Octane Fitness Zero Runner 8 Review (ZR8 Updated in 2021)
Octane ZR8 Overview
The Octane Zero Runner 8 is one of a special type of elliptical/treadmill machine. ZR8 is a zero-impact running machine that allows you to do both cardio and strength training. When exercising on the Octane Zero Runners, you will have the freedom to stretch your legs up-to 50-inch and improve your cardiovascular capacity. When you are not on the Zero Runner zr8, you can do a full-body strength training with the resistance cords.
What sets apart the Octane Fitness zero runner zr8 is the unique type of exercise it offers because the machine has HIP and KNEE joints (just like humans). Octane Zero Runner zr8 offers the least form of running-impact while providing as close as possible to real running experience. In addition to zero-impact running the ZR8 also allows you to do the “HEEL KICK” which is not possible on the treadmill
Here is what some of you may not know about the ZR8 elliptical: Octane Zero Runner zr8 is compatible with the Cross Circuit Pro Kit. Cross Circuit Pro Kit are two stands for dumbells and plates for doing squats that gets installed at the back of the most Octane Fitness elliptical machines. Cross Circuit Pro Kit allows you to hop off the machine and combine your weight training with your cardio training with limited rest.
“RUN SMARTER” that’s the motto of the Octane Zero Runner zr8. What makes the Octane Zero Runner ZR8 better from the previous version ( Octane ZR7) are the durable aircraft-grade aluminum legs and lightweight pedals which allows for a faster cadence. On ZR8 model, they also added an extra set of grips for more variety and better performance.
Octane Zero Runner ZR8 elliptical is also self-powered and provides a cordless quiet operation. The ZR8 requires 4 AA batteries for console operation which can easily be replaced. Further design features include the narrow pedal spacing 1.4″ and a low step-up height of 5.2″. Compared to the ZR7 the spacing between the pedals is 0.6″ narrower which allows the hips and lower body to be aligned.
According to Octan Fitness they also improved the resistance range however, we weren’t able to locate the watts of the resistance the ZR8 offers. Octane Zero Runner 8 offers 3 sets of hand-grips, static with the built-in pulse sensors, moving and the performance grips.
| Console:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Standard⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Bluetooth:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Yes⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse and Wireless HRM | Power Source: | AC Adapter |
| USB Charging Port: | No | Display: | 4 AA Batteries |
| Drive: | Center | Flywheel Weight: | N/A |
| Warranty: | 5-Year Parts | 1-Year Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 195 Lbs | Folding: | No |
| Dimensions: | 63"L X 35"W X 59"H | Speaker: | No |
| Max user weight: | 300 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | No |
| Resistance: | Multi-Level Magnetic | Media Shelf: | Yes |
| Incline Ramp: | No incline, Fixed | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | Up To 58" Adjustable | Handlebars: | No Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | 39 Programs | Better Alternative: | Octane ZR8000 |
Octane ZR8 Resistance
ZR8 has adjustable resistance built in at the back of the machine. Not in a very convenient location but reachable. However, to adjust the resistance you need to stop the movement. You can set the machine resistance to free movement or increase the resistance to replicate higher intensity or uphill running.
Compared to ZR7 the resistance is improved on the zr8 however, compared to ZR8000, the Octane ZR8 lacks few features and one of them is the resistance level. If you are into doing more intense training, I recommend you to go for ZR8000 because it has more resistance and functionalities.
Stride and Incline
Adjustable from 0 t0 58-inch stride length. On most elliptical machines your stride is fixed from 20-25 inches however on the ZR8 elliptical you can stretch your stride to 58 inches. It allows you to run and jog while working on shoulder and arms.
ZR8 features the dual stride trace technology, you can view the health and consistency of your stride movement on the screen. This functionality allows you to easily identify the areas of fatigue. However, while running on the treadmill or outside you can’t trace each stride/step. The downside is that the Octane Fitness Zero Runner zr8 doesn’t have incline ramp for hill climbing.
ZR8 Console
The display is not blue back-lit but the LCD is clear enough to see the data shown, even in the darker room. On the display, you can track the necessary workout data such as time, speed, calories HR and pedal motion. Octane Fitness Zero Runner offers a basic display and doesn’t have any flashy features.
One of the great features of the ZR8 elliptical is Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT+. It has the ability to connect to the Smart-Link App as well as Garmin Connect IQ App. This means you can connect your Andriod, iPad, iPhone etc with ZR8.
You can download the free Apps connect the machine to your device, create an account put in your info and track your workout data. You can make customize training programs based on your goals. The exerciser can also download workouts plans using the Smart-Link App and add some strength training to your cardio.
What’s really special about the Smart-Link is that it allows you to monitor your stride data in real time on your device’ screen. You can basically see which legs are stretching more or less and performance efficiency and difference aspects of your run. It’s something you can’t monitor on treadmills or outside. The orange rack on the top of the display is where you can put your devices.
