Strengths:
20 Inch Stride
Most ellipticals under $1000 only give you a 16 - 18" stride. So the longer stride is great to find here. A longer stride length means you work the full range of leg muscles and get an overall more effective workout.
This longer stride length is also appreciated by taller users or those with longer legs. It helps give you a more comfortable elliptical ride.
Adjustable Footpads
The E25 comes with 3 position adjustable footpads. So it's easy to find the best elliptical motion for you and customize the workout more to your liking.
Power 30 Degree Incline
Incline (not the same as resistance) changes the slope of the elliptical motion, working different sets of muscle groups.
This gives you a more effective workout and helps to avoid overtraining. Plus it's a power incline - which means you don't have to get off the machine to adjust the incline. You just push a button on the console.
Proper Alignment Of Footpads
When you use an elliptical, the natural alignment of your body is thrown off no matter how close the footpads are. The Sole E25 elliptical footpads have a slight inward angle of two degrees.
This angle actually helps to puts your body back into a neutral alignment throughout the elliptical motion and protects your back, knees, ankles and hips.
Built In Speakers with iPod Mp3 Hookup
Plug in your mp3 or iPod and listen to your favorite music or audiobook through the built in speakers. This is a fun feature that can make your workouts more enjoyable.
19 lb Flywheel
With ellipticals, the heavier the flywheel, the smoother the ride. This is one of the heaviest flywheels at this price point and makes for a very stable, smooth feeling ride. (Just to give you an idea, more expensive Horizon ellipticals only offer a 14 lb flywheel.)
Weaknesses:
The Sole e25 is a fantastic buy under $1000. However, the higher end Sole models like the Sole E95 do offer more - like higher incline (40 vs 30 degree), heavier flywheels for a smoother ride, higher grade construction, sleeker consoles, adjustable foot pedal angles, and longer warranties.
Summary: Great Budget Buy
If you're on a budget, the Sole E25 elliptical offers great value. It's one of the only ellipticals at this price point built with a eye for proper ergonomic design.
With the 3 position adjustable footpads, longer 20" stride and the inward angled footpedals, it gives you a more luxurious comfortable feel than many other starter ellipticals.
If you want more in terms of stability, a longer warranty, and higher power incline options you might want to check out the Sole E35 or Sole E55. But overall, this is a great little budget buy from Sole.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can buy the Sole E25 direct from the Manufacturer. They're also offering Free Shipping and $0 sales tax which can also save you at least $150+.
In addition to the 20" stride length, properly aligned footpads, heavy 19 lb flywheel and iPod music port, Sole has now added a power incline feature.
Incline changes the slope of the elliptical motion and can help you work different sets of muscle groups for better overall crosstraining.
Is the E25 right for you? Here's a review to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $999.99 (Sale)
Stride Length: 20"
Resistance Type: ECB Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 20
Built In Workout Programs: 10
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Pulse Grip & Chest Strap
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
Warranty: Lifetime Frame, 3 years parts & electronics, 1 year in home labor
