Xterra ERG200 Rowing Machine Review
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The XTERRA ERG200 is the lowest priced rowing machine in Xterra's extensive range of rowers - well okay, just the two at last count (Dec '16) While manymay know of their treadmills and bikes, few will be familiar with these models, and while they focus on the budget end of the market this isn't going to change.
However, any machine that has eight levels of magnetic resistance for under $250 has to be worth a least a quick look. So here we go. We tried the ERG400 back in the summer of 2014 and found while it had some good features, the build quality wasn't up to the task of a rigorous workout and a few weak components let it down - really badly in some cases. So is there any sense in trusting a rower costing less? Well actually yes - with some reservations. Before you spend any longer reading this review I'll ask two quick questions. If you answer 'yes' to either, move along as there's nothing to see here.
So if 'yes' to either then check out the Stamina X Air or Lifespan RW1000 as they'll take more punishment than the ERG200 in our view, and not for too much extra cash. If you're still here and interested, we'll move on to the assembly and rowing position. This is pretty straightforward to put together and should take only 30 minutes with little DIY skills required. The rowing position is actually good for a budget machine with a good seat, wide and well-positioned footrests, and an adequate handle to get a good grip. But while is comfortable to sit on and use, unlike a number of other machines in this price range, we don't think the quality of the components used will put up with a tough, 20 minutes plus workout (hence our comments above). The resistance mechanism is magnetic which makes it a quiet rower to use when compared to an air model. It has 8 levels of resistance selected using the knob in the central unit beneath the handle. At this price you can't expect heart rate programs or even a monitor to display your pulse, so the resistance levels have to be manually selected.
The difference between level 1 and 8, while not great, is enough to make you feel the difference in workrate to pull on the handle. Note, it's a folding model so can be stored out of the way once you've finished your workout.
Summary:
Maybe okay if you're budget is tight and you're expectations or demands aren't too high. In it's defense it can handle regular use and will get you started back on the road to fitness if you're starting afresh after a long break.
Xterra ERG200:
Rating: 4.5/10  Best Price:
* Note these prices may differ - please check retailer website for latest.
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QUICK REFERENCE
Click image to enlarge  The XTERRA ERG200 Rower
Good seat for a budget machine
 Wide foot rests
Display is what to expect on a budget machine
Folding model
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Also worth a look:
Aside from the alternatives mentioned above, two other alternatives for a similar price are the Proform 440R or Stamina's Orbital (but note it's a hydraulic model).
Aside from the alternatives mentioned above, two other alternatives for a similar price are the Proform 440R or Stamina's Orbital (but note it's a hydraulic model).
ERG200 owner's comments
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Do you own this model? What do you think?
Do you own this model? What do you think?
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