If you’re looking for a rowing machine that delivers an interactive workout while keeping things smooth and quiet, the NordicTrack RW900 is worth checking out.
As NordicTrack’s top-of-the-line rower, it combines immersive training with impressive build quality, making it a great choice for beginners and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Today, we’re discussing everything you need to know about the NordicTrack RW900, including its specs, materials, build quality, resistance, tech features, and everything in between.
If you’re considering adding a rowing machine to your home gym, this review will help you decide whether the RW900 is the right fit for you.
Introducing the NordicTrack RW900 – Specs and Basics
Before jumping into the full review, let’s quickly go over the basics. The NordicTrack RW900 is a magnetic rowing machine equipped with a 22-inch HD touchscreen and access to iFIT programming. It’s packed with the latest tech while staying user-friendly for home workouts.
Here’s a snapshot of the key specifications:
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Dimensions: 207cm (L) x 56cm (W) x 142cm (H)
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Weight Capacity: 115kg
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Resistance: Magnetic with 26 levels
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Flywheel: Inertia-enhanced magnetic flywheel
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Display: 22” HD touchscreen that tilts and swivels
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Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, and heart rate monitor compatibility
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Weight: 72kg
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Warranty: 10 years on the frame, 1 year on parts and 1 year on labour. Free extension to 2 years parts and labour if registered within 30 days.
At a glance, this rower offers a lot of features typically found in more expensive models like the Hydrow or Aviron but at a slightly lower price point.
It’s designed for smooth and quiet workouts and delivers an experience that goes beyond basic rowing.
What’s impressive about the RW900 is its versatility. It’s not just a rowing machine; the rotating screen and iFIT integration make it a comprehensive system for full-body workouts, including yoga, HIIT, and strength training.
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NordicTrack RW900 Review
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s go through an in-depth review of the RW900.
22" Smart HD Touchscreen
The 22-inch HD touchscreen is one of the highlights of the RW900.
It’s bright, responsive, and provides excellent visuals, whether you’re following a scenic row or an instructor-led class. The screen tilts and swivels, making it easy to transition to off-rower workouts like strength training or yoga.
The display integrates seamlessly with iFIT, NordicTrack’s subscription-based workout platform.
iFIT offers a wide variety of workouts, including scenic rows filmed on waterways around the world, studio classes, and cross-training sessions. The interactive programming is what sets the RW900 apart, as it adds variety and engagement to your workouts.
Programmability and Connectivity
With iFIT, the RW900 becomes more than just a rowing machine. You can follow instructor-led classes, join live studio sessions, or explore scenic outdoor routes. The app also includes strength training, yoga, and HIIT workouts, making it a versatile fitness tool.
The rower features Bluetooth connectivity, so you can pair headphones or heart rate monitors for a more immersive experience. However, it’s worth noting that an iFIT subscription is required to unlock the full functionality of the machine.
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Resistance – The Flywheel and Adjustability
The RW900 features 26 levels of magnetic resistance, allowing you to tailor the workout to your fitness level. The AutoAdjust feature automatically changes the resistance during live iFIT classes, which adds an element of surprise and challenge. It’s a hands-free way to adjust intensity, so you can focus on your form and pacing.
Magnetic resistance is a big win for home users because it’s nearly silent. Unlike air rowers, which get louder as you pull harder, the RW900 remains whisper-quiet regardless of intensity. This makes it perfect for apartments, shared living spaces, or early-morning workouts when you don’t want to wake up the household.
While the resistance is smooth and consistent, advanced rowers might find it lacks the punch of air or water rowers. If you’re looking for unlimited resistance, an air rower like the Concept2 may be better suited to your needs.
Materials
The NordicTrack RW900 stands out for its solid and thoughtfully designed materials. The rower is a combination of high-grade steel, aluminum, and durable plastics, all working together to create a stable yet lightweight rower.
The monorail is built primarily of steel, which gives it excellent rigidity and a solid feel during each stroke.
Unlike cheaper rowers that can feel flimsy, the RW900 is all about quality and sturdiness, even when rowing at higher stroke rates. The aluminum elements, such as the flywheel housing and support beams, help keep the rower’s overall weight manageable without sacrificing strength.
Meanwhile, the foot cradles and casing are made from high-quality, impact-resistant plastic. This material choice keeps the components lightweight while ensuring durability under heavy use.
The foot cradles are especially well-built, with reinforced edges to resist cracking or bending over time.
