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BodyCraft VR400 Pro Rowing Machine Review


The BodyCraft VR400 Pro is one below the top model from this interesting brand. But it's sleek looks and impressive build-quality come at a price - and we're divided whether its positive points outscore the negative. 

It is definitely a quality machine with some great features and the majority of rowers would be happy to have one in their home.

The rowing position is good. The seat height at 18" has the feel of a commercial machine - the higher the better in our view, but we were a little disappointed with the seat. Yes, it's reasonably comfortable, but it looks like seats you can find on budget machines - we were expecting something a little more befitting the price tag.

The long aluminium beam will suit the taller user with its seat travel of 38". It's also 3" thick which makes for a solid feel and smooth glide.
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The footrests are great - over-sized for all feet, and the sturdy straps hold them securely in place. It can be a real pain if your feet slip when working out, but it's something you don't need to worry about with this model.

The adjustable arm to move the display is solid and doesn't shake of move when you're rowing at full tilt!

What prevents the VR400 from becoming a winner in its price range, is the manual resistance level control. The six levels are good for a varied workout, but the knob (see right) really looks out of place on a model costing well over a thousand dollars. For some it won't make much difference, but if you're looking for a machine with heart rate programs that adjust to keep you in the fat-burning zone, this isn't for you, instead, go for the fantastic Assault AirRower Elite - it's quite a beast and will take anything you can throw at it (plus it includes heart rate programs). See other recommendations in the 'Also worth a look' section below. But at least the resistance level is connected to the computer to give accurate calorie readings.

The resistance mechanism combines air and magnets meaning it's not quite as noisy as some of the air only rowing machines on the market. When you increase the resistance level, the magnets move closer to the flywheel making it harder to shift.

Once you've finished your workout, the VR400 is very easy and quick to fold. The transport wheels make it light to move, but just be wary of the large footprint even when folded - it's still almost 44 inches long!
Display/ Console
We really like the large LCD screen - see right. All the relevant data is clearly laid out and can be read in a flash during your workout.

The VR400 comes with a limited number of pre-set programs include the motivational race boat, goal programs for distance, time and pulse rate. Although note, the resistance levels cannot be automatically adjusted as with a full magnetic rower. Your pulse is measured by the built-in sensor, but a chest strap that transmits the data isn't included in the price.
The monitor runs on two AA batteries and doesn't require mains. It also has a useful auto power-off if the machine hasn't been used for 4 minutes - a useful feature in our view.

Summary:
The VR400 Pro is a good machine with much to offer most rowers. The build quality is great, the monitor is easy to read and has some useful pre-sets. But the manual resistance selector and limited number of pre-set programs prevent it from being a truly great machine. If it cost less it would blow the immediate competition out of the water. ​

​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 VR400 Pro: 8.0/ 10 8.0 Stars - Reviewer: R. Palmer


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rowing machine review likes
We Like...
  • Sturdy - supports a user up to 350 lbs
  • Quiet and smooth action on the beam
  • Easy to fold and move
  • Long beam will suit user up to 6' 6"
  • Large LCD Display - clear and readable
  • Love its sleek appearance
  • Good length on the warranty
Picture
We Don't Like...
  • The manual resistance - we expected more
  • Limited pre-set programs and lack of heart rate programs
  • Heart rate belt is not included
  • Looks a little over-priced
  • The seat is disappointing
 
rowing machine review specification
Technical specification: 
Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Machine weight:

Air + Magnetic
350 lbs

91" x 21" (W) x 40" (H)
86 lbs

Picture
Warranty:
Lifetime on frame.
5 year on parts
1 year on wear
2 years labor

QUICK REFERENCE
BodyCraftVR400Ref

Click image to enlarge
The BodyCraft VR400 Pro rowing machine - side view
The BodyCraft VR400 Pro
 


The BodyCraft VR400 Pro seat
We were disappointed with the seat
​​
​


The BodyCraft VR400 Pro manual resistance control
Manual controlled resistance - shame :0/

​


The BodyCraft VR400 ProLCD display
Great LCD display - easy to read



The BodyCraft VR400 Pro folded
Folds easily - but still a large footprint
 

Also worth a look:
We've already mentioned the Assault AirRower Elite. For a little extra, the VR500 from BodyCraft is a much better buy in our view. An obvious alternative with more features including heart rate programs and comparable quality (while costing a few hundred less) is LifeCore's R100. Similar could be said for the Coach E from Kettler. And of course, you can't ignore the ever-green, ever-popular Concept2 E.

BodyCraft VR400 owner's comments

We'll put owners comments here as we receive them

Own a VR400 Pro? Let us know your views

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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