Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 Review
The Bowflex TC5 utilizes the same TreadClimber technology as the TC20 (the highest rated TreadClimber), but is stripped down to the bare essentials to save you $2,300.
The TC5 does not come with all the features of the TC10 or the TC20, but that’s not to say that the Bowflex TC5 isn’t a good piece of equipment.
If you don’t want to spend the $3,000+ on the TC20, the Bowflex TC5 is a good way to experience the TreadClimber technology for a much lower price.
Learn more in our full Bowflex TC5 review below…
Note: A few months ago, some customers told us their TC5 arrived damaged. I talked to Bowflex and they said the issue has been addressed, though I still recommend the TC10 over the TC5.
Properties
| Model | Bowflex TC5 |
| Rating | 
|
| List Price | $999.00 |
| Best Price | $999.00 |
| Resistance | User-Generated |
| Speed | 0 - 4.5 mph |
| Visit Site |  |
| Functions | 4 |
| Heart Rate | None |
| Display | LCD Display |
| Max Weight | 300 lbs |
| Dimensions | Length: 43.1" Width: 27" Height: 52.8" |
| Profiles |  |
| Climb Indicator |  |
| Quick Controls | |
| Accessory Tray | |
| Portable? | |
| Warranty | Parts: 1 Year Electronics: 1 Year Hydraulics: 1 Year |
| Best Deal |  |
Full Review
Quick Summary
Rating: 78.1/100. Compact & Portable, User-Generated Resistance, 4 functions, 300 lbs. max user weight, 0-4.5 mph, LCD display, no motor (human-powered), Bowflex Body Weight Loss Plan, Calories Burned Indicator, Climb Indicator, accessory tray
Coupon Code:
Enter the TreadClimber coupon code “TFSFMAP1” during checkout for a Free exercise mat (Save $19.98).
Note: If you want a better coupon code for your TreadCimber, Bowflex is offering a deal with Free Shipping on the TC10 and the TC20. They’re more expensive models, but the TC10 is my personal pick of the three, and with an extra $200 off from free shipping, it’s worth considering an upgrade.
Pros:
- Compact and portable trainer
- Innovative design with 3-in-1 motion
- Exercise targets several different muscle groups
- Vibrant LCD display built-in console
- 4 Functions: calories, time, speed & distance
- Built-in indicators including calories burned & climb
Cons:
- Update: We have received multiple comments from customers & technicians see damages upon shipment.
- No heart rate monitor and workout program
- Motorless trainer is desired by some, not others
Introduction
The Bowflex TC5 is an economical way to burn calories, fat and lose inches in four weeks.
The TreadClimber was designed to provide 3 workouts in 1 thus allowing the user to walk forward like a treadmill, step up like a Stairclimber as well as enjoy the generally smooth operation of the elliptical.
When you combine these three elements into one compact trainer like the Bowflex TC5 you get a workout that is unrivaled and actually guaranteed to burn more calories when compared to a standard treadmill.
Workout Programs
The Bowflex TC5 offers four workout functions which is nothing special yet enough to get the job done.
We do wish the TC5 would include a heart rate monitor, but since the price tag for the model is so low they have to strip some features from the wallet friendly version.
One thing we really like about the Bowflex TC5 is you can experience the treadmill, Stairclimber and elliptical motions at the same time.
It’s an extremely versatile workout experience.
TreadClimber Features
The Bowflex TC5 allows the user to reduce exercise time with an efficient, low impact workout. Since you get the workout motion of the treadmill, StairClimber and elliptical you burn calories much faster than simply exercising on a treadmill or elliptical.
The Bowflex TC5 features user-generated resistance including four individual functions. The TreadClimber is equipped with LCD display including readouts of speed, time and distance.
Reach speeds that max out at 4.5 mph on a quiet, motorless operation that some consumers absolutely love and others despise (it depends on personal preference).
Make sure you are getting the ultimate workout with built-in indicators including “Calories Burned” and “Climber”.
The Bowflex Body Weight Loss Plan is included with purchase.
Warranty & Guarantee
The Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 warranty and guarantee includes:
- Parts: 1 Year
- Electronics: 1 Year
- Hydraulics: 1 Year
Return Policy: 6 weeks, 100% money-back. Call (800) 675-9973 and ship back for refund of purchase price.
