XTERRA ERG160 Magnetic Rower | Simple to Use, Yet Effective

The XTERRA ERG160 Magnetic Rower has a space-saving compact frame design that can stand on end when not used. In addition, built-in transportation wheels maximize mobility to help make moving and storing your rower a breeze.

The ERG160 includes eight magnetic resistance levels that let you control your workout’s intensity while providing a quiet and smooth rowing experience. In addition, the durable aluminum slide rail on the ERG160 ensures a smooth rowing experience pull after pull.

The XTERRA ERG160 features a high-contrast LED fitness monitor that displays your most important workout metrics in a simple, easy-to-read display. It tracks time, distance, stroke count, strokes per minute, and calories burned. Unfortunately, it does not come with a pulse reading function.

With a foam-padded handlebar and a molded foam seat, comfort and convenience are at the core of the XTERRA ERG160 magnetic rower. Large, easily adjustable foot straps keep you secure so that you can feel confident and in control while pushing your limits.

Learn more in my complete review below!

Product: XTERRA ERG160 Magnetic Rower

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

Warranty: Frame 1 year / Parts 90 days

My rating: is 7/10

Affiliate Disclosure: As an XTERRA Fitness Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in this post. Full disclosure

Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 61.4L x 21.7W x 27.6H inches (156L x 55W x 70H cm)
• Shipping weight: 52 lbs (23.5 kg)
• Weight capacity: 250 lbs (113 kg)
• Frame: Steel & aluminum
• Resistance type: Manual magnetic, eight levels
• Fitness Monitor: Time, count, SPM, distance, calories, scan
• Extras: Tablet holder, bottle holder
• Warranty: Frame 1 year / Parts 90 days

ERG160 Frame Construction

The XTERRA ERG160magnetic rower combines steel, aluminum, and ABS parts in its construction. The front section of the frame that supports the drive and resistance elements is steel made, the main beam of the monorail is also made of steel, but it features side covers made of durable extruded aluminum. The surfaces of the drive elements and the footrests are made of hard plastic materials.

All the steel parts in the machine’s construction come coated with a corrosion-resistant black paint finish. The drive elements’ front covers are black and blue; these are the only colors available for this XTERRA Fitness rower.

The fully assembled rower is smaller than other machines in this price range. It is only 61.4″ (156 cm) long and 21.7″ (55 cm) wide. Furthermore, the exact length of the rail is not specified, but the machine should accommodate users up to 6’2″ (188 cm) with no problem, allowing a complete range of motion.

The XTERRA ERG160 does not have a folding frame. However, it can be stored vertically, resting on its front bumper and front stabilizer bar. When stored vertically, its footprint becomes approximately 21.7″W X 22″L (55 x 56 cm).

This XTERRA rower is relatively light, weighing only 52 lbs (23.5 kg) with all the parts assembled. Thus, one person can carry and build the machine. Plus, its front base bar integrates two transport wheels, facilitating its relocation if needed.

Seat and other parts

The XTERRA ERG160 magnetic rower comes equipped with the same type of seat as most other rowers. Its top is molded foam featuring a contoured surface for better positioning and comfort. It’s a pretty firm seat, it doesn’t have extra air cushioning elements, but it is not completely hard.

The base frame of the seat is steel-made. Therefore, both the seat and the rail have a maximum user weight limit of 250 lbs (113 kg). It’s also important to mention that the sliding rail is not completely horizontal. Instead, it inclines forward by a few degrees.

Therefore, the machine delivers a slightly better leg workout than a rower with a horizontal rail. Also, the recovery motion is a little faster.

The seat comes equipped with three sets of rollers. Two are above the rail, and the third is underneath it for improved stability. In addition, all rollers have integrated ball bearings for a smooth motion. Also, they have a layer of rubber material to reduce noise.

One last aspect to note here is the seat height. At its highest point, it stands at approximately 14″ (35 cm) above floor level. Therefore, at this height, it’s more accessible to mount or dismount.

The XTERRA ERG160 features a set of pivoting footrests. They can tilt on their axis to adapt better to your feet’ position during rowing. In addition, they have stoppers at the rear, so they cannot tilt backward over an angle of approximately 50 °.

The machine’s footrests are oversized to accommodate shoes of all sizes. In addition, they have a textured surface, adjustable straps, and heel guards for improved foot stability.

The machine’s pulling handle is attached to a durable, abrasion-resistant nylon strap. Therefore, it generates less vibration during rowing than a chain. It also doesn’t require lubrication. However, since it’s a basic machine, the handle doesn’t integrate HR pulse sensors or resistance controls.

