Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 | Row Towards a Better You

Row towards a better you with the Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine from Sunny Health and Fitness. Engage in a full-body workout with virtually infinite resistance provided by the water drum and 16 hydro blades. The heavy-duty frame includes a double arm structure that provides stability and supports a maximum user weight of 300 lbs.

The SF-RW5910 water drum is angled at 60 degrees to produce an authentic rowing experience. With this in mind, the 16 hydro blades’ angled trajectory paddles through the water provide a similar feel and experience to rowing on the lake.

The Sunny SF-RW5910 has an advanced R2 fitness monitor that tracks time, distance, strokes, total strokes, SPM (strokes per min), time/500m, calories, pulse, calendar, temperature & clock. For pulse, you’ll need a wireless HR chest strap. Unfortunately, it does not come with a rower. The monitor has two workout modes, which are Manual and Race.

The cushioned, oversized seat gives users a comfortable rowing experience. Don’t let discomfort stand in the way of reaching your wellness goals! Work out longer and get stronger. The SF-RW5910 comes equipped with a two-way adjustable footplate. Utilize the sliding heel pads to secure your heel and mid-foot to prevent slippage while you stroke.

Learn more in my complete review below!

Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine
Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine

Product: Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine

Price: For a great deal on this rower, merely go here to Sunny Health & Fitness.com

Warranty: Frame 3 years / Parts 180 days

My rating: is 8/10

Affiliate Disclosure: As a Sunny Health & Fitness Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in the post. Full disclosure

Details and Specifications

  • Assembled dimensions: 81.5L x 21.25W x 39.5H inches (207L x 55W x 100H cm)
  • Assembled weight: 88.2 lbs (40 kg)
  • Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
  • Frame: Steel
  • Footrests: Adjustable

    Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine
  • Resistance type: Water
  • Fitness Monitor: Time, time/500m, distance, SPM, total strokes, calories, heart rate, race program, recovery
  • Extras: Bottle holder and a device holder
  • Warranty: Frame 3 years / Parts 180 days

SF-RW5910 Frame Construction

The Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 features an all-steel frame with a durable monorail-rated maximum user weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg). In addition, it combines ovalized and rectangular tubes in its construction for improved aesthetics.

All the steel parts are double-coated with a corrosion-resistant and abrasion-resistant paint finish. The color is metallic gray, with the “Sunny” logo in red.

The fully assembled machine is only 81.5″ (207 cm) long and 21.5″ (55 cm) wide. However, its rail measures 42″ (106.6 cm) and offers a complete range of motion for users with an inseam up to 40″ (101.6 cm). In other words, the rower should be able to accommodate users up to 6’5 ″ (196 cm) with no problem.

This Sunny rower features a folding frame. It’s a monorail with the seat folded up. With the rail folded up, the machine’s length is reduced to 43″ (109 cm) while its height becomes approx—51″ (129.5 cm).

Compared to other rowers, the Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 model is relatively heavy. Its net weight (without water inside the tank) is approx 88.2 lbs (40 kg). However, this weight provides superior stability.

The machine’s front and rear stabilizers have adjustable levelers and large rubber pads. Therefore, you can perfectly level your rower on any floor.

Last but not least, the front stabilizer bar of the machine integrates a set of small wheels. Thus, you can quickly relocate it for storage if needed.

Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine
Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine

Seat and other parts

The Sunny SF-RW5910 rower features a seat similar to other Sunny models. Its top is high-density foam featuring a textured and concave surface for superior stability. It is approx. 11.5″ (29.2 cm) long and 14″ (35.5 cm) wide, offering plenty of contact surface.

The seat’s base is steel-made, similar to the rest of the frame. It integrates three sets of rollers. Two slides are on top of the monorail, while the third is under it for improved stability.

Each roller features a rubberized outer layer to reduce noise and internal sealed ball bearings for a smooth motion. In addition, the side metallic panels of the seat frame conceal the rollers for improved safety.

The seat is at approx. 20″ (51 cm) above floor level. Therefore, this can be a plus for users with specific disabilities as it offers more accessible entry and exit.

As with other rowers, the machine’s footrests don’t have a pivoting design. Instead, they are attached to two metallic plates, which weld to the frame. Their angle is approx—45 °.

The footrests feature an adjustable design. They have several length settings to accommodate athletic shoes of all sizes. They also have heel guards and adjustable straps for maximum foot stability.

This Sunny rower comes equipped with an ergonomic handle. Its grips are rubberized for improved comfort. They’re also slightly curved towards the user to reduce the lateral stress on the wrists.

