Freemotion XTr vs. Nordictrack Reflex 4500

Our treadmill showdown of the day involves the Freemotion XTr and the Nordictrack Reflex 4500 Pro.

Well, both of these are made by Icon, so we’re sort of comparing Icon to itself. However the lines are different enough in what they offer, and how they choose to design and price their treadmills, that we can almost compare them as two different manufacturers. From the start, I will say that Freemotions main strength and focus is in Club and high end treadmills, while Nordictrack focuses on in-home treadmills. Treadmills at $1,999 are in-home treadmills for the most part, so the Nordictrack may have an edge, but let’s check it out.

To start, the Nordictrack Reflex gets its name from its cushioning system. It’s not so much a cushioning system, but a curiously made deck that acts somewhat like a little springboard. Of all the cushioning systems this is in my opinion the most innovative, and the most comfortable. The deck is made of a composite material that can bend a little bit. When you land on it it bends and absorbs your weight, and then springs you back up when you lift off. And don’t worry, it’s extremely strong. One of the strongest decks out there. The technology is intriguing and very natural feeling. It’s better than air, spring, or hydraulic cushioning. Some other treadmills have begun to adopt the same system, but none can quite emulate this one. This is the main feature of this treadmill, the rest is fairly average.

Other than that, neither of these treadmills really have a whole lot going for them. They’re built with good quality, but every good thing about them can be matched and beat by other treadmills in this price range. Both have 3.0 CHP motors which are built and similarly, and both have a lifetime warranty on the motor. 3.0 isn’t deficient at all, but that’s the minimum I would go. On a $1,999 treadmill my minimum would be 3.5 CHP. At this price there are so many larger motors with larger decks, running surfaces, and more that there’s not any reason to go with a 3 Horsepower. However If you like these treadmills for other things they offer, then don’t turn them down just based on the smaller motor. The Nordictrack is a bit quieter. Both can go up to 12MPH. The Nordictrack can get up to 15% incline, while the Freemotion XTr can reach 12%.

As far as strength and stability go, I would trust both of them to never get a broken frame or deck as long as you don’t exceed the weight limit of 350 lbs. They both have a good sturdy feel, and don’t shake much. For the rest of the specs just look at this spec list.

Here’s a little comparison table:

That’s it. Neither have super great warranties either which is a bit disappointing, but it looks like the Nordictrack Reflex 4500 Pro offers more between these two. So it wins. Woot. Check it out.

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