| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Product weight | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kettler Coach E Check Discounted Price | L:80" W:20" H:26" | 285 lbs | 104 lbs | Magnetic, 25-500 watts | 12 programs |
The Kettler Coach E is a rowing machine designed for home use. Although it’s a bit expensive compared to other rowers with a programmable resistance system in this feature range such as the ASUNA 4500 or the ActionLine A80618, it does offer German quality. For reference, this is the Kettler part number 7975-160.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 80L x 20W x 26H inches (203L x 51W x 66H cm)
- Assembled weight: 104 lbs (47 kg)
- Weight capacity: 285 lbs (130 kg)
- Frame: Steel
- Footrests: Adjustable, with straps
- Resistance type: Magnetic, 25-500 watts
- Console: 12 preset programs, 2 HR programs, Recovery Function
- Warranty: 3 years
Frame construction
The Kettler Coach E magnetic rower features a frame made from durable steel tubing. Due to this fact, it’s considerably heavier
and sturdier than other magnetic machines, such as the Sunny SF-RW5801. With all the parts fully assembled, it weighs approx. 104 lbs (47 kg). This weight is reflected in its overall stability and durability.
Despite its weight, the unit isn’t too difficult to move once it is assembled. Its front base integrates transport wheels. Therefore, by lifting its rear part and using the wheels to move it, you won’t be handling more than 20% of its total weight.
The Coach E rower is a fairly large trainer, especially lengthwise. It measures approx. 80″ (203 cm) in length, and 20″ (51 cm) in width. This being said, you will need to assign a usage area for it of at least 100″ x 60″ (254 x 152 cm) for safe access and operation.
The machine’s rail doesn’t fold up. However, the unit can be stored in an upright position, resting on its front base and the rubberized stabilizer integrated into the flywheel housing. When stored vertically, its footprint becomes approx. 26″ x 20″ (66 x 51 cm).
This Kettler rowing machine does not have adjustable foot levelers. Both its rear base and front base tube rest on rubberized pads to improve its grip on the floor.
The machine’s rail has a different construction than many other rowers. It has the main central beam, but it also has two additional sidebars on which the main seat wheel glide. This type of construction adds sturdiness to the rail construction and stability to the seat.
The rail is fairly long and provides at least 50″ (127 cm) of travel for the seat. This being said, the unit should be able to accommodate users of all sizes as long as they don’t exceed the 285 lbs (130 kg) weight limit. Also, the rail isn’t completely horizontal. It’s set at a soft angle; this leads to a better workout for the legs as you have to beat a small fraction of the gravity force during the leg push phase of the rowing motion.
The machine’s main tubes are powder coated with a corrosion-resistant and chip-resistant paint finish, gray in color. The only exception is the set of sidebars in the rail assembly which have a chrome plating. Of course, the housing of the flywheel and other resistance elements is made of ABS material.
Seat and other parts
The Kettler Coach E is equipped with a seat designed to provide optimal comfort. To begin with, it is approx. 12″ (30 cm) wide, 
providing plenty of contact surface. Its top is made of high-density foam and has a contoured surface to prevent you from sliding off during the rowing motion.
The seat integrates three sets of wheels. Two sets (four wheels) glide on top of the side steel beams. The third set (two wheels) is placed under the two side beams of the rail locking the seat assembly on its track and providing extra stability. All the wheels are equipped with high-grade ball bearings and a rubberized outer shell; they’re designed to provide a smooth and quiet travel for the seat.
This Kettler rowing machine features a set of pivoting footrests. Due to this type of design, they allow a slight pivoting of your feet forward or backward during each stroke, promoting a perfect position for every user.
The footrests are made of heavy-duty ABS material. They are fairly large, being able to accommodate footwear of all sizes. They have rear guards and adjustable velcro straps offering the possibility to perfectly secure your feet on them.
Finally, the pulling handle has a simple design, but it’s slightly curved towards the user in order to reduce some of the stress on the wrists during rowing. It’s also covered by a layer of rubber foam to provide a better grip.