The handle is attached to a heavy-duty nylon strap, highly resistant to abrasion. This type of drive does not require any lubrication or maintenance. It also promotes quieter usage for the rower.

Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine

SF-RW5910 Resistance system

As its name suggests, the Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910  is a water-resistance rower. It comes equipped with a heavy-duty polycarbonate tank. Its exact capacity is not specified, but it is similar to other rowers, so it should be between 3-4 gallons.

The main resistance generator is the water flywheel incorporated into the tank. It features 16 hydro blades that provide resistance when you pull the handle, and the wheel spins in the water inside the container.

The machine’s water tank does not have a resistance adjustment mechanism like the First Degree Fitness AR Pacific rower tank. Therefore, you cannot automatically adjust the water level inside the container. However, you can still manually add or remove water if you want to change the overall load.

It’s important to mention that the machine provides a dynamic response during rowing. For instance, the water flywheel’s resistance is proportional to the strength you put behind each stroke; the harder you pull, the more resistance gets created.

Finally, the noise level generated by the flywheel spinning inside the water tank is far from being high or annoying. For example, machine usage should not cover the sound of a TV set at a low volume.

Fitness monitor

The Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 rower comes with a multi-function fitness monitor. First, it features an LCD divided into multiple sub-sections to show as many workout metrics as possible. It tracks the time, time/500m, strokes, strokes per minute, total strokes, distance, calories, and pulse.

Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine
Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine

The distance value is in meters only. Thus, yards or miles are not available. In addition, for the monitor to read your pulse, you will need a wireless 5.3 kHz heart rate chest strap. Unfortunately, it does not come with a rower.

The fitness monitor also has a Pulse Recovery function that requires you to wear an HR chest strap. Its purpose is to count the pulse recovery at the end of your workout, and based on that count, it gives you a fitness rating between F1 (excellent) and F6 (poor).

The monitor also integrates a device holder. It is at the top of the monitor, so it won’t cover the LCD if you place a tablet or smartphone on it. However, there are no AUX or USB ports to connect your device to the monitor, and you cannot transfer workout data.

Workout modes

The fitness monitor has two workout modes, which are Manual and Race. The Manual mode offers two options. You can row for the first one, and the monitor will record your completed strokes, strokes per minute, distance traveled, etc.

You can select goals for the second option for time, distance, strokes, calories, and pulse. By choosing a goal, the monitor will indicate the remaining value from your goal and notify you when you have completed your goal.

The Race mode has 15 levels of difficulty. For level 1 (L1), the Time/500m is set at 8:00, while level 15 (L15) is 1:00. If the Race mode is on, you will race with the computer for the specified time/distance.

The center display will indicate the user and the PC on two lanes. Each virtual boat advances towards the set goal, and the monitor will end when either your boat or the PC boat reaches the target.

SF-RW5910 Assembly and Maintenance

The machine’s water tank comes pre-assembled and attached to the front part of the frame. Therefore, you only need to connect the rail with the seat, the front and rear stabilizers, and the fitness monitor.

Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine
Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine

Consequently, this shouldn’t take more than 30-40 minutes of your time. In addition, the manual provides all the necessary assembly instructions, and all the tools for the task come with the machine.

For maintenance, the water inside the tank needs chlorine treatment. Therefore, a pack of chlorine pills comes with the rower, and you should put one into the container every six months. Besides this, the machine’s monorail needs cleaning to prevent damage to the seat rollers.

And finally, it is advisable to periodically inspect the rower for any loose or damaged parts to re-tighten them or replace them if it’s the case.

Pros

  • Sturdy frame – can support users up to 300 lbs (136 kg);
  • Aesthetic design;
  • Folding frame;
  • Transport wheels on the front base;
  • Adjustable stabilizers on both base bars;
  • Ergonomic, contoured seat;
  • Ergonomic, curved handle to minimize stress on the wrists;
  • Durable, adjustable footrests with heel guards and straps;
  • Long rail for users with an inseam up to 40″ (101.6 cm);

    Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine
  • Water-resistance system, providing the most natural rowing feel that you can get;
  • Fitness monitor with a multi-window LCD that tracks time, 500m/time, pulse, distance, strokes per minute, total strokes, and calories;
  • Two workout programs – Manual and Race;
  • Recovery function;
  • Angle-adjustable mount for performance monitor;
  • Device holder included;
  • Bottle holder included;
  • Smooth and quiet operation;
  • Little maintenance is required;
  • Excellent warranty.
  • Easy to assemble.