The zr8 elliptical machine has 35 built-in programs from endurance to recovery to toning options. It’s more than what many machines offer on the market.
The Octane ZR8 trainer programs include 13 endurance programs, 12 tone up programs, and 10 active recovery programs. However, only 4 of these programs are on the console and the rest of the programs are on Smart-Link App.
ZR8 also has a heart rate monitor that’s compatible with the wireless ANT+, and Bluetooth 4.0 chest strap for accurate readings. You can either wear the polar or hold your hands on the stationary handlebars to see the HR on the screen. The heart rate chest strap is also included
The ZR8 offers plenty of space on the console for the rider to place their device and stream through their favorite music or monitor their progress on their device.
Handlebars and Pedals
Static handlebars, moving handlebars and the performance grips (3 hand-grips options). The ZR8 offers multiple handlebars for the exerciser to change grips and engage different body parts. The moving handlebars allow the user to workout upper and lower body while the stationary handlebars allow the user to concentrate more on the lower body.
There are also performance grip bands which allow you to actually train your core while doing cardio. You can also use them to activate more you get and elevate your heart rate. More importantly, it allows you to find that natural stride for your upper body. It also improves the balance. And the performance grip feature allows users to focus on additional core stability.
The ZR8 comes with large and comfortable Rubber non-slip pedals and a toe cage for safety. Regardless of your speed on Octane ZR8, your feet will always stay firm and in place. The pedal spacing is 1.4″ and step-up height is 5.2″.
We haven’t been able to locate information on the drive system of ZR8. However, we know Octane zero runner zr8 doesn’t have the belt, motor, rollers and deck and that helps you save a lot of money on maintenance and the hassle and bustle of always being on the phone with technicians.
Octane ZR8 Assembly
Some parts from the rear of the machine come pre-assembled however there is still a lot to put together and not all the required tools are included with the package. Therefore, we suggest you have a professional put your Zero Runner zr8 together. Tools required: Phillips screwdriver, 13 mm wrench (2), 17 mm wrench (2), (6 mm hex and 5 mm Hex included).
ZR8 Pros and Cons
The Final Verdict
The innovative design of the Octane zero runner zr8 elliptical allows the user to bend their knee, just like running on the road because the machine has knees and hips that bend. While doing the short strides you can walk and with the long stride mimic running or do sprints. Smart link app tells your stride length and the height of your heel kick and that way you can easily identify which areas you need to work on more. which is what makes this app smarter than most fitness apps. It also allows you to run and track your states from your device while watching your favorite Netflix show, all at the same time
We believe RZ8 is one of the best elliptical machines on the market. It offers so much for the price. You pay less than $3500 for something that is both an elliptical and treadmill, except it’s much smarter and healthier. You don’t even need to plug in the machine as it generates the power it needs. So, you can place it wherever you want in the gym or at home and save on the electricity bill.
Run faster, more efficiently, and avoid injuries that come with the impact of running. The suspension design allows the exercisers to enjoy the excitement of running without the impact of running outdoors or on a treadmill. The materials used in Octane Fitness ZR8 is the aircraft-grade aluminum and lightweight pedals that provide extra stability and durability. The overall RZ8 elliptical machine is one of the best on the whole market and great value for the money.
| Review | Image | Quality | Price | Bluetooth | Consoles | Programs | Stride | Resistance | Incline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Octane ZR7 |  | Home | Check on Amazon | Yes | Standard Console Only | 36 Standard | 58'' Self-Adjusting | 3-Level Magnetic | No |
| Octane ZR8 |  | Home | Check on Amazon | Yes | Standard Console Only | 39 Standard | 58'' Self-Adjusting | 4-Level Magnetic | No |
| Octane ZR7000 |  | Commercial | Check on Amazon | Yes (Smart Console) | Standard & Smart Options | 8, Standard | 12, Smart | 58'' Self-Adjusting | 10-Level Magnetic | No |
| Octane ZR8000 |  | Commercial | Check on Amazon | Yes (Smart Console) | Standard & Smart Options | 8, Standard | 12, Smart | 58'' Self-Adjusting | 15-Level Magnetic | No |
Hi, my name is Sayed Hamed Hosseiny. I am a professional health and fitness trainer with nearly 20 years of experience using ellipticals, rowing machines, and spin bikes. I also have my own EU-based Rock Fitness Pro fitness brand where I design, import and sell exercise equipment such as rowing machines and spin bikes. I and writers on my team also often receive fitness equipment to review and evaluate their functionalities and performance from tens of different exercise machines manufacturers. Fitness equipment tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on this website are my opinion (and opinions of my fitness expert colleagues) based on tens of criteria. I never accept payment to write reviews of products or say positive things about fitness equipment products. If brands are interested to have me review their rowers, ellipticals, or spin bikes, they can get in touch with me via email provided on the contact page and send a sample of their product.
