Horizon Fitness T101-05 Treadmill

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Motor	Console	Warranty
Horizon T101-05 Check Discounted Price	L:70" W:34" H:61"	300 lbs	2.5 CHP, 0.5-10 MPH	40 programs	Frame: Lifetime Motor: Lifetime Parts: 1 year Labor: 1 year

We’ve already reviewed the Horizon T101-04 treadmill, which is the 2013 version. Therefore, in this post, we’re going to address the newer Horizon Fitness T101-05, which is the model released in 2018. This newer model is equipped with a slightly more powerful motor, has a different console with few extra programs, and Bluetooth connectivity for its speakers. For reference, this is the Horizon Fitness treadmill with the manufacturer part number HTM1233-01US.

Technical Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 70L x 34W x 61H inches (178L x 86W x 155H cm)
• Assembled weight: 165 lbs (74.8 kg)
• Tread belt dimensions: 55L x 20W inches (140L x 51W cm)
• Maximum user weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Motor: 2.5 CHP
• Incline: Automatic, 0%-10%
• Deck cushioning: 3-Zone Variable
• Speed levels: 0.5-10 MPH
• Console: 40 workouts, Bluetooth
• Amenities: Sound system, cooling fan, accessory trays, tablet tray
• Warranty: Frame lifetime / Motor lifetime / Parts 1 year / Cushioning 1 year / Labor 1 year

Frame and deck

The Horizon Fitness T101-05 treadmill is constructed on a steel frame offering superior sturdiness, even though it’s a machine made for home use. Its deck is designed to withstand users up to 300 lbs (136 kg).

Of course, the unit also integrates several ABS parts. For example, the sustaining dashboard of the console, the side rail covers, the motor cover, and several other small covers are made of ABS plastic. All the steel parts within the frame construction feature a durable, corrosion-resistant paint finish; the color used is gray or black, these being the only colors available for this treadmill.

The fully assembled unit is fairly large. Its footprint is 70″L x 34″W (178 x 86 cm). Plus, Horizon Fitness recommends at least 2′ (61 cm) of clearance on each side of the machine, and at least 6.5′ (200 cm) of clearance at the rear of the deck. These being said, the machine may not be the best choice for a small room or apartment.

The deck integrates several internal shock absorption elements which lead to a 3-Zone Variable cushioning. The front zone is the impact zone which has more cushioning, to alleviate the shock of each footstrike. The center area offers moderate cushioning for a better transition, while the rear area is slightly harder, in order to promote a better push-off.

On the other hand, this treadmill has a folding deck. With the deck folded up, its length is reduced to approx. 46″ (117 cm), offering better storage possibilities. The machine uses the FeatherLight™ Folding mechanism which involves a hydraulic cylinder. This particular element slowly lowers the deck during its unfolding to prevent any damage to it.

Last but not least, the deck integrates a 2-ply, 1.4 mm rubber belt which delivers superior traction. It makes available a running surface of 55″L x 20″W inches (140L x 51W cm). This being said, the treadmill can accommodate comfortably users up to 6’3″ (190 cm). Taller users should still be able to use the machine, but their stride may be a little restricted. Also, in case you’re wondering, the internal rollers are fairly thick in diameter; the front roller is 1.8″, while the rear roller is 1.66″.

Incline and step-up height

The Horizon Fitness T101-05 is equipped with a motorized incline system. This being said, you can adjust the incline of the deck while using the machine. Also, a part of the console preset programs will auto-adjust the incline if they are in use.

The unit’s incline system consists of a motor and a small lift placed under the front of the deck. When the incline is adjusted, the lift slowly elevates the front of the deck. The machine offers 10 levels of incline, from 0% to 10%. The incline adjustment increments are 0.5%. However, the console also has quick selection buttons for the 0, 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10 incline levels.

The deck step-up height is approx. 8″ (20 cm) when the incline is set at 0%. Conversely, with the incline set to the highest level, the front of the deck gains a few inches in height. Therefore, in order to avoid any ceiling height issues, make sure that the ceiling height in the room where you’ll be using the machine is at least 20″ (51 cm) higher than your own height.

