NordicTrack S 3000

We found the best reviews of the NordicTrack S3000 treadmill at TreadmillDoctor.com and Runner's World. TreadmillDoctor.com reviews more treadmills than any other source and offers explanations of its testing and ratings criteria. Runner's World also conducts thorough tests, but it doesn't evaluate as many treadmills as TreadmillDoctor.com. Treadmill-Ratings-Reviews.com, TreadmillTips.com and TreadmillTalk.com don't test as thoroughly as other reviews -- or don't test at all -- but the reviewers' opinions bolster what other critics have said about the NordicTrack S3000 treadmill.

Reviews said the incredibly powerful NordicTrack S 3000 was the best value on the market -- until Icon Fitness recently stopped making it. Retailers are still selling the S 3000 at its original price, and experts say it's a steal, with a sturdier build and more powerful motor (5 horsepower) than almost all other treadmills. Testers say its excellent cushioning and roomy deck make it comfortable for big and tall runners. Although its features are basic, testers say they are easy to use, and more than one expert says the S 3000 is heavy-duty enough to install in a health club. Since the S 3000 was discontinued, the Landice L7 Cardio Trainer (*est. $3,300) has grabbed the top spot in reviews of heavy-duty treadmills. The Landice has a slightly shorter deck (58 inches) than the NordicTrack, but reviews say its 4-horsepower motor is powerful enough to justify its 400-pound user weight limit. The Landice also carries a lifetime warranty; reviews criticize the NordicTrack's shorter warranty (lifetime motor, two-year parts, one-year belt, deck and labor).