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BodyCraft VR200 Rowing Machine Review


The BodyCraft VR200 is the second up in this reputable brands line of rowing machines. But while the VR100 was a pretty good rower at the budget end (but now hard to find), and the VR500 is an awesome machine at the top end, the VR200 is a middle-of-the-road piece of equipment. If it was $150 cheaper it would be a great buy, but when it's pitched directly against the undisputed market-leader from Concept2, then it has to be something special to tempt buyers.

But as good as this could be, that is, it's built well with some quality components, it doesn't really cut the mustard.

But we're getting ahead of ourselves. The good points are this is an easy rower to assemble and took just under 30 minutes without the need to be an expert at do-it-yourself. The frame is sturdy and the aluminum beam allows for a smooth and quiet ride.

The rowing position is good, the seat is... okay if not the best around. But one positive is that it sits at 15.5 inches off the ground so is a good height if your knees or back aren't what they used to be.
Check current price on Amazon...
The all-important footrests are well designed and will keep your feet in place and situated wide enough apart for comfortable use. The handle is well-padded and thick so hand blisters shouldn't be a problem even with regular use.

The 6 resistance levels are provided by a combination of air and magnets and is quiet for a rowing machine that uses air. However, the resistance level is selected manually by turning a knob in the central column which means you have to stop rowing if you wish to alter the setting. This isn't a deal-breaker for most because you can raise you heart rate by increasing stroke rate anyway - plus it's a myth that the highest resistance levels deliver the best results. ​
The Console/ Display
​The console is a big let down in our view. You'd expect more from a rowing machine costing this much.

Yes it displays all the data you would such as time rowed, distance in meters, calories 'burned', time over 500m, number of strokes, and strokes per minute (SPM).

The LCD screen is large enough to read easily when working out, and it's pretty easy to use.
But, it's not compatible with a heart rate monitor so heart rate training is a non-starter. It has no PC compatible or online features - where much of the competition now boast this excellent feature that helps with motivation (plus it's possible to race online with other uses anywhere in the world!)

Summary:
The BodyCraft VR200 is the same price as the Concept2 Model D - and that's just about the only thing it has in common with the market-leader :0( Actually, that's a bit harsh, it does have some good features and it's built well and will certainly last for a few years - but it's a bit dull to be absolutely honest and doesn't have anything that would tempt us away from buying the above mentioned Concept2.

​Note: This website is an associate of Amazon and a number of other retailers. We earn a commission from sales generated via these links, ​but this does not influence how we rate the rowing machines we review.
BodyCraft VR200: 7.5/ 10 7.5 Stars - Reviewer: R. Palmer

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rowing machine review likes
We Like...
  • The sturdy construction- good build quality
  • Quiet for an air/magnetic rowing machine
  • ​Smooth seat roller action
  • It folds into a compact size for easy storage
  • One year labor on warranty (domestic use)
  • Long beam (3 feet pull) suits tall users
  • ​Built-in fan keeps you cool.
Picture
We Don't Like...
  • The performance monitor is basic - no online/ PC-compatible features
  • No heart rate function
  • No pre-set programs
  • Manual resistance selection (6 levels)
  • The resistance knob is a little awkward to change ​ 
  • Limited features compared to competitors
​
 
rowing machine review specification
Technical specification:
Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Machine weight:
Storage space:
Air + Magnetic
300 lbs

79" x 17.74" x 36" (H)
73 lbs
36" x 18" x 58" (H)

Picture
Warranty:
Lifetime on frame.
1 year on parts
1 year labor.

QUICK REFERENCE
BodyCraftVR200

Click image to enlarge
​
Bodycraft VR200 rowing machine - side view
BodyCraft VR200 rowing machine
​
Bodycraft VR200 rowing machine seat
Generic seat used by many brands - okay I guess


The resistance knob on the BodyCraft VR200
6 resistance levels select by knob

​ 

Bodycraft VR200 display
The monitor is a let down
  

​
BodyCraft VR200 folded upright
Easy to fold

Also worth a look:
For a little extra you can get your hands on the far better Concept2 Model D which has so much more to offer including online features and longer warranty - that's why we thinks it's a no-brainer really.

VR200 owner's comments

We've yet to receive comments from other owners.

Do you own a VR200? Let us know what you think.

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  • Home
  • Reviews
  • Benefits
    • weightloss
    • Rowing Machine Technique
    • rower verses exercise bike
    • rower verses treadmill
    • rower verses elliptical cross trainer
    • Injuries
    • Setting Goals
  • Brands
  • Buyers Guide
    • Compare
    • Types
    • used
    • Dropshippers
    • terminology
    • retailer strategies
    • Buy from store or web
    • Help
  • UK Rowers
  • Workouts
    • Example Workouts
    • Tabata Rowing Workouts
    • Time Trial Workouts
    • Duration Workout
    • Heart Rate Training Programs
    • Rowing Machine Workout Program
    • Training Apps
    • Bad Workout Habits
  • Concept2
    • Model D vs Model E
  • WaterRower
  • Blog
  • The zone
    • Awareness and Focus
    • Peak Performance Zone
  • Fitness Tests
    • Cardio Vascular Fitness Test
    • Balance Test
    • Coordination Test
  • Maintenance
    • mats
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Sitemap
    • Your Privacy
    • Disclaimer