Test Result Preview
Manufacturer’s Product Description
The R2 rowing machine from FED Fitness YOSUDA is a compact, air-resistance home exercise machine designed to provide a very natural rowing experience. A 32-blade fan and a 10-level resistance adjustment allow for a wide range of training intensities, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The display shows basic training data in standalone mode, making it easy to use without a power connection. A sturdy aluminum rail ensures smooth movement, and according to the manufacturer, the machine is also suitable for taller users.
Overall, the design appears geared toward an intense cardio workout that engages many muscle groups simultaneously. The combination of air resistance and manual adjustment stands out, enabling flexible training.
Less impressive is the noise level, which increases significantly at higher resistance levels and can be disruptive in smaller apartments.
Advantages
- Natural rowing feel
- Sturdy construction
- Flexible resistance levels
- Allows for space-saving vertical storage
Disadvantages
- May be noisy
- Takes up more space when assembled
First Impressions
Packaging and Contents
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, of course, adequate protection of the product must be ensured. Is the contents of the package complete, and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product right away?
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, of course, adequate protection of the product must be ensured. Is the contents of the package complete, and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product right away?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Product protection
The box is sturdy; the product is adequately protected
Points
Sustainability of Packaging
While the large amount of Styrofoam protects the product components, it should be replaced with another sustainable material for the sake of the environment
Points
Package Contents & Scope
Complete
Points
Instructions
The instructions are easy to understand
Points
OVERALL
93
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum score is 100 points
The first impression upon unboxing is one of sturdiness, as the rowing machine is well-protected and neatly packaged. The individual parts are neatly arranged in the box, making assembly possible without having to search for them. The padding seems adequate, though not particularly high-quality. Styrofoam is used almost exclusively, which leaves a lot of packaging material behind once assembly is complete. The package contents are complete, including tools for assembly, which makes getting started easier. Upon unpacking, it’s noticeable that some metal parts are slightly oily, presumably for protection during transport. The instructions are easy to understand. Overall, the packaging gives the impression of being functional but not luxurious—it serves its purpose without exuding any particular sense of quality.
First Time in Hand
Product Workmanship and Appearance
Before moving on to the practical test, we take a close look at the products’ build quality. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
Before putting the products through practical testing, we’ll take a close look at their build quality. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Visual appearance
Attractive design
Points
Workmanship
Very good build quality
Points
Sturdiness
Very stable
Points
Product sustainability
No information provided
Points
OVERALL
95
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum score is 100 points
The build quality of the YOSUDA R2 features a mix of sturdy and rather simple components. The aluminum rail appears sturdy and is cleanly manufactured, ensuring that the seat movement remains pleasantly smooth. The flywheel housing is made of plastic, which is functional but doesn’t look particularly high-quality. The seat is comfortable, though it feels a bit hard during longer workouts—a sensation that only becomes noticeable after several sessions. The footplates are sufficiently large but could benefit from a more secure locking mechanism, as they give slightly during intense strokes. The display is simple and easy to read, though its design isn’t particularly modern. Overall, the rowing machine presents an appearance that prioritizes functionality over a premium look, making it appropriate for the price but not outstanding.
Here’s what our hands-on test revealed
Does the manufacturer live up to its advertising claims?
Our practical test carries the highest weighting. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We evaluate the test item’s functions and product claims.
Our hands-on test carries the highest weighting and is therefore the most important factor. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We evaluate the features and product claims of the test item.
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Stability During Use
Remains completely stable; no signs of instability or wobbling
Points
Resistance settings and their functionality
All resistance levels function as intended, and the differences between the individual levels are clearly noticeable
Points
Noise level during operation
The noise level is considered acceptable; however, it is noticeable in smaller rooms
Points
Folding mechanism and its smooth operation
The folding mechanism operates absolutely smoothly and requires no effort at all
Points
Space requirements when set up and folded
The device requires a bit more space but can be easily stored in most environments
Points
OVERALL
92
Points
Weighting: 45%
*The maximum score is 100 points
The manufacturer promises a natural rowing experience, a stable construction, and flexible resistance adjustment —and it largely delivers on these points. The air resistance system does indeed provide a realistic rowing feel, especially at moderate intensities. The stability is sufficient for everyday training, even though slight vibrations occur at higher resistance levels. The 10-level adjustment works reliably, and the differences between the levels are clearly noticeable. Less convincing is the noise level, which is significantly higher than suggested in the advertising. The claim regarding suitability for very tall people is accurate, as the maximum rail length is sufficient for people over 1.90 meters. Overall, the machine delivers on many of its promises but does not achieve the advertised quality in all areas.
Test Plan
You can find a detailed overview of the evaluation criteria for the practical portion of the test, as well as the point distribution, here. If you are also interested in the evaluation of our other test criteria, please read our document on the evaluation process.
Value for the Money
Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend purchasing it?
Finally, we examine how the product stacks up against the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend buying it?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Value for money
Very good performance in the lower price range
Points
TOTAL
90
Points
Weighting: 15%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Prices for comparable products on the internet range up to€1,399.00.Very affordable products areavailable startingat€259.00.TheR2 rowing machine fromFED Fitness YOSUDA is therefore currently inthe lower price segment at€449.99.The value for money is rated as “very good.” This rating takes into account both the high quality and performance as well as the price in the lower segment, resulting in a very good overall value.
Overall Result
Weighting
Score*
1. Packaging & Contents
20%
Points
2. Product Workmanship & Appearance
20%
Points
3. In practical testing
45%
Points
4. Value for Money
15%
Points
TOTAL
Points
*The maximum score is 100 points
