The Bowflex BXT8J is worth checking out as the most affordable Bowflex treadmill out there with some great features we don’t see on other similar models.
The BXT8J comes with a standard 20″ X 60″ running belt with ComfortTech Cushioning, so it is suitable for running, jogging, and walking. Of course, there are high-end models that come with 22-inch-wide decks but a 20-inch belt is enough for many users. It comes with a 2.5 CHP motor, and if you want a quiet treadmill this motor will satisfy your expectations. The motor is also protected by a 10-year warranty so you will have peace of mind.
- 300 lbs weight capacity, 2.5 CHP motor
- 12 MPH top speed, 20″x60″ running deck
- Good incline range of 15%
- Wireless chest strap included
- Easy-to-fold design with transport wheels
To make your workouts more intense and hit different muscle groups, it has a 15% motorized incline and a 12 MPH top speed. You can easily find your perfect pace using the quick speed and incline buttons on the console. This model does not have buttons on the handrails like the other Bowflex models such as the T10 treadmill but they are located just below the console.
The 2.5 CHP motor can handle users up to 300 lbs. of body weight, so this makes it a great option for runners who may have trouble finding a treadmill for heavier users.
The Bowflex BXT8J comes with a relatively basic console with a main mono-color 7-inch LCD but it has some smart features.
Unlike other treadmills with basic displays, it can connect to Bowflex JRNY App, which is Bowflex’s way to track your progress, set goals, and serve you personalized workout plans. To use it you will need your smart device (such as a tablet) and a membership which is free for the first year.
However, you can use the treadmill without any apps just as fine. The console has 26 built-in workout programs and displays all the important workout stats you need to know, including speed, distance, time, calories burned, and heart rate.
The treadmill has heart rate hand grips and comes with a Bluetooth chest strap (or armband), so you won’t need to pay extra for a wireless heart rate monitor.
In terms of dimensions, the Bowflex BXT8J measures 78L x 37.6W x 62.8H inches while it is ready to be used, so check your available space prior to ordering your treadmill. It does not have a huge design and is relatively easy to move around with its transport wheels. It is also very easy to fold this model. When you fold it measures 54.9L x 37.6W x 66.6H inches.
Other features we like about The BXT8J are the built-in cooling fan, speakers, media shelf, USB charging port, and bottle holders.
Who is it Suitable For?
The Bowflex BXT8J is a great treadmill for those seeking an affordable, high-quality home cardio machine. It’s a great fit for:
- Casual to Serious Runners: With a comfortable 20″ x 60″ running belt that’s equipped with ComfortTech Cushioning, this treadmill provides an ideal running, jogging, or walking experience. The 15% motorized incline and a top speed of 12 MPH will give you more than enough challenge. So, unless you’re a tall runner or require a higher weight capacity, this treadmill should suit your needs.
- Individuals that love fitness apps: Despite its basic console, the BXT8J can connect to the Bowflex JRNY App. If you like to track your progress, set goals, and have personalized workout plans you will like the JRNY app, you only need a tablet with Bluetooth.
- People Who Like Heart Rate Programs: It has heart rate hand grips and a Bluetooth chest strap (or armband) included, making it excellent for those who wish to monitor their heart rate during workouts. There are also several heart rate programs on JRNY.
- Those with Limited Space: It is not a very compact machine because of its full-size 20”x60” deck but its easy-to-fold design and transport wheels make it a manageable choice for those with space limitations.
- Those looking for a treadmill full of features: The inclusion of a cooling fan, speakers, media shelf, USB charging port, and bottle holders enhances the overall workout experience and convenience. So, if you’re like me and appreciate bonus features, this model is an excellent choice. Moreover, it includes a 10-year warranty on the motor and frame, ensuring your treadmill is protected for a very long period.
What We Like About the BXT8J:
Motor: The 2.5 CHP motor is very quiet compared to other models. It is covered by a 10-year warranty. The motor is capable of supporting users weighing up to 300 pounds and can reach a maximum speed of 12 MPH smoothly.
Connectivity: The BXT8J lacks a touchscreen, however, it has Bluetooth capability on its smart console. The Bluetooth connectivity feature enables you to connect your tablet and use the JRNY app which has a seamless connection and synchronization with the treadmill.
