NordicTrack RW900 Rower Review

We’re all likely familiar with cardio workouts like running on a treadmill or using an elliptical, but you shouldn’t overlook a cardio burnout session on a rower. Specifically the NordicTrack RW900, which is one of the more high-tech rowers on the market. It features a 22-inch touchscreen display that gains you access to a seemingly endless number of iFit workouts. It also features 26 levels of magnetic resistance that can adjust automatically during your trainer-led classes. 

First-time NordicTrack buyers will receive a free month of iFit, but once that runs out, some users may be pleased to find there are 30 preloaded workouts on this machine. One of the coolest things about this rower is that you can choose from rivers across the globe for a more immersive workout. NordicTrack also provides a 10-year warranty on the frame to ease any concerns about durability. If you’re looking for a technologically advanced rower to spice up your cardio sessions in your home gym, we think the NordicTrack RW900 is one of the best options available thanks to its automatic adjustments, trainer-led classes, and 26 levels of magnetic resistance.

Main Takeaways

NordicTrack RW900 Rower Highlights

When choosing your rower, you want to make sure you’re putting your money in the right place. If you’re just starting and need extra guidance via iFit instructors or you just want the added bonus of coached workouts, this is a great option for you. Not everyone needs an instructor for their workouts, but we found it helpful since they can give you a little extra motivation to finish strong.

The frame of the RW900 is primarily made from steel, so stability most likely won’t be a cause for concern when working out. Plus, underneath the front and rear stabilizers, you’ll find some adjustable leveling feet, which will come in handy if you notice any type of wobble when sitting on the ergonomic seat. You can adjust the 13-inch foot pedals to fit your feet snugly, the velcro straps will keep your feet in place, and it’s nice that the pedals also allow for some ankle flexion.

The oval-shaped handle might not be as long as some people would like for a wide grip, but it provides a pretty solid grip during your workouts. The 26 levels of magnetic resistance can automatically adjust during trainer-led workouts, but you can also adjust the resistance manually on the monitor. Since the RW900 uses magnetic resistance, you’ll likely find it much quieter than a water rower, especially since the handle is connected with a strap and not a chain. Plus, it has an inertia-enhanced flywheel, so you won’t feel any jerking as you row. 

Who Should Buy the NordicTrack RW900

• Beginner rowers who want to utilize guided classes and improve their rowing technique and stamina. 
• Anyone who is looking for a smooth experience when rowing will likely enjoy the inertia-enhanced flywheel. 
• Those looking for a relatively quiet rower will be happy with the magnetic resistance and the strap that comes in place of a chain. 

Who Shouldn’t Buy the NordicTrack RW900

• Anyone looking to spend less than $2,000 on a rower will want to check out some more basic options.
• Some advanced rowers may be able to out-row the highest level of resistance.
• Heavier rowers who need a higher weight capacity — this rower can only handle 250 pounds.

Price

The NordicTrack RW900 is priced at around $2,000 on the NordicTrack website. Though there are cheaper options, they likely won’t offer the same high-tech features as the RW900. So if you don’t care for all of the bells and whistles this rower has to offer, or if you aren’t going to be dedicated to using it, you can save money by looking elsewhere. 

Your overall price tag will be determined by three additional variables — the type of iFit membership you want, any additional warranty plans you choose, and whether or not you want white glove assembly. So if you decide you want to save money long-term with your iFit membership and opt for the three-year plan, you select a three-year maintenance plan and choose that white-glove assembly, you’ll be looking at spending about $3,250 (the highest possible price).

The good news is that you can finance this purchase if you don’t want to spend all of that money upfront. NordicTrack does a great job of laying this out for you and details what you’ll be paying monthly over 39 months.

Overall Build and Quality

The NordicTrack RW900 features a steel framework and is about as sturdy as they come. It’s 4.5 feet tall, just under seven feet long, and 22 inches wide (due to the monitor). A set of wheels make this 160-pound rower pretty portable, and despite there not being a dedicated handle to move it around, you can always grab the rear stabilizer. Thanks to the magnetic resistance and strap, you’ll likely find this rower to be one of the quietest options on the market. Even though we don’t think durability will be much of a concern, NordicTrack still includes a 10-year warranty on the framework. 

Features

This rower features a 22” touchscreen that can tilt to your comfort level when streaming iFit classes, but it can also rotate 360 degrees for any classes that don’t require the rower — such as a yoga or strength training class. On top of the iFit classes, you’ll also find 30 preloaded workouts on the monitor. The inertia-enhanced flywheel provides a smooth drive, and the large pedals can adjust to fit your feet if necessary. We also can’t forget to mention the automatic adjustments to your resistance — you can opt-in for these during any iFit workout. 

Stats Tracking and Metrics

You can track your watts, calories, time, strokes, resistance, and distance (in meters) on the screen as you progress through your workout. The monitor will provide an estimated number of calories burned, but you’ll need to connect a heart rate monitor for a more accurate reading since there aren’t any sensors built in here. 

Display

There’s a 22” tilting and rotating touchscreen, so you can adjust its positioning based on your height and still take full advantage of how large the display is. That’s not all, though, it also rotates 360 degrees, so you can hop off the rower and bust out your trusty dumbbells for a strength training session. 

