Bowflex needed an affordable treadmill to balance out its lineup. The BXT8J goes without some of the high-tech features found on Bowflex’s other treadmills. One thing I’ve learned after testing dozens of treadmills is that less can be better. A simple treadmill has its place.

Extra features add more to a treadmill that can break. Since the BXT8J does not have a touchscreen, you won’t feel as compelled to subscribe to Bowflex’s fitness classes (JRNY) if you don’t want to. Yet, the BXT8J connects with JRNY, expanding this treadmill’s content offerings beyond the onboard training programs.

Treadmills, like the BXT8J, are perfect for following a training program. As a runner, the Bowflex BXT8J has just what I need to complete the workouts I’ve planned for the week. However, I’ve also really enjoyed Bowflex’s more powerful treadmill, the Treadmill 22, and other higher-end machines. You’ll have to read this review to decide if you should upgrade or stick to the basics.

Bowflex BXT8J Treadmill Review: Bottom Line

Star Rating
PriceMSRP: $1,299
ManufacturerBowflex
TypeFolding

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The Bowflex BXT8J is an affordable running treadmill with a compact folding frame.

Rating MatricOur Rating

Workout Experience
6
Specs / Features
6
Dimensions / Storability
7
On-Board Workouts & Apps
6
Build Quality
7

Eight miles in or 8 minutes in, the Bowflex BXT8J is good for it all. I like this treadmill for road runners, walkers, and anyone who wants a dependable machine. It takes up less space than Bowflex’s other treadmills and folds even more compactly, ensuring you have plenty of space left in your exercise room to perform JRNY mat workouts if you choose to subscribe.

Just know that a subscription to JRNY is completely optional. If your goal with the BXT8J is to save some money, you will like that a subscription is more affordable than top competitors like iFIT and Peloton.

We’ve tested and reviewed the other treadmills in the BXT8J’s price range, so we know if this treadmill and its subscription service are worth it or not. Check out our in-depth take below for the inside scoop on this treadmill.

What We Like

This is an entry-level budget treadmill from Bowflex with good functionality and a simple console.
The deck is large to support all strides but compact to fit better in more homes.
The deck folds and unfolds with a lift assist to save you a lot of space.
The console has plenty of buttons for easy adjusting, connects to JRNY, and comes with onboard workout programs that don’t require wifi.
The 12 mph max speed and 15% incline make for good training options.

Areas for Improvement

JRNY must be accessed with your phone or tablet, so it is not quite as seamless as other affordable smart treadmills.
The motor size and activity capabilities are unlisted, so it’s unclear what level of use this treadmill can handle.

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We Have Been Building Our Treadmill Expertise Since 2010

Here at TRG, we spend a lot of time testing treadmills. We’ve been doing this for years, so we know what to expect from most models, especially if we’ve used others from the same brand.

When creating this spec review of the Bowflex BXT8J, we relied heavily on our experience using the Bowflex Treadmill 22 and equipment like the Bowflex C6 and Velocore Bike. Using various machines from this brand gives us an idea of how a model performs before it enters our studio. We also get a great idea of how it works based on its list of specs and features.

So, until we get the Bowflex BXT8J in our studio for testing, we hope you find this spec review helpful.

Editor’s Note 6/27/2024: This Bowflex BXT8J Treadmill review has been updated to align with our current testing and review standards. Our process has been continually refined over the course of 13 years of treadmill testing.

Bowflex BXT8J vs. Similar Treadmills

We know an important part of treadmill shopping is comparing multiple viable options. See how the Bowflex BXT8J compares to treadmills we’ve tried and tested below.

