Smooth CE 2.1 Elliptical Trainer

18" Stride Maximizes Workout Time - Many cheaper ellipticals offer only a 14 or 16" stride. The 18" stride uses makes your legs work harder and more efficiently. If you're taller (5' 8" and over) you may want to step up to a 20" to 21" stride (which you can find on the newer models like the CE 2.7 and CE 3.7). However for most people, an 18" stride is sufficient and comfortable.

Roller-less Design for Quiet Workouts - You may notice that Smooth doesn't use rollers on their units as other brands do. This cuts down on the noise and is one of the reasons Smooth units are known for being so quiet.

9 Pre-Set Workout Programs To Avoid Exercise Plateaus - The workout programs target time, distance and calories burned. There's also fat-burning, random, interval, endurance and target heart rate programs. Changing up your routine can help to avoid exercise (and fitness progress) plateaus.

Excellent Warranty With 2 Years On Service - The warranty covers the frame and brake for a lifetime, electronics and parts for 2 years and 2 years on labor. At this price point, this is one of the best elliptical warranties out there.

Of special note is the 2 years on service. Since most ellipticals cover labor charges for only 90 days to 1 year, this is a great feature that can save you money over the long run.

Weaknesses:

The Smooth 2.1's console is easy to read but simple. The 2.1 also does not come with some of the extras of the higher end Smooth models like wireless heart rate monitor and different user profiles.

Many people prefer to upgrade to the more sophisticated CE 3.2 which offers better electronics, wireless heart rate monitor and longer warranty.

Conclusion:

The Smooth CE 2.1 elliptical is the most affordable version of the famous Smooth CE model. It offers some great basics like smooth stable feel, 18" stride, quiet operation, excellent warranty and 16 levels of resistance. And if you can get it at the sale price, it's a great value.

However, it is a much simpler elliptical than the higher end Smooth units. You don't get some of the extras like the wireless heart rate monitor, adjustable stride lengths or different user profiles.

Also, it's fair to note that newer Smooth ellipticals like the CE 2.7 are similarly priced and offer more in terms of a longer stride and more sophisticated console electronics.

Where To Buy At A Discount:

You can get the Smooth 2.1 elliptical direct from the Smooth Manufacturer. They're currently offering Free Shipping and you can also save on sales tax.

Click Here To Save on the Smooth CE 2.1 Elliptical Trainer

The Smooth CE 2.1 Elliptical Trainer is a scaled down, more affordable version of the luxury Smooth CE Elliptical.

It still includes pivoting foot pedals to keep your body in neutral alignment as you work out, a decent 18" stride and roller-less design for extra quiet operation. Plus it's around $500 less than the traditional CE elliptical.

Is it the right fit for you? Here's a review to help you decide.

Features:

Price: $1199 (Sale)

Stride Length: 18"

Resistance Type: Magnetic

Resistance Levels: 16

Built-In Workout Programs: 9

Upper Body Arms: Yes

Heart Rate Monitor: Hand Grip Pulse Sensors

Water Bottle Holder: No

User Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Warranty: Lifetime Frame & Electromagnetic Brake, 2 years on electronics and parts, 2 years labor

Strengths:

Pivoting Foot Pedals Reduce Joint Stress and Post-Workout Pain - The natural motion of your ankle is to pivot. The Smooth CE 2.1 mimics that movement and holds proper neutral alignment between your ankle, knee and hip.

This keeps your ankle, knee and hip in alignment which reduces impact and injury. This feature also makes for a smooth workout and is unique to Smooth ellipticals.