Sole
E25 Elliptical Trainer Review
The Sole E25 elliptical trainer is not a bad value, however, I feel their other models are much more impressive. In fact, I rate the E35 and the E55 as "Best Buys."
Although the Sole E25 has the same 20" long stride as the other machines, it is built on a different frame, which is 11" shorter than the other models.
It also doesn't have the same fluid elliptical motion that you find on the others. However, for a $1,000 elliptical it still performs better than many comparable ellipticals, and if your budget is limited to this price range, the E25 is one of the better values.
Note: As of 11/16/08, the
Sole E25 elliptical trainer was selling for $999, with shipping. For the latest price go to
www.SoleFitness.com, which also offers an inside delivery and set-up option.
New on 2009 Models - The Sole E55 elliptical now comes with a manual incline feature, where you can adjust to a 15 or 30 degree angle. 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 more of a cardio burn.
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. Not
the best display in the market, but than again, at this price you need to
make some compromises. I would rather they put the value into the components and
engineering, and make some cuts in the display.
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. And 
new for 2008, you 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 directed right at you.
The E25 is equipped with articulating footpedals - they angle with the elliptical motion to reduce stress and strains to your foot and ankles. You can further adjust the footpedals to further your comfort level.
Fitness
Source E25 Elliptical Review
At the competitive $1,000 price range, the Sole E25 is one of the better choices.
It should be noted that at $1,000 this qualifies the E25 elliptical as a budget model. Don't expect commercial grade quality.
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...
- The incline feature is power driven, not manual. You don't have to get off the machine to make adjustments. Also, with the E25 you only have a 15 and a 30 degree level of adjustment. You have more variety of levels to choose from with the E35.
- There are switches in the moveable handlebars to adjust the incline and resistance.
- 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 felt the elliptical motion is more comfortable 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.
To learn more go to www.SoleFitness.com.
Customer Reviews
On Amazon.com
the Sole E25 received 4.5 stars out of 5 from thirteen customers. Most were very positive, although one complained about problems getting through to the customer service.
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!"
"Elliptical started squeaking...a lot. So I called sole, twice. There support is non existant. No live person answers the phone and they have yet to call me back and its been over 24 hours."
"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."