	Bowflex BXT8J	Sole F63	Horizon 7.0 AT	NordicTrack EXP 7i	Bowflex Treadmill 10
Price (MSRP)		$2,299	$2,499
Star Rating
Bottom Line	The Bowflex BXT8J is a folding, entry-level treadmill with a simple and stable design, a 12 mph max speed, and a 15% incline.	An entry-level treadmill with a high-quality build, impressive training options, and an easy-to-use design, all for an affordable price.	A compact, budget-friendly running treadmill with a foldable deck, simple design, and connectivity options.	A high-tech entry-level treadmill with iFit streaming and a well-cushioned, compact deck that folds up.	A well-built inclining and declining treadmill that folds up and offers streaming from JRNY on the 10" screen.
Awards Earned
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
Product	Bowflex BXT8J	Sole F63	Horizon 7.0 AT	NordicTrack EXP 7i	Bowflex Treadmill 10
Workout Experience	6	6	7	7	8
Specs / Features	6	6	6	5	7
Dimensions / Storability	7	8	8	9	6
On-Board Workouts & Apps	6	6	7	8	7
Build Quality	7	6	6	6	7
Overall Score	64	64	68	70	70
# of Onboard Workouts	26	6	8	2	10
Paid Programming - Cost	JRNY – $19.99/month	Free	N/A	iFIT – $39/month	JRNY - $19.99/month
Netflix / 3rd Party Apps	N/A	N/A	N/A	Netflix, Prime - (Beta Testing)	Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, Max
Display	Backlit 7” LCD	6.5″ backlit LCD	7.25″ LCD screen, 4 LED windows	7″ HD touchscreen	10" HD touchscreen
Dimensions (In Use)	78″ L x 37.6″ W x 62.8″ H	77″L x 35″W x 67″H	76″ L x 35″ W x 67″ H	70.8” L x 34.9” W x 59.7” H	85" L x 39.6" W x 65.3" H
Deck Size	20” x 60”	20″ x 60″	20″ x 60″	20″ x 55″	22" x 60"
Treadmill Weight	253.5 lbs	224 lbs	277 lbs	228 lbs (in box)	323 lbs
Weight Capacity	300 lbs	325 lbs	325 lbs	300 lbs	400 lbs
Motor Size	2.0 CHP	3.0 CHP	3.0 HP	2.6 CHP	4.0 HP
Max Speed	12 mph	12 mph	12 mph	10 MPH	0 to 12 mph
Incline/Decline	0 to 15%	15 incline levels	0% to 15%	0 to 12%	-5% to 15%
Warranty	10-year frame, 3-year mechanical parts, 3-year electronics, 1-year labor	lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 2-year deck, 2-year parts, 2-year wear items, 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items	lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor	10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor	15-year frame, 5-year mechanical parts, 1-year electronics & touchscreen, 2-year labor
Additional Features	Bluetooth, media shelf, fitness score	Bluetooth speakers, storage, USB-A charging	Bluetooth, Quick Dial controls, Gymkit Technology	AutoAdjust, soft cushioning, SpaceSaver Design	SoftDrop folding system, ComfortTech deck cushioning, JRNY radio

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Dimensions/Storability

The BXT8J’s dimensions are 78″ L x 37.6″ W x 62.8″ H. When folded, the BXT8J is only 54.9″ L x 37.6″ W x 66.6″ H.

The deck folds up using a lift assist, so you don’t have to lift the entire weight or hold onto it while it’s unfolding. You lift the back of the deck to fold it. Then, for unfolding, you push your foot against the red part of the vertical bar under the deck when it’s folded. When pushed, the deck will lower to the floor on its own. This design is common on folding treadmills.

There are two front transportation wheels, so when it’s folded, you can move the BXT8J when needed. You’ll need to tip it back by grabbing the top of the back of the deck to tilt it to engage those wheels, though. With its lighter weight and smaller design, we assume the BXT8J is much easier to move than the Bowflex Treadmill 22, which also folds but is challenging to move.

Onboard Workouts & Apps

Preprogrammed Workouts And JRNY

Although the Bowflex BXT8J doesn’t include as much tech as the higher-end treadmills from the brand, it still comes with some nice features and training options. This treadmill is a good choice if you want a more basic layout with included features that don’t require wifi, although if you want to use wifi and a training app, you can.

The BXT8J offers 26 different workout programs. These are all pretty standard and include preset speeds and incline settings for the treadmill to adjust automatically. They’ll probably remind you of what most commercial treadmills in public gyms include.

As far as metrics, the console tracks your time, speed, incline, distance, calories, heart rate, burn rate, workout profile, and fitness score. The burn rate is tied to the JRNY App, which is compatible with the BXT8J Treadmill. It comes with a wireless heart rate chest strap to track your heart rate on the screen.

JRNY is a fitness app that is enabled on the Bowflex Treadmill 22 and Treadmill 10. Since the BXT8J doesn’t have a touchscreen, you have to use your device to stream JRNY. The app also includes fewer features than the version enabled on Bowflex’s equipment. It’s a good option for on-demand trainer-led workout classes or outdoor-filmed videos while you use the BXT8J.

You can also access JRNY Radio, which features preselected playlists of songs split into different genres that you can listen to through the app. The Adaptive workouts are also a good option because they adapt to you and your fitness level for custom training.

Console

The Bowflex BXT8J technically includes 3 LCD screens that are backlit, so they should be easy to see. This is where you can view the workout programs and keep track of your metrics.

The console includes numbered quick-adjusting buttons for speed and incline. If you want to jump to a certain speed or incline level, just press a button. There are also arrow buttons below to adjust to more specific increments. I’m assuming you can adjust by 0.1 mph for the speed and 1 or 0.5% for the incline, but it’s impossible to know until we test the BXT8J ourselves.

The speakers play JRNY content, and they are front-facing. The fan is tiny, but it might actually be useful. The Treadmill 22’s tiny fan is pretty powerful, but we won’t know for sure until we use the BXT8J. It has cup holders for your water or any small item you might need. There is also a device rack above the LCD screens to place your phone or tablet to stream content.

Overall, this console is pretty standard and should be pretty easy to use.