Conclusion
If you are tight on cash, but want to experience the amazing revolution of the TreadClimber — the Bowflex TC5 is the entry-level model.
The TreadClimber does not provide many extras (and could really use a heart rate monitor), but overall it’s a great trainer that gets the job done; just be weary of its shipping complaints.
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56 Comments
Does the TC5 burn twice the calories as your other treadclimbers claim to do. I have a treadmill but I am on that for 40 minutes and only burn 240 cal. Will this machine be different
Thank you so much for your time and look forward to hearing from you.
Hi Donna,
Great question! While their specs are different, Bowflex claims that all of the TreadClimbers (including the TC5) help to burn about 2x the calories of other types of machines.
That said, we always recommend focusing more on intensity than the calories displayed on screen with any cardio workout.
This is because they are never 100% accurate, and this rule of thumb allows you to focus on what’s most important: that you’re getting great exercise that is pushing you toward your goals.
Long story short, yes. You can definitely burn a lot of calories on the TC5!
Take care,
Kyle
I was wondering how easy the TreadClimber TC5 belts work considering there is no motor for this version.
Hi Amy,
The motor-less aspect does change the feel of the TC5 compared to the TC10 and TC20 in that you have to work a bit harder to get the belts up to speed.
The benefits are that the TC5 costs less than half the money and you burn a few extra calories to build the momentum when you first get moving on it.
Let us know if you have any other questions,
Kyle
There are a couple of things making my decision more difficult: 1.) I can’t try it. – new machine, no motor… what if I don’t like it? While less expensive, it’s still $1,000. and 2.) How much assembly? Not found of afternoon projects to discover missing parts/pieces that delay project. Can live with assembly. I guess not being able to see/try is the major obstacle to my not moving forward.
Hi Ernie,
Thanks for the comment. Those are very common concerns, and I’ve had them myself when buying fitness equipment online.
Here are the things I looked at when deciding whether or not to buy:
1) Do they have a money-back guarantee? Is it hard to get the refund?
Bowflex has a 6-week money-back guarantee. After you try it out for over a month, if you don’t like it, you can call (800) 675-9973 for a “return merchandise authorization number” to print and send back with the TC5. They will refund the purchase price (less shipping fees since those are paid to the delivery company, not Bowflex).
2) Is the assembly difficult? If so, is there an assembly service?
Bowflex recommends the TC5 be installed by 2 people since the machine weighs 163 lbs in total, but the manual has very clear diagrams and simple instructions. Each step is labeled with the parts you need and a simple picture of what the step entails. There are 13 steps to assemble the TC5.
Personally, I prefer to pay an expert for this sort of thing (which I did with the treadmill in my basement) Though the in-home assembly service isn’t cheap, I think it’s worth it.
Here’s what in-home assembly comes with (for $219):
– Move machine packaging from delivered area to workout area (up to 12 stairs if changing floors)
– Complete 13-step assembly by a qualified technician
– Product check: Testing and calibration
– Removal of all boxes, packaging, etc.
You can check availability for this service on the TC5 page at BowflexCatalog.com by typing in your zip code. If it’s not offered in your area, there are usually local installation & repair techs that could do it for you (maybe even for cheaper).
I hope that helps!
Kyle
I am soo close to buying a TC5. I have read the revies and seen the TC5 assembly video on youtube. The only thing I have a question about is the 12 level Resistance. Since it has no motor how do you change the Resistance? Just walk faster? Is that really what they mean?
Thanks
Hi Phil,
Great question! Bowflex just updated their TreadClimber line, and our review has been updated to reflect the new User-Generated resistance (as opposed to the 12 levels it had with a motor).
You’re exactly right: the resistance is controlled entirely by you, which makes it easier to focus on your workout instead of worrying about adjusting settings.
Enjoy your workouts and have a great day Phil,
Kyle
Hi Kyle,
I’m worried about the noise of the machine, since I live in an apartment in NYC with neighbors below, and the floor is made of old wood.
Do you think the TC5 or the TC10 will make enough noise to bother the neighbors downstairs?
Thank you,
Alex.
Hi Alex,
I’ve never thought about that, but it’s a great point to bring up!
The TreadClimber machines don’t use a high-impact running motion, so they’re much quieter than treadmills.
In this case though, I would recommend putting down a rug and/or a workout mat (both couldn’t hurt) to reduce the creaking noise from the machine’s motion, and you should be good.
