Epic is owned by ICON Health and Fitness, one of the largest fitness equipment manufacturers in the world. They also own the Reebok, Nordic Track and Proform names.
The 425 MX offers an extra long 60" belt, high powered 3.0 HP motor, customizable workout programs and an advanced console with 180 degree viewing angle.
Is the 425MX right for your fitness needs? Here's a quick review to help you decide:
Quick Stats:
Price: $1199
Motor: 3.0 CHP commercial-grade motor
Speed: 0-12 MPH
Incline: 0-12%
Treadbelt: 20 x 60"
Folding: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Yes Hand Grip
Warranty: 12 Years on Motor, 1 Year on parts and labor
Strengths:
1) 20" x 60" Extra Long Treadbelt - This extra long belt is perfect for runners or taller users. When you pick up the pace, you won't feel like you're falling off the treadmill.
2) 350 lb User Weight Capacity - This is actually pretty high for a treadmill at this price range and it's a good indicator of high stability.
3) 12 Year Motor Warranty - This is a decent good motor warranty and since the motor can be an expensive part of the treadmill to fix, it gives you some peace of mind. The warranty also covers the frame for a lifetime, labor and parts for 1 year. While this is an ok warranty overall, it's not the best.
4) 10 Personal Training, 2 Heart Rate and 2 Learn Workouts - The personal trainer workouts adjust the incline and speed of your treadmill, to fit a specific training goal. The heart rate workouts keep you in your target heart rate zone by increasing or lowering the speed of the treadmill. The 2 learn workouts let you create a workout and save it for future use.
Weaknesses:
It would have been nice to see a longer parts warranty - although at this price point 1 year is standard.
Also, at this price range, there is a lot of competition and the Epic 425 doesn't offer as many goodies (TVs, mp3/iPod hookups, built-in speakers etc.) as other treadmills do (for example, the Nordic Track lineup).
Overall Conclusion: Good Value
The Epic 425 MX treadmill is a solid, stable unit with some great core basics: high powered motor, large walking area and high user weight capacity. Overall it's a good value.
However keep in mind that there are other similarly priced treadmills like Nordic Track or Smooth that offer more in terms of workout programs, electronic gadgets, cushioning and warranty.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can save a few hundred dollars on the Epic 425MX at the ICON closeout store. They're even selling it cheaper than the Epic Manufacturer. You can also get Free Shipping as well, which will save you about $150.
