid buy at $999.
Go to www.SmoothEllipticals.com to learn more.*
