Overall an excellent unit that I feel is worth its steep price. I’ve owned a couple rowers and a skier for years and after 3 weeks this is now my cardio workout device of choice.

It’s quiet, comfortable and the computer controlled workout options are nice. At first I thought things like “whitewater” rowing were a bit goofy but the variable resistance programs make a real difference. The fan does make a bit of noise but far less than my skier and I can easily watch TV over the top of the resistance unit.

The stats and options in the computer unit are top notch. The only gripe I have here is at full extension it sometimes loses the signal of my heart monitor (new Polar unit) – I’m 6′ 3″ – I tested the Polar watch and it, too, tends to lose the signal at that range so I suppose it’s to be expected. I just wear the watch on my wrist to keep track of my actual heart rate (which is normally pretty close on the rower computer anyway) and use the computer stats for tracking distance, speed etc…

The Unit is very solid and sturdy and can give anyone a good workout. Yes, it’s a tad on the expensive side but in my opinion it’s worth it if you’re going to use it often as I do.

I’m very happy with this product and was impressed with the quality of it’s build. I have had it a couple weeks now and haven’t found anything I don’t like about it.

After looking at several manufacturers and models I settled on the R100 because it has magnetic as well as air resistance.

I’ll admit I was a bit reluctant because of the price but after using it for three weeks now I’m extremely satisfied with the R100. It works like a dream. The flywheel isn’t too loud and the seat glides very smoothly. It takes a bit of assembly but the allen wrench that comes with the R100 works just fine.

When I placed my order I received notice that it would be delivered in 3-4 weeks but I had it in my house in one week!

I’ve read some negative comments about Mercantila but I had no problems. If you’re considering a rowing machine I highly recommend the R100.

But if you’ve never used one before, see if you can test a few different types to experience air vs magnetic resistance. Possibly at a gym or spa if they allow single day or guest memberships for a day.

I have used the C2 rower for about a year now at our CrossFit gym and this rower is just as good (mechanically) as the C2. The only thing that puts the C2 above the R100 is the computer. The computer used in the C2 is beneficial for improving technique and pace. I won’t go into the details of the C2 computer here since the review is about the R100.

So, let’s start why I love this rower.

PROs:

Rower is smooth at any resistance setting.

I can quickly change the resistance setting w/o having to get off the rower; pre-defined programs are challenging and can also be modified to decrease/increase intensity, length, or resistance at any point in the workout. Handle does not feel heavy after rowing awhile (3000m+).

I can create four user-defined workouts. It comes with a heart-rate monitor+strap and three workout programs that utilize it.

It can be folded into a compact area (4’x3′). On line display has everything that you need to monitor one’s performance throughout the workout.

Seat is very comfortable even after long workouts.

CONs:

Foot rests come with hill support pedals that tend to pinch the heels when lifted. This problem was fixed by using a different type of shoes (basketball shoes).

This is a rower that gives the C2 a run for its money but LifeCore’s computer lacks C2’s advanced features; that’s why Olympians overwhelmingly prefer the C2! But if you are just wanting to get fit rowing and can’t find a great rower (like the C2), the R100 is it.