| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Product weight | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NordicTrack RW600 Check Discounted Price | L:87" W:22" H:42.4" | 250 lbs | 120 lbs | Air 10 levels Magnetic 26 levels | 10" iFIT enabled |
The NordicTrack RW600 is pretty much the same as the RW900 that we’ve already covered here. However, the console included with it has a smaller display (only 10″ in diagonal). But other than that, the rower has the same weight capacity, rail length, and resistance systems. For reference, this is the NordicTrack rower part number NTRW10121.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 87L x 22W x 42.4H inches (221L x 56W x 108H cm)
- Assembled weight: 120 lbs (54 kg)
- Supported weight: 250 lbs (113 kg)
- Footrests: Adjustable, with straps
- Resistance: Air (10 levels), magnetic (26 levels)
- Console: 10″ diagonal, WiFi, Bluetooth, iFit enabled
- Warranty: Frame 10 years / Parts 2 years / Labor 1 year
Frame construction
The NordicTrack RW600 rower features a steel frame coated with a durable paint finish. The color theme of
this model is gray-black, as opposed to the RW900 which has its front base frame painted in a lighter shade of gray. Of course, the machine also integrates several plastic parts. The most notable ones are the base tube end caps, the adjustable sections of the footrests, the drive and resistance casing, and the console casing.
The rower is fairly large. With all the parts assembled, it is approx. 87″ (221 cm) long, and 22″ (56 cm) wide. Also, just as for any other rowing machine, it is recommended to allow some clearance at the rear and on each side of it, for easy access and correct usage.
The rower’s rail is pretty long. The applicable user inseam range is 45″ (114 cm). This being said, users up to 6’6″ (198 cm) should be able to execute the rowing motion correctly with a complete leg extension. Also, the rail and the seat are rated for a maximum user weight capacity of 250 lbs (113 kg).
This NordicTrack rowing machine has a folding feature. There is a joint between the rail and the front section of the frame which gives you the possibility to fold it from its middle. With the frame folded, the machine is approx. 37″ (94 cm) long, and 44″ (112 cm) high.
The rower is pretty heavy. Its net weight is approx. 120 lbs (54 kg). This being said, the transport of the packaged unit and the assembly is pretty much a 2-person job. However, once it is assembled, it can easily be moved as its front have has transport wheels.
Seat and other parts
The NordicTrack RW600 is equipped with a seat similar to the one included with the Strongick rower. Its top
section is approx. 12″ (30 cm) wide so it provides plenty of contact surface. It is also contoured in order to prevent the user from sliding backward during rowing.
The seat frame is made of steel. It is equipped with three sets of wheels. Two sets slide on top of the rail, while the third one slides under the edges of the top rail plate for extra stability. The wheels incorporate ball bearings for a smooth motion and a rubberized outer layer of reduced noise. Also, the highest point of the seat is 14″ (35.5 cm).
The machine is equipped with a set of adjustable footrests. As we’ve mentioned above, their top sections are made from a durable thermoplastic material. They have heel guards and straps for improved foot stability.
The rower’s footrests do not pivot on their axis; they have a fixed design. They come already attached to the frame. They are set at an angle of approx. 45° in order to provide optimal positioning for your feet.
The machine’s pulling handle is a simple, straight bar. It is not equipped with any resistance adjustment controls or pulse sensors. It has rubber foam sleeves for an improved grip. It is connected to the machine’s resistance system through a heavy-duty, braided nylon strap, highly resistant to stretching and abrasion.
Resistance system
The NordicTrack RW600 is equipped with two resistance systems. One is fan-based, similar to the one 
on the Concept2 Model E rower, the other is digital magnetic (motorized). There resistance elements of both systems are integrated into the front unit of the machine.
The unit’s air resistance system consists of a large fan connected to the pulley system. Thus, when you pull the handle, this flywheel-fan rotates inside its casing generating resistance. The casing also has a damper element. This allows you to adjust the airflow that enters and exits the fan casing for more or less air resistance. The damper has 10 resistance levels.
The air resistance system provides a dynamic response to the rowing motion. In other words, the resistance increases if you pull the handle faster. This is similar up to a point to rowing a real boat through the water. This can be quite a plus for users who want to train on a professional level.