Drive motor

The Horizon T101-05 treadmill is equipped with a 2.5 CHP motor. As we’ve mentioned above, this motor is a bit more powerful than the motor of the older version T101-04 which only had a motor of 2.25 CHP. This motor is designed to provide a continuous performance for prolonged periods of time even if it’s used at the highest speeds, and the user is close to the 300 lbs (136 kg) weight capacity. It is also equipped with a small flywheel which reduces vibration, providing a smoother motion for the belt.

The motor provides a speed range between 0.5 MPH and 10 MPH. The speed adjustment increments are 0.1 MPH which is quite a plus, as you can easily find the best pace for your workout. The console makes available buttons for gradual speed adjustment, but there also are quick selection keys for the 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10 speed settings.

Needless to say, since it’s a motorized treadmill, it requires an external power source. In other words, you will have to connect it to a standard US power outlet. It also comes with a standard US 3-prong plug.

Console

The Horizon Fitness T101-05 treadmill comes with a new console version, quite different than the older model. To begin with, it features three small LED displays instead of a larger LCD display. The left display indicated time and calories, the center display indicates speed and incline, while the right display shows distance and heart rate. Speed and distance are shown only in imperial units. You cannot set the console to metric. Also, the console is not telemetric. Therefore, it can only read your pulse through the integrated sensors; it cannot communicate with any wireless HR chest strap transmitter.

The console has an impressive array of workout programs. They are divided into 5 categories; each category has a quick access button on the console.

The first category only has one program, the Manual Program, which allows you to adjust the speed and incline as you like during your workout session. The second category includes 10 interval-based programs. The 3rd category offers 10 programs for weight loss. The 4th category offers 13 distance challenges for 1 mile, 2 miles, 5k, 5 miles, 10k, 8 miles, 15k, 10 miles, 20k, half marathon, 15 miles, 20 miles, and marathon goals. For each goal, you can select the starting speed. And finally, the last category offers the possibility to set up goals for burning calories.

The console does not have any online connectivity and does not communicate with any online fitness apps. However, it does have a Bluetooth function and a USB function. The Bluetooth function only interests the speakers built-in the console. In other words, you can sync a Bluetooth multi-media device to play your music through the treadmill integrated speakers. The USB function only offers a recharge function for your smartphone or tablet. You cannot save and transfer workout data on a flash drive as it is the case of the Schwinn 870.

Finally, the console dashboard also integrates a tablet holder, a workout fan, and two large accessory trays.

Assembly and Maintenance

Just as for many other treadmills, the deck of the Horizon T101-05 comes pre-assembled. The belt, the rollers, the incline and drive motors, and several other parts are already assembled. Thus, you only need to attach the two front upright bars, the console, and connect its wires. This shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. All the tools for assembly are included. Also, the manual provides very clear assembly instructions and schematics.

In terms of maintenance, it is recommended to keep the running belt clean, to prevent any small objects or textile fibers to be caught into the rollers or dragged into the motor. Every 150 miles or every three months, the deck requires lubrication. The console actually has a function that will prompt you to lube the deck when necessary. Also, a bottle of silicone lubricant is included with the machine. Other than this, you should periodically check for loose bolts and parts.

The Pros

• Sturdy deck – can support users up to 300 lbs;
• Folding frame, space-saving design;
• Transport wheels on the machine’s bases;
• 3-Zone, variable response, deck cushioning;
• Motorized incline, 0% – 10%;
• 2.50 CHP motor, offering speed levels up to 10 MPH;
• Speed can be adjusted increments of 0.1 MPH, allowing you to find the perfect pace for your workout;
• Quick keys for speed and incline;
• EGK pulse sensors integrated into handlebars;
• 40 workout programs;
• Various amenities such as cooling fan, speakers, tablet holder, and accessory trays;
• Bluetooth function for the integrated speakers;
• USB charging port;
• Lube notification function on the console;
• One bottle of lubricant included;
• Tools for assembly and belt adjustment are included;
• Quiet operation;
• Fairly easy to assemble;
• Little maintenance required;
• Excellent warranty.

The Cons

• The console display does not show the program profiles;
• No online connectivity;
• No compatibility with online fitness apps.

Summary

The Horizon Fitness T101-05 is an electric treadmill designed for home use. It is equipped with a 2.5 CHP motor, an automatic incline system, and a console with 40 workout programs. It’s a mid-range treadmill, great for users of all levels, for light to intense cardio training, muscle toning, stamina development, and weight loss. It’s also considerably more affordable than light-commercial models, offering excellent value for the price.