Cons

  • The fitness monitor LCD does not have a backlight;
  • An HR chest strap does not come with the rower.

Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Summary

The Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 is a water-resistance rower featuring a durable folding frame featuring a long monorail, a large contoured seat, a set of large, adjustable footrests, and a multi-function fitness monitor.

Moreover, it’s an excellent machine for a full-body cardio workout, muscle toning, weight loss, and stamina development. Unfortunately, it’s not a commercial rowing machine. However, being close to a light commercial model offers excellent value for the price.

I hope you found this article helpful and informative. Would you please speak up if you have anything you’d like to share on the topic or any opinions about my website? I look forward to your comments, questions, and the sharing of ideas.

Please remember that you should consult your physician to determine if you have any medical or physical conditions that could risk your health and safety or prevent you from using the equipment properly. In addition, your physician’s advice is essential if you are taking medication that affects your heart rate, blood pressure, or cholesterol level.

13 thoughts on “Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 | Row Towards a Better You”

  1. Thanks for sharing this amazing article, it is always good to keep fit and also nowadays there are new machines. I mean, beneficial machines you can use to work out for a massive response or effectiveness. This Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 | Water Rowing Machine is a good ole, durable, and affordable.

    Reply
  2. This is a very great review article on the Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 Water Rowing Machine. I did get to gather enough information about this wonderful piece of technology and innovation, and I am thrilled by all I have gotten to know about this rowing machine. Thanks for this piece of information.

    Reply
  3. I’ve always loved the idea of rowing as I was a river rower in school and enjoyed the smooth gliding movement. So, the design of the Sunny Phantom Hyro rings lots of positive bells for me. I like that it is sturdy, and the angled tank with hydro blades provides a realistic experience and 15 levels of workouts to hone your body. The ergonomic seat is excellent, and I like that it has a water bottle holder and device holder as I enjoy playing videos while I work out. The performance monitor will give me the data I need.

    A terrific review that I will be referring to when I’m ready to purchase thanks. 

    Reply
  4. I don’t yet have a rower in my exercise room, so I was excited to read this review. It’s making me want to expand my space so that I can get started rowing. I have a bike and bench and am currently working on adding an elliptical. I think I’ll put this on my wish list as the next piece of equipment to add!

    Reply
    • Hi Alicia, thanks for stopping by. It sounds like you’re building an excellent home gym. Would you please let me know if I can assist you in any way? I’d be happy to help.

      Kind regards, Robert

      Reply
  5. Thank you for the great review! After getting ‘back’ after spine surgery, I looked at cardo- and rowing machines. So I appreciate the detailed review, including information essential for me that it operates smooth and quiet. And one new thing I didn’t have to think of before was a water holder, helping me not make wrong moves for my back when I work out. 😃 I will look more into the Sunny Phantom Hydro, thanks! 

    Reply
    • Hi Louise, thanks for stopping by. Would you please let me know if I can assist you in any way? I’d be happy to help.

      Kind regards, Robert

      Reply
  6. I love rowing, but although I live close to the ocean, I can’t do this sport here, since there is a strong undertow, and the sea is dangerous here. A rowing machine seems like the perfect solution. I’ve thought about getting one. I love that this one has a water drum to make it more authentic. It has a lot of weight, but I guess that makes it sturdier. In general, I like the look of this rowing machine, and the seat looks comfortable enough. 

    Working out with a rowing machine is a great exercise that builds good muscle. I’d love to have this Sunny Phantom Hydro when I’ve finished building my house.

    Reply
    • Hi Christine, thanks for stopping by. Good luck with building your house. Would you please let me know if I can ever be of assistance? I’m glad to be of help.

      Kind regards, Robert

      Reply
  7. The Sunny Phantom Hydro SF-RW5910 rowing machine does show promise for getting good workouts but do you have the ability to relocate it to another room with no problem? The workout programs included seem to have what you need to get back in shape and get the pounds off. However, would you be able to put less water in and still have a good workout?

    Jerry

    Reply
    • Hi Jerry, thanks for stopping by. The Sunny SF-RW-5910 rowing machine comes equipped with transportation wheels for easy relocation. Unfortunately, when reducing the water level in the tank, you also reduce the resistance levels. However, it is possible to get a good workout with less resistance.

      Would you please let me know if I can ever assist you with any exercise equipment? I’m glad to be of help.

      Kind regards, Robert

      Reply

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