NordicTrack RW200 Rower Review 2023

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Last Updated: January 1, 2023

The NordicTrack RW200 is a simple, easy to use rower that folds up when not in use so it will fit comfortably into any workout program or space. Rowing is a great full body exercise that strengthens muscles in the legs as well as arms, back, and chest! It also strengthens the cardiovascular system by increasing the body’s demand for oxygen during exercise. Regular conditioning on a rower is a fantastic way to build strength and enhance your cardio efficiency.

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Who It’s For: Users who want a foldable and affordable rower that doesn’t take up much space

The RW200 is designed for users who want a sleek rowing machine that is:

• Compact and easy to use
• Doesn’t require internet or wifi connection
• Very affordable
• Simple Watts Backlit Display
• Comfortable design with padded seat and smooth oversized track
• 24 Digital Resistance Levels
• Silent Magnetic Resistance
• 250lb User Capacity

Quick Summary

The NordicTrack RW200 is an affordable rower that doesn’t take up too much space and folds up when not in use. This is a great option for users who want an in-home rower that doesn’t break the bank or require the whole living room to operate!

In-depth Review of RW200

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Construction

Frame

• The RW200 frame is a steel track with soft molded seat and ergonomic pedals with nylon straps. The track is secure and the seat glides smoothly up and down. The console on the front sits at a good height and is easy to reach and navigate. Folding it up is not difficult, just grab the handle on the center of the track and lift.

Geometry

• Total Footprint: 86.5″ Long x 22.0″ Wide x 42.8″ High

• Folded Footprint:43.8” High x 37.2” Deep x 22” Wide

• Max User Weight: 250 lbs

• SpaceSaver Design: Yes

Pedals

• The pedals are reinforced with a solid foot surface underneath and a molded overlay that holds your shoe securely. The double layer provides stability underfoot while still allowing for a gentle flex and give as you row. A wide nylon strap with velcro secures feet into position.

Handle

• The RW200 handle is gently cushioned for a very comfortable hold. It is plenty wide and just thick enough for a good hand-hold.

Seat.

• The seat is contoured and slightly cushioned. It slides gently from front to back. Rowing feels smooth and the track doesn’t bow at any point.

FlyWheel

• The flywheel provides a smooth stroke throughout your rowing drive. Recovery is also gentle as the flywheel evenly pulls the handle back to starting position.
• The damper on the RW200 is on the top of the flywheel. The more air you allow to flow in and out of the flywheel, the more power is required to move the flywheel. So greater air flow: greater resistance. As a result of the added air resistance, noise is greater at higher resistance levels since more air is flowing through the flywheel. The damper is well positioned so you can adjust it (often without removing your feet) while you are on the rower.

Resistance

• 24 Digital Levels
• Magnetic resistance is silent and calibrated using magnets that oppose the motion of the flywheel. There are no contact points and therefore no friction or wear on the flywheel.
• 24 preset resistance levels give you plenty of options to select and allow users to find just the right resistance for any workout or class. You can adjust resistance via the OneTouch buttons on the console.
• Air resistance occurs as the air flows through the flywheel with each drive. The air resistance can be modified by adjusting how much air flows out of the fan vents and how much stays inside. This creates an additional method of adding and adjusting resistance.

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Console/Controls

Console

• Watts Backlit Display
• The Console is large and easy to navigate. The display shows the following metrics:
• Current 500m Split/Average 500m split
• Calories burned/Calories per hour
• Strokes/Strokes per minute
• Time
• Distance

• Screen Movement The screen pivots gently up and down so you can find the right point of visibility.

Accessories

• Minimal Accessories: The RW200 doesn’t have many accessories. There isn’t a fan, tablet holder or cup holders, but since the rower sits so close to the floor, it is easy to set a water bottle or other items close by.

Noise Level

• The RW200 makes about as much noise as comparable rowers. There is a bit of noise as the air moves through the flywheel, but this is to be expected on a rower. While it is noticeable, it’s not terribly loud, just more of a whirring sound.

Storage / Folding

• Most rowers take up a bit of space when fully opened since you need room to slide forward and back on the track. However, the RW200 is about as compact as you can get and it folds up when not in use which saves a ton of space. The rower isn’t super wide at just 22” in total width, but it does extend 86.5” when fully open. You will need a significant amount of floor space to open and then use the rower appropriately.
• The rower folds up via a handlebar on the track. It is a little tricky to fold since the screen on the front end is heavy. Wheels under the front mount engage when the rower is lifted so you can roll it gently as needed.

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Onboard Workouts

• There are 20 pre programmed workouts on the machine that will guide you through various intensities and resistance. The onboard workouts are sufficient to keep you active and provide plenty of training variables