| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Speed range | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bowflex TC100 Check Discounted Price | L:57" W:31.5" H:59" | 300 lbs | 0.5-4.0 MPH | Dynamic workout program, Fitness score, 2 user profiles, USB port | 2 years |
If you’re looking for a fitness machine that provides a consistent walking workout, a treadclimber may be the perfect choice for you. There are many models available, but one of the best in terms of price and quality is the Bowflex TC100. This is a mid-range treadclimber treadmill, offering speeds up to 4 MPH, and as opposed to the average classic treadmill, it can help you burn up to 2.5 more calories during a walking workout.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 57L x 31.5W x 59H inches (145L x 80W x H cm)
- Assembled weight: 158 lbs (71.6 kg)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Speed range: 0.5 – 4 MPH
- Incline system: No
- Deck cushioning: EasyStep™ Shocks
- Console: Dynamic workout program, fitness score, 2 user profiles, USB port
- Extras: Tablet holder, accessory holders
- Warranty: 2 years
Frame construction & parts
The Bowflex TC100 treadclimber features a steel frame with a durable construction. As opposed to most treadmills, it features a considerably smaller footprint. With the frame fully assembled, it takes only 57″L x 31.5″W (145 x 80 cm) of floor space. However, Bowflex does recommend to assign at least 20″ (~51 cm) of clearance on each side, and 79″ (~200 cm) at the rear for safe
and unhindered operation.
In case you’re wondering, the machine doesn’t fold. Its rear base does integrate transport wheels, though, so you can easily relocate it after your workout.
The TC100 delivers an excellent stability. To begin with, it weighs ~158 lbs (71.6 kg), its base being the heaviest part. On top of that, its front base features two adjustable stabilizers, which allow you to perfectly level the machine on any surface, or on any type of floor. It’s recommended, though, to place it on a rubberized mat, to prevent any damage to the floor.
The Bowflex treadclimber TC100 is equipped with two durable decks set at an incline of approx. 30°. The maximum elevation of each deck (or treadle) is 14.5″ (36.8 cm). Therefore, it’s recommended to use the machine in a room with a ceiling at least 20″ higher than your own height.
The TC100 treadclimber does not integrate a motor to operate the incline, such as various treadmills. In other words, it doesn’t have an automatic incline system, nor it has incline adjustment settings on the console. Each one of its decks is attached to a hydraulic cylinder,
and these cylinders basically create the machine’s EasyStep™ shock absorption system. The EasyStep shocks enable the front part of each treadle to lower as you step on it; they are designed to cushion your joints, decreasing your overall fatigue and reducing muscle strain.
The Easy Step™ Shocks are adjustable. The minimum travel setting of each shock delivers the least amount of treadle movement; conversely, the maximum travel offers the greatest treadle movement (approx. 3″).The closer the dial is set to the maximum travel setting, the more the treadles will move. This results in a more intense workout. Of course, it is recommended to set the same travel level for each one of the shocks, in order to obtain an equal cushioning for each one of the decks.
The dimensions of the treadle belts are not specified. But as a general idea, the width of one belt is approx. 10″, while it’s length is approx. 40″. However, since this is basically a treadmill designed for walking, it should be able to accommodate users of all heights, allowing a healthy, normal stride. Also, the machine has a user capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg).
Motor
The exact specs and power of the motor equipped on the Bowflex TC100 treadclimber are not specified. However, since this is actually a walking treadmill, it goes without saying that its motor doesn’t offer the 3.5 CHP such as the Nautilus T618, for example. It’s a fairly decent motor, though, and even if you’re close to the maximum 300 lbs (136 kg) weight capacity, it shouldn’t lose performance or overheat during the longest workouts.
The speed range offered by this Bowflex treadclimber is 0.5 – 4.0 MPH. The console has keys for 0.1 MPH increments and 0.5 MPH increments, so you can easily find pace that fits best to your stride. In case you’re wondering, the speed cannot be adjusted individually for each belt. So, if the selected belt speed setting on the console is 2 MPH, for example, both treadles will move at 2 MPH.
