NordicTrack RW900 Rowing Machine Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This nordictrack rw900 rower review focuses on the NordicTrack RW900 Rower with 24" Screen. It is a home fitness machine defined by its large pivoting touchscreen and silent magnetic resistance. The 24-inch display allows you to stream content while rowing or following off-rower classes. The resistance system offers 26 digital levels, providing smooth and quiet operation suitable for apartment living. With a footprint of 80.1 inches long, it is a substantial piece of equipment. This model targets users seeking connected workouts and adjustable intensity without the noise of traditional flywheels.
What stands out
- 24-inch pivoting touchscreen for streaming and off-rower classes
- 26 digital resistance levels with silent magnetic technology
- SmartAdjust automatically adapts resistance based on your performance
- Pivoting pedals with adjustable nylon straps for secure footing
Who it fits
Good fit for
You will like this rower if you want a fully connected experience. The 24-inch screen is ideal for following along with iFIT classes or streaming shows. The silent magnetic resistance makes it perfect for shared spaces where noise matters. The SmartAdjust feature helps you evolve your workouts without manual tweaking. It suits those who value AI coaching and automated intensity changes over manual control.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you prefer manual resistance control. This rower relies on iFIT for its core functionality, including SmartAdjust and AI coaching. You must have an iFIT Pro Membership to access these features. If you want a standalone machine without a subscription, this is not the right choice. The large 80.1-inch footprint also requires significant floor space.
Verdict: The NordicTrack RW900 Rower is a strong choice for users who want a large screen and automated, connected workouts. It is less suitable for those who prefer manual resistance or want to avoid subscription fees.
Key specs explained
Display Type: 24" touchscreen
This large screen serves as your primary interface for workouts and entertainment. You can pivot it to view content comfortably whether you are seated or standing. The size allows you to stream shows or follow guided classes without straining your neck. This feature suits viewers who want an immersive home gym experience. Compare this display size with smaller consoles on other rowers to ensure you have enough room for clear visibility during intense sessions.
Resistance Type: Silent Magnetic Resistance
This system uses magnets to create resistance without physical contact or friction. The result is a smooth, quiet rowing stroke that does not disturb others in your home. It requires less maintenance than flywheel-based systems because there are no moving parts rubbing together. This type of resistance benefits apartment dwellers or those with noise-sensitive environments. It provides consistent tension throughout the entire pull phase of the stroke.
Resistance Levels: 26
You have twenty-six distinct intensity settings to adjust the difficulty of your rowing. This range allows for gradual progression from light recovery sessions to high-intensity interval training. Beginners can start at lower levels while advanced athletes can utilize the higher settings for challenging endurance work. This granularity helps you tailor each workout to your specific fitness goals. It offers more precision than machines with fewer steps between easy and hard efforts.
Pivoting Pedals
The footplates are designed to rotate slightly, accommodating different foot angles and natural motion. This feature reduces stress on your ankles and knees during the rowing stroke. Adjustable nylon straps secure your feet firmly to the pedals for safety. This design supports users with varying foot sizes and flexibility levels. It enhances comfort compared to fixed pedals, allowing for a more natural and efficient power transfer during each pull.
Design and Build Details
The NordicTrack RW900 Rower has a black finish. The listing lists its dimensions as 80.1 inches in length, 21.8 inches in width, and 52.7 inches in height. You must ensure your home has enough floor space for this footprint. The machine weighs 145 pounds. This mass provides stability during intense rowing sessions. It also means moving the unit requires effort or assistance.
The display is a 24-inch touchscreen. It pivots for optimal viewing angles. You can adjust the screen whether you are rowing or standing for off-rower classes. The controls are integrated into this large interface. You do not have separate physical buttons for basic functions. The resistance system is silent magnetic. There are 26 digital resistance levels. This setup allows for quiet operation in shared living spaces.
The pedals are oversized and pivot. They have adjustable nylon straps for a secure fit. The layout supports smooth transitions to cross-training. You can use the machine for cardio or strength work. The design prioritizes a seamless experience. The large screen and magnetic resistance define the build. You get a compact footprint for the features provided. The weight helps keep the unit steady. The black color matches most home gyms. The pivoting screen adds flexibility to your workout routine.
Setup and everyday use
The NordicTrack RW900 Rower arrives as a substantial unit weighing 145 pounds. Its length of 80.1 inches requires a dedicated space in your home. You will need to assemble the frame and attach the pivoting pedals. The oversized pedals with adjustable nylon straps must be secured to ensure your feet stay in place during the rowing motion. Once assembled, you connect the machine to your Wi-Fi to access the 24-inch touchscreen interface. This screen pivots, allowing you to view content comfortably whether you are seated on the rower or standing for off-rower classes. To unlock the full functionality, you must subscribe to an iFIT Pro Membership. This subscription is required for the streaming services, the SmartAdjust feature, and the AI Coach. Daily use involves selecting from 26 digital resistance levels. The silent magnetic resistance system provides a smooth, quiet rowing experience, which is practical for apartment living or early morning workouts. You can adjust the intensity manually or let the SmartAdjust feature change the resistance in real time based on your workout history. The pivoting screen lets you switch between rowing and following yoga or strength classes without moving the machine. You interact with the AI Coach via SMS for personalized guidance. The machine supports speeds up to 10 MPH for varied cardio training. This setup creates a connected home gym environment that relies entirely on your digital subscription for advanced features.
