If you can't decide between a walking pad or treadmill to use at home, then you've come to the right place, because the WalkingPad R2 combines both machines into one.
It's a great treadmill for people who need something relatively small and compact that works for tight spaces, yet still comes with a ton of awesome features to make it a worthwhile investment.
Plus, it can be used under a desk to get extra steps as you work or for a quick jog.
Let's get to it with our review of the WalkingPad R2 and see if it is a suitable machine for you.
WalkingPad R2 Features
Specifications:
- Motor: Brushless Motor
- Panel Craftmanship: Metallic Spray Paint
- Rated Power: 918W (1.2HP)
- Display Feedback: Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, Steps
- Walking Mode: 0.5 - 3.7 MPH/6KPH
- Running Mode: 0.5 - 7.45 MPH/12KPH(New Version)
- Unfold Dimensions: 1452mm x 720mm x 1032mm
- Folded Dimensions: 1000mm x 720mm x 162mm
- Walking Area: 1200mm x 439mm
- App Connectivity: KS Fit App
- Remote Control Lanyard
- Maximum User Weight: 240 lbs / 110KG
- Net Weight: 36KG
- Gross Weight: 40.5KG
The WalkingPad R2: A Quick Overview
The WalkingPad R2 is a great option for anyone who can't choose between a walking pad and a conventional treadmill as you get both with the R2. So you can walk while you work from home or enjoy a morning run.
Plus, the compact double-folding design makes it ideal for anyone who doesn't have space to dedicate to exercise equipment.
With all of that said, its small size and easy-to-store nature does sacrifice some features and performance, something that we'll talk about in today's review.
Let’s get to it and closer look at the WalkingPad R2.
Related Post: WalkingPad A1 Pro Review
Dimensions, Portability, and Storage
As we've mentioned several times now, one of the best features of the WalkingPad R2 is that it is so small, compact, and easy to store.
It has a unique double-folding design where the deck folds in half, then stands in an upright position and measures just 100cm x 72cm x 16.2cm.
To fully unfold the deck, you'll have to either raise the handles up or extend the handles, or else the deck won't unfold.
Something else that we need to note is that although the handles do allow you to adjust the height, it's not a very smooth process and can be a bit difficult.
The levers that allow the handles to raise and lower sometimes lock, which can make adjustments a bit difficult.
When unfolded, the dimensions are 145.2cm x 72cm x 103.2cm, which is still very small. It's therefore perfect for small apartments and rooms that don't have much real estate to spare.
The only downside of the compact design is that taller users will find that they can't stretch their legs at higher speeds. So if you are about 6'4" or taller then you might find it a squeeze. Nonetheless, when being used as a walking pad you will have no issues.
Once you have finished your workout, to help you move the R2, it has transport wheels mounted on the front.This makes it much easier to move the pad which would feel quite heavy without any assistance weighing in at 36kg.
Motor
The next factor we want to look at with this treadmill is the motor. It features a 1.2HP brushless motor, making it durable and quiet.
No, the motor here is not overly powerful, as can be expected from a relatively small treadmill.
When using the R2 in walking mode with the handrail down, it will reach a maximum speed of 3.7mph which might sound slow but is a brisk walking pace.
But with the handrail up it can reach a top speed of 7.5mph which is a good jogging pace that will have you tired out quickly.
With the small motor, we wouldn't recommend trying to run for hours on end as it isn't a heavy-duty machine. However, it's fine for light to moderate use and manages to provide a smooth walking/ running experience when it is being used.
Do keep in mind that there is no incline feature available whatsoever, which we weren't expecting with a walking pad-style machine.
Nonetheless, when being used, the motor is very quiet due to it being brushless. This means you can use it while working without causing too much interruption, whether at home or in an office.
The Frame
One of the most important components to examine on any treadmill is the frame.
To keep the machine's weight to a minimum, the R2 has an aluminium alloy frame with a powder-coated layer on the outside to prevent rust and corrosion from occurring.
Although aluminium is not the number one most durable material in the world, it's more than enough for a light-duty treadmill like this, and moreover, it's also lightweight helping to keep the R2 as light as possible.
