When you compare this unit to what is available from Sole, NordicTrack, Proform and especially Horizon, this unit just doesn't stack up. Vision really needs to consider a major upgrade of this model or it needs to cede the price point to more capable companies. This unit would be an appropriate value a couple of years ago, but that is just how fast the competitive environment is right now. Fast growth of the mass merchants into fitness coupled with some down years in the industry as a whole is starting to put a strain on companies like Vision.
General Information
Vision is an import brand made by Johnson. They are known for making a high value treadmill and elliptical. They were formerly owned by Trek Bicycles but were sold to management as part of a reorganization. They have recovered well from the CPSC recall 2 years ago but with the launch of AFG by Johnson through the Horizon company, we wonder how well Vision will be able to weather this assault.
Quality / Philosophy
Vision appears to believe that if you put good enough components in it, you can expect a reasonable service life. Sounds good and it makes sense and works. Their love of front-drive front-ramp ellipticals is not something we would endorse. Front-Ramp designs on a Front-Drive elliptical just doesn't make sense to us. It pushes all of the load on the ellitpical to the front of the machine. We believe that their standard Front-Drive elliptical is a better option.
Outlook
Vision, who once helped shut down many US factories with their innovative manufacturing approach now, is the victim of their success. The factory that makes their machines, Johnson, has seen that the Vision business is good and just like the bear at the picnic, Johnson, through the launch of the AFG lineup via their Horizon subsidiary, is wanting to stick their finger in Vision’s pie.