Have a good day Alex,
Kyle
Hi Kyle,
Thank you for your thorough review – it helped me in deciding to purchase this. At your suggestion, I’ve also decided to get in-home assembly. The assembly itself is quite pricey so I’m wondering—do you tip them?
Thank you!
MJ
Hey MJ,
Thanks for stopping by, and I’m happy to help!
As for tipping, that’s a great question that I’ve honestly never thought about for some reason.
Each time I’ve paid for home delivery, my line of thinking was like yours: the cost is so high they must be making good money to do it, so it never crossed my mind to tip. That said, I’m not sure how much of that money the actual techs are seeing, so I’ll be sure to ask around.
I’d love to hear from others about this though. Has anyone tipped for in-home delivery?
Have a great day,
Kyle
FitRated.com
We ordered the TC5. Be sure to inspect both Box 1 and Box 2 as soon as you can after delivery. We received the initial boxes, and both boxes were virtually destroyed and not reusable. There was interior damage to Box 2 contents (the treadclimber base assembly portion). Nautilus worked quickly with us, and put us on the list for a replacement Box 2 – unfortunately this was another 4 weeks, in addition to the original 6, but Nautilus said our 6 week trial would not start until we informed them we received the replacement and assembled the unit.
It is however sad that when the replacement Box 2 arrived, it was also damaged in shipment. I reported both times to Nautilus, that the boxes are not well suited to shipping, and that the interior contents are not sufficiently packaged to keep from shifting, causing holes in the box, and ultimately damage to the unit. We are returning our entire unit and opted to not get a replacement. In our case, Nautilus approved us (a 2 day process) to return the unit at their cost.
Hi Pam,
I’m sorry to hear that! It’s strange that the packaging isn’t better suited to protect the product during shipping, but I’m glad you told them about it.
I’ll also contact them to put in my vote for better packing materials, and hopefully they’ll upgrade them.
Thanks for your feedback, and let me know if you need any help finding a different piece of equipment,
Kyle
I also received my T5 badly beaten up, and I’m waiting for cosmetic replacement parts. I’ve been able to use it but it is very noisy. I’m wondering if anyone else has reported banging noises from the machine? It’s loud enough that I may return it. It’s not the belts, and I have oiled it up.
Hi Monica,
Sorry to hear that! We’ve gotten quite a few emails about receiving it with damages, though only one other about the banging noises.
From their experience, it seems like the noise was from the problems it had upon shipping or something that happened during assembly, because when everything is working it’s not a very loud machine.
If you would like to return it for a refund, give them a call at (800) 675-9973 to get the process started.
If you’re looking for something to replace the TC5, we haven’t heard about any issues like this with the TC10 or the TC20, and here are some other options that might suit your needs (for the same price):
- Treadmills: ProForm Power 995 & NordicTrack A2750 PRO
- Ellipticals: NordicTrack AS 990 PRO & Sole E25
Thanks for your feedback, and please let us know how things turn out.
Have a great day Monica,
Kyle
I just recieved my TreadClimber TC5, and it is totally what i wanted.
Just need to know one thing: how do i make it into a treadmill?
This is the best machine i have ever worked out on, anybody know the answer please let me know….Thanks
Hi Jane,
TreadClimbers get the effects of a treadmill, elliptical and stair climber in one machine, so you don’t have to change anything while you work out to cover all three motions.
That’s the beauty of it. Glad to hear you like it…
Kyle
hello, I’m hesitant to buy the TC5 because of the fact that it has no motor, does it make a huge deal? I dont care about the whole no heart monitors, or calroie counter things, I jsut want to know how it is walking wise, because it is 1000$ and i dont wan tto buy something thats not good quality
Hi Chelsea,
The machine’s power is based on the user’s motion, so the TC5 has its pros and cons…
Pros:
- Your workout will be as intense as you can make it
- You don’t have to worry about changing speeds with buttons
Cons:
- Without the machine staying on pace, it’s easy to slow down
- The TC5 has been reportedly been shipped with damages lately
Ideally, everyone would get the TC10 or TC20, but they are significantly more money. So, if you’re looking for a cardio machine in the $1,000 price range, the Sole E25 elliptical is a solid option.
You could also check out our comparison of the top 5 walking treadmills if that’s your focus. The top model is $799.