When in use, the motor itself does not generate any noise. However, the treadles and your cadence can be heard, but the noise generated is definitely lower than when running at full speed on a running treadmill.
Console
The Bowflex TC100 treadclimber features a mid-range console, equipped with a 7″ LCD display, with blue LED backlight. The display tracks time, distance, calories, and pulse. The current speed setting is also displayed, while its mid-section covers the workout segment display.
Speed and distance can be set up in either English or metric units. Heart rate is monitored exclusively through the pulse sensors integrated into the front handlebars of the machine. The console is not telemetric, thus it does not work with Polar or other types of HR chest strap transmitters.
The console unit offers two user profiles. For each user profile, you can input personal data such as age, weight, and gender, in order to benefit from a more accurate calorie reading.
There is only one workout program available on this console. However, this is an open-ended workout allowing for daily adjustments to your workout goal. The workout begins with the Workout Segment Display blank and activates segments as calories are burned. Each segment of the Workout Segment Display represents one calorie. As each calorie is burned, a segment is activated.
Two other notable functions available on this type of console unit are the Awards function and the Fitness Score function. The unit recompensates you with an award for various achievements. For example, you will get an award for starting a workout, for every 100 calories burned, for 1 mile traveled, for the fastest 3 miles etc. The Fitness Score feature offers an estimate of your VO2 Max and the number of calories burned over the last five workouts. It’s an onboard feature that helps you keep track of your progress.
Speaking of progress tracking, the console unit is also equipped with a USB port, which allows you to save your workout data on a USB flash drive, in order to transfer it to your MyFitnessPal account. The USB port doubles up as a docking/charging port for your smartphone or tablet.
The console doesn’t have features such as a sound system or cooling fan. However, it does integrate a tablet holder and two large accessory holders.
Assembly and Maintenance
Although the assembly of this Bowflex treadclimber isn’t complicated, it may take more than an hour. The machine’s base, with the treadles and motor, comes pre-assembled. However, you will still have to pull the wires through the frame, attach the console masts, the console, the hydraulic shocks, and several covers. The included manual provides very clear and concise assembly instructions, and there’s also an official YouTube video that shows all the assembly steps for this machine. Tools for assembly are also included, except for a Phillips screwdriver.
For maintenance, you have to periodically lubricate the treadles. The recommended lubricant is 100% pure silicone available in most hardware stores. If the machine is used less than three hours per week, lubrication is necessary every 3 months. Monthly lubrication is required if the treadclimber is used for more than five hours per week. Other than this, it’s also recommended to periodically check for loose parts and bolts, and keep the belts clean.
The Pros
- Heavy-duty construction – can support users up to 300 lbs;
- Adjustable stabilizers;
- Transport wheels;
- EasyStep™ Shock absorption system, featuring two adjustable cylinders;
- Speed increments of 0.1 MPH and 0.5 MPH offering the possibility to find the perfect pace for your workout;
- Dynamic workout program allowing for daily adjustments to your workout goal;
- Two user profiles;
- Fitness Score function;
- Award function to keep you motivated;
- USB port for charging your tablet or phone, and for workout data transfer to your MyFitnessPal account;
- EKG pulse sensors integrated into the handlebars;
- Tablet holder included;
- Accessory holders integrated into the console;
- Smooth and quiet operation;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- The console is not telemetric;
- No Bluetooth function;
- No sound system.
Summary
The Bowflex TC100 is a mid-range treadclimber featuring a durable construction with a weight capacity of 300 lbs and a speed range between 0.5-4.0 MPH. Its console offers a dynamic workout program, two user profiles, a fitness score function and an awards function to keep you motivated. A USB port is also available, so you can either charge your phone while exercising or save your workout data on a USB flash drive to transfer to your MyFitnessPal account. In all, it’s a well-built machine, perfect for light but rewarding workouts, stamina training, and intervals, with an excellent price/quality ratio.