XTERRA ERG600W Water Rower Review
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The XTERRA ERG600W Water Rower is yet another in a growing list of budget water rowing machines - and it's not a bad addition at that.
STOP PRESS (15th March 2o2o): We've just tried yet another rowing machine in this range, and it's a damn fine one - see Sunny Phantom Hydro. Now back to the ERG600W - First impressions is that it certainly looks up to the job with its sleek, steel frame. A lot of people complain about needing a degree in mechanical engineering to put some of these rowing machines together, but you needn't worry about this model. Two people should be able to assemble it in 30 minutes, and one could do it in around 45 minutes. The ERG600W uses a similar frame as First Degree's Newport and Neptune rowers and is steady at high stroke rates and is capable of supporting a user of up to 300 lbs. The rowing position is good with a high seat (good for your knees), a comfortable seat, good width and well-padded handle, and long, wide footrests with a secure straps. Our only beef (a slight one), is the seat roller was a little noisy on the rail, but it was a smooth ride all the same. The long rail makes this rower suitable for the tallest of users so you can get the full technique. Resistance is provided by the water in the tank. As you pull back on the handle, the blades in the tank spin against the water giving the impression your oar is fighting the river. Some machines of this type have adjustable resistance by turning a knob on top of the tank (such as the First Degree Monaco) but that does over two the price! With budget rowing machines you have the option of raising or lowering the water level to achieve this. The ERG600W has six levels of resistance with lines marked on the side of the tank. Once you've worked out which resistance level suits you, it's best to leave it at that. You can vary your workouts by increasing/ decreasing your strokes per minute - much less hassle than messing around with the water level. And when you've finished your workout, the machine can be tilted upwards, rolled away and stored vertically and takes up only a small footprint. The warranty is generous on the frame with 5 years, all parts are covered for two years, but note you only 3 months on labor if any part does need replacing. But all-in-all it's a good warranty for a rowing machine at this price. The Console/ Display
Summary:
The XTERRA ERG600W is well-worth considering if it's within your budget (but don't forget to add around $30 for a chest strap if you want to see your pulse rate). It has some good features for the price, is a sturdy machine that has the feel of a reliable rower that should last for some time. And for the current price it's excellent value for money.
Xterra ERG600W:
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 ERG600W Water Rower
Well-padded seat
 Good monitor with useful features
Wide footrests for even the largest of feet
Tank with 6 levels of resistance
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Also worth a look:
Not so long ago you wouldn't find a water rower in this price range, now you're almost spoiled for choice. Alternatives include the pretty impressive for the money, Sunny Obsidian Surge, or if space is a little tight, try the Stamina X Water Rower. But the pick of the bunch in this category is the Sunny Phantom Hydro - lots of features and good value for money.
Not so long ago you wouldn't find a water rower in this price range, now you're almost spoiled for choice. Alternatives include the pretty impressive for the money, Sunny Obsidian Surge, or if space is a little tight, try the Stamina X Water Rower. But the pick of the bunch in this category is the Sunny Phantom Hydro - lots of features and good value for money.
ERG600W 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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