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Elliptical Trainers
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- Runs smoothly
- Solid build
- Articulating foot pads
- Long 21-inch stride length
- Price
- Large size
- Awkward to use
The Smooth CE 7.4 is the subject of some debate among reviewers. Although its performance isn't in doubt -- reviewers are clear that Smooth has a reputation for high quality -- the question is whether it's a good value. Most say the Smooth CE 7.4 offers excellent quality and features for the money, and several reviewers go as far as to name it a best buy. Those who like the Smooth CE 7.4 say it's solid and smooth, with well-considered design features like a 21-inch stride length and articulating footpads. Not everyone agrees that the Smooth CE 7.4 is reliable, however; some dislike its size and relatively large footprint. A few reviewers say consumers are better off saving money and buying the Sole E35 (*Est. $1,300).
TreadmillDoctor.com, the top review site for elliptical trainers, includes a review of the Smooth CE 7.4 elliptical trainer. There's also a detailed write-up at Fitness-Equipment-Source.com. Building-Muscle101.com is written by a fitness enthusiast rather than by a professional, but Blake Bissaillion offers a good assessment of the Smooth CE 7.4's performance, features and value. Amazon.com has about a dozen owner-written reviews.
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TreadmillDoctor.com says the Smooth CE 7.4 is a reliable elliptical with "a proven track record." The authors note that because Smooth did not raise its prices this year, the CE 7.4 is now a better value. However, they still rate it only slightly above average.
Review: Smooth CE 7.4, Clark and Jon Stevenson
Author Fred Waters, a longtime fitness-industry professional, has nothing but praise for the Smooth CE 7.4 elliptical trainer. He especially likes its stability, durability, service record, 21-inch stride and articulating foot pedals. He awards this model his Best Buy rating in the $2,000 to $3,000 price range. Note, however, that Waters is a former Smooth sales executive.
Review: Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical Trainer Review, Fred Waters
3. Amazon.com
The Smooth Fitness CE 7.4 gets four out of five stars in about a dozen owner-written reviews at Amazon.com. Owners say they appreciate the quiet operation and solid build, but they also acknowledge that the elliptical is heavy and frustrating to assemble.
Review: Smooth Fitness CE 7.4 Elliptical Trainer, Contributors to Amazon.com
Blake Bissaillion, a fitness enthusiast, is the owner of Building-Muscle101.com. Although he doesn't discuss how he evaluates equipment, his reviews tend to be lengthy and quite detailed. He doesn't mention any drawbacks to the Smooth CE 7.4; his long list of likes includes value, programs, stride length and customer service.
Review: Smooth CE 7.4 Elliptical Trainer, Blake Bissaillion
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