| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Incline | Motor | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sunny SF-T7874 Check Discounted Price | L:70" W:31" H:51" | 285 lbs | Automatic, 0% - 15% | 3.0 HP 0.6-11 MPH | 14 preset programs, 1 manual program, 3 custom programs, BMI functions, |
The SF-T7874 is one of the newest treadmills released by Sunny Health & Fitness in 2019. It’s a mid-range electric treadmill with automatic incline and a decent array of workout programs. In terms of features and specs, it can be compared to the Harison T360.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 70″L x 31″W x 51″H (178L x 79W x 130H cm)
- Tread belt dimensions: 54″L x 18″W (137L x 46W cm)
- Assembled weight: 153 lbs (69 kg)
- Weight capacity: 285 lbs (130 kg)
- Motor: 3.0 HP
- Speed range: 0.6 – 11 MPH
- Incline: Automatic, 0%-15%
- Deck cushioning: Included
- Console: 14 preset programs, 3 custom programs, BMI,
- Extras: Sound system, bottle holders
- Warranty: Frame 3 years / Parts 180 days
Frame and deck
The Sunny SF-T7874 features a durable steel frame, but it also integrates several ABS parts. For example, the covers of 
the side rails are ABS made and have a rubberized layer on top to prevent foot slippage. The motor cover and the front dashboard that incorporates the console are also made of ABS material.
The fully assembled unit is fairly large. It takes approx. 70″L x 31″W (178 x 79 cm) of floor space. Plus, you should allow at least two feet of clearance on each side of the unit and at least three-four feet of clearance at the rear of the deck, for safe usage and easy access.
Compared to other treadmills, such as the Body-Solid T100 for example, the SF-T7874 isn’t extremely heavy. But it still weighs approx. 153 lbs (~69 kg). Therefore, its transport and unboxing should be done by at least two persons. Conversely, once the unit is assembled, its relocation can be done with ease as its bases are equipped with wheels.
Just as the Sunny SF-T7820 Performance treadmill that we’ve already presented here, this model also has a folding design. This is quite a plus, not only because you can save space while the unit is not in use, but also because you can lock the deck in an upright position and easily vacuum under it. Its folding mechanism involves a hydraulic cylinder which delivers a “soft-drop” when you unfold the deck, preventing it from falling and sustaining damage. In case you’re wondering, with the deck folded up, the unit’s length is reduced to 45″ (114 cm), while its height reaches approx. 62″ (157 cm).
The machine’s deck is rated for a user weight capacity of 285 lbs (130 kg). It uses a non-slip belt which provides a 
running surface of 54″L x 18″W (137 x 46 cm). This being said, the treadmill should be able to accommodate users up to 6’0″ (183 cm), allowing a complete stride.
The deck integrates two cushioning elements which are placed closer to the front, in order to alleviate some of the shock generated during each foot stroke. This being said, running on this treadmill should result in less workout-related pain than running on asphalt or concrete.
One last aspect that we have to mention here regards the unit’s paint finish. The Sunny SF-T7874 features a durable powder coating on all its metallic parts, which is resistant to corrosion and abrasion. The color used is light-gray, with the “Sunny” logo painted red, these being the only colors available for this unit.
Incline and step-up height
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7874 treadmill is equipped with a motorized incline system. This means you can only
adjust its incline from the console, or from the controls integrated into its left handlebar. In order to adjust the incline, the machine needs to be connected to a power source. Also, certain programs auto-adjust the incline throughout their duration.
The machine’s incline system consists of a small motor and a lift placed under the front part of the deck. As you adjust the incline, the front of the deck will slowly elevate. It provides an incline range between 0% and 15%, the incline increments being 1%. The console provides controls for gradual incline adjustment, but there also are keys for the quick selection of the 5%, 10%, and 15% incline.
The step-up height of the running platform is approximately 9″ (23 cm). Also, the maximum incline elevates its front part by at least a few extra inches. Therefore, make sure that the ceiling height in the room where you will be using the machine, is at least 22″-23″ (56-58 cm) higher than your height, to avoid any issues.
Drive motor
The motor of the Sunny SF-T7874 delivers a peak power of 3.0 HP. This is approx. 1.5 CHP, similar to the motor of the Xterra Fitness TRX3500 treadmill. It’s a mid-range motor which also incorporates a small flywheel in order to minimize vibration and promote a smooth movement for the belt.
