Octane Zero Runner ZR8 Elliptical Review
Best Buy Award Winner:
Best High End EllipticalsOctane Zero Runner ZR8 Elliptical Rating
Detailed Overview
The new ZR8 comes equipped with aircraft-grade aluminum legs to allow for a faster cadence and lightweight pedals to increase overall efficiency. The performance grips and contoured moving handles also add to the comfort and performance of this model, ideal for progression training. These features are a step up from the ZR7 that lacks these high-performance design features. The ZR8 is equipped with a heavy-duty frame that can support up to 300 pounds, and it’s self-powered to provide quiet, cordless operation. Other design features include a low step-on height of 5.2″ and narrow 1.4″ pedal spacing (which is even narrower than the ZR7 with 2″ spacing). The ZR8 is equipped with an incredibly long 58” stride length that can accommodate users of all varying sizes and with the higher resistance range, you create the movement and pace to meet your individual workout goals.
The console area features an LCD display with Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity and SmartLink(TM) compatibility that allows you to create customizable workout programs and train to meet your goals. In addition, there’s quite a few programs to choose from with the ZR8 that include 13 endurance programs, 12 tone up programs, and 10 active recovery programs. Other console offerings include a water bottle holder and digital heart rate sensor. To monitor your heart rate wirelessly, this model is compatible with BLE and ANT+ heart rate chest straps; and while the ZR8 lacks some console options like audio options, there is enough space to use your favorite device for streaming music, accessing your favorite apps, etc.
As with other models by Octane, there are several add-on options that include a CROSS CIRCUIT Pro Kit, a CROSS CIRCUIT power band kit, and a Polar wireless chest strap receiver. CROSS CIRCUIT combines cardio intervals with strength training or stretching exercises for additional efficiency and effectiveness.
Octane offers a warranty that covers the lifetime of the frame, 5 years on parts and 1 year on labor.
Our Favorite Features
- Zero impact training with a unique “floating” design with no friction and no required maintenance
- Internet connectivity and access to SmartLink for advanced fitness tracking
- Incredibly long stride at 58″
- Great program variety with 35 built-in programs that range from endurance to recovery to toning options
- Affordable price point at just under $5,000
- Optional add-ons let you customize your workout experience based on your budget
Octane Zero Runner ZR8 Elliptical - Notable Specs:
| Overall Rating: | 5-stars |
|---|---|
| Compact / Folding: | No |
| Incline: | N/A |
| Stride Length: | 58" |
| Flywheel: | N/A |
| Programs: | 35 Programs |
| Fan: | No |
| Weight Capacity: | 300 LBS |
| Dimensions: | 63" L x 38" W x 58" H |
Our Least Favorite Features
- Console lacks audio capabilities
- Dimensions of LCD screen
The Bottom Line
The ZR8 by Octane Fitness is a high-performance machine that provides a unique, low-impact workout experience perfect for runners or walkers. The suspension design allows users to enjoy the intensity and excitement of running without the impact and injury of running outdoors or on a treadmill. As a hybrid machine, it’s affordable and can be enjoyed by almost anyone. And with the Bluetooth connectivity and extensive variety of workout programs, there are tons of options to help you meet your workout goals. The bottom line: we recommend this innovative, dynamic model for anyone looking to get fit and have fun without the injury.