I hope that helps! Thanks for stopping by Chelsea,
Kyle
Id be interested in an elliptical but I’m looking for financing, i really like the treadclimber but I’m quite concerned with the no motor aspect, know any websites that offer financing?
In that case, I would apply for Bowflex’s 18-month interest-free financing option.
If approved, you could get it, try it out, and return it if you don’t like it.
If it is what you’re looking for, you’ll have 18 months to pay it off without any fees.
Good luck Chelsea!
Kyle
Hi Kyle,
So I bought the TC5, and like other customers, I received a damaged machine!
I called customer service, waited for more than 30min to get an agent, and after saying that I don’t want a replacement part because I don’t want to got through another 4h of assembling the “thing”, or getting another defective part (as other people have reported) I was told that I have to wait for at least 5 business days to see if they will approve the return or not!! Or that I could return it and pay for it myself!
Could not believe it! Worst customer service ever!
Also, my machine makes the banging noise. I recommend people not buy this machine.
Hey Alex,
Wow, that’s crazy man! So sorry to hear that. Stick to your guns about the money-back guarantee…though this is a big mistake, they are historically a good company, so I’m confident they’ll give you the refund you deserve.
I’ve updated the review to make sure everyone here in the FitRated community sees these issues right away, so thanks a ton for your feedback.
Also, now that 5 people have seen this damaged shipment issue, I’m going to contact Bowflex directly with all of our comments to get to the bottom of this.
Thanks for taking the time to help all of us,
Kyle
Hi – I posted on 1/27, and I shared that I went through the experience Alex is about to embark. They approved mine, and if you have supporting info (I sent them photos), you should be good to go – it’s a bit of “red tape” I’m sure so hang in there.
We were responsible for repacking and getting the boxes to a FedEx facility. In all, we had to REPLACE the boxes because they were so mangled from the original shipment. We have a wholesale box company in Houston that specializes in all kinds of box sizes so boxes were horribly expensive, and we could get one in almost the original sizes.
Note going forward – you may still have some battles…KEEP every shred of documentation. I returned mine on 1/30 and Nautilus got my machine back on 2/3…so far NO credit, so you MUST file a dispute with your credit card company (this is typically in writing, btw) and they want copies of emails, phone call dates and conversation summaries, along with outcomes of what Nautilus verbally promised you. I took advantage of the 18 months no interest offer, and I had to file a complaint yesterday with FTC about horrible practices by GE Money Retail Bank! On top of everything else – I sent dispute paperwork to the address on website (calling was useless – I tried and they didn’t have a clue what I was referring to “credit card dispute”). I find out yesterday, after checking on dispute status – they “didnt’ get paperwork” and after they confirmed address, the website paperwork ALL has the incorrect address!!!!
So, as of 11 days later, I don’t have a credit from Nautilus, and the credit card company has a temporary “dispute” hold on my account until Nautilus posts the full refund.
I’m out about $50 of my money, and probably 12 hours of phone time…to this point.
It’s a shame that I never got to try the machine, and that in the future we will never consider buying again from Nautilus, simply becaue they didn’t ensure proper shipping requirements. The boxes only needed some wood supports and heavier ends and it would have made a lot more customers happy and Nautilus would have better product reviews and sales in the future.
Forgot to mention – I ordered my TC5 back in October 2011…the first damaged shipment came at Thanksgiving, and the replacement came mid January.
In all, roughly 6 months from intiial order, to when I expect credit card company reimbursement for what I’ve paid to date (probably end of February or early March).
Hi again Pam,
Thank you so much for your valuable feedback, and you’re right: it is a shame that such a simple fix could have prevented all this hassle.
I just sent an email to Bowflex asking them if they’re already fixing this, with a link to all of our discussion on this page, so hopefully they will prevent this issue on future orders.
If you think of it, please come back to let us know what equipment you end up choosing, and hopefully that purchase will go much more smoothly!
Thanks again Pam. Have a great day,
Kyle
I just ordered the TC5 yesterday, so I’ll let everyone know in what condition it arrives and how well it works out. I’m a bit sad I didn’t see this thread before I ordered it, but I was wanting something for inside the house so that after I do my P90X workout in the garage I could come inside and do some additional cardio work. The lower price tag on the machine is why I went with the TC5, Bowflex has always been a superior product and done well in the past to not ship faulty equipment with their name on it…so I’ll be a bit upset with them if this is a serious issue and mine arrives damage or broken.
