| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MKHS Rower Check Discounted Price | L:79" W:20" H:35.5" | 330 lbs | Water | Time, SPM, Strokes, Distance, Calories, Goals, Scan | 1 year |
The MKHS water resistance rower is one of the fitness machines released in 2021. In terms of features and design, it is comparable with the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713. However, there are some differences between the two. For example, the fitness monitor included with the MKHS model offers fewer functions.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 79L x 20W x 35.5H inches (201L x 51W x 90H cm)
- Shipping weight: 91 lbs (41.2 kg)
- Supported weight: 330 lbs (149 kg)
- Frame: Steel
- Footrests: Adjustable
- Resistance type: Water
- Fitness monitor: Time, strokes, strokes per minute, distance, calories, goals, scan
- Warranty: 12 months
Frame construction
The MKHS water rowing machine features a steel frame. However, as opposed to other similar models, its rail is 
reinforced with two extruded aluminum side covers which not only protect the paint finish on the rail, they also promote a smoother movement for the seat.
The machine’s frame is coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for this rower, at least for the moment. The aluminum side rail covers are not painted as they’re highly resistant to oxidation anyway.
The fully assembled machine is smaller than other rowers, such as the RowWarrior Air Rower, for example. However, it still is a fairly large fitness machine, especially lengthwise. It is approx. 79″ (201 cm) long, and 20″ (51 cm) wide. Plus, it is recommended to allow at least 24″ (61 cm) of clearance at the rear of the unit and on each side, to be able to execute the rowing motion correctly and to have proper access to the seat.
On the other hand, this MKHS rower can be stored vertically. In vertical position, its footprint becomes approx. 35″L x 20″W (88 x 51 cm), while its height reaches 79″ (201 cm). In case you’re wondering, the water can remain in the tank when the unit is stored upright.
The machine is not too heavy, but does weigh over 80 lbs 36 kg) (without water in the tank). This being said, the transport of the box may require two people. However, once the unit is assembled, it can be relocated by only one person with ease as its front base bar has a set of wheels. Also, both base bars have adjustable stabilizers.
Seat and other parts
The MKHS water resistance rower is equipped with a seat similar to the one on the UREVO UR9RW0010. Its top is
made from a high-density foam material so it’s not super hard. It is also contoured to provide a better positioning for the user.
The base frame of the seat is made of steel. The rail and the seat combo are pretty durable, actually. The machine is rated for a maximum user weight limit of 330 lbs (150 kg). The rail is horizontal, so the machine provides a neutral rowing motion. It is long enough to accommodate users up to 6’5″ (196 cm) allowing a complete leg extension. Also, the top of the seat is approx. 16″ (40.6 cm) above the floor level.
The base of the seat integrates three sets of wheels. Two of them slide on top of the rail assembly while the third set slides under the rail. This type of closed design provides superior stability. The wheels integrate ball bearings for a smooth motion and have an outer rubber layer for reduced noise.
This MKHS rower is equipped with a set of large, adjustable footrests. They’re made from a flexible nylon material and attached to a metallic plate that’s part of the frame. They have adjustable straps and heel guards so you can perfectly secure your feet on them if necessary. Their angle is approx. 45°.
The pulling handle is a simple, straight bar. It has rubber foam sleeves for an improved grip. It’s attached to the machine’s resistance system via a heavy-duty, braided nylon strap, highly resistant to stretching and abrasion. It does not have any controls or pulse sensors.
Resistance system
Needless to say, this MKHS rowing machine is equipped with a water resistance system. As we’ve mentioned above,
its water tank is made from durable polycarbonate material, with clear walls. Its exact capacity is not specified, but it is comparable with the tanks of other similar rowers. Therefore, its capacity is roughly 4-4.5 gallons (15 – 17 liters).
The tank features a simple, one-chamber construction. It does not have a mechanical water level adjustment system. Therefore, in order to adjust the water level, you have to manually remove or add water in the tank with the provided siphon pump. The tank shouldn’t be filled past the maximum level marked on the side.
Although the rower doesn’t have a mechanical or magnetic resistance adjustment system, water resistance provides a dynamic response during rowing. In other words, the resistance depends on how fast you pull the handle (the faster you pull, the more resistance you’ll get). This is similar to the sensation of rowing a real boat which is quite a plus.
Similar to other water resistance rowers, this MKHS model does generate some noise during usage. However, it is not extremely loud and it shouldn’t cover the sound of a TV set on a low volume. It’s also quite appealing compared to the sound generated by certain air resistance rowers.
Fitness monitor
The MKHS water resistance rowing machine is equipped with a fitness monitor that offers a few extra features over a 
basic one. To begin with, it has an LCD display divided into several windows so it shows multiple workout metrics at once. It tracks time, distance, strokes, strokes per minute, and calories burned. Distance is shown in meters.
The unit does not have online connectivity or pre-set programs. However, it offers the possibility to create goals for your workouts. For example, if a goal or strokes goal is selected, it will count down from the selected value until it reaches zero. It also has a Scan Mode which rotates all the metrics on the large section of the display.
The monitor unit is pretty easy to use. The Mode button allows you to scroll through the workout metrics that appear on the large display and select the one that you want to view. The Up/Down buttons offer the possibility to increase or decrease the goal values. And finally, the Reset button clears all the values on the monitor to zero.
The unit is battery-powered and a set of batteries is included. It starts up when you begin rowing or when you press one of the buttons. It also automatically turns off if it does not detect any activity on the rower for more than four minutes.
Finally, the monitor unit integrates a device holder. This consists of a small shelf on its bottom section. It can serve as support for your smartphone. However, the unit cannot be linked to your smart device and does not support any online apps.
Assembly and Maintenance
The front unit of the machine with the water tank and all the resistance elements comes pre-assembled. The other parts do require user assembly. You will basically have to connect the front stabilizer, insert the seat onto the rail, connect the rear stabilizer, connect the rail to the front unit, add the footrests, and then the fitness monitor. This shouldn’t take more than 30-40 minutes of your time. The task is pretty straightforward and the manual provides clear assembly instructions. Also, a basic toolkit is included.
For maintenance, you only have to keep the rower clean, especially the rail to prevent any damage to the seat wheels. The water in the tank should be treated with a rower chlorine pill every 6 months. Other than this, you should periodically inspect the machine and check for loose bolts and parts.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame – can support users up to 330 lbs;
- Can be stored vertically;
- Adjustable levelers on both bases;
- Transport wheels on the front stabilizer;
- Ergonomic, contoured seat;
- Ergonomic handle;
- Durable, adjustable footrests with heel guards and straps;
- Long rail for users up to 6’5″;
- Water resistance system, providing the most natural rowing feel that you can get;
- Performance monitor included – it tracks time, distance, strokes, strokes per minute, and calories burned;
- Goal settings;
- Device holder included;
- Smooth and quiet operation;
- Little maintenance required;
- Easy to assemble.
The Cons
- No online connectivity;
- The monitor doesn’t have backlight.
Summary
The MKHS water resistance rower is a fitness machine made for home use. It features a steel frame with a long rail reinforced with aluminum side covers, a comfortable seat, a large water tank, and a set of adjustable footrests. It also includes a fitness monitor that tracks the most important workout metrics. It’s a great machine for a full-body cardio workout, muscle toning, stamina development, interval training, and weight loss.