Heart Rate Monitor: It has a heart rate pulse monitor which works fine. It can also connect with wireless heart rate monitors and comes with one with your purchase.
Built-in Programs: There are 26 built-in workout programs, more than many other models, plus you can use the JRNY to get many others.
Running Deck: The BXT8J has a standard 20″ X 60″ running belt with ComfortTech Cushioning. It provides a comfortable and impact-absorbing workout for users. Nowadays, we can see many mid and high-end models come with wider 22-inch decks, but the 20-inch belt on the BXT8J is sufficient for many users.
Dimensions: We like the compactness of this treadmill (78L x 37.6W x 62.8H inches). It is also easy to move around and fold. When you fold the dimensions are 54.9 inches in length, 37.6 inches in width, and 66.6 inches in height.
Warranty: The warranty is great for the price. It comes with a 10-year warranty on the motor and frame, and 3 years on the parts.
Bowflex BXT8J Key Specs
| Running Area | 20″ X 60″ |
| Motor Power | 2.5 CHP |
| Incline/Decline | 15% Digital motorized incline |
| Speed | 0.5 – 12 MPH |
| Folding |  |
| Maximum Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
| Heart Rate Monitor | Heart rate hand grips also comes with HR chest strap |
| Touchscreen |  |
| Built-in Programs | 26 built-in workout programs and JRNY programs and classes |
| Training Apps | JRNY Workout app (Includes 1-Year JRNY Membership) |
| Tablet/Device holder | |
| Cooling Fan | |
| Display | DualTrack LCD displays, 7-inch |
| Buttons on Handlebars | |
| Audio | |
| Bluetooth Audio | |
| Assembled Dimensions | 78L x 37.6W x 62.8H inches |
| Warranty |
10-years frame warranty, 3-years parts warranty, 1-year labor warranty |
| See Price at Amazon |
What We Don’t Like About the BXT8J:
Location of Speed/Incline Change Buttons: There are shortcut buttons for some preset speed and incline settings on each side of the display. There are also speed/incline increase and decrease buttons on the bottom area of the console. We think it would be more beneficial for the user to have these buttons located on the handlebars.
Screen: As we mentioned the console is smart and capable, but the screen is very basic for a treadmill about $1000.
Bottom Line:
In conclusion, we highly recommend the Bowflex BXT8J treadmill for people looking for a high-quality but affordable machine for their home gym. It offers a great range of features for its price, including a 20″ X 60″ cushioned belt, a 2.5 CHP motor, 300 lbs. weight capacity, and a 15% incline.
It comes with a chest strap and is also compatible with the Bowflex JRNY App so with a tablet you can use all the smart features of modern treadmills too. We think with these features and the great warranty from Bowflex, the BXT8J is a great treadmill for its price.
Bowflex BXT8J Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Bowflex BXT8J treadmill fold up?
Yes, it has a foldable design and is very easy to fold/unfold.
What are the dimensions of the Bowflex BXT8J?
Unfolded dimensions are 78L x 37.6W x 62.8H inches. When you fold the treadmill, its dimensions are 54.9 inches in length, 37.6 inches in width, and 66.6 inches in height.
Does Bowflex BXT8J have a fan?
Yes, it has a built-in fan on the console.
Hey! I need some help if possible. My partner and I are in the market for an incline model that can incline up to at least 15% and comes with a good warranty. We plan to use it for about 90 minutes daily combined, mostly for walking with a little bit of running. I’ve been a gym-goer for years, but lately, life’s been getting in the way and always skipping🙈.
I’ve been considering the Bowflex BXT8J. Has anyone here purchased this model recently? I’m particularly curious about the incline changes, is it quiet. Also how quickly does it adjust to your desired incline? Any feedback, or other model suggestions would be great. 🙏 Thanks in advance!
Hey there! Sounds like you’re on the right track with the Bowflex BXT8J. It has a 0-15% incline range, responds well to speed and incline changes, and it’s pretty durable, so it should stand up to your daily walking and occasional running. One thing to note is that it might be a bit noisier than other models. It doesn’t come with a built-in screen for workouts, but it does have a holder for your tablet or phone, and it gives you a one-year free trial of Bowflex’s JRNY workout platform.