Smooth Agile DMT

Bottom Line

The Smooth Agile Dynamic Motion Trainer (DMT) is a robust elliptical with a state-of-the-art adjustable stride that's designed to provide a full-body workout. However, it has a risky record of parts breaking and poor customer service.

Performance

Smooth and solid. At 356 pounds, which outweighs even some commercial-grade machines, the Agile DMT is by far the heaviest elliptical we cover. This is a plus because weight equals smooth, stable performance. Exercisers concur that the Agile DMT's motion in each stride variation meets high expectations.

Users can adjust not only their stride from 19 to 24 inches but also their stride shape. The stride can be made shorter and taller for more of a stepping motion, which targets different lower-body muscle groups. The DMT's handlebars also offer adjustable resistance.

Ease of Use

It should be easier for this kind of money. Features notwithstanding, consumers say the Smooth Agile DMT manual is complicated and confusing, leaving "much to be desired." Assembly is time-consuming as with any elliptical, and several users say the machine arrived scratched or broken. One unit wouldn't turn on due to a faulty console, despite being assembled by contracted technicians.

For an elliptical that's intended to be high-end, the DMT's user interface is mediocre, owners say. They describe the LED control console as not user-friendly. Before beginning a workout, the machine requires a tedious process to set the desired resistance, stride and more. These variables can be controlled via the handlebars, which also monitor heart rate for the heart-rate interactive programs. There are 13 programs available and 20 resistance levels.

Durability

Breaks often. The experts at SNEWS, as well as Amazon.com posters, report durability issues. During the three months that SNEWS editors tested the machine -- which was used about one hour per day -- four separate parts broke in different incidents. Several reviewers had problems with the pedals cracking, including one Amazon.com user who had to replace both pedals twice within one year.

Customer Service

No one home. Smooth Fitness boasts great warranty coverage for the Agile DMT: lifetime frame and braking system, seven years on parts and two years on in-home labor. However, this is an Internet-based company and consumers say it's very hard to reach. Without retailers, Smooth must refer consumers to contractors to schedule repairs, a process that owners call tedious and often unsuccessful.

For all the good the Smooth warranty is, it may prove useless. One reviewer says, "I have to fight with them every time to send me the parts." An Amazon.com customer waited weeks for his machine without any word from Smooth despite multiple attempts at contact. He comments, "Smooth Fitness does not follow up, [and] is fairly rude when they do."