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Build Quality

The Bowflex BXT8J has a pretty standard, foldable design. It is rated to handle users up to 300 lbs, and it weighs around 253 lbs, so it should be pretty sturdy and appropriate for most people. It isn’t as large and overbuilt as the premium Treadmill 22, but for a more affordable model that’s fairly compact, it has nice specs.

Frame

The steel frame supports the deck and two steel uprights connect to the floor frame and extend up to hold the console. There is also a steel crossbar mounted between the uprights which should help add stability to the treadmill as well as help hold the console still when you run. On budget-friendly treadmills, we like seeing steel crossbars.

Motor

Bowflex tends not to include the motor rating on its treadmill product descriptions. I wish they would so we could get a better idea of how powerful this treadmill is. Once we get the BXT8J in our studio, though, we can more accurately assess the motor size and determine its appropriate level of use. Other reviewers online say the motor is 2.5 HP, but it could be closer to 3.5 HP.

At a minimum, I assume the BXT8J is good for light to moderate walking and jogging and some light running. It might be more powerful than that though, so we’ll update this review once we know more and can accurately recommend the level of use.

As far as training options, the motor goes up to 12 mph and has a 15% incline range. This is pretty standard for most treadmills of this size. It’s nice to see an entry-level model offer a great range of speed and incline though. Most people should find that the speed and incline offered are enough for lower and higher intensity workouts.

Deck

The deck size makes the Bowflex BXT8J best for most people. It is 60” long, which we’ve found supports all running stride lengths. The width is 20”, which should be enough space for most folks. If you know you prefer wider decks, though, you’ll want to check out other treadmills like the Bowflex Treadmill 10 and 22.

We can’t speak to how the deck cushioning feels underfoot without having tested this treadmill first. The Treadmill 22 has firm deck cushioning, so we’re assuming the BXT8J will feel similar to run on, but it’s hard to know for sure.

Warranty

Bowflex includes a standard warranty of 10 years for the frame, three years for mechanical parts and electronics, and one year for labor.

Should You Buy the Bowflex BXT8J

The Bowflex BXT8J Treadmill is a lower-end option from the brand. It’s more affordable and compact than the Bowflex Treadmill 22 and 10.

It comes with a backlit LCD screen console that includes onboard workouts and optional Bluetooth connectivity to the JRNY App on your device. It doesn’t require Wi-Fi, so you don’t have to worry about having a connection.

The BXT8J has a deck size that supports all strides, and it folds up to save a little more space in your home when you’re not using it. With the motor size unlisted and the fact that we don’t have this treadmill in our studio for testing yet, we can’t accurately recommend the level of use it’s best suited for. We assume it should handle moderate walking and jogging and some running.

Once we get the Bowflex BXT8J in our studio, we’ll update this review with how it performed for our team.

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Looking for more options? Take a look at our list of top-rated Bowflex treadmills

Bowflex BXT8J Q&A / FAQ

How long do Bowflex treadmills last?

The Bowflex BXT8J has a nice warranty. The frame is covered for ten years, the mechanical parts and electronics are covered for three years, and labor is covered for one year. We have seen many treadmills for the last 10 to 15 years. However, a treadmill’s longevity depends on the maintenance it sees.

For the best results, keep up with the BXT8J’s maintenance as prescribed by the user manual. Some treadmill users are willing to replace treadmill parts at their own expense after the warranty expires to extend their treadmill’s lifespan. This may not be a suitable option for every user, depending on the cost of the part and the cost of replacing the treadmill.

What size motor is the Bowflex BXT8J treadmill?

Because Bowflex does not outright state the BXT8J’s motor power, we rely on secondary sources. We have seen reports that the BXT8J has a 2 to 2.5 horsepower motor. However, this treadmill was designed for running, which is typically at least 3.0 HP. It’s hard to say which rating is correct, but the horsepower rating may not tell the full story of a treadmill’s performance.

Does the Bowflex BXT8J work without a JRNY subscription?

Yes, the BXT8J has 26 onboard programs. These programs do not require a subscription to use. JRNY can improve your training experience, but it is not required.

Is your Bowflex BXT8J treadmill review a paid review?

No, we were not paid for our BXT8J review. In general, we receive products from brands for free, but that is where the brands’ influence over our reviews ends. Our review process and opinions are all our own.

We work with the top home fitness brands, NordicTrack, ProForm, Sole, Bowflex, and Horizon, among many others. We are impartial to which brand you choose, which keeps us honest and ensures you get our expert opinion.

How do we make money?

We include affiliate links around our website. When you purchase through one of our links, we are a commission. This does not add any cost to you. Instead, it shows us that you appreciate our reviews and liked our resources. We hope you found this review helpful enough that you will decide to use our links to purchase the BXT8J if that is what you have decided upon.

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Bowflex BXT8J Treadmill Review: Bottom Line

We Have Been Building Our Treadmill Expertise Since 2010

Bowflex BXT8J vs. Similar Treadmills

Dimensions/Storability