Before You Buy This Rower
Owning this NordicTrack RW900 Rower requires planning for both space and subscriptions. The listed dimensions of 80.1 by 21.8 inches mean you need a dedicated area in your home. Ensure your floor can support the 145-pound weight without damage. You must also account for the pivoting motion, which may require extra clearance behind the unit. A critical factor is the iFIT Pro Membership. This subscription is required to access all connected features and streaming content. Without it, the smart functions remain locked. Check your internet stability, as the 24-inch touchscreen relies on consistent connectivity for streaming and AI coaching. Regular upkeep involves wiping down the magnetic resistance system and checking the nylon foot straps for wear. Compared to other options in Ellipticals, Steppers & Rowers, this model prioritizes digital engagement over manual simplicity. It suits users who want guided, tech-driven workouts rather than standalone exercise.
Check before you buy
- Verify you have 80 inches of floor space for the length.
- Confirm you can afford the required iFIT Pro Membership subscription.
- Check your internet connection strength for stable streaming on the 24-inch screen.
- Ensure your floor can support the 145-pound machine weight safely.
The product at a glance
NordicTrack RW900 Rower with 24" Screen
Best for: Users wanting guided streaming workouts
- Resistance Type
- magnetic
- Resistance Levels
- 26
- Display Type
- 24 in touchscreen
- Connectivity
- iFIT, Strava, Garmin, Apple Health
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 80.1 × 21.8 × 52.7 inches
View on Amazon: NordicTrack RW900 Rower with 24" Screen Affiliate link
The NordicTrack RW900 is a magnetic resistance rower featuring a 24-inch pivoting touchscreen and 26 resistance levels. It measures 80.1 inches long and weighs 145 pounds. The unit requires an iFIT Pro Membership for full functionality, including AI coaching and streaming. You will get silent operation and SmartAdjust technology. This machine suits those who want guided workouts and off-rower classes via the large display.
Pros
- 24-inch pivoting touchscreen for streaming and classes
- 26 digital resistance levels for varied intensity
- Silent magnetic resistance system
- SmartAdjust auto-adapts resistance based on performance
Cons
- Requires paid iFIT Pro Membership for core features
- Large footprint at 80.1 inches long
- Heavy build at 145 pounds
Good fit if
- You want guided workouts with AI coaching
- You prefer silent magnetic resistance for home use
- You want to access streaming services on the rower
Skip if
- You prefer a compact machine under 70 inches
- You do not want a required subscription for basic use
- You need to move the rower frequently due to weight
Verdict: NordicTrack RW900 24" Touchscreen Rower fits users seeking a connected home gym experience with a large display and automated resistance adjustments, provided you accept the subscription requirement and space needs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | NordicTrack RW900 Rower with 24" Screen |
|---|---|
| Resistance Type | magnetic |
| Resistance Levels | 26 |
| Display Type | 24 in touchscreen |
| Connectivity | iFIT, Strava, Garmin, Apple Health |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 80.1 × 21.8 × 52.7 inches |
| Weight | 145 pounds |
| Model | NTRW19425 |
Frequently asked questions
How much floor space does the NordicTrack RW900 Rower require?
You need a dedicated area measuring 80.1 inches in length and 21.8 inches in width. The machine stands 52.7 inches tall. This footprint is substantial, so you must ensure your room can accommodate these dimensions without obstructing movement or other equipment.
Is the NordicTrack RW900 Rower heavy to move?
The unit weighs 145 pounds. This significant weight provides stability during intense rowing sessions but makes the machine difficult to relocate. You should plan its placement carefully, as moving it frequently is not practical due to its mass and size.
What type of display does the RW900 feature?
It features a large 24-inch touchscreen. This display pivots, allowing you to view content comfortably whether you are seated on the rower or standing nearby. The screen serves as your primary interface for streaming workouts and entertainment content.
What is the model number for this rower?
The model number is NTRW19425. You can use this identifier to check specific compatibility for accessories or to locate the exact product on retailer websites. It distinguishes this specific configuration from other NordicTrack rowing machine variations.
What color is the NordicTrack RW900 Rower?
The rower has a black finish. This neutral color helps it blend into most home gym environments. The aesthetic is consistent with the brand's standard design language for connected fitness equipment, focusing on a sleek and modern appearance.
Who is this rower best suited for?
It is best for users wanting guided streaming workouts. The large screen and automated resistance adjustments support a connected home gym experience. If you prefer structured, digital-led training over self-directed sessions, this machine aligns well with your fitness goals.