Included workouts

There are 30 workouts included on the NordicTrack RW900, which is a pretty solid number.  The AutoAdjust™ technology will adjust the resistance throughout the workouts as you row. But of course, you can always adjust this manually on the monitor as needed.

Workout Apps, Compatibility and Subscription Options

First-time buyers will get a free month of iFit classes with your purchase. The iFit membership includes access to over 16,000 coached workout classes across all types of fitness. Each workout will sync with your rower, and the resistance will change automatically as the instructor calls for it. On top of that, you have the option to row on all sorts of virtual waterways around the world.

Heart Rate Monitoring

Though no heart rate monitor is included, this rower has Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you can sync the fitness tracker of your choosing to track your heart rate.

Bluetooth and Audio Options

There are two 30-watt speakers located just underneath the display that can project both the instructor’s voice and the music that plays during your workouts. Since not everyone wants to have all that sound coming through the speakers, you can always pair your Bluetooth headphones for a quieter experience. Since there aren’t any built-in heart rate sensors, you’ll also need to pair a heart rate monitor for an accurate reading of your burned calories. 

Fans

There are no built-in fans with the RW900, so you’ll need to set a separate fan up nearby if you want a cool breeze.

Feel

Though some rowers can be unstable depending on how strong your stroke is, the NordicTrack RW900 is a sturdy 163-pound machine that doesn’t wobble, and its foot straps keep your feet nice and secure throughout your row. Most basic rowers are chain-driven, but this rower is belt-driven and inertia-enhanced, giving the stroke a smoother feel overall.

Ergonomics and Comfort

This rower has adjustable nylon foot straps and an ergonomic molded seat that fits to your form, making it secure and comfortable even as you crank up the stroke rate. In addition, the 13-inch pedals will fit pretty much all feet and can be adjusted if necessary. 

HDMI, USB and Other Inputs

This machine doesn’t have an HDMI or USB port, but we didn’t find that to be a negative aspect. 

Product Specs

This rower is on the heavy side, weighing in at 163 pounds while most rowers weigh closer to 60 pounds. Though that makes it a little more difficult to maneuver, it eliminates any potential for wobbling as you increase your power or speed. The RW900 also features magnetic resistance, so if you’re used to rowing on the water and want something that feels a little more like that, a water rower may be better for you. 

Rower Type

This rower features 26 levels of magnetic resistance, an inertia-enhanced flywheel for a smooth experience, and a belt instead of a chain for a quieter workout.

Track Length and Height

The monorail on the RW900 is 53 inches long, and the height is 15” from the floor to the seat.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity is very light as far as rowers go. Most basic rowers can hold upwards of 300 pounds, but the NordicTrack RW900 can only comfortably handle 250 pounds.

Portability

The RW900 doesn’t feature a designated handle, but you can always grab the rear stabilizer instead and utilize the wheels on the front stabilizer to move it around your personal space. 

Folding Options and Dimensions

The NordicTrack RW900 is 82 inches long, 54 inches tall, and 22 inches wide. Unlike the older model, this rower does not fold in the middle to make it shorter, which may be a bit of a downside for some users who live in very small spaces.

Max Resistance

There are 26 levels of resistance on this rower — far more than the average 10 — giving you plenty of options for increasing strength and building muscle.

Electrical Requirements

All it takes to power this rower is your average 110v power outlet in your home.

Noise

This machine features an Inertia-Enhanced Flywheel (silent magnetic resistance), which makes for a quiet and smooth workout. Since the RW900 uses a belt instead of a chain, you’ll find your drive is much quieter than most basic rowers.

Warranties

NordicTrack includes a 10-year warranty on the frame, a two-year warranty on parts, and a one-year labor warranty. Plus, you can add on an extended warranty plan when you check out.

Places to Buy

You can buy the NordicTrack RW900 directly through the NordicTrack website.

Company Information

NordicTrack is known for its iFit subscription, which offers virtual personal training and on-demand classes. The company produces high-quality rowers, bikes, treadmills, and ellipticals. They offer a 30-day trial period; if you aren’t thrilled with your purchase after a month, you’ll receive a full refund. You can reach their customer service by calling 1-888-308-9616.

Final Word

The NordicTrack RW900 is one of the most high-tech rowers on the market. It features a 22-inch touchscreen monitor that can tilt to your comfort level when rowing, but it can also rotate 360 degrees for any iFit workout that doesn’t require the rower. Speaking of iFit, first-time buyers will receive a free month of iFit with access to over 16,000 live and on-demand classes. The inclusion of Google Maps™ allows you to choose from rivers across the globe for your workouts, and the resistance can be automatically adjusted depending on each rowing session. 

While we think iFit is an awesome feature, those who don’t want to pay a membership fee will be happy to learn that there are 30 preloaded workouts on this monitor. The inertia-enhanced flywheel offers a smooth feel paired with the magnetic resistance, leading to a relatively quiet workout overall. Even though this machine is a bit pricey, it’s still cheaper than some big-name competitors. If you’re searching for a new rower, we think all of the luxury features that the RW900 has could be a great fit for your home gym, making it well worth the $2,000 price tag.

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