The ProForm i-Series 785E Treadmill - Great for Serious Walking

The ProForm i-Series 785E treadmill is part of the ICON Fitness line of budget machines which are loaded with zippy features in order to appeal to impulse buyers who like fun and flash. We aren’t knocking this model, it’s actually a good little workhorse, but there are so many ProForm models in the $500-$1000 range that you need to be sure to match the right model to your weight, size, and workout intentions.

The Machine

The ProForm i-Series 785E treadmill has ClearView™ backlit console that includes a large 8x32 workout matrix that displays your workout graphically. It has a Workout Intensity Control to quickly raise or lower your intensity and the machine responds by adjusting to your desired performance level. The ProForm i-Series 785E includes this list of specs:

• 2.25 CHP Commercial motor
• 0-10 mph QuickSpeed™ Control
• 0-10% QuickIncline™ Control
• 20" x 55" tread belt
• 16 iFit® Personal Trainer Workouts
• Compatible Music Port for iPod®
• Intermix Acoustics™ 2.0 Sound System
• ProStride™ Adjustable Cushioning
• Dual-Grip EKG™ Heart Rate Monitor
• CoolAire™ Workout Fan
• SpaceSaver® EasyDrop Shock
• 325 lbs. max. user weight
• Lifetime motor warranty; 1 year warranty on parts and labor

The Buzz

UPDATE:  The ProForm i-Series 785E has been discontinued.  Check out the new ProForm lineup here to find a comparable machine.

These aren’t the same ProForm machines experts have been knocking for years. While they are still constructed with some cheap parts (for $799, what do you expect?), the ProForm i-Series 785E is making up for past sins by offering value and improved features. On the plus side; this treadmill has a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, extra deck cushioning, the customizable Workout Intensity Control, and an easy-to-store SpaceSaver folding design.

Consumers are benefiting from the advanced electronics ICON has been able to incorporate into its affordable budget machines. From the iFit® Workout Cards, to the compatible music port for iPods or any mp3 device, and the built-in stereo speakers, working out is a pleasure. The machine feels solid and sturdy, and even boasts a user weight capacity of 325 lbs.

What We Say

The ProForm i-Series 785E model is not for serious runners (you might burn out the treadmill motor if you try) but for serious walkers, yes, this model can take the heat.

The cushioning is first rate -- if you have foot problems, you’ll appreciate that. It’s also quiet, the 2.25 CHP motor is not shabby, and the value is equal or better than its $799 price tag.

The console is fussy and overdone; personally, we prefer the Proform 7.0 CrossTrainer ($699) over the ProForm i-Series 785E treadmill because the specs are the same, the readout is more elegant, and there are more programs.