Strengths:
1) Use It As An Elliptical Trainer Or A Stair Stepper
This is a unique feature you can't currently find on other ellipticals. You can use the Smooth 3.0 as an elliptical trainer. For variety you can also change it up, make a few adjustments and use it as a stair stepper. This helps to work different muscle groups and give you greater crosstraining.
2) Compact To Save Space
The Smooth CE 3.0 is one of the smallest, most compact ellipticals on the market (that doesn't fold up). It measures only 27" W by 57" L. This is great if you don't have a lot of space in your home gym. It's also on the lighter side so it's easier to move around than many standard ellipticals.
3) Extra Long 21" Stride
While many cheaper department store ellipticals give you shorter strides of 14-16", the 3.0 Elliptical comes with an extra long 21" stride. A longer stride helps you more fully work your leg muscles and gives you a more effective workout overall.
This kind of stride used to be found in only Smooth's higher end commercial ellipticals so it's impressive to find it in their most affordable model.
4) Dual Color LCD Display
The console is easy to read and well laid out. You can easily follow your time, distance/odometer, resistance levels, speed, age and pulse.
5) Extensive Warranty With 2 Years on Service
The warranty covers the frame, 2 years on brake and parts, and 2 years on labor.
Of special note is the 2 years on service. Since most ellipticals only give you 90 days to 1 year coverage on service, this is a great feature that can save you a lot of money should you have to service your elliptical in the future.
Weaknesses:
While this is a great starter elliptical, it doesn't come with some of the bells and whistles of higher end Smooth models. You don't get the variable elliptical motions and strides found on the DMT X2 or the pivoting foot pedals on the 7.4 trainer. Still, at this price it may not matter to you.
Summary:
If you're looking for a compact, well made elliptical with an extra-long stride, the Smooth CE 3.0DS elliptical is definitely worth checking out.
You can get double duty out of it, using it as an elliptical or a stair-stepper. Plus the compact size makes it great for smaller workout spaces.
And you get lots of little extras too like 16 built-in-workouts, heart rate monitor (including wireless chest strap), bright, easy-to-read console, water bottle holder and
16 resistance levels. While it doesn't come with the extras on the higher end Smooth models, overall, it gives great value for an affordable price.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
Your can get the Smooth CE 3.0DS elliptical direct from the Smooth Manufacturer. You can also get Free Shipping to your home and save on Sales tax in most States.
It's actually more than an elliptical trainer - you can also use it as a stair-stepper.
The design is compact to save you space - however it also comes with an extra long 21" stride. This is a bonus since many compact ellipticals only give you very short strides because of space limitations.
Plus, it is currently Smooth's most affordable elliptical. Here's a quick review to help you decide if it's right for you:
Features:
Price: $1099 + Free Shipping
Stride Length: 21"
Resistance Levels: 16
Built In Workout Programs: 16
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Handgrip Pulse Sensors & Wireless Chest Strap
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Unit Dimensions: 57"L x 27"W x 71"H
Unit Weight: 3140 lbs
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame, 2 years on brake, parts and labor
