Echanfit Magnetic R42 Review
ECHANFIT R42 BACKGROUND
The R42 is the second model we've tried from this brand, and... they have some good features for budget machines. The build quality is good, it's quiet, and its sleek frame is pretty sturdy being able to support a user of up to 350 lbs. It also comes with Bluetooth and can be connected to FitShow and Kinomap (see more below).
So, as with all our review let's start with getting it out of the box. Assembly is easy, even for one person. Much of the machine is pre-assembled, but the parts you do need to put together are straightforward. All the tools are included, and the instructions clear and easy to follow.
So, as with all our review let's start with getting it out of the box. Assembly is easy, even for one person. Much of the machine is pre-assembled, but the parts you do need to put together are straightforward. All the tools are included, and the instructions clear and easy to follow.
ECHANFIT MAGNETIC R42
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The Echanfit R42 Magnetic Rower
So now you're ready to go. The seat is a generic one you find on many rowing machines in this price range. It's well-padded, comfortable, and will suit all but the... largest butts :0) The seat height is a little lower than some. This isn't an issue for most, but if your knees or back cause you problems you'll be better off with a higher seat.
The footrests are wide, as are the straps and will hold your feet securely when working out. If you've ever use a rower at the gym with frayed or damaged straps, you'll know the frustration of having to stop to keep strapping your feet back in. So while they don't get much of a mention, they're a crucial part of the machine.
The handle has a good diameter and is nicely padded, so it sits comfortably in the hands - another important feature for long workouts. The angled rail adds just a little extra to the effort you need to pull back on the 'oar'. And the long rail makes this suitable for users up to 6' 6".
There's also a bottle hold in the central console - a nice touch.
The footrests are wide, as are the straps and will hold your feet securely when working out. If you've ever use a rower at the gym with frayed or damaged straps, you'll know the frustration of having to stop to keep strapping your feet back in. So while they don't get much of a mention, they're a crucial part of the machine.
The handle has a good diameter and is nicely padded, so it sits comfortably in the hands - another important feature for long workouts. The angled rail adds just a little extra to the effort you need to pull back on the 'oar'. And the long rail makes this suitable for users up to 6' 6".
There's also a bottle hold in the central console - a nice touch.
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The R42 is a magnetic rower meaning it uses magnets to 'resist' the flywheel that spins when you pull back. Magnetic machines don't replicate the feel of rowing on water (air-resistance does this best), but they're much quieter and give as good a workout as any type.
The R42 has 16 resistance levels which can be selected using the knob on the console. A criticism of many budget rowers is the limited difference between the highest and lowest settings, but this model has a pretty decent range. This means you can go from low resistance/high stroke rate workouts, to high resistance, tougher sessions to burn calories and build muscle strength. But note, as it's a low-priced model, resistance is selected manually. If you're prepared to go to $500 plus, you'll find rowers with pre-set programs that can alter resistance levels. Note, this is a fold model so it can be stored out of the way when you're finished. |
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DISPLAY/CONSOLE
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The monitor is an LCD display and shows your basic workout data such as duration of your workout, stroke count and calories 'burned' (an estimate). But it doesn't show you the distance you've covered.
However, you'd be missing out on one of it's best points if you just use the basic monitor as it comes with Bluetooth and table holder. This can be connected to Fitshow and Kinomap fitness apps - and it makes a big difference. These come with a good selection of programs including real scenery rows on rivers :0) These apps have many free courses and programs (there are paid options for more advanced features). But even with the free stuff you can store your progress over time - this is a good motivator when you see your performances improve.
REVIEW SUMMARY |
 Basic monitor but can be used with a tablet |
The Echanfit R42 offers a great package for a very good price. Of course there are many better rowing machines available, but for a price tag of under $200 there's plenty to make this an attractive option.
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.
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.
CATEGORY |
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PROS |
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Good features for a budget model - including Bluetooth |
Solid machine - suitable for users up to 350 lbs |
Suitable for users up to 6' 4" |
Compatible with Fitshow and Kinomap (see above) |
Lightweight but sturdy |
Quiet to use |
16 levels of magnetic resistance |
No mains electricity required |
A folding machine |
CONS |
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Basic monitor - needs to be used with a tablet (see above) |
Not the best quality materials used - but it is a budget machine |
| Resistance Type | MAGNETIC |
| Max User Weight | 350 lbs |
| Machine Weight | 55 lbs |
| Length | 76 in |
| Height | 29 in |
| Width | 19 in |
| Warranty | 1 Year on frame / 6 months on parts |
ALTERNATIVES
Other magnetic budget models worth considering include the ever-popular Sunny RW5515, or the Xterra ERG200, or another magnetic rower from Echanfit.
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