SOLE F85 vs F89 Treadmill: Features, Price & Reviews

Award-Winning Commercial-Grade Treadmills for Your Home Choose from 3 Proven Series:  F6X like F63 and F65 for affordable durability F8X like F85 and F89 for premium features  Non-Folding like TT8 and ST90 for serious athlete performance Why Choose SOLE: ✓ Commercial-grade steel frames with up to 4.0 HP motors ✓ Cushion Flex technology reduces joint impact by 40% ✓ Industry-leading lifetime warranty on frame & motor ✓ Weight capacity up to 400 lbs with whisper-quiet operation ✓ FREE curbside shipping + workout classes via SOLE+ app 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Love it or return it, no questions asked. Shop SOLE Treadmills Now →

Price Difference: $800 Gap Between Models

The most obvious distinction between these premium SOLE treadmills is the $800 price tag, representing a 35% price increase when upgrading from the F85 to the F89.

The most obvious distinction between these premium SOLE treadmills is the price tag. The F85 typically retails for $2,299, positioning it as an upper mid-range option in the home treadmill market. 

Meanwhile, the F89 commands $3,099, placing it firmly in the premium category alongside commercial-grade competitors. This $800 differential represents a 35% price increase when upgrading from the F85 to the F89.

What exactly does this price jump get you? The primary upgrades include a significantly larger touchscreen (21.5" vs 15.6"), decline training capability (up to −6% on the F89), and a slight increase in weight capacity (375 lbs vs 350 lbs). 

For tech enthusiasts and serious runners who value these features, the premium might be justified. However, budget-conscious buyers should carefully consider whether these enhancements align with their specific training needs.

Sales and promotions can occasionally narrow this price gap, especially during holiday seasons when SOLE frequently offers discounts on premium models. 

Timing your purchase strategically could potentially reduce the price difference to a more manageable $500–$600, making the F89's upgrades more accessible for those on the fence.

Core Specifications

Motor Power and Running Surface

Both the SOLE F85 and F89 boast identical motor specifications, featuring a robust 4.0 continuous horsepower DC motor. 

This industrial-strength power plant is designed to handle everything from gentle walking to intense running sessions without strain, making either model suitable for shared household use or serious training. 

The motor's continuous duty rating ensures consistent performance even during extended workout sessions, unlike lesser treadmills that might struggle to maintain power under sustained use.

The running surface dimensions are also identical on both models: a generous 22" x 60" belt. This spacious deck accommodates runners of all heights and stride lengths comfortably, with the 22" width providing ample side-to-side room that prevents the confined feeling some narrower treadmills create. 

The 60" length supports full running strides without requiring shortened gait patterns that can develop poor running mechanics over time.

Weight Capacity and Machine Dimensions

Weight capacity differs slightly between models, with the F85 rated for 350 pounds and the F89 handling 375 pounds. These specifications significantly exceed industry averages for home treadmills and demonstrate the robust engineering underlying both models. 

The extra 25-pound capacity of the F89 reflects additional frame reinforcement at key stress points, particularly beneficial for heavier users who want additional structural margin or households where multiple users of varying weights share the equipment.

The assembled dimensions are nearly identical, with both treadmills requiring approximately 83" length x 38" width x 68" height of space when fully operational. The F89 weighs slightly more at 314 pounds compared to the F85's approximately 290 pounds, reflecting its reinforced construction and larger display components.

Display Technology

The display represents the most visible difference between models, with the F89's 21.5" touchscreen offering significantly more screen real estate than the F85's 15.6" display.

F85's 15.6" Touchscreen Features

The F85's 15.6" touchscreen provides a solid interactive experience with responsive touch capability and a clear workout metrics display. 

The Android operating system allows users to download popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube directly to the treadmill, so you don’t need to prop up tablets or smartphones. 

F89's Larger 21.5" Android-Powered Display

The F89 showcases a significantly larger 21.5" touchscreen display that serves as the centerpiece of the console. This expansive Android-powered screen offers crystal-clear visuals with vibrant colors and responsive touch capability. 

The larger display creates an immersive experience during virtual runs and makes workout metrics easier to view, even when you're in full stride, particularly beneficial for users with vision considerations or those who prefer monitoring multiple data points simultaneously.

Build Quality and Durability Assessment

SOLE's reputation for building tank-like treadmills is evident in both the F85 and F89 models, featuring commercial-grade components that consistently outlast many competitors.

Frame Construction Differences

Both treadmills utilize heavy-gauge steel frames, but the F89 incorporates additional reinforcement at key stress points to support its higher weight capacity. 

The welding quality is exceptional on both models, with precision joints that eliminate wobbling even during all-out sprints. 

The F89's frame uses slightly thicker tubing in the base and uprights, contributing to its 24-pound weight increase over the F85 and enhanced stability during lateral movements.

Deck Cushioning Comparison

SOLE's Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology features prominently on both models, reducing impact by up to 40% compared to running on asphalt. 

This proprietary cushioning system strategically balances shock absorption with stability, protecting joints while maintaining natural running mechanics. The multi-zone cushioning provides firmer support at the front where you push off and softer cushioning in the middle where impact forces are highest.

