Sole F83 Treadmill Review

The Sole F83 treadmill is what I call the “in-between” model of the Sole line up. With its longer deck it’s a step up from the F80 but with the smaller motor than the F85 it is a step below. Following all that? In a nutshell, if you want a larger running surface but don’t need the large motor on the F85, you buy the Sole F83.

The deck on the Sole F83 treadmill is 58 inches-three inches longer than the F80. This model also accommodates heavier exercises with it slightly stronger framework and heavier flywheel.

You also get a heart rate zone graph so that you can easily keep an eye on your heart rate and has a ¼ mile track display.

The MSRP on the Sole F83 is $2,099.00 but is regularly on sale for around $1699.99 and you pay no sales tax unless you are a resident of Utah.

The cooling fans are a nice touch and Sole has made some fine tuning on this model that make it a better machine. With the upgraded console, it is really a nice looking machine and a good value for the money.-Treadmill Doctor, Industry Expert

This is a great treadmill! It just arrived two days ago and I'm very impressed with the build quality. The motor is smooth and the display looks sleek! It's also very solid and quiet. There's no difference running on this this treadmill vs. the $5000+ treadmill at the gym. One thing, if you are 5'10" or shorter, go ahead and save some money by purchasing the F80. The deck on the F83 is a few inches longer but it really isn't worth the money - unless you are 6' or taller. I ran full stride on it and there was plenty of room behind me. -Amazon Customer

I went with the Sole F83 because it's right in the middle between the F80 and F85 for what it offers. I get the longer deck but I didn't need the bigger motor. The machine was heavy but my husband and I got it inside and then set up was so easy. I love the programs because they challenge me and I love knowing that I can work out anytime now.! -Dick's Sporting Goods Customer

Overview

Pros:
-Longer Deck
-Accommodates Heavier Exercisers
-Wireless Heart Rate Control
-Built-in Audio System

Cons:
-Heavy Unit (not easy to move)

Based on experts and customer reviews, there is no doubt this is a solid folding treadmill. However, it is still a difficult treadmill to recommend given the other choices you have among Sole's folding treadmills.

The deck on the Sole F83 is only three inches longer than the deck on the F80, but you'll pay $200-$300 more of the F83. Unless you are six feet or taller, those extra inches won't make a big difference. You'd be better off saving your money and buying the F80.

And if you do need the few extra inches on the running deck, you'd be better off spending a little more money and buy the F85 because it has a bigger motor than the F83. The only circumstance I would recommend the Sole F83 is if you need a larger deck but can't afford the couple hundred dollars to upgrade to the F85.

Sole Fitness markets treadmills and elliptical trainers and is owned by Dyaco, a major conglomerate. Dyaco also manufacturers Spirit treadmills, which are a lower-end line of treadmills. Sole treadmills are made with higher quality components and are better engineered. Sole started out as a company providing treadmills to hotels. Today their treadmills can be found in the Hilton and Omni hotel chains. That should tell you something about the durability of their treadmills. They expanded to the consumer treadmill market in the early 2000's and have quietly become a major player in the mid-range treadmill category.

The warranties provided by Sole Fitness are some of the best you'll find in its category. Lifetime warranties on the motor and frame are standard and the warranties on the parts are from 3-5 years and in-home service is from 1-2 years depending on model. Sole Fitness has been very successful by providing quality machines at a great value.