| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Product weight | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NordicTrack RW900 Check Discounted Price | L:86.5" W:22" H:50.4" | 250 lbs | 131 lbs | Air 10 levels Magnetic 26 levels | 22" iFIT enabled |
The NordicTrack RW900 is one of the rowing machines released in 2019. It offers both magnetic and air resistance, similar to the Spirit Fitness XRW600 rower. However, it comes with a large, smart console that is also iFit enabled. For reference, this is the NordicTrack fitness machine part number NTRW19147.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 86.5L x 22W x 50.4H inches (220L x 56W x 128H cm)
- Assembled weight: 131 lbs (59 kg)
- Supported weight: 250 lbs (113 kg)
- Footrests: Adjustable, with straps
- Resistance: Air and magnetic
- Console: 22″ diagonal, WiFi, Bluetooth, iFit enabled, 30 onboard workouts
- Warranty: Frame 10 years / Parts 2 years / Labor 1 year
Frame construction
The NordicTrack RW900 rower features a pretty sturdy frame made of steel tubing. Most of the frame is 
painted black, with the exception of the front base frame which is light gray. These are the only colors available for this machine, at least for the moment.
The rower also integrates several plastic parts. The most notable ones are the drive system guards, the front frame section guards, the lifting handles, and the top sections of the footrests. These are all made from a durable thermoplastic material.
The fully assembled rower is fairly large. It is approx. 86.5″ (220 cm) long, and 22″ (56 cm) wide. This being said, it may not fit too well in a small room, considering that you also have to allow at least two feet of clearance on each side and at the rear for correct and unhindered usage.
The distance between the footrests and the rear seat stopper is approx. 45″ (114 cm). This being said, the machine should be able to accommodate users up to 6’6″ (198 cm) with no problem. It’s also rated for a maximum user weight limit of 250 lbs (113 kg).
The machine is foldable, though. The joint between the rail and the front frame section allows you to fold the machine up. There is also a lifting handle on the front section of the frame, and another set of handles on the rail to facilitate this. In its folded position, its length is reduced to 36.2″ (92 cm) while its height remains approximately the same – 50.4″ (128 cm).
The machine is pretty heavy. Its net weight is approx. 131 lbs (59 kg). This being said, the transport of the packaged unit may require two people or at least a box trolley. However, once it is assembled, the rower can easily be moved by only one person as its front base is equipped with transport wheels.
Seat and other parts
The NordicTrack RW900 is equipped with a pretty standard seat. Its top section is approx. 12″ (30 cm) wide so 
it provides plenty of contact surface. It has a contoured surface to provide a better positioning for the user. It is also foam padded for extra comfort.
The base frame of the seat is made of steel. It integrates 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 machine’s footrests are fixed. They do not pivot on their axis. 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 unit’s 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
The NordicTrack RW900 rower combines air resistance with magnetic resistance. To begin with, its front unit 
integrates a large flywheel fan connected to the internal bungee cord system. Therefore, when you pull the handle, it spins inside its casing creating air resistance.
The air resistance system adds a dynamic effect to the workout. In other words, the air resistance depends on how fast you pull the handle. For example, if you pull the handle faster, the fan will also spin faster and generate more resistance. This resembles up to a point, the sensation of rowing a real boat through the water.
The air resistance system is also equipped with a damper. This element has a large handle with 10 settings. This gives you the possibility to increase or decrease the overall air resistance.
The magnetic resistance is motorized, with digital adjustment. It consists of a small servo motor and a magnetic brake. It adjusts exclusively from the console. Needless to say, in order to adjust the magnetic resistance, the console must be powered-on. The machine comes with a power adapter featuring 12 ft. (3.6 m) of cable. Its specs are Input 100-240 VAC, 50-60Hz, 1.5 A / Output 12.0V @ 4.0A.
The console interface features gradual increase/decrease digital controls, but there also are programs that automatically increase the magnetic resistance. There are 26 levels of magnetic resistance in total.
Last but not least, the machine’s fan system does not generate too much noise. It is actually quieter than a Concept2 Model D rower. However, it is not completely silent. The fan can be heard, especially if the damper is set to the highest position and if you stroke at a fast rate.
Console
The NordicTrack RW900 comes with a smart console featuring an HD 22″ diagonal touchscreen display. It
features a user-friendly interface and is operated like a tablet. It also has a pretty solid mount which permits tilting it and rotating it side-do-side.
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. Unlike the smart console of the Bowflex T22 treadmill, it does not have apps like Netflix or Disney+ installed, and you cannot install any apps or watch TV on it. The machine comes with a 30-day free iFIT membership.
The iFIT app offers the possibility to stream live and on-demand workouts, 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. The console has its own database of programs which evidently don’t place you in a virtual location but do show a wide array of workout parameters and some of them adjust the magnetic resistance automatically.
The console shows a wide array of workout metrics including time, distance, strokes, total strokes, strokes per minute, heart rate, and calories burned. 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
Most of the machine comes assembled and in a folded position. So, you only have to unbox it, unfold it, insert the seat on the rail, add the rear seat bumpers, the console mount, and the console. This shouldn’t take more than an hour. All the necessary tools for the assembly are included and the manual provides pretty clear assembly instructions.
Once the rower is assembled, maintenance doesn’t require much. You only need to keep it clean, especially the rail, to prevent any damage to the seat’s wheels. The internal parts shouldn’t need any maintenance for a long period of time. Other than this, it is also recommended to periodically check for loose bolts and parts.
The Pros
- Solid construction – can support users up to 250 lbs (113 kg);
- Folding frame and integrated handles for easy folding;
- Aesthetic design;
- Transport wheels on the front stabilizer;
- 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;
- 22″ 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 and onboard programs;
- 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 RW900 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 22″ iFIT enabled smart console. It’s a machine for users of all levels, great for a full-body cardio workout, muscle toning, stamina development, and weight loss.