I recently got their adjustable dumbbell set and it arrived without any issues or problems, so hopefully the issue is isolated or perhaps regional in nature and the damage is happening upon arrival to the local area and not happening out of transit.
Hi Jeremy,
Hopefully you’re right and there are no problems with your TC5.
I also just bought the SelectTech dumbbells with zero issues, so I’m glad to hear the shipment went well for you too.
Please let us know how it goes when your machine arrives.
Have a great day!
Kyle
Hi Kyle,
So finally Nautilus approved the return of the damaged TC 5 that I received .
However, they will not send me a return label that will allow FedEx to pick up the boxes at my house, as it was delivered!!
Can you believe that? I’ll have to carry almost 200lbs to a FedEx store?
This is so ridiculous and outrageous!
If they delivered it to my door, why not pick it up at my door?
How much more this would cost to Bowlflex?
I think they do this in the hope the the customers will give up to return it, since it will cost a lot of money to make private arrangements to have this picked up and taken to a FedEx store.
I’m totally disappointed and frustrated with my experience with Nautilus-Bowlflex.
I’ll do all I can to publicise the horrible ways that Nautilus customers are subject to.
Thank you for the space you provide here so customers like us can expose the horrible side of some companies.
Alex.
That’s really frustrating…I wish these kinds of things never happened, but unfortunately even the best companies make these mistakes sometimes.
I’ve spoken directly to Bowflex about these issues, and they assured me that they have corrected the problem that was causing this mess, so things should be fine from now on.
Good luck Alex! Have a good day,
Kyle
Kyle,
I don’t know the questions to ask because I do not own one of these machines. I have two questions and on request.
Would you purchase a treadclimber? If you did, would you consider the motorless TC5 or the other models with a motor.
Any information you would have on the two versions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
My personal choice is the TC10, because it’s a great balance of features and price.
The TC5 is a solid option (now that they fixed the shipping issues) for the price, but if you’re willing to invest more in your fitness equipment, the TC10 is a better option.
Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Have a good weekend,
Kyle
We just purchased the TC5 and it arrived badly damaged. My wife called the return number, and called, and called again but never reached anyone. She finally called the purchasing number and got straight through very quickly, but when the operator found out we were not trying to buy a machine, my wife was on hold for quite a while. Replacement parts will be shipped out but we will not receive them until the end of March. The operator said that we could use the machine without issue until the parts arrived, so we started giving it a go. We too have a rather noisy, banging experience during workouts, but it does deliver quite a workout! Now that we have tried the TC5 out, we think we would enjoy a powered machine much more. It is quite difficult to maintian a steady pace and we find ourselves struggling to remain on the machine for more than 15 minutes at a time. This may be a good thing, to force us to work harder and get a better workout, but we feel like something just isn’t right. We have not given up on it yet, but feel a bit dissapointed in what we got, compared to our expectations.
Hi Chris,
I hope they straighten things out quickly for you! I’m sure the loud noise is annoying, but I’m glad you’re at least able to use it for the time being.
Also, if you would like the motorized TreadClimbers better, I also prefer the TC10 and TC20. They’re quite a bit more expensive, but I’ve never heard if any shipping issues, and many people prefer the motor and structure of these machines over the TC5.
Good luck, and let us know how things turn out,
Kyle
Kyle, Thank you for your earlier response. I have two more question – is the TC20 $1,100 better than the TC10 and how do these machines compare to the commercial version of a treadclimber
Thanks,
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
No problem! Personally, with all the research I’ve done, my favorite is the TC10.
It’s the best balance of features and price overall.
Here’s what makes the TC20 different from the TC10:
- Multiple User Profiles (TC10 has 1)
- Max. speed of 4.5 mph (up from 4.0 mph)
- 1 more function
- Slightly bigger (some say sturdier)
- More money ($1,100 like you mentioned)
If you want the best available, the TC20 is right up your alley. If you’re looking to get the best bang for your buck, the TC10 gets my vote.
Let me know if you have any other questions,
Kyle
I just recently bought a TC5 Treadclimber and I haven’t used it for over a month, due to the treads bouncing when I walk on it and it makes a loud noise. Just wondering what could this be?
Hi Kyle,
Thanks for this great site, it’s been sooo helpful!
