Roller Diameter & Quality:

Roller diameter is one of the most overlooked features of a treadmill.  Low end-treadmills will generally have 1.6” diameter rollers.  Mid-priced treadmills will have 1.9” rollers and the top quality treadmills will have 2.5” or larger rollers.  Basically, the larger the diameter of the rollers, the fewer revolutions the roller will be required to make at any given belt speed.  This significantly reduces wear and tear on the roller and its bearings not to mention the belt.  Larger rollers allow a manufacturer to use larger bearings, allowing them to handle more belt stress and suffer less shaft deflection.  A larger roller also means longer tread-belt life, since there is less stretching of the belt.  Try not to purchase excessive “crowned” rollers, as they tend to stretch the center of the belt, and will require more frequent tread-belt replacements.   

If you want longevity, consider purchasing 2.5” diameter or larger sized rollers.  Secondly, try to purchase rollers that are the cartridge bearing type.  This allows you to purchase a simple $20 bearing should it fail versus sealed bearings that require you to change the whole roller.  For runners, avoid anything under the 2.4” roller diameter.  You will wear the belt and bearings out very quickly otherwise.  In conclusion, rollers that are 1.6” in diameter generally require lubricants for belt maintenance because of the excessive heat generated.  Remember that a 1.6” roller must spin 60% more than a 2.5” at the same belt speed. 

This is your number one source of treadmill information.  Please browse through the pages, and educate yourself before making that important investment. After all, your health is what matters most and choosing the right treadmill is imperative.

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