adidas · Air Rower Review
adidas R-21x Review
The adidas R-21x is the most adjustable air rower we cover, a fan-and-electromagnetic system with 16 levels and handlebar quick-keys for precise, on-the-fly control.
adidas R-21x Rowing Machine
Adjustable air rower
Price and any code applied at checkout via Sweatband
The verdict
The R-21x pairs a fan with an electromagnetic system for 16 levels of resistance, controlled by quick keys on the handle so you can change effort mid-stroke without breaking rhythm. That fine control, plus 12 preset programmes, makes it the pick if you like structured, varied sessions rather than a single damper setting.
It is chain-driven with an adjustable LCD console and Kinomap connectivity, and a built-in tablet holder. At 238cm long it is a big machine, and at £799 down from £1,200 it is a considered buy, but for on-the-fly resistance control it leads the field.
Strengths
- 16 levels of combined air and electromagnetic resistance
- Quick resistance keys on the handle, change mid-stroke
- 12 preset workout programmes
- Bluetooth with Kinomap and a built-in tablet holder
- Adjustable LCD with 500m splits and heart rate
Watch-outs
- Large footprint at 238cm long
- Pricier than most air rowers
- Combining two resistance types adds complexity
- No built-in class screen
Resistance and control
The R-21x’s headline is control. Rather than a simple damper, it combines a fan with an electromagnetic brake to offer 16 distinct resistance levels, changed with quick keys built into the handle, so you never stop or reach for a dial mid-session. For interval work and structured programmes that on-the-fly adjustment is genuinely useful, and 12 preset programmes give variety out of the box.
The chain drive gives a solid, direct feel, and the machine is stable in use, though at 238cm it is one of the longer rowers here, so measure your space.
Console and connectivity
The adjustable LCD reports speed, time, distance, calories, stroke rate, heart rate and 500m splits, and Bluetooth connects it to Kinomap for routes and challenges on your own device. A built-in tablet holder lets you watch or follow classes while you row.
There is no built-in class screen, so for a Peloton-style experience the Echelon rowers are the alternative, but for a highly adjustable connected air rower the R-21x is well equipped.
Who it is for
Buy the adidas R-21x if you want fine, on-the-fly resistance control and plenty of built-in programmes, and you have room for a longer machine. If you want the best build and warranty, the JTX Ignite AirX is the pick, and if value is the priority, the Xterra ERG780 costs £300 less.
Specifications
| Resistance | Fan plus electromagnetic, 16 levels |
|---|---|
| Controls | Quick resistance keys on the handle |
| Drive | Chain |
| Programmes | 12 preset |
| Console | Adjustable LCD |
| Data | Speed, time, distance, calories, heart rate, SPM, 500m split |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Kinomap, tablet holder |
| Dimensions | 238 x 55.8 x 125cm |
FitRank breakdown
Performance 4.3
Effort-scaling air plus an electromagnetic brake for 16 levels, with handlebar quick-keys, excellent for structured sessions.
Build quality 4.2
A solid, chain-driven machine, stable in use, though its 238cm length demands real floor space.
Value 4.0
Fair. Pricier than most air rowers at £799, justified by the adjustability and programme count rather than raw value.
Features 4.3
Very strong. 16 levels, handlebar controls, 12 programmes, Kinomap and a tablet holder, short only of a built-in screen.
Frequently asked questions
Is the adidas R-21x a good rower?
What is the difference between the adidas R-21 and R-21x?
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Does the adidas R-21x connect to apps?
Related rowing machines
Compare it against the field in our best home rowing machines guide, or narrow it down in our best air rowing machines guide. You might also consider the JTX Ignite AirX Rower, Xterra ERG780 and JTX Freedom Air.
Chris writes the home fitness reviews across our sites, including our sister site HomeTreadmill.co.uk. He compares every machine against its rivals on UK pricing and specs, and scores each one with FitRank.
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