This consumer report provides actual feedback from buyers of the Sole F85 Treadmill (2008 Model)
Product Description
The Sole F85 Treadmill (2008 Model) boasts a powerful 3.5-horsepower, continuous-duty motor–the most powerful in the Sole line–that delivers speeds of up to 12 miles per hour and inclines of up to 15 percent. The club-style tri-color LED display, meanwhile, includes a message board for clear instruction and feedback, while also tracking your speed, incline, time, distance traveled, calories, pulse, and pace. There’s even a 1/4-mile track feature that you can follow as you run and a peak-and-valley graph that corresponds to individual programs.
The heart rate programs are particularly valuable, as they automatically calculate your recommended target range based on your age, ensuring the safest and most efficient workout possible. And users with creaky joints with love the Cushion Flex treadmill deck, which is built to protect your knees from excessive pounding, with the ability to reduce impact up to 40 percent compared to running on asphalt.
I have a late 2006 model which is identical to the 2008 model as far as the specs. There has been a slight cosmetic design change but nothing drastic. My wife and I have been running and walking on this machine for over a year and a half and we've had no problems. The heart rate monitors could be better but I'm not convinced any of the treadmills offer anything more accurate. They get you in the ballpark. The warranty is what really matters and few machines match Sole's much less alone exceed it.
Actual excerpt from Amazon user review.
Worth Every Penny!, July 18, 2008
It was incredibly easy to put together, it took about 30 minutes to do. I've used it everyday since it arrived. I walk 4-5 miles per day at 8-10 degree incline and so far no worries. I used to get terrible shin splints with my old treadmill at half the speed and no incline but since I've started walking on this machine I haven't had a single twinge of pain. No regrets on this purchase what so ever!
Actual excerpt from Amazon user review.
Great Treadmills for Runners !, March 5, 2008
F85 is a great value for money treadmill for serious runners. I clock over 25 miles per week and it has held up well for 3 months now. I am using it to train for my first marathon.I like the long belt and the 3.5HP for this price is a steal as compared to other treadmills with similar features.
Actual excerpt from Amazon user review.
Bottom line: Top marks!
Sole deliver yet again with F85, which customers found to be great value, quiet and suitable for serious runners
* Speed: 0.5 to 12 mph
* Incline: 15% maximum, rack and pinion gear design
* Weight: 280 pounds
* Deck Size: 33 x 80, Cushion Flex Shock Absorption Whisper Deck
* User Weight: 400 pounds
* Running Surface: 20 x 60
* Belt: Double woven, 2-ply
* Rollers: 2-3/4 inches
* Folding: Yes, with the Easy Assist folding feature
* Heart Rate Control: Yes, wireless chest strap included
* Hand Pulse Grips: Yes, and arm rest speed/incline controls
* Display Color: Tri Color (red, green, gold)
* Message Window: Yes, scrolling information
* Standard Programs: Six
* User Defined Programs: Two
* Heart Rate Programs: Two
* Cooling Fans: Yes
* Speakers and MP3 Plug-in: Yes