Weaknesses:
While it really isn't a weakness, these ellipticals can be hard to find. Also they don't come with some of the entertainiment options that other brands do like iPod/MP3 docks with speakers, extra personal trainer workouts, etc.
Summary:
There's no question that Diamondback makes a quality elliptical. Strengths include a solid, smooth feel with heavy flywheels, decent stride lengths and bright, easy-to-see console stats.
They rate well with users and experts. While there aren't a lot of models currently out - we'd probably stick with the 1260Ef elliptical which gives you incline, wireless heart rate monitor, 19" stride and a 'Best Buy' rating.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
While you'll probably pay more for a Diamondback at a store, we found them Online for a lot less than the MSRP price. Plus you also get Free Shipping which will also save you about $150.
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4) "Best Buy" Rating - While they aren't as popular as some brands the Diamondback 1260Ef elliptical did merit a 'Best Buy' rating from a leading consumer magazine in back Jan 2009. It also gets great ratings from users at Amazon for quietness and stability.
5) Incline - You can find incline on some Diamondback models like the 1260 Ef - which can help you increase your workout slope and get an overall better crosstraining workout. Incline is becoming fairly standard on ellipticals now, however it's still nice to find.
Diamondback elliptical trainers are manufactured through Diamondback Fitness. They are known for making fitness equipment as well as popular outdoor bikes.
Diamondback has been in the fitness industry for almost 30 years and produces several mid-priced to high end elliptical trainers.
While they aren't as well known as other brands, their most popular model - the 1260Ef did get a 'Best Buy' rating from a leading consumer magazine in January 2009.
Are they a good buy for you? Here's an overview of the strengths and weaknesses of Diamondback ellipticals.
Strengths:
1) Front and Rear Drive Models - Diamondback makes both front and rear drive models, which gives you some choice.
Many people don't have a preference between front or rear drive ellipticals.
However some do find that rear-drive ellipticals have a flatter elliptical path - whereas the front drive ellipticals use a more inclined uphill path.
The Ef models stand for 'front drive' and the Er models stand for 'rear drive'.
2) Decent Stride Lengths - A longer stride length works leg muscles fully and feels more comfortable for many people. Diamondback elliptical strides range from 19" - 21" which is excellent.
However it should be noted that the 500Ef elliptical stride is only 15" which is quite short and may give you a less effective workout.
3) 24 lb Flywheels - In general, the heavier the flywheel, the smoother feeling the elliptical ride. A heavier flywheel will give you a more commercial, gym-quality feeling.
Diamondback puts fairly heavy 24 lb flywheels on their ellitpicals. (Just to give you an idea, Horizon uses 14-16 pound flywheels and Sole uses monster 25 - 29 lb flywheels.)
