The Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 – A Potential Headache

The Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 is an update of an older model that adds longer foot treadles among other things.

The change makes as much difference as rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic. :)

Let's take a look at this machine in our in-depth review and see if it's worth considering for your home...

The Machine

The backlit LCD display shows five readouts for Speed, Distance, Time, Calories and Heart Rate.

The interactive G.O. Coach™ Console lets users monitor their own fitness program, as well as input daily workout goals and record progress over time.

The specs on the Bowflex TC20 include:

• 4.5 mph top speed
• Tracks data for 2 users
• Heart rate monitoring
• 300 lbs. max. User Weight
• Dimensions/Wt: 55"L x 31.5"W x 55.25"H / 217 lbs
• Bowflex® Worry-Free warranty: 3 years on everything

The Buzz

UPDATE: As of Summer 2021 Bowflex has discontinued both TreadClimber models in favor of their all new traditional treadmills. Check out the Treadmill 10 & Treadmill 22 as an alternative.

The Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 offers three workouts in one machine: as a treadmill (simply connect the two belts for a wider walking platform), as a stairclimber (the two dual treadles lets you step up), and as an elliptical (a combination of the two other motions).

But that kind of variation is also the problem with the machine – it is highly complex and doesn’t have the long range reliability and duration for average home workouts.

Pay attention to customer treadmill reviews and don’t ignore the comments made by unhappy customers. They are trying to pass on their bad experiences to save you money and hours of frustration. According to reports, these models have had numerous problems with the motors and hydraulics, as well as being uncomfortable to use.

You are better off buying an elliptical if you want a cross between a stairstepper and an elliptical oval, and remember, the top speed here is only 4.5 mph with very short dual tread belts so keep in mind that you can’t run on this modified treadmill.

Bowflex TC20 - Bottom Line

While it offers a nice (and totally unique) workout, it isn’t worth $3,299 to buy yourself a potential headache.

Because the complexity of the dual tread belts and the hydraulics, the Bowflex TreadClimber TC20 will break down at some point in the future and will have to be repaired.

For this kind of money, you can buy a really outstanding traditional treadmill with a 15% incline that you can even run on.

You can’t go faster than 4.5mph on a TreadClimber. If you like the motion of the independent treadles, perhaps you might be happier with an elliptical trainer.

Editor's Note:  The newer TC200 is worth considering, although it has the same drawbacks as the TC20.