XTERRA Free Style 5.4e Elliptical Review

This entry-level elliptical machine is one step above the 4.0e, but not by much. However, this is still a very likeable machine yielding great reviews from users on its official website. The XTERRA Free Style 5.4 Elliptical ships quickly and is a great value for the money – for many purchasers of the 5.4e, this is their second purchase from XTERRA – or even their third or fourth!

While the wegith of the machine itself is very reasonable compared to others out there, the box will arrive heavy and awkward. Once you open it, however, you will find this elliptical is quick to assemble and comes only a few steps away from allowing you to hop right on. This elliptical is not only simple when it comes to assembly – it’s just plain simple to operate and start to reach your fitness goals quickly while preventing injury. Its size is also ideal for most body types, so unless you are excessively tall or heavy, your whole family will be able to benefit from the programs found on this elliptical.

If you are looking for a full-color screen, dozens of settings and adjustable everything, then the XTERRA Free Style 5.4e is not a good choice for you. However, if you’re looking for something affordably priced while still effective, you will find you greatly benefit from what the 5.4e does have to offer.

Our Favorite Features

Some of our favorite parts of the XTERRA Free Style 5.4e:

• Strong weight capacity
• Easy assembly
• 4-inch Q Factor pedals for proper foot positioning
• Excellent lower and upper body positioning for reduced risk of injury
• 20 different stages of incline and resistance
• Pulse grip heart rate monitoring
• MP3 compatible
• Lifetime warranty on frame and brakes, with an improved parts warranty of 3 years.

Our Least Favorite Features

A few downsides to the XTERRA Free Style 5.4e:

• Limited programs –only 7 preset and two custom – not much of an improvement from the cheaper 4.0e model.
• Only one year of in-home labor support

The Bottom Line

While not the prettiest or most elaborate elliptical machine available, the XTERRA Free Style line is still a winning buy – including the fabulous 5.4e. With a couple more programs and a slightly better warranty, it’s not too much of an improvement over the 4.0e and only a little bit more affordable than the 5.6e. If you have a few extra hundred bucks to burn, it is recommended by the experts to get this next model up – but if you are on a budget and just want to get fit without a lot of frills, you will adore what the 5.4e has to offer.