ERG160 Resistance system

The XTERRA ERG160 rower comes equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system. Therefore, you don’t have to connect it to a power source and don’t need a power adapter. However, it is also important to mention that the machine’s fitness monitor cannot automatically adjust the resistance and has no pre-set workout programs.

The machine’s resistance system is not far different from a magnetic upright exercise bike or elliptical trainer. It consists of a magnetic brake that connects to the tension dial on the machine’s front unit. When you turn the knob (clockwise or counterclockwise), the brake moves closer or farther from the flywheel, which increases the rowing load.

The ERG160 magnetic rower makes available eight levels of resistance. The first level offers a relatively light resistance, excellent for recovery training. The 8th level does not provide an extreme workout load but delivers a noticeable difference from the first level.

Thus, this rower is not made for a super intense workout, but just like any other rower, it can work up to 80% of your muscle groups.

Like other full-magnetic rowers, the XTERRA ERG160 does not offer a dynamic response during rowing. Thus, the resistance remains constant throughout the rowing motion; it only depends on the selected resistance level and not how fast or hard you pull the handle, as is the case for water-resistance or air-resistance rowers.

This detail may only matter for professional athletes who need stationary rowing experience as close as possible to rowing a real boat. However, this rower provides a consistent cardio workout even without the dynamic response.

One last aspect to mention here regards the generated noise. Since the XTERRA ERG160 is a magnetic rower, it does not have fans or water resistance elements, and its internal magnetic brake does not touch the flywheel. Therefore, the rowing motion is smooth and quiet.

Fitness monitor

The XTERRA ERG160 magnetic rower comes equipped with a fitness monitor. It features an LED display tracking time, distance, stroke count, strokes per minute, and calories burned. However, it does not have any pre-set workout programs or online connectivity.

Unfortunately, the monitor does not have a pulse reading function. It is not telemetric and cannot communicate with any HR chest bands. Therefore, you will need to use a separate device to keep track of your pulse during the workout. Also, the distance traveled is in meters only; it does not have the option to change to miles or yards.

The fitness monitor is pretty easy to use. It only has one (MODE) button. By pressing this button repeatedly, you can scroll through the workout metrics and lock the one you want to view on display. You can also select Scan Mode, which automatically rotates all the metrics, showing each for 6 seconds. The Mode button also has a reset function. You can press it and hold it for seconds to clear all the LCD values to zero.

The battery-operated monitor requires two AA batteries, which come included. It starts up when you begin rowing or detect activity on the rower. It also automatically turns off to save the battery after a few minutes of inactivity on the machine.

In addition, the monitor also integrates a device holder. It’s a small shelf right under the Mode button. However, it is large enough to accommodate any tablet.

ERG160 Assembly and Maintenance

The front unit of the rower with all the drive and resistance elements comes pre-assembled. However, the other parts do require user assembly. You will have to attach the front base bar to the rail, insert the seat onto the railing, and add the footrests, the rear stabilizer, and the fitness monitor.

Consequently, the task is relatively simple and shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. Furthermore, the manual provides precise assembly instructions. In addition, all the tools for the assembly come with the machine.

Keeping the unit’s rail clean is advisable to prevent damage to the rail or the seat wheels. However, the internal parts do not require any lubrication. Therefore, you only have to periodically check for loose bolts and parts and retighten them if necessary.

Pros

• Light-weight construction, easy to carry and handle;

  

• Fairly sturdy rail – can support users up to 250 lbs (113 kg);
• Compact and design;
• It can store vertically;
• Large stabilizers on the front base;
• Sturdy metallic seat frame with a contoured foam top for optimal comfort;
• Quiet aluminum & steel rail system;
• Pivoting footrests with straps and heel guards;
• Relatively long rail – can accommodate users up to 6’2″;
• Smooth magnetic resistance system with eight distinct levels;
• Fitness monitor included – it can track time, distance, stroke count, strokes per minute (SPM), and calories burned;
• Media holders included;
• The bottle holder included;
• Easy to assemble;
• Little maintenance is required.

Cons

• The fitness monitor does not have a pulse reading function;
• The fitness monitor does not have a goal-setting function.

XTERRA ERG160 Magnetic Rower Summary

The XTERRA Fitness ERG160 is a magnetic rower made for home use. It offers eight levels of manual magnetic resistance, a large, ergonomic seat, and a fitness monitor that tracks time, distance, strokes, strokes per minute, and calories burned.

It’s an excellent machine for a full-body cardio workout, stamina development, and weight loss. It’s not exactly the most affordable magnetic rower within this feature range, but it offers decent quality 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.