As for other parts of the frame, what's cool is that the two-in-one handle design allows you to position the handle upright when you want to use it for jogging or walking in a room, and you can lay the handle down on either side and to the back so you can slide the treadmill under a standing desk to use at work.
Although this treadmill is not very large, it is fairly versatile in terms of how the frame is built.
Speaking of the frame, what you need to realise is that it comes fully assembled right out of the box. That makes life a whole lot easier, because most treadmills that you purchase have to be assembled first.
The Deck
Yet another component of any treadmill that is crucial to examine in such a review is the deck.
One thing to note right off the bat is that because the deck folds in half, you can feel it a little bit underfoot where the hinge is.
However, with proper footwear, it is almost impossible to notice and with prolonged use, you should feel the hinge less and less, as it's not overly pronounced.
As we've mentioned several times at this point, this is a very compact treadmill, and this means that the belt is only 120cm x 43.9cm.
Therefore, if you are very tall, have a long stride, or run very quickly, then the length of the deck will likely feel cramped.
Although it's a good treadmill for walking and jogging with short stride lengths, taller people will struggle to stretch their legs at the top speed.
On that note, being 43.9cm wide also makes it quite narrow. Although this is wider than most normal walking pads, you don't have much room to stray as you walk.
But this is the trade-off with having a compact and portable machine.
After using the machine a few times you will likely get used to the width of the machine and it won't be an issue but it is worth being aware of.
Related Post: For a Lightweight Option See Our WalkingPad C1 Review
Overall Build Quality
WalkingPad have built a good reputation for the build quality of their machines and the R2 is no exception.
It weighs just 36kg which is considerably less than most other treadmills that can reach 12kph.
But despite the lightweight design, it is still able to take a maximum user weight of 110kg (240lbs) which shows the quality of materials used.
Overall, considering that it is such a compact and affordable treadmill, the build quality is high.
With that being said, once again, remember that it's not designed for heavy-duty use.
This isn't the kind of treadmill you would buy if you want to run at 12 mph at full stride for long periods of time.
The Display and Apps
On the motor cover, you'll see a small console that is built right into it. It features a small LED panel that displays a variety of metrics including distance, speed, steps, time, and calories.
However, the display is not very advanced and needs to rotate between the metrics every few seconds as it can't tell you everything at once.
Although the handles fold up on the R2, the handles don't feature a built-in display.
However, there is a safety key that plugs into the handle, right at the top, as well as a holder for your device. With the device holder, you can watch your favorite shows or listen to music as you exercise.
Moreover, as far as controls are concerned, there is a remote control that allows you to control the speed. Plus, the center button allows you to switch between automatic and manual modes, and a center button for stopping and starting the belt.
Now, talking about the manual mode, this allows you to adjust the speed of the R2 Treadmill using either your phone or the remote. The automatic mode on the other hand allows you to adjust the treadmill with your feet.
In the automatic mode, if your feet are more forward on the deck, the treadmill will gradually increase its speed, and if you walk further to the rear of the deck, the speed will decrease.
It's a nice feature, although if you don't place your feet just right, the speed will keep varying, which can be annoying if you're looking for a consistent workout. With that being said, the manual mode is perfectly acceptable.
In terms of the app, you can connect this unit to the KS Fit App, a totally free app that allows you to keep track of various metrics such as cadence and pace.
This is done all through your smartphone, which in fact also allows you to adjust the speed of the belt. This is pretty convenient if you misplace the remote.
On a side note, you might also appreciate that there is a child lock feature available on this unit.
Final Thoughts on the WalkingPad R2
The bottom line is that the WalkingPad R2 Treadmill is a great option to consider if you're looking for something compact, affordable, and ideal for basic use.
Of course, its biggest standout feature is its foldable design that allows you to easily store it in a small space, such as under your bed, under a desk, or in a closet. Due to its design, it's ideal for use under folding desks and in the middle of a room alike.
Although it may not have the most powerful motor, the most advanced features, or the largest running deck, its portable nature, compact size, and affordable price point make it a worthwhile investment for anybody who needs to go on regular walks or jogs, but doesn't want to do so outdoors.
Still unsure? See our guide to the best walking pads in the UK.
