I am delighted with my purchase! The running surface is excellent, my wife is the main user and she has put more than 5 miles a day on this machine, so it is getting some good use and coping well. When used at high speeds the machine does not sway or get much louder. The running surface is cushioned exceptionally as advertised. In regards to putting it together, it was not difficult except I had some difficulty moving the running deck out of the box as it is very heavy, two people are definitely needed for this bit and also for holding the console in place (light) while screwing pieces together. Could not recommend this treadmill enough to those looking for a gym quality machine.