The Schwinn Crewmaster Replaces the WindRigger

Schwinn recently introduced the Crewmaster rowing machine as a replacement for the Windrigger, which the company discontinued a short while ago.  This one is a little more affordable, and has some appealing features and capabilities.

The Rower

The Crewmaster features magnetic resistance, a steel rail and large LCD display showing all of your workout information.

Let's take a look at some of the specs...

• Wireless heart rate monitoring
• Magnetic resistance
• Nylon belt drive
• Large comfortable seat
  
• Large foot plates
• Easy folding
• Oversized steel rail
• Maximum User Weight – 300 lbs
• Size: 93.1" x 21.1" x 31.7"; 90 lbs.
• Warranty: 10 years frame, 2 years mech/electric, 6 months wear parts, 1 year labor

Check out this new rowing machine on sale now at Amazon!

The Buzz

The Crewmaster is the only Schwinn rowing machine on the market today, first appearing in 2017.  Previously, only the Windrigger was available, but that one was discontinued for one reason or another...perhaps because it was on the pricey side.

The Crewmaster is definitely more affordable, at around $499 on sale.  It features a modern console that can be adjusted to accommodate any user.  It's a nice upgrade from the previous fixed-position model.

The footpads are wide and comfortable, as is the molded cushion seat.  You can choose from a number of different resistance levels with a turn of the knob to make things more challenging.

If you have a wireless chest strap you can take advantage of the telemetric readings, which are more accurate than pulse grips.  You can see your heart rate, as well as strokes, distance, calories burned and time on the large LCD display.

The warranty on the new Schwinn Crewmaster is better than previously, with 10 years on the frame, 2 years mechanical and electric and one year labor.  Still, it makes sense to add an additional 3 or 4 years coverage just to protect yourself if something breaks down over time.

There aren't many customer reviews on this model yet as it is very new, but we're hoping to gather up some feedback over the next few months. For now it looks like a decent option in the $500 price range.

What We Say About the Crewmaster

Schwinn definitely made the right decision in offering a more affordable rowing machine, as the Windrigger was a tough sell at $1000+.  It's definitely not the most exciting machine on the market, but it has what you need for a good cardio workout.