Resistance system
The Kettler Coach E rowing machine is equipped with a motorized magnetic resistance system. This means that it integrates a
small motor which controls the pull of the internal magnetic brake, while the resistance can only be adjusted from the console. Also, if some of the preset programs on the console are in use, the machine auto-adjusts its resistance.
Evidently, this magnetic rower requires being connected to a power source. A power adapter with cable is included with the machine. However, its plug features an EU format, and you may need a US adapter for it.
The weight of the internal flywheel is not specified. But considering that the resistance system is electromagnetic, its weight shouldn’t matter that much. It does, however, have a perimeter-weighted design which leads to a smooth and steady operation.
The Kettler Coach E doesn’t have pre-determined resistance settings like the Body Xtreme Turbo 2000, or other machines with a manual magnetic resistance system. Its resistance adjusts gradually from the console, within a range 25-500 watts. Differently put, the lowest level of resistance delivers very little tension, great for elderly users or users with certain disabilities. Conversely, the highest tension levels deliver quite a resistance output, offering the chance to achieve an intense full-body cardio workout.
Since the machine’s resistance system is electromagnetic, there is no friction between the resistance elements. Therefore, the rowing motion is very smooth and quiet.
Console
This Kettler magnetic rower is equipped with a programmable console. It features an LCD display divided into several sub-
sections. Its tracks time, distance, energy consumed, strokes per minute, total strokes, frequency and pulse, while the central wider section shows the profiles of the program in use.
The machine does not integrate any pulse sensors. However, for the pulse reading function, a Polar 34 HR chest strap is included.
The console doesn’t have any online connectivity, nor it is compatible with any online fitness apps. It does, however, have 12 preset programs which are designed to meet various training styles. The list includes programs with heart rate control which automatically adjust the machine’s resistance in order to help you maintain your selected target heart rate.
The console is fairly easy to use. To access a program, you have to use the Program button. To select a target for distance, time or other metrics, there is a Set button. The +/- controls allow you to increase/decrease the magnetic resistance if you’re using the manual mode. And finally, there is also a Recovery Function which has its own button. The Recovery Function requires you to wear the HR chest strap; it measures the time it takes your heart rate to return to normal after the workout and based on the input received, it will provide you with a fitness rating between 1 (excellent) and 6 (poor).
Assembly and Maintenance
Most of the rower comes pre-assembled. The front section with the resistance elements, as well as the rail, is already assembled. You only have to add the seat, the front base stabilizer, the footrests, and several small covers. This shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. All the tools necessary for the assembly are included. Also, the manual provides very clear assembly instructions.
In terms of maintenance, the internal elements don’t require any lubrication; they’re pre-lubricated from the factory. It is recommended to keep the side beams clean to prevent any damage to the seat rollers. You should keep any liquids away from the console and also wipe any sweat drops that may fall on the frame, once you have finished your workout. Also, it’s a good idea to periodically check for loose bolts and parts.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame, able to support users up to 285 lbs;
- Aesthetic design;
- Can be stored vertically;
- Transport wheels;
- Large footrests with straps and heel guards for maximum foot stability;
- Contoured, foam-padded seat, for optimal comfort;
- Automatic magnetic resistance ranging between 25 – 500 watts;
- Multi-panel console with shows all the workout metrics simultaneously so you won’t have to use a SCAN function;
- 12 workout programs;
- Goal settings;
- Recovery test function;
- Polar T34 HR chest strap is included;
- Power adapter is included;
- Extremely quiet machine;
- Little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- The power adapter may need a US plug adapter (which is not included);
- Not compatible with any online fitness apps.
Summary
The Kettler Coach E is a full-magnetic rower equipped with a motorized resistance system, offering a resistance range between 25-500 watts. Its console has 12 preset programs, including HR-based programs which auto-adjust the resistance to keep you within the selected HR target. It has a sturdy steel frame which can hold users up to 285 lbs, and offers optimal comfort. It’s a machine for users of all levels, great for light to intense cardio workouts, recovery training, interval training, muscle toning and weight loss.