The Spirit Z8 Folding Treadmill - A Compact Machine for Basic Workouts

The Spirit Z8 folding treadmill is a low priced offering by Spirit, which is making some very good machines these days. Spirit is now owned by Dyaco and has recently begun upgrading their treadmills from the earlier models of the 1980s, which were sturdy but clunky and oversized.

The Machine

(This model has been discontinued)

The Spirit Z8 folding treadmill is a good machine if you’re looking for a basic model, and it will hold up well for a number of years. Its features include:

• 2.0 HP continuous duty motor
• 18” x 50” running deck
• Hand grip pulse monitor
• Green back-lit LCD display
• Folding capability
• 10 mph maximum speed
• 0-11% incline
• 2.5” rollers
• 5 pre-set programs
• 10 Quick-Set setting buttons
• 275 lbs. user weight capacity
• Warranty: Lifetime frame; 15 yrs. motor; 2 yrs. parts & electronics; 1 yr. labor

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The Buzz

Even the pros can’t agree on Spirit treadmills, although most do say that if you want one, the Spirit Z8 folding model is a bit too basic. Most fitness experts say that these treadmills are strong contenders that can stack up against Sole (also made by Dyaco) any day, while others nitpick about slight differences in the electronic console displays.

People who own the Spirit Z8 are pleased with it for its compact size (it’s one of the smaller folding treadmills on the market) and its quiet ride. They also like the solid, weighty feel.

What We Say

What this folding treadmill has in new-found style and durability it lacks in features. The Spirit Z8 is a basic, stripped-down model. For the price of $1,000 you should get a bit more in the way of options, such as more programming, perhaps a chest strap wireless heart monitor and a motor that is at least 2.25 HP rather than 2.0.

We do give the Spirit Z8 folding treadmill high marks, however, for having an engine that runs very cool for such a small size. It also has oversized (2.5”) rollers that will prolong belt and bearing life. With a respectable 15 year warranty on the motor with two years on all treadmill parts, you can assume that the Spirit Z8 will perform well for years.

If you want just the basics and having a relatively small, folding treadmill is important to you, the Spirit Z8 folding treadmill may be a good choice for you. It’s very quiet and Spirit’s recent dedication to improved service and quality parts makes this a contender.

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