1, The Kettler Stroker Rowing Machine
Quick Overview:
- The first model under this Kettler Review is the Kettler Stroker Rowing Machine which is made from 80% Steel 20% Plastic, comes in at a dimension of L218.4 by W61 by H98cm and weighs just 38kg. The maximum user weight allowance is 130kg and can be folded away when not in use.
- There is the rope pull system with the magnetic resistance in 8 different stages, it has the Sweat resistant key pad and includes the visual alarm for upper pulse limits. In addition, the Flywheel weight is 4kg or 8.8lbs, it has the Integrated POLAR compatible receiver for use with the included chest strap and the pulse recovery fitness test and target settings when needed.
- This rower comprises of a single handle rowing style and includes the LCD Monitor Display to track all the major functions one would expect. There is also the Heart Rate Measurement by an ear clip which is not included and sold separately.
- Please note also that it has transportation wheels included to allow easier movement around your home, it has a 3 years parts and labour warranty and the todays price level can be viewed below. Assembly is required and shouldn’t take any more than 30 minutes to complete
Pros:
- You get a 3 year warranty which gives additional confidence when you buy
- Can be folded away when not in use saving you living space in your home
- The key pad is sweat resistant so it’s one less thing to worry about
- Transport wheels make it very easy to move around your home
- Allows users up to 130kg in weight and has the visual alarm for upper pulse limits.
- Ideal for serious type athletes looking for longer and more intense type cardio workouts
- Assembly is quite easy once all the parts are laid out carefully
Cons:
- Price level will be seen as too high for too many people. In addition, the price levels tend to vary quite a lot depending on discount activities
- Issues have been reported about the rope breaking or snapping in the past so please ensure you keep your receipt in a safe place if this happens to you.
- Getting replacement ropes if it snaps is annoying and not as easy as one would think.
- Can move slightly forward and backward if not placed on carpet when completing harder type sessions
- Display screen can be difficult to see and could be brighter to keep track of your training.
2, The Kettler Favourite Rowing Machine
Quick Overview:
- The second model under this review is the Kettler Favourite Rowing Machine which is more expensive than the first model outlined above and has the designed frame with ball bearings in the padded seats and rollers to provide a smooth glide along the main aluminium track.
- It also has the pivoting footplates which provide optimal foot positioning when working and the LCD computer displays time, oar strokes, current cadence, cumulative distance over all training sessions, your heart rate and kilojoules.
- This model has the Hydraulic cylinder resistance which is controlled by the leverage style tension adjustments and comes in with dimensions of 129.5 by 38.1 by 22.9cm. The weight to take note of also is 23.6kg which is considerably lighter than the model above.
- The ear lobe clip (sold separately) can measure the heart rate electronically and the warranty available here is also 3 years parts and labour. Pricewise when last seen on sale it compared very well against similar brands with the same level of features and can be double checked below. Lastly, please note that the maximum user weight allowance here is 130kg.
Pros:
- Hydraulic cylinder resistance and leverage style tension adjustment control - you get the resistance exercise which is regulated by hydraulic pistons
- No ropes to worry about snapping like the Stroker above and can handle 130kg user weight.
- The padded seats rollers provide a smooth glide for movements and quieter than an air rower.
- Footplates can be pivoted for best positioning and includes the easy to read LCD display
- Strong and solid piece of equipment – no way flimsy at all and provides great overall value for the amount of money you have to spend
Cons:
- Noise level is low but still can be a small bit annoying for some
- Adjusting the tension levels for both sides or either side equally can be difficult at times
- Locking mechanism for the tension tends to slip from time to time
- Assembly will be difficult for some – please allow sufficient time and patience and lay out all the parts clearly before you start.
- Keeping the desired resistance settings could be easier to manage and stock availability tends to be very unreliable!
Thanks for pointing out all the main points advantages and disadvantages here. Good review and a lot better than what I have seen elsewhere and its more useful to have a few options than just one on 1 single page to view. Thanks for your review work as it has given my family a lot more to consider here as we have been unsure about the Kettler brand until now
You are very welcome and thanks for taking the time to leave your feedback in the comment section – take care, John