| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Product weight | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
OVICX Mag Rower Check Discounted Price | L:72.8" W:17.7" H:28.7" | 242 lbs | 63.9 lbs | Magnetic, 16 levels | Time, Count, T-Count, Calories, Distance, Goals, Scan |
The OVICX magnetic rower is one of the fitness machines released in 2020. It is quite similar (almost completely identical) to the Marnur mag rower that we’ve already covered here. It’s a rowing machine made for home use featuring a manual resistance system and a basic console.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 72.8L x 17.7W x 28.2H inches (185L x 45W x 72H cm)
- Assembled weight: 63.9 lbs (29 kg)
- Weight capacity: 242 lbs (110 kg)
- Frame: Steel
- Resistance type: Magnetic, 16 levels
- Fitness monitor: Time, distance, RPM, count, total count, calories, goals, scan
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame construction
The OVICX magnetic rower features a steel frame with a dual rail system which considerably improves its 
overall sturdiness as well as the stability of the seat. Also, its rear base stabilizer does not detach from the rower as is the case for other models. It is welded to the curved sections of the two rails closing the rear part of the machine. It is also equipped with three adjustable levelers.
The machine’s steel frame is coated with a corrosion-resistant and chip-resistant paint finish. The color used is gray, this being the only color available for this model, at least for the moment. The only major exceptions are the covers of the resistance system, the console, and the pedals which are made of durable thermoplastic material. Also, the two rails feature aluminum covers to protect the paint on the steel frame and to ensure a smoother movement for the seat.
The fully assembled rower is not as large as other models. However, it still is approx. 72.8″ (185 cm) long, and 18″ (45 cm) wide, so you will need a bit of space for it especially lengthwise. Plus, it is recommended to allow at least two feet of clearance all around it for ease of access and unhindered usage.
The rower is foldable. The connection point to the front frame section of each rail features a knob that allows you to lock and unlock it. By unlocking both knobs, you can fold the rail system with the seat over the front frame section. This will reduce the overall length of the unit by approx. 36″ (92 cm) offering better storage possibilities. Also, the rails are long enough to accommodate users up to 6’5″ (196 cm) allowing a complete range of motion.
Seat and other parts
The OVICX magnetic rower features a large seat with a thick foam cushion on top to improve comfort and
reduce the impact on your tailbone. The cover of the cushion is made of durable vinyl material which is very easy to maintain.
The base of the seat is steel-made. It integrates three sets of wheels. Two sets slide on top of the rails, while the third slide underneath them for improved stability. The wheels feature a rubber layer on the outside for reduced noise and have internal ball bearings so they roll very smoothly on the two rails.
The seat and the rail system are durable enough to withstand users up to 242 lbs (110 kg) which is not bad for a home-use machine. Also, the rails are horizontal. Therefore, the machine provides a neutral rowing motion as opposed to others, like the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5622, which has a slightly inclined rail and provides a bit of extra workout difficulty for the legs.
The OVICX magnetic rowing machine features two size-adjustable footrests. They are large enough to fit shoes of all sizes. They have heel guards and adjustable straps as well, so you can perfectly secure your feet on them if necessary.
The machine’s footrests are made of durable nylon material. They are attached to a steel plate which is welded to the frame. They do not pivot on their axis and their angle cannot be adjusted. They’re set at a pretty comfortable angle of approx. 60°.
Last but not least, the machine’s pulling handle consists of a short straight bar. It has foam grips for improved contact, however, it does not integrate pulse sensors or other controls. It is attached to an abrasion-resistant nylon strap that connects to the internal drive system of the machine. Since the unit uses a nylon strap not a chain as the Concept2 rowers, it generates little noise during rowing and does not require periodic lubrication.
Resistance system
This OVICX rowing machine is equipped with a manual-magnetic resistance system. Therefore, you don’t
need an adapter for it. But on the other hand, the rower itself cannot adjust the resistance automatically as is the case for motorized models.
The resistance system consists of a magnetic brake connected to the tension knob visible on the front unit of the rower. By turning the knob clockwise, the brake moves closer to the internal flywheel which increases the workout load. Needless to say, the main advantage of the magnetic resistance system is that the brake does not touch the flywheel so the rowing motion is seamless and whisper-quiet.
On the other hand, this OVICX rower does not deliver a dynamic response during rowing as is the case with water rowers or air rowers. In other words, the resistance does not increase if you stroke at a faster rate. It is strictly determined by the selected resistance level.
This rower offers 16 levels of resistance. The first levels deliver a fairly light workout difficulty, great for a workout warmup. The top 14-16 levels of resistance provide distinguishably more tension. However, as a general idea, the machine does not offer a super tough workout load. It’s great for beginners or mid-level users, but may not be the best choice for a professional athlete.
Performance monitor
As we’ve mentioned above, the OVICX magnetic rower is equipped with a fairly basic performance monitor. 
It features an LCD display that tracks time, distance, count, total count, and calories burned. It does not have a pulse reading function so you cannot sync it with a smartwatch or a wireless heart rate chest strap.
The monitor unit does not have pre-set workout programs or online connectivity. It features three buttons: Set, Mode, and Reset. The Set button offers the possibility to create workout goals for time, count, and calories. If a goal for one of these workout metrics is selected, the unit will count down from the selected value until it reaches zero. The Mode button allows you to scroll through the workout metrics and select the one you want to view. There is also a Scan Mode which you can select; in Scan Mode, the unit automatically rotates all the metrics showing each one for approx. 6 seconds. And finally, the Reset button clears all the values to zero.
The monitor unit is battery-powered. It requires two AAA batteries. It begins monitoring your data when you commence rowing. It also has an automatic shut down function, so it should enter sleep mode after a few minutes of inactivity on the machine.
Finally, the monitor unit integrates a device holder. It consists of a small shelf at the base of the unit which should be able to accommodate any tablet or smartphone. However, there is no connection port for your device on the monitor unit (no AUX port, no USB port).
Assembly and Maintenance
The machine’s drive and resistance unit comes already assembled. In fact, the unit’s assembly doesn’t require much. All you have to do is connect the rail, add the seat, and the fitness monitor. This shouldn’t take more than 20-30 minutes. All the necessary tools are included and the manual provides clear assembly instructions.
The rower’s internal mechanism does not require lubrication. Thus, in terms of maintenance, you only have to keep the machine clean, especially the rails, to prevent any damage to the seat’s wheels. Other than this, it is recommended to periodically check for loose bolts and parts, and to make sure that the rower still functions properly.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame for a home-use machine – can hold users up to 242 lbs;
- Folding design;
- One-piece rail system for improved sturdiness;
- Dual rail system for improved seat stability;
- Aluminum covers on the top side of the rails for extra protection;
- Transport wheels on the front frame section;
- Adjustable levelers on the rear base;
- Large, padded seat for improved comfort;
- Seat locking feature;
- Adjustable footrests with straps;
- Quiet magnetic resistance with 16 distinct levels;
- Fitness monitor included – it tracks time, count, total count, distance, and calories burned;
- Goal-setting function;
- Device holder included;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No pulse reading function;
- No backlight on the fitness monitor.
Summary
The OVICX magnetic rower features a 16-level resistance system, a dual rail system, a large padded seat with a locking mechanism, and a fitness monitor that tracks time, distance, count, total count, and calories burned. It is a fitness machine made for home use, great for a full-body cardio workout, muscle toning, stamina development, and weight loss.