Treadmill motors in particular seem to be rated creatively. Mine says 2.5HP, but I don't buy that for a second. Compared to motors that have been tested to deliver that level of power, it's about 1/4 the size and weight. If you want reliable performance at the nameplate rating, you are better off with a good 3 phase motor and VFD if you want variable speed. I'm using this treadmill motor because it's free and good enough to spin a belt grinder about. I wouldn't put it on a a lathe bigger than a mini lathe.