The RW900 uses a belt-driven system which isn't typical in traditional rowers like the Concept2 use a chain mechanism, which can get noisy and require regular maintenance to stay smooth.
By opting for a belt drive, NordicTrack has created a rowing machine that is not only nearly silent but also incredibly smooth to operate. The belt requires far less upkeep, ensuring hassle-free performance for years to come.
Another significant feature is the handlebar grip. The soft-touch rubber coating is designed to provide comfort and reduce hand fatigue while also preventing slippage during intense workouts.
Combined with the durable internal components, the RW900’s materials reflect a clear focus on quality and user comfort.
Stability
The NordicTrack RW900 supports a weight capacity of 115kg, which is lower than many competing rowers. For example, the Concept2 RowERG and the Hydrow support up to 227kg and 170kg, respectively.
While 115kg will work for many users, it’s worth considering if you’re close to or above that weight limit.
A lower capacity could also mean the machine may wear out faster under consistent use by heavier individuals.
For users who need higher durability and weight support, it might be worth exploring alternatives like the Concept2, which is widely regarded for its rugged design and higher weight tolerance.
That being said, for individuals within the weight limit, the RW900 performs exceptionally well. Its stability, materials, and smooth operation ensure a quality workout experience.
Ergonomics and Comfort Features
Comfort is a strong point for the RW900. The seat is large, padded, and contoured for support, making it easy to row for longer periods without discomfort.
The seat height of 15 inches off the ground is also a nice touch, especially for anyone with mobility issues.
The handlebar is ergonomically designed with a soft-touch grip that helps prevent hand fatigue. However, it’s slightly narrower than some competitors, which might feel restrictive for users with broader shoulders.
The foot cradles are adjustable to fit different foot sizes, with secure velcro straps that are easy to adjust. Plus, the slight pivoting motion of the footplates can take a little getting used to if you’re accustomed to fixed pedals, but they allow for more natural movement during rowing.
Size and Footprint
At 207cm (L) x 56cm (W) x 142cm (H), the NordicTrack RW900 has a large footprint that’s fairly standard for premium rowing machines. However, it doesn’t fold or store upright, which may be a drawback for users with limited space.
While the front-mounted transport wheels make it easy to move the rower around, its size means you’ll need to dedicate a permanent spot for it in your home gym or workout area.
Unlike foldable rowers like the NordicTrack RW700 or the ProForm Pro R10, the RW900’s lack of compact storage options may not suit everyone.
For those with ample space, however, the size isn’t a huge issue. The extended length of the steel monorail allows users of various heights to row comfortably, and the large display makes it a focal point in any workout room.
Pros and Cons of the NordicTrack RW900
Let’s now take a quick look at the pros and cons of the RW900.
Pros
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Whisper-quiet magnetic resistance ideal for home use
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High-quality 22-inch HD touchscreen with tilting/swiveling functionality
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Access to thousands of iFIT workouts for rowing and cross-training
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AutoAdjust resistance during live classes adds challenge and convenience
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Comfortable padded seat and adjustable foot cradles
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Sturdy, stable build with smooth rowing action
Cons
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Lower weight capacity (250 lbs) compared to competitors
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Requires iFIT subscription for full functionality ($39/month)
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Large footprint and non-foldable design, making it less suitable for small spaces
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Resistance may not challenge advanced rowers or athletes
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Footplates’ pivoting motion may feel unusual for some users
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Who is the NordicTrack RW900 Ideal for?
The NordicTrack RW900 Is Ideal For:
So, who is this rowing machine ideal for?
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Beginners and intermediate users looking for guided, immersive workouts
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Home gym owners with enough space for a full-size rowing machine
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Those who prefer quiet workouts (ideal for apartments or shared spaces)
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People who want variety with cross-training options beyond rowing
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However, advanced rowers or users seeking higher resistance levels or a compact, foldable design might want to explore other options like the Concept2 or Hydrow.
Final Thoughts on the NordicTrack RW900
The NordicTrack RW900 is a top-notch rowing machine that delivers an engaging, tech-driven workout experience.
With its smooth magnetic resistance, immersive iFIT programming, and high-quality display, it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to build their fitness at home.
While it’s not perfect, as the lower weight capacity and larger footprint might be drawbacks for some, the RW900’s quiet performance, stability, and versatility make it a standout choice in the smart rower category.
If you’re looking for a rowing machine that combines technology, comfort, and variety, the NordicTrack RW900 deserves serious consideration for your home gym. It’s a machine that can keep workouts fresh, fun, and effective for years to come.
