BodyCraft VR500 Rower

bodycraft vr500 rowing machine product photo

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PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

  • Remote resistance control
  • 32 levels of air and eddy current magnetic resistance 
  • Great variety of programs
  • Adjustable tilting high definition black mast LCD 
  • Folding design with front transport wheels and child safety lock
Manufacturer: Categories: ,

Pros & Cons

What we like ...
  • Large range of resistance and great program variety
  • Smooth row with a 38.5 inch travel
  • Specifically designed based on research and consumer requests
  • Resistance can be controlled remotely on the handlebar
  • Impressive max user height of 6 feet 8 inches
  • Comfortable, ergonomic seat
  • Adjustable heel rest with quick adjust foot straps
  • Sturdy and built to last
What needs improvement ...
  • Expensive
  • Large footprint
  • Even when folded is takes up a decent amount of space

Product Summary

Arguably one of the most feature-packed rowers on the market is the BodyCraft VR500, a high-quality, commercial grade row machine. The VR500 combines air and eddy current magnetic resistance to provide 32 levels of resistance that can be controlled wirelessly through a handlebar resistance control. With this new technology, you never have to take your hands off the ergonomically designed handlebar mid-workout, allowing for a more seamless transition between resistance levels. 

Perhaps one of the most attractive aspects of this rower is that it comes equipped with 12 pre-programmed auto resistance workouts in addition to five different preset race options and several interval programs. Programs include manual mode, six race, four heart rate controlled, three interval, user mode, and 1 custom definable program The variety of built-in programming really makes this rower stand out among contenders in the market. 

The VR500 is built like a tank with industrial grade bearings housed inside friction free rollers and a heavy duty l-beam mono-rail made with high strength T13 aluminum. The frame is hefty and, although it does come with a folding design, will take up a decent amount of floor space. That said, it can accommodate almost any user with a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds and maximum height of 6 feet 8 inches. The seat is contoured for comfort and the footholds feature adjustable heel rests with quick adjust foot straps.

An easy-to-read black LCD monitor with LED backlit display and keys shows important fitness metrics so you can monitor your workout. BodyCraft also sells a CONNECT22 tablet that connects with the VR500 so you can use apps such as Netflix or YouTube to find virtual rowing and coaching videos. This does add to the already steep price tag and, given the plethora of onboard programs, may not be necessary for many. 

Specs

Dimensions

98.5” L x 20” W x 38.5” H

Folded dimensions

58.5” L x 20” W x 77” H

Item weight

101 lbs

Seat height

19”

Seat travel

38.5”

Maximum user weight

350 lbs

Maximum user height

6’8”

Finish

Powder coated steel with anodized aluminum beam

Warranty

Residential – lifetime frame, 7-years parts, 1-year wear items, 2-years labor; Light commercial – 10-years frame, 3-years parts, 1-year wear and labor

GGR Community Reviews

BodyCraft VR500 Rower

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      Summary

      If you are able and willing to make an investment in a high-quality, feature-packed, and program-heavy rower, the VR500 may be for you.