Sole E25 Elliptical Trainer Review

An Impressive Entry Level Elliptical

The Sole E25 elliptical trainer has always been a top contender at the competitive $999 price range and is one of the biggest sellers.

Although the Sole E25 has a similar 20" long stride as the other higher priced Sole models, it is built on a different frame, which is 11" shorter than the other models. It doesn't quite have the same fluid elliptical motion that you find on the other higher priced Sole ellipticals. However, for a $1,000 elliptical it still performs better than many comparable ellipticals. So if your budget is limited to this price range, the E25 is one of the better values.

Note: The Sole E25 typically sells for $999 with free shipping. Go to www.SoleEllipticals.com/E25 for the latest price.*

Also check our "Best Buy" recommendation at $999, the NordicTrack 990 AudioStrider Pro. It utilizes a patented design from Precor commercial grade elliptical trainers.

Like the other Sole ellipticals, the E25 is a front drive elliptical with pedals that run on railings. It comes with a 20" stride, giving it a nice long elliptical motion. There is no heart rate control, but it does have pulse readout, and comes with a wireless heart rate strap.

The E25 offers a wide range of resistance levels, with a total of 16. This means there are small incremental changes when you go from one level to the next.

The E25 comes with a very basic LCD display, with a blue backlit light. It is not as big as the displays on the other models, but still provides the necessary feedback.

You'll notice in the photo that the E25 comes with a built-in fan. Nice features, but don't expect to get blown away. You also get built-in speakers with a plug-in for your MP3 and iPod player. The quality of the sound is not all that great, but it is nice having the music focused right at you.

Incline Adjustment — The 2011 Sole E25 elliptical was upgraded from a manual to a power incline, where you can adjust to a 15 or 30 degree angle while you exercise. It is similar to the ability to adjust the incline on a treadmill. By changing you can better target and tone your lower muscles. It also gives you a serious cardio workout when you increase the incline.

The E25 is equipped with articulating footpedals - they angle with the elliptical motion to reduce stress and strains to your foot and ankles.

Installed Programs — You get a nice selection of exercise routines. My only criticism is that you can only make adjustments to the incline to increase the intensity, you cannot increase the resistance. Therefore, the manual settngs or the user defined setting are your best choice.

Fitness Source E25 Elliptical Review

At the competitive $1,000 price range, the Sole E25 is one of the better choices, which is evident in the large sales numbers. It should be noted that at $1,000 this qualifies the E25 elliptical as a budget model. Don't expect commercial grade quality, but for the majority you will not be dissappointed by the performance.

I would not recommend the E25 for someone planning on strenuous workouts. Also, although they put the user weight at 325 lbs., I would put the limit at around 230 lbs.

For an extra $300 you should consider the Sole E35 for these reasons...

• There are switches in the moveable handlebars to adjust the incline and resistance.
• You have the ability to adjust the angle of the foot pedals.
• The E35 is slightly longer and heavier giving it a bit more stability.
• You get wireless heart rate control, not just a monitor. It includes workout programs that makes adjustments based on your heart rate.
• Although both have a 20" stride, I feel the elliptical motion is more comfortable and fluid on the E35.
• Most important, the E35 comes with a 2-year labor and 5-year parts warranty, in comparison to the 1-year labor and 3-year parts coverage on the E25.

Customer Reviews

On Amazon.com the Sole E25 received 4.5 stars out of 5 from nine customers, which is am impressive rating for a $1,000 elliptical.

Comments included...

"The machine is really sturdy and solid. I bought it because I am particularly heavy and its one of the few machines with a higher weight limit and a lower price. (Note: I feel the weight limit is a bit high.)"

"This Machine is quiet, works great, and was easy to put together."

"So far this elliptical is the best I've seen of its kind. Very solid, especially for this price. The customer service was excellent and, so far, I couldn't be happier with my decision!"

"My brother in law recommended the Sole E25 to me after he had bought one and loved it. Site unseen, I bought online and was leery even with his positive comments. I'm so glad I did, the quality of the machine is tremendous. I'm truly amazed Sole can build this piece of equipment for the price."

Go to www.SoleEllipticals.com/E25 to learn more.*