Sunny SF-RW5856 Rowing Machine Review
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Sunny's bid for world domination in the rower world moves on at a pace with yet another budget model on offer. Not sure how many they have now, but this is the 16th Sunny rower we've reviewed on this site.
The Sunny SF-RW5856 won't win any prices for its looks, but perhaps its beauty is on the inside! And who doesn't think of a scene from Saw when you see that flywheel sticking out of the end :0) More on this feature below. Anyway, let's move on from the looks and onto the rowing machine. Some find unpacking and assembling anything from flat-pack furniture to home fitness equipment quite daunting, but this one shouldn't be a challenge. If you have basic DIY skills then you'll have this done and ready to use in around 30 minutes. But note, the tools supplied aren't the best so you'll be better off using your own. Once done, you'll find the rowing position is not too bad. The seat is well-padded and shaped for the average backside :0) And it's quite up to keeping you comfortable for a 20 minute workout. The seat is quite low which can make it a little challenging if your knees or lower back are not as good as they used to be. The handle is padded, has a good diameter, and sits nicely in the hands. The footrests are wide and the straps are thick and capable of holding even the largest feet securely in position - essential for a good workout. The rower has a sturdy feel and has levelers to accommodate uneven floors. When done, you tilt it up and roll it away using the transport wheels under the front. You can also fold up the beam so it takes up less space - see photo below. Onto the all-important resistance mechanism. First up, let's talk about the exposed flywheel. While some may like the mechanical look, it could actually be dangerous if you have toddlers about as it spins fast and could cause injury to exploring hands. Surely it would be better if the housing couldn't be a little larger to cover it. It may not be the most important thing, but it's something to consider before buying.
The positive thing about the flywheel is that it increases resistance the harder you pull. This mimics the feel of rowing on water and can help to increase the cardio-vascular benefits. The magnetic resistance levels (there are 8) are selected using the knob beneath the screen. However, if you're a strong rower you may still find the highest level doesn't challenge as much as you'd like. The combination of magnetic resistance and the flywheel means this is a whisper quiet rowing machine - again something to consider depending on where you'll be using it.
Summary:
For the price it's a not a bad rowing machine. It's quiet, has a sturdy steel frame, and will cope with regular use. But with plenty of other rowers in this price bracket, it doesn't have much to make it stand out from the crowd. See our 'Also worth a look' below for more suggestions.
Sunny SF-RW5856:
Rating: 5.0/10  Best Price:
* Note these prices may differ - please check retailer website for latest.
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QUICK REFERENCE
Click images to enlarge
Sunny SF-RW5856 Rowing Machine
Good seat for a budget machine
LCD Display with tablet holder
Folds for easy storage
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Also worth a look:
There's a lot of models in this price range with not much to separate them. Sunny have most, including the popular RW5515 and the RW5633. The Xterra ERG400 comes in at a similar price and is a comparable rower.
There's a lot of models in this price range with not much to separate them. Sunny have most, including the popular RW5515 and the RW5633. The Xterra ERG400 comes in at a similar price and is a comparable rower.
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