The Lifecore R900 Rowing Machine – Why this Model is Not Our Choice

The quiet and smooth Lifecore R900 rowing machine offers a pleasant magnetic resistance workout.

The Rower

The console display has readouts for time, speed, distance, strokes, calories, and heart rate.

The specs on the Lifecore R900 are:

• 12 preset programs, 1 HR program
• 8 levels of magnetic resistance
• Comfortable oversized seat
• Maximum User Weight – 350 lbs
• Transport wheels, Folding frame
• Warranty: lifetime frame, 2 yrs parts

The Buzz

UPDATE: The R900 is no longer being sold.  Take a look at all of the most popular models on sale here.

The Lifecore R900 rowing machine weighs just 75 pounds but its heavy-duty aluminum frame supports a user capacity up to 350 pounds. Unfolded, it measures 70 inches long by 20 inches wide, and offers a convenient folded size of just 35" long x 20" wide x 55" tall. It has an ergonomic oversized seat, angled heel supports and oversized foot pads, a drive belt system, and 8 levels of magnetic resistance (350 watts).

Along with the featured 12 preset rowing workouts, the Lifecore R900 comes with a target heart rate control program that works with a Polar-type heart rate monitoring chest strap (not included). To keep you in the proper training zone, the computer takes the reading from the telemetry strap, and raises or lowers the magnetic resistance according to your heart rate.

The one negative that stands out on the R900 rowing machine is the hard-to-read black numbers on the grey background screen. It should be readable from any angle but unfortunately, that’s not the case since everything looks like an “8” during the workout.

What We Say About the R900 Rower

While it has received dozens of positive user reviews, the R900 was replaced by the R100 rower at the $1,200 price level. Still, even if it weren’t discontinued (its still available), the Lifecore R900 rowing machine should not be your choice over such elite models as the Concept2 air rower or a WaterRower, which are commercial level rowers that cost hundreds less than this Lifecore.

If you are looking for a magnetic rower, you can find suitable models for half the price, such as a Velocity at around $600.

Show me other Lifecore Rowing Machines