Reebok ZR8 Treadmill Review [2024 UPDATE]

Overview

A great machine for new and experienced runners alike.  It has a hefty RRP of £899, we run it through its paces to see if it really deserves its place in the almighty premium £1000+ category.

Best Reebok ZR8 Treadmill Price
ProductPrice CheckOriginal PriceDiscounted Price
Reebok ZR8 TreadmillGTR price checkingWAS £699CLICK HERE
Read more customer reviews here – Review stars 4 out of 5 (1106)

Initial cost

This treadmill at the time of writing was full price from my local retailer. They have been known to go on special offer on occasions, but this is rare when compared to how often sales occur on other brands such as Reebok or NordicTrack.

Delivery and setup

The setup was really went smoothly, I always set up test treadmills with my partner as moving the treadmill into position is never easy by yourself (plus he still hasn’t forgiven me after the scratched floor incident). Finally, I lifted the arms while he screwed the bolts into place, and I was all set to give it a try.

Overall it took around 45 minutes in total, and I am happy to say that currently there are no faults, it looks beautiful in black with the odd dashes of yellow.

Features

Following the setup I quickly jumped into my running gear and flicked on the start switch. The ZR8 powered to life and my first thought were a little underwhelming, the LCD feedback unit consisted of three red LED number displays. I have seen better displays on other treadmills even when taking into account we paid less than half the RRP.

Moving onto the mechanics of the treadmill, like other Reebok models it comes equipped with a good 2hp motor that gives a continuous 16kph. This makes it ideal for both veteran runners and walkers.

Getting to grips with the ZR8 was easy, I was quickly able to change the speed and incline on the fly. The main display does a good job of allowing you to quickly choose a set speed or desired incline. Funky graphics surround the main LCD display give you an idea of what to expect from your chosen fitness program, and I put the ZR8 through its paces with a 45-minute hill climb and descent.

The running track of the ZR8 is also larger than other similar Reebok models (not majorly but enough to notice). If you want to measure the running surface at home then it is 125cm x 40cm wide. Reebok has also included the ZigTech cushioning system as standard with the ZR8. Although similar systems can be found on other treadmills Reebok have done a great job of impact reduction with this system.

The Reebok ZR8 has unique ZigTech cushioning technology which means that when your foot hits the running track a force of energy is transmitted back up to your lower body. The ZigTech system built in to the ZR8 to help reduce the stress in your legs by holding the shockwaves whilst running. 

One of the selling points promoted is the soft folding mechanism, this reminds me of that FORD advert where the boot slowly opens or a soft closing kitchen draw unit. This feature is completely wasted on me as we have a fixed full size position for our treadmill in my house.

As a side note it may look like a nice feature but I can’t really recall when lifting and lowering a treadmill has been that much of an issue. How much of a benefit this would be to you only you can measure.

More features of the Reebok ZR8

This machine has 12 levels of incline giving the average runner more than enough variations if their training requires any specific settings. We tested the incline, and it has to be one of the better treadmills for its solid feeling while in use.

On occasions with budget treadmills the running track may move from side to side at higher incline levels due to it being further away from its starting base level. The ZR8 does not suffer from this fault and gives a solid feeling though out all levels of incline.

I love to listen to my music loud (One Direction, it’s a guilty pleasure) while I run and this usually has to be done with headphones. The ZR8 comes equipped with MP3 input, I can confirm that it works with both an MP3 player and mobile phone. Although I wasn’t able to raise the volume as loud as my headphones I thought the sound quality overall was excellent.

There are 24 pre-set programmes plus bodyfat 3 target programmes and 3 other user defined programmes – 31 in all so plenty to keep you motivated. Also included is a heart rate monitor that works by gripping the handles to give an accurate reading of your pulse.

Pros

  • Extremely easy to set up- just a few bolts and screws to be up and running. Assembly key provided
  • Handy drinks holder
  • Buttons on the arms for easy adjustment for incline and speed
  • MP3 playback suitable for the majority of phones and MP3 players
  • Great cushioning system

Cons

  • Basic LCD feedback display
  • Very heavy unit
  • Not worth the full RRP

2024 Review update

Like many of the Reebok range, the ZR7 is looking a little long in the tooth. The programs and features may look a little outdated in comparison to say a 100z, but the performance is pretty much the same.

If your goal is a simple functional treadmill that can give you a great workout then the ZR7 is still a great choice. In addition, you may have to pay a premium for a more modern machine that may charge you monthly for any bells and whistles.

Final word

If you are looking for a simple to operate high quality treadmill then the ZR8 is a great choice.

Is it worth the £1099 RRP? Absolutely not. The lack of high quality feedback you find on other treadmills in the same category let this one down. Even the cheaper Reebok GT30 has a more detailed LCD unit giving you more in-depth feedback of your training. Having said that if you are able to get it on a special discount as we did, then you will be hard pressed to get a better quality treadmill for your money.

Reebok ZR8 Treadmill Voucher Code
ProductPrice CheckOriginal PriceDiscounted Price
Reebok ZR8 TreadmillGTR price checkingWAS £699CLICK HERE
Read more customer reviews here – Review stars 4 out of 5 (1106)


Specifications

Model number: RE1-11820BK
Continuous speed –  16kph
Auto stop safety system
2hp motor
Hand grip heart rate monitor
Folds away almost vertical
12 levels of incline
Mains powered
6 alternative display fucntions
Running surface size L130, W40cm
24 user programmes

Product details

Size complete – H143cm, W72cm, D165cm
Size folded – H145cm, W72cm, D105cm
Mounted on wheels
Manufacturer’s 2 year guarantee

 

REVIEW OVERVIEW

Features
Performance
Build Quality
Value for Money

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OverviewA great machine for new and experienced runners alike.  It has a hefty RRP of £899, we run it through its paces to see if it really deserves its place in the almighty premium £1000+ category.Best Reebok ZR8 Treadmill PriceProduct Price Check Original Price Discounted PriceReebok ZR8...Reebok ZR8 Treadmill Review [2024 UPDATE]