The machine’s drive motor offers a speed range between 0.6 MPH and 11 MPH. The adjustment increments are 0.1 MPH or 0.1 km/h depending on the console set up. This being said, the machine offers an excellent micro-adjustment, giving you the possibility to find the exact speed that fits your pace and your stride.
The console is equipped with controls for gradual speed adjustment, but there also are quick selection controls for 3 MPH, 6 MPH, and 9 MPH. The right handlebar also features controls for gradual speed adjustment.
Console
This Sunny Health & Fitness is equipped with a mid-range programmable console. It does not have Bluetooth or 
online capabilities but does offer plenty of workout programs and other features to keep you motivated. To begin with, the console features a 7-inch LCD display with LED backlight and large digits in order to provide superior readability. It monitors time, distance, calories burned, pulse, speed, and incline. It also shows the grid with the profiles of the workout program in use.
For speed and distance, you can select either Metric units or Imperial units. For pulse reading, you must use the sensors integrated into the front handlebars of the machine. The console is not telemetric and cannot read you pulse through a wireless HR chest strap transmitter.
In terms of workout programs, the Sunny SF-T7874 offers 1 manual program, 14 preset and 3 custom. The Manual program allows you to just start the machine and adjust the speed and incline as you like throughout your workout sessions.
The preset programs are divided into 20 segments, and each segment has a duration of 1/20 of the set time. The default timer of each program is 30 minutes, but you can always change it. Each one of the preset programs auto-adjusts both the speed of the belt and the incline of the deck, depending on the current segment.
The console offers 3 user profiles, and for each one of them, the user can set-up their gender, age, height, and weight. They can also create a custom program with specific incline, speed and duration settings, save it and re-use it any time they want.
There is also a BMI function (Body Fat Calculator). Based on your personal data (age, gender, height, weight), the machine can calculate your Body Fat Index. Therefore, you can keep a better track of your progress.
In terms of non-fitness features, there are only two notable ones. These are the integrated sound system and the bottle holders. The sound system consists of two speakers, placed one on each side of the LCD display. This sound system is compatible with most MP3 players, smartphones or tablets. There is an audio 3.5 mm aux. port to connect your device to it and play your music through the incorporated speakers. And finally, the two bottle holders are cylindrical and large enough to accommodate most hydration bottles.
Assembly and Maintenance
Just as for many other treadmills, the machine’s deck with its motors, belt, rollers and all the other parts, comes pre-assembled. All you have to do is attach the two front masts, the console, and several other small covers. This shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. All the tools required are included and the manual provides very clear assembly instructions.
For maintenance, the belt requires periodic lubrication. It actually needs to be lubricated before the first use. A bottle of lubricant is included with the machine and the manual provides all the instructions for this task. It is recommended to keep the running belt clean to prevent any small objects, textile fibers, or dirt to be dragged into the motor. And finally, you should also periodically inspect the unit for loose or damaged parts in order to re-tighten or replace them before accidents can happen.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame construction – can hold users up to 285 lbs;
- Folding deck;
- Shock absorption elements on each side of the deck;
- Motorized incline, 0% – 15%;
- 3.0 CHP motor, with a speed range between 0.6 – 11 MPH;
- Speed can be adjusted increments of 0.1 MPH, allowing you to find the perfect pace for your workout;
- EGK pulse sensors integrated into the front handlebars;
- 7-inch multi-panel LCD console, with LED backlight;
- The console display shows time, distance, speed, incline, calories, and pulse;
- 14 preset workout programs;
- 3 custom programs;
- BMI function;
- Sound system included;
- Bottle holders included;
- Fairly easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No tablet holder;
- No online connectivity;
- The console is not telemetric.
Summary
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7874 is a mid-range treadmill designed for home use. It is equipped with a 3.0 HP motor, a motorized incline system with up to 15% incline, and an LCD console with 18 workout programs and a BMI calculator. It’s a fairly sturdy machine, can support users up to 285 lbs. It’s not an extremely large unit and also has a hydraulic deck folding system. It’s an excellent machine for muscle toning, stamina development, light to intense cardio training, and weight loss. It’s not one of the most affordable units available at the moment but does offer excellent quality for the price.