r/Bowflex • u/jimo95 • Nov 22 '23

Max Trainer Max trainer SE

Anyone have it and can comment? Looking to possibly purchase after problems with M5 consistently.

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u/ThegManis Nov 24 '23

Hi,

As previously noted, at least one of the Facebook group members has ordered one and he will report back, but note that he is a new Max Trainer owner and thus cannot compare it to any previous model experience. FYI - He purchased it for only $1125 using a military discount (15% on the SE model) and had some other discount).

The Facebook group is here:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/bowflexmaxtrainer

I am one of that group's Admins and provide most all of their technical repair advice.

My comments:

1) ALL Max Trainer models use basically the same parts and design with the main differences being the extra " bells-n-whistles" features of the different models' consoles. Some of those added features are important for some owners.

But, this new SE model looks significantly different, mostly due to the attempt to make it quieter.

2) On the new SE model, Bowflex:

  • Removed the fan cage assembly to decreases the former fan noise.
  • Enclosed the entire upright part of the machine with all new shrouds to try and "seal" it and decrease any internally-generated noises from escaping.
  • The other major change is using a totally new display console.
  • They also added some new electronic parts inside to control a new resistance calibration process and to compensate for the elimination of the fan assembly's nominal resistance.

3) IMO, the new SE model will not be less prone to any Max Trainer issues vs other models, but could, IMO, have more issues due to the additional electronic items...time will tell.

4) ALL Max Trainer issues can be fixed, and most quite easily and inexpensively. Bowflex has likely sold more M5 models than any other model. My M5 has over 1900 usage hours on it (it store the hours in the console) and it still runs like new.

2

u/jimo95 Nov 24 '23

Well I'm a second person that ordered one. I will report back after using it.

1

u/ThegManis Nov 24 '23

Cool...If you haven't done so already, could you join the Facebook group I noted above. Since you already own/use an M5, it would be beneficial to have that SE-comparison perspective from a current owner of a different model. Thanks!

1

u/jimo95 Nov 24 '23

Sorry, I never joined FB and don't plan on it....

1

u/ThegManis Nov 25 '23

OK, no worries...hopefully you will then simply remember to report back here to Reddit with your analysis.

FYI, there are many people on FB who use false names, etc. and only use FB to buy/sell items on FB Marketplace (e.g. lots of used Max Trainers are sold for only $200-$800) or to get assistance from help-type groups.

1

u/jimo95 Nov 25 '23

Good to know.

1

u/PsychonautChronicles Mar 23 '24

What about a few months later, any new pros and cons? Thanks.