I am considering the TC5, mostly becuasae the bow flex website says it is quiet. Is it? Is it quieter than the 10 or 20?
Will it be quiet enough that in the evenings while we are watching Tv I can be using it and my husband can still here Modern Family and Raising Hope?
Thanks,
Keep up the great work, much appreciated!
Sue
Hi Gloria,
Some users have reported this issue, saying it was something a Nautilus tech had to fix, and others realized they could fix it themselves (if something was assembled correctly).
Either way, I would recommend calling them to schedule an appointment since it’s still in warranty.
Good luck, and let us know how it goes!
Kyle
Thanks Sue! I appreciate the kind words, and I’m really glad to hear FitRated is helping.
You might have to turn Modern Family up a bit, but there’s nothing wrong with that, right?
What an awesome show…
Anyway, it is definitely quieter than the TC10 and TC20 since there’s no motor, but it does still make noise due to the moving parts. As far as cardio equipment goes, the TC5 is going to be one of the quietest options you’ll find, along with some exercise bikes.
Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions,
Kyle
Kyle
Thank you for the value your site offers, always great to see what others think. I have a question for you, I’m on the fence about this piece of equipment mainly due to the negative issues relating to delivery damage etc. You mentioned you talked to them recently about this and they assured you that they had taken care of it. Do you know what they did to remedy this issue? Also is your coupon code till usable and how does it work for me.
Michael
Hi Michael,
You’re quite welcome, and thanks for the comment. I appreciate it, and I’m glad FitRated is helping.
That’s a great question…I would be feeling the same way with all the complaints that came in about damaged orders.
When I spoke to the Bowflex rep, he told me they changed their packaging and packing materials right when they realized what was going on. Those sorts of manufacturing process changes take time, but within a few days of hearing this, all of the issues seemed to stop at once, so it looks like the problem has been taken care of.
The coupon code still gets you a free exercise mat, but the free shipping offer is over now (page updated, thanks!).
I hope that helps, and let me know if you have any other questions,
Kyle
Kyle – I hope you are right. I actually spoke to several individuals all the way back at the first part of DECEMBER and indicated there was a problem with the packing and that they would continue to have them unless they upgraded the packing substantially. I provided significant details also about the prime weaknesses. Something that size should be in a crate with wood supports.
However, in early January, (4 weeks after we informed them they needed better packing) we got our replacement machine in January, they had NOT yet changed the packaging. It was also damaged.
All in all, from the time we ordered until we got our refund, it took over 6 months (we ordered in October, got the first machine in late November, then a replacement in early January, then shipped the 2nd machine back immediately).
Credit processing was a whole other issue – at first, they received the machine, but there was no credit for a couple of weeks after receipt. Apparently at the warehouse they forgot to mark it “received”. However after 3 MORE weeks, there was still no credit (over a month now). At that point I involved Credit services, and had to snail mail15 pages to them, showing it was returned and all the correspondence between us and Nautilus. They got with Nautilus and it took a couple more weeks for Nautilus to respond to them – we also filed a complaint against Nautilus as well as the Credit Card company (who gave me the WRONG dispute paperwork address – it’s wrong on their website too!) so I ended up sending it twice. They did reimburse me for the shipping fees on first since it was there error. I am convinced if I hadn’t filed complaints with the federal agencies where they have to respond in a timely manner, I’d still be waiting on a refund.
It’s not just the merchandise packing that was poorly designed, but their credit company who offers the 18 months no interest, who also is understaffed, poorly trained, with a website that is not maintained. I was told they were in midst of changing over, so I have not verified this. We began corresponding via email and snail mail since complaints are typically handled that way. We finally got our refund check last week and I have requested that the credit account be formally closed. I do have documentation from the credit card company with regular progress and status, so that was at least something done correctly (per Federal guidelines).
Hi Pam,
Thanks for the update, and I’m glad to hear you got the much-deserved refund for the shipping fees!
I spoke with the Bowflex rep on February 17th, so I think it took them quite a while to improve their process, and in the month since I haven’t heard any of any issues with orders.
Have a nice weekend,
Kyle
What are the 4 work out functions? I just bought one from a friend who didn’t like it and don’t see anything in the manual about that.
Hi Lea,
Sorry for the confusion there. I just updated the wording to make it more clear:
“4 report functions: calories, time, speed & distance”
Enjoy your new TC5,
Kyle
Hi Kyle!