Long-Term Reliability and Warranty

User reviews and independent testing consistently rank both treadmills among the most reliable in the home fitness market, with remarkably low failure rates over multi-year ownership periods. 

The commercial-grade 4.0 HP motors operate well below their maximum capacity during typical use, resulting in cooler operation and extended service life.

Both models are backed by identical warranties that reflect SOLE's confidence in our products:

• Lifetime warranty on frame and motor
• 3 years on deck and parts
• 1 year on labor

This warranty coverage ranks among the industry's best and significantly exceeds what most competitors offer.

Reviews: What SOLE Users Owners Are Saying

Verified Customer Feedback

A 67-year-old female runner shared an enthusiastic review after extensive research.

One customer’s review highlights several key strengths of the F85: seamless app integration, easy device pairing, accessible controls for shorter users, and professional delivery/assembly service. For the F89, customers especially like its sturdy steel construction.

An Amazon customer gave the F89 an excellent review for its steel quality. 

Choose Your Perfect Premium Treadmill: F85 or F89

When you choose SOLE, you're investing in commercial-grade quality with lifetime warranty coverage designed to support your fitness journey for years to come.

Ready to invest in a premium SOLE treadmill? Both models deliver the commercial-grade performance, Cushion Flex cushioning, and rock-solid durability that SOLE is renowned for—the decision comes down to which features matter most for your training style.

The SOLE F85 Treadmill hits the sweet spot between performance and value for serious runners who prioritize mechanical quality over technological enhancements. You get the same powerful 4.0 HP motor, spacious 22" x 60" running surface, and impact-reducing Cushion Flex technology as the F89, along with a responsive 15.6" touchscreen that handles streaming and workout tracking. 

The SOLE F89 Treadmill improves the experience with premium upgrades that transform daily training sessions. The massive 21.5" touchscreen creates an immersive viewing experience that makes long runs fly by, with 38% more screen real estate than the F85 for better multitasking between entertainment and workout metrics. 

The addition of decline training (−6% to 0%) expands the types of workouts you can do, while the higher 375-pound weight capacity reflects enhanced structural reinforcement. 

The F89 suits tech-forward users who value integrated entertainment, serious runners needing decline capability, or households with multiple users where the larger display benefits everyone.

Both treadmills include the FREE SOLE+ App with hundreds of guided workouts—no subscription required, saving you hundreds of dollars annually compared to competitors. 

Check out the SOLE treadmill collection today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What's the main difference between the SOLE F85 and F89 treadmills?

The primary differences between the SOLE F85 and F89 are the console display size (15.6" vs. 21.5" touchscreen), decline capability (F89 offers −6% decline while F85 doesn't), and weight capacity (350 lbs vs. 375 lbs). 

Both models share the same powerful 4.0 HP motor, identical 22" x 60" running surface, Cushion Flex technology that reduces impact by 40%, and 0%–15% incline range. The F89 essentially represents a premium version of the F85 with enhanced display technology and training versatility.

Can the SOLE F85 and F89 treadmills handle interval training and HIIT workouts?

Both the F85 and F89 excel at interval training and HIIT workouts thanks to their responsive 4.0 HP motors that handle rapid speed transitions without lag or strain. The digital speed and incline controls allow for quick adjustments during intense intervals, while the Cushion Flex deck provides joint protection during high-impact segments, reducing impact by 40% compared to running on asphalt.

How difficult is the assembly process for SOLE F85 and F89 treadmills?

Assembly of both models involves moderate complexity and typically requires 1-2 hours with two people. The main deck comes pre-assembled, significantly simplifying the process compared to many competitors. Assembly primarily involves attaching the console uprights, connecting the console, and securing various covers and smaller components.

Do both the F85 and F89 require a subscription for workout content?

Neither the F85 nor F89 requires a subscription for core functionality or workout programs. Both models come with the FREE SOLE+ App that provides hundreds of guided workouts, scenic runs, and instructor-led classes at no additional cost—saving you hundreds of dollars annually compared to competitors like Peloton or NordicTrack that require ongoing monthly subscription fees. Both models come pre-loaded with numerous workout programs, including manual, cardio, fat burn, hill climb, interval, and custom options that function without any ongoing fees. 

What other SOLE equipment complements a complete home gym setup?

SOLE offers comprehensive equipment that creates a complete home gym ecosystem beyond treadmills. The Equipment Mat is essential for both the F85 and F89, protecting floors while reducing vibration and keeping carpet fibers out of your machine. For strength training that complements your cardio work, the SW180 Adjustable Dumbbells provide 16 weight options from 5–80 pounds with quick-adjust capability for efficient circuit training. 

The SW116 Weight Bench enables proper form for chest presses, shoulder work, and core exercises. For low-impact full-body cardio alternatives, the SR550 Rowing Machine delivers dual air and magnetic resistance that builds strength and endurance without joint stress.

 

Note: Pricing mentioned in this post is subject to change over time. Always refer to our website for the most up-to-date pricing.