Bowflex BXT116 Treadmill Review

Last Updated on May 24, 2021 by Jeff


Note:
  The Bowflex BXT116 Treadmill seems to be discontinued. Check out Bowflex’s current line of treadmills at Bowflex.com (click here).

The Bowflex BXT116 is the more affordable option among the two-treadmill series of high performance treadmills by Bowflex. Priced at around $1,499, the BXT116 is a fantastic piece of equipment that shares key components with the more expensive model, the BTX216, but with fewer bells and whistles.

The Bowflex BXT116 comes packed with features and high quality, durable parts, such as a 3.75 CHP powering the belt—which means you’ll be able to run long and hard distances without worrying about the equipment. The belt is also 3-ply, providing a thickness that delivers durability and extra running comfort. On top of these features, the Bowflex BXT116 comes with 9 pre-programmed workouts, a 7.5” full-color display screen, and advanced heart rate monitoring. This model is an excellent choice for the serious runner who is looking for incredible value.

Click here to check the price of the Bowflex BXT116 Treadmill on Amazon.

Technical Info:

Dimensions:

  • Height: 55.2”
  • Width: 36.3”
  • Length: 84.6”
  • Item weight: 280 lbs
  • Max user weight: 375 lbs

Features:

  • Up to 12mph (19.3kph) at the tip of your fingertips and easily accessible on an extra-large console allows you to adjust the intensity of your workout.
  • Easy SoftdropTM Stowable Design as well as foot and transport wheels allow for easy folding and storing.
  • Automatic three-speed fan keeps you cool and comfortable throughout your run.
  • 3-ply 2.5mm Belt is durable and extra wide, giving you the freedom to move and perform intense workouts.
  • Up to 15% incline with quick adjustment allows you to modify your incline to focus on specific muscle groups without losing your focus during your workout.
  • Heart rate monitoring to further target your workouts and control the intensity is available on the console.
  • Comfort Tech Deck Suspension Technology provides a smooth and cushioned experience compared to outdoor running surfaces.

Computer Features:

  • 7.5” full color, backlit display screen keeps you work out programs right in front of you in vivid detail.
  • Syncs with Free Results SeriesTM App, making it easier than ever to track and record your goals and progress.
  • Bluetooth compatibility allows for hassle-free, wireless stats sharing and recording.
  • Integrated speaker and sound system allows you to enjoy your music during as you work out.
  • 9 pre-programmed workouts created by top-level fitness professionals and targeted to your specific goals.
  • Display readouts and user feedback include:
    • Total calories burned
    • Burn rate (per minute burn rate calculator)
    • Incline
    • Distance
    • Heart rate
    • Time
    • Speed

Warranty:

  • Frame: 15 years
  • Parts: 5 years
  • Labor: 2 years

Shipping and Assembly:

Shipping costs may vary for the Bowflex BXT116 treadmill, but you can usually get free shipping at Bowflex.com – click here to check the latest offer.

Like most treadmills, the Bowflex BXT116 comes with a number of parts and wires to put together. Fortunately, it also comes with a step-by-step assembly manual. So, while it’s going to take you a little time to get together, somewhere around 4 hours, it’s not going to be too difficult.

What We Love About the Bowflex BXT116:

Horsepower

While the more expensive treadmill in the series—the Bowflex BXT216—comes equipped with a powerful 4.0 CHP motor, the standard horsepower for home treadmills is usually anywhere from 3.0-3.5 CHP, making the Bowflex BXT116 sill powerful at 3.75 CHP. The 3.75 CHP motor power will still allow for rigorous sessions—even multiple per day—and perhaps more importantly, for withstanding marathon-level training. This quality also turns out to be higher than the industry standards at the same price point. In sum, if you’re training indoors for a marathon, or have multiple rigorous workout sessions a day (or share it with multiple family members), the BXT116 provides incredible value for the level of horsepower being delivered.

The Treadbelt: Wide And Durable

Even at this price point, it’s rare to see a 3-ply treadbelt. The extra-ply refers to the thickness of the belt—which, in this case, is three times the thickness of your standard treadmill mat, which usually comes as a single-ply. As a result, you’ll have no problems with the belt ripping, even at the higher weight ranges. This also provides an extra comfortable workout with a longer product lifespan that is unlikely to stretch out over time. The BXT216 has the same size belt, making this an important feature for both models.

Other Considerations:

To be honest, it’s tough to really pinpoint any concrete negatives for the Bowflex BXT116 or it’s more expensive model, the Bowflex BXT216. As far as high-quality, heavy duty treadmills go, this model is a top performer. That said, as it is fairly new to the market, there is no way of knowing how durable the unit really is over time. So, if you’re looking for a model series that has been tested time and time again and proven to hold up, taking a leap with a newer model may be a bit riskier. The quality of the components, however, does bode well, but there’s no way of knowing how, for example, the Bluetooth connectivity will be holding up over time.

How the Bowflex BXT116 Compares to the Bowflex BXT116

The Bowflex BXT116 is a premium model from the company among their runner-grade treadmills, which includes the more expensive BXT216 model. In comparison, the BXT216 has stronger motor power at 4.0 CHP, a wider running surface by just a couple inches, and slightly better impact cushioning than the BXT116. The BXT116 also has fewer built-in programs, but all in all, they are very similar, high quality machines that will deliver similar running experiences.

Final Word on the Bowflex BXT116:

The Bowflex BXT116 is one of the best valued treadmills on the market in terms of the quality and durability of the components for the given price. As a trainee, especially training for a marathon, you would be hard-pressed to find a high-performance treadmill for a better value. While the Bowflex BXT116 is missing just a few extra bells and whistles as compared to its more expensive model, the BXT216, such as a few extra built-in programs and a slightly less wide running surface, it makes up for in the price and value provided.

Click here to check the price of the Bowflex BXT116 Treadmill on Amazon:

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