The rower’s magnetic resistance consists of a small metallic flywheel, a magnetic brake, and a servo motor. The motor makes the connection between the brake and the console. Therefore, when you adjust the resistance from the console, or when an iFit program makes resistance adjustments, the magnets change their pull on the metallic flywheel. This increases or decreases the overall workout load. Evidently, since the magnetic resistance is motorized and has a tablet-like console, it requires an external power source. A 100-240 VAC, 50-60Hz, 1.5 A / Output 12.0V @ 4.0A power adapter with 12 ft. (3.6 m) of cable is included.
The magnetic resistance offers 26 levels. The lowest levels don’t add too much load to the resistance provided by the fan. However, the levels above 20 can definitely provide a challenge even for the most seasoned users.
Console
As we’ve mentioned above, the console included with the NordicTrack RW600 is pretty similar to the one
of the RW900 model. However, its display is smaller, only 10″ in diagonal. It has touchscreen technology and it’s usable just like any other tablet or smartphone. It also has a highly intuitive, easy-to-use interface.
The console is iFIT enabled and requires a Wi-Fi connection to sync with your online iFIT account. It will actually prompt you to create an iFIT account (if you don’t already have one) as you start it up. The machine comes with a 30-day free iFIT membership. It’s also important to mention here that the console does not have pre-installed apps like Netflix, Disney+, or Prime Video on it, and you cannot install any (at least not for now, this feature may be added in future updates).
The iFIT app offers the possibility to stream live and on-demand workouts and has a large database of workout videos. It also offers the possibility to row or exercise in various places of the world, allows you to track your progress online, compete with other users, create your own program routines, and more.
The use of the iFIT application is not necessary, though. Once the free iFIT membership expires, you don’t have to renew it. You can use the rower in manual mode any time, and adjust the resistance from the 1-24 controls on the console.
The console shows a wide array of workout metrics including time, distance, strokes, total strokes, strokes per minute, heart rate, and calories burned. There is also a workout summary feature. The heart rate function requires a Bluetooth heart monitor which is not included. Also, the console integrates a set of speakers so you can connect your tablet or phone via cable to it and listen to your favorite music with a better sound quality.
Assembly and Maintenance
The rower comes almost completely assembled. It is boxed in its folded position. Therefore, you only need to unfold it, add the seat, and the console. The manual provides clear, step-by-step instructions for this, and all the necessary tools are included. Thus, the whole task shouldn’t take more than one hour of your time.
For maintenance, it is recommended to keep the rower clean, especially the rail, to prevent any damage to the seat’s wheels. The casing of the fan can be vacuumed from the outside it if accumulates too much dust, without taking it apart. The internal parts should not require any lubrication or any other type of maintenance.
The Pros
- Solid construction – can support users up to 250 lbs (113 kg);
- Folding frame with attached handles;
- Aesthetic design;
- Transport wheels on the front base bars;
- Long rail – the machine can accommodate users up to 6’6″ (198 cm);
- Ergonomic seat for optimal comfort;
- High seat (14″) for easy entry and exit;
- Adjustable footrests with heel guards and straps;
- Air resistance for a dynamic response – 10 levels;
- Digital magnetic resistance – 26 levels;
- 10″ iFIT enabled smart console with WiFi connectivity;
- Live and on-demand workouts, scenic rides, workout planning, and more via iFIT;
- 30-free iFIT membership trial;
- Multiple workout metrics;
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless HR chest straps;
- 2″ digitally amplified speakers integrated into the console;
- AUX port for headphones;
- Easy to assemble;
- Excellent warranty;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No adjustable levelers;
- Once the free membership expires, iFIT requires a monthly subscription (currently $15).
Summary
The NordicTrack RW600 is a rowing machine made for home use. It is equipped with a 26-level digital magnetic resistance system, and a 10-level air resistance system. It features a sturdy folding frame, with a long rail, adjustable footrests, and a 10″ iFIT enabled smart console. It’s a machine for users of all levels, great for a full-body cardio workout. It’s not exactly the most affordable but definitely offers excellent value for the price.