Strengths:
21" Stride Length - This is one of the main benefits of the Smooth 7.4 as it's one of the longest stride lengths on the market. A longer stride uses more leg muscles and results in a more effective calorie-burning workout. While shorter users (under 5'2") may prefer an 18-20" stride, most people really love the feel of the longer stride.
Ergonomic Pivoting Foot Pedals - These pivoting pedals mimic the natural motion of your ankle and hold the proper alignment keeping your ankle, knee and hip from suffering impact.
This can result in less muscle strain and soreness that you sometimes get with cheaper ellipticals.
Solid Stable Feel with High 350 lb User Weight Capacity - The CE 7.4's heavy, welded steel double frame with heavy duty flywheel helps give this elliptical a substantial solid feel when you're on it.
Plus the 350 lb user weight capacity is one of the highest at this price point. If you really want a solid, commercial feeling unit, this is one to consider.
16 Resistance Levels and 13 Pre-Set Workout Programs - The 13 workout programs include fat-burning, interval, manual, strength, fitness level test and target heart rate. Plus there are 16 levels of resistance to give you multiple levels of challenge.
9 User Profiles - This is a great feature if you have multiple elliptical users. You can store age, weight, height, sex and target heart rate for up to nine people.
Advanced Dot Matrix Console - The Smooth CE 7.4 has a console similar to health club units that show you a dot matrix profile of your workout, intensity level, time elapsed, workout programs and more. One-touch stop and start buttons are well laid out and easy to reach.
IPod Dock With Speakers - Plug in your iPod and listen to your favorite tunes while you workout. While this is becoming fairly standard in the industry, it's still a nice touch that can make your workouts more enjoyable.
Weaknesses:
People under 5'2" may find the 21" a bit too long and want to try the Smooth CE 3.6 which offers a 18" stride.
Summary: Highly Recommended
The Smooth CE 7.4 is one of our favorite ellipticals from the Smooth lineup - mainly because of the longer 21" stride, pivoting footpedals, heavy, stable feel and club-style console.
Shorter people or new exercisers may want to save some money and check out the 18" stride of the lesser priced Smooth models. However overall, if you're looking for a strong alternative to the commercial $3000+ machines, the CE 7.4 is a great value.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Smooth 7.4 direct from the Manufacturer. They're currently giving you Free Shipping which will save you about $150.
Plus for a short time, our visitors can Save 5% Off the 7.4 elliptical - just use Promo Code smooth5 at checkout and you'll see the discount come off.
One of the best features of the 7.4 is the very long 21" stride - one of the best strides currently available. A long stride gives you a smoother feeling ride. It also works legs muscles more effectively - which helps you burn more calories per workout.
Plus the pivoting foot pedals helps to take the stress off your ankle and foot thus reducing toe numbness and pain after long workouts. And the heavier flywheel gives you a very smooth feeling ride.
Is it a good fit for you? Here's what you need to know about the Smooth 7.4 before you buy:
Features:
Sale Price: $1499 (+ Free Shipping)
Stride Length: 21"
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 16
Built In Workout Programs: 13
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Handgrip Pulse Sensors & Wireless
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
Dimensions: 27" W x 83" L
User Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Warranty: Lifetime on Frame & Brakes, 5 years on Parts, 2 years on Labor