I am so glad that I found your site. I am debating between the TC5 and TC10. I used to run quite a bit but have runner’s knee and can no longer run. I am looking to loose the last of the baby weight (after three babies in the last five years) and get a good cardio workout. I am also only 5’2.
Overall do you think the treadclimber is suited for knee problems? We would pay for the in-home installation. Do you think the TC10 or TC5 is preferable based on my height? I see the handle bars are different.
Thank you so much!
Hi Ariella,
Thanks for stopping by! I’m happy to help.
I’m no doctor, but I can say with confidence that you’ll get a lot less joint impact on a TreadClimber than a treadmill, so it will be one of the best types of equipment for knee problems.
As for the handlebars, you will likely have a better experience on the TC10. I’m 6′ 3″, so I’m not the best guy to ask on this one, but the handlebars are slightly angled downward, so you’ll get a better angle. That said, you probably won’t use them too often anyway, and both machines are well-designed for a wide range of user heights.
Overall, the TC10 is a better investment if it’s in the budget.
Have a great day,
Kyle
Kyle,
We are looking to buy a tread climber and was looking at the TC5 due to the price but with the current discount the TC10 for only $800 more with the free shipping. My concern is I am 6’4 and saw one comment about the tread length being a problem for a 6’5 user. I really do not want to step up to the TC20 for the price they are looking for hard for me to justify with the 20 gyms near me that charge less than $20 a month to join. Do you have any feelings for taller users?
Hi Scott,
I totally understand! I’m 6’3″, and there’s nothing worse than hitting your knee on something that wasn’t made for tall people.
All the TC models are pretty similar in this way, but the only problem I could see is feeling like you have to lean down to grip the handlebars (which would require really long legs).
Bowflex says it was built for tall folks too, though certain body types could have troubles I suppose. If you don’t feel like you need to hold onto the handlebars (strong quads, calves and back), this wouldn’t be a problem either way.
I hope that helps. Let me know if there’s anything else I can help with,
Kyle
I recently bought a Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 the green one. It took me some time to decide on buying it due to the expense. I even phoned around to several gyms trying to see if there was a place I could go to try it out, but to no avail. I even called the Bowflex people several times asking them, is this OK, I have a bad knee that is arthritic, they pretty much assured me, that, it was easier to walk on the treadclimber, than walking to my mailbox! They actually said that to me.
So, the machine arrived, no problems and the repairman came to set it up. I managed to work my way from 1.5 minutes to 5 minutes. Once I got to the five minute mark, my knee flared up something awful and I was off work for almost 2 weeks!!! I literally could not walk!! {It made me wish that I had gotten a more expensive machine w/motor instead of this “Green” one.) Having never used the motorized one, it left me to wonder if there is a difference (aside from all the bells and whistles)?!?!?
If ever I wanted something to work this would be it! I am beyond disappointed. I actually feel a little devastated!
My knee is now better, I may try again, I want this to work so badly, you have no idea! But, if it does not work well for me, I will definitely have to get rid of it.
The problem now is that I am stuck with this expensive piece of equipment!! Bowflex should have some way for people to try these machines out before spending this much money on it. Had I had that opportunity, I would probably have gotten one with a motor.
Has anyone else had a similar experience out there?
I’m sorry about your knee!
They do have a 6-week money back guarantee, so if you’re still in the first 6 weeks, be sure to call them at (800) 675-9973 to get a return number.
It’s never fun shipping something this big back, and the return is less shipping fees, but it sounds like returning it would be your best bet in this case.
One option might be to call them and ask about “trading up” to the motorized option (I like the TC10). Maybe if you’re upgrading they could credit the shipping?
In any case, good luck, and I hope your knee feels better!
Kyle
Thanks for your quick response Kyle!! I am going to maybe try the “trading up” and see how that works. My 6 week money back is over unfortunately over! But first, I have a Dr’s appt next week and I will speak with my dr about it and see what he suggests.
You’re welcome! That sounds great.
Let us know how it works out,
Kyle
My tread climber is extremely noisy. Making a squeeky noise. How do I fix this? I live in Canada so having a service agent over is not possible.
Hi Lea,
If it’s making a squeaking noise, you should be able to fix it by tightening the frame’s hydraulic bolts.
I hope that helps!
Kyle