Any good ellipticals out there?

I've decided that I want to buy an elliptical with my tax return money for when I can't get to the gym. I'm would like to find something for under $500 if possible.. but I would still like it to be a decent product. Are there any ones out there that you recommend? How much did they cost and where did you get them? Also if you could list the name that would be great so that I can do some research on it. Thanks!

not sure about price, but i really like arc trainers over ellipticals. cybex makes a good one.

check the classifieds in your local paper. people are selling barely used fitness equipment allll the time. 

I have a Precor EFX (not sure of the exact model, I'm at work) that I bought several years ago for around $2500 Canadian, and I'm very happy with it.  I think prices are lower in the U.S., but this is probably still above your budget; they might have cheaper models that don't have extras like the heart rate monitor.

I have an Octoane Fitness Q35. It has a relatively small footprint and has several preprogrammed modes. It was a bit more than $500 though.

Just remember you get what you pay for.  I understand that everyone has a budget but if you spend $500 or less you will be lucky if it lasts and works. 

On that note check out places like craigslist, 2nd wind, push pedal pull, other local used sporting goods stores, now is the best time of year to find used equipment that was barely used for half the original price.  

I have an Octane Fitness, which was WAY more then $500 but it will last me at least 10 years.  And that is with hard use.  Could you use the $500 as a down payment and finance something for a few dollars a month?

I also have an Octane Fitness, and wouldn't trade it for the world!!  Pricely, but very dependable and it varies with the stride.  Mine goes from 18in to 23in, and now the newer model that is out goes up to 26in!  They range from $3,200 and up.  See if you have a 2nd Wind around you---they will finance it for literally $25 to $35 a month!  Thats what their website says anyway!  Good luck to you!

I used to work on a model that was at the gym.  It was great and wanted to get one for my home but when I asked how much they cost, they told me $3000.  I bought a proform space saver model but about $300 at a place called Play It Again sports.  It was a factory buyout and was brand new.  I just went in and tried every model they had and picked the one that was the smoothest and didn't feel cheaply made.  It has been wonderful.  It was a little rocky at first but my husband tightened up all the screws and now it's just as smooth as the one at the gym.  My 10 year old daughter even loves it. 

See if you have one of those Play it again shops or something similiar where you are.  They take equipment on retainer and resell it for others who decided not to keep what they bought.  Sometimes you get lucky and they even have new stuff.  In the store, mine would've cost $800.

 Good luck

I just got one myself for around $600 at MC Sporting Goods.  It is a Proform Crosstrainer and I really like it. 

One suggestion is to get the extended warranty if they offer one.  Several people I know have had to have their machines serviced - and in one instance actually replaced.  Since they had the warranty it was all covered.

I've got the Octane also and absolutely love it.  As others have said, it's higher priced (I paid around $2,500 several years ago), but keep in mind, if you really like it, you will use it more and it's worth it.  If you need to stay within your budget and aren't willing to finance, some things to look for:  1)  The stride should be comfortable and natural, not extending your legs to an unnatural stride or turning your hips out - this may seem okay for a couple of minutes, but after 30-45, it will be a problem.  2)  The position of the foot pedals.  Most machines I tried had pedals spread so far apart that it bothered my knees.  Thus the reason I chose the Octane, the pedals are right next to each other and whoever uses it can choose what stance to place their feet.  Basically, when you are using it, it should feel like a normal flow and your legs should be moving as if you were jogging or briskly walking, your knees and hips should not be turning outward.

 Good luck - it's an investment you'll love!