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Sunny SF-RW5612 Rowing Machine Review


The Sunny SF-RW5612 is the latest budget model from this fast-growing brand in rowing machines. When Sunny first appeared with the ultra-low-cost machines they were to be honest a complete waste of time and money, or garbage in other words.

But with the addition of the SF-RW5515 in 2014 things started to look better and we have no issues with recommending it to those on a tight budget.

So what about this model? At the higher end of their rowing machine range we'd be expecting more than the rest on the market. So here's our thoughts.

Technically, this isn't a folding model so if you're short on space it may not be for you. If you really must have this one, it is possible to fold it but only by part-dismantling the machine which will soon become a pain in the 'you-know-what' so better look elsewhere.

It's not the easiest machine to assemble and definitely needs two pairs of hands when it comes to attaching the rail. The instructions are straight forward and will take around 45 minutes before you're ready to row. But as we've said elsewhere, assembly is a job you'll only do once (unless you move) and so it shouldn't be a major factor in your buying decision.

Once in the saddle (well on the seat) you'll find it's a reasonably comfortable machine to use. It has an average height seat so it's not too difficult to get on or off if you have knees issues. The footrests will keep your feet secure so they won't slip around when rowing. The handle is thick and well-padded to prevent hand blisters. 

If you're 6' 2" or less, the rail is long enough to get a full stroke length - essential to get the full benefits from the machine. If taller you'll have to spend more - see our Help Guide for choosing a rower for the long-legged.

It's a fairly quiet rower because it's a magnetic resistance machine but our seat had an annoying squeak coming from the bracket beneath. This may have been something unique to our model and most people row to music which may drown it out any way.

There are eight resistance levels with an acceptable range between the two. Often with budget models you don't notice much difference between the top and bottom, but this has enough to give you variation in your workouts. You select the level using the knob below the LCD screen - basic but effective.

The SF-RW5612 also comes with 'dual function' footplates so you can stand and use the handle for bicep curls. This in our view is just a gimmick and waste of time, but some may like the option of an extra workout. But seriously, if you want to work your biceps, get a pair of dumbbells and you'll have far more exercises you can do.

Now onto the monitor/ display - but don't hold your breath.

Display Unit
When paying less than $500 you can't build up your hopes for a high-tech, all-singing and dancing console and display unit. If you keep that in mind then you won't be disappointed because it is a very basic one indeed.

It displays the time you've been working out, the number of strokes and calories burned (although this is purely an estimate) and you can set it to scan mode to change the display every 6 seconds or thereabouts. The LCD screen is small but easy to read when rowing. But otherwise it's a no-frills monitor you'd expect to find on most lo-cost rowing machines. ​
Summary:
A no-thrills, workmanlike rowing machine for a reasonable price. If you're on a budget this will provide a sturdy machine for moderate workouts. It should get you fit but you may find you out grow it if you're going to be a regular user.​

​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.
Sunny Sf-RW5612: 4.5/ 10 4.5 Stars Reviewer: R. Palmer

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rowing machine review likes
We Like...
  • The choice of 8 resistance levels
  • Solid feel even with heavy user
  • Good build quality for a budget rowing machine
  • The max user weight of 300lbs (high for a budget machine)
  • Magnetic resistance mechanism is quiet (but see below)
Picture
We Don't Like...
  • It's not a folding model (see notes above)
  • Very basic display and monitor
  • Not the easiest machine to assemble
  • Our seat squeaked due to a less than perfect housing bracket
  • Dual purpose feature a waste of time in our view
 
rowing machine review specification
Technical specification: 
Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Machine weight:

Magnetic
300 lbs

86" x 19" (W) x 28" (H)
60 lbs



Picture
Warranty:
3 months frame and parts
QUICK REFERENCE
Sunny5612a
Click image to enlarge
  
Side view of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5612 rowing machine
Sunny SF-RW5612
 
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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5612 rowing machine seat
The seat is okay

  
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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5612 display
Adequate monitor and display

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Resistance selector on Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5612 rowing machine
8 levels of resistance
   
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Also worth a look:
If noise isn't an issue for you, the Stamina Air rower is a tough machine for a little extra that will last for years. If you want a quiet rowing machine, the Stamina 1130 magnetic has some great features for a good price.

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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