The Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike is one of the only 2-in-1 bike/rower combination machines on the market.
So if you’re looking for a dual purpose piece of exercise equipment, you’ve come to the right place!
This magnetic resistance exercise machine provides a smooth, strong operation for both biking and rowing.
Users love getting a full-body, fat burning workout while enjoying TV or listening to their favorite music.
Easily switch from recumbent biking to rowing with the pull of a pin and adjust the tension mid-workout by simply spinning the dial.
There are many more benefits to the Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike that I talk about below but there are also a few downsides. Continue reading to find out more!
- Smooth, quiet magnetic resistance; Easily switch from rowing to biking to rowing
- Oversized, molded, adjustable foam-padded seat and seatback
- Multi-function monitor displays speed, distance, time, odometer, heart rate, and calories bur
What is a Rower/ Recumbent Bike?
Some people may be able to tell just by looking at pictures but I want to break down the differences between a ‘traditional’ machine and a recumbent bike/ rower.
I will explain what a “traditional” rower or recumbent bike is and then explain how it differs from a combination machine.
Traditional Bike vs. Recumbent Bike:
- A traditional exercise bike feels like riding a regular bicycle. The user is sitting upright or bent forward on a small, hard seat that can be uncomfortable.
- On a recumbent bike, the user sits lower to the ground in a semi-reclined position. It uses a comfortable, wide-bucket reclining seat and the pedals are more in front of the user than underneath them.
- On a recumbent bike/ rower combination machine, the seat can have a larger recline angle than a traditional recumbent bike.
Traditional Rower vs. Rower on Recumbent Bike:
- A traditional rower has a smaller seat without a backrest.
- A recumbent rower has a bucket seat with a semi-reclined backrest.
- The footrest on a rower/ recumbent bike can also be placed lower than a traditional rower.
NOTE: There are a few more differences and details that I will discuss below.
Ok, now back to the regular Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike Review!
Resistance Type
The Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike is a magnetic resistance machine.
This means there is a metal drum (flywheel) inside the front panel that spins when you row or bike.
To increase or decrease the resistance you can move a magnet closer or farther from the flywheel.
The closer the magnet is to the flywheel, the more the eddy currents interact with the spinning drum, and the more resistance is created.
The farther you move the magnet away from the flywheel, the less resistance you will feel.
Being magnetic means the operation is smooth, strong, and quiet which I describe in more detail throughout the review.
Below is a video that will help visually represent what happens when you change the resistance on the Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike.
Resistance Benefits
As seen in the video, the resistance is not caused by “part on part” contact like brakes in a car. Instead, the eddy currents of a magnet are used to slow the drum down, which makes the machine friction-free and virtually silent!
Having such a quiet operation makes the Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike perfect for using while watching TV. It’s also great for using in the morning when the rest of your house is sleeping or if you live in an apartment with neighbors.
To adjust the resistance, all a user has to do is turn the adjustment knob at the center of the machine. There are 8 levels of resistance to help align each workout with your specific goals.
You do not have to stop exercising to make the adjustments and you can go from a level 2 to a level 8 in the middle of working out!
Not having to stop to change resistance makes it great for doing interval training and HIIT exercises (high intensity interval training).
Most users commented the rowing stroke and recumbent bike had smooth, strong motions and were happy with the magnetic resistance it provided.
One thing they really enjoyed was how easy it was to switch from recumbent bike to rowing and vice versa. All a user has to do is remove a pin to begin rowing and then adjust the seat to the right distance, reinsert the pin, and they are back to biking. It is that simple!
Resistance Negatives
While there are many positives to the Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike, there were a few negative comments.
Some users felt the resistance was not adequate enough for them to get a hard workout or felt they would outgrow it after a few months. Many of the same users did say they did not think the resistance was bad but just wished it had 2 more resistance levels.
Other users felt the resistance was great and said they have never tried using the higher levels because the lower levels were hard enough.
I feel the resistance is adequate for beginner and intermediate athletes. If you are in great shape such as lifting weights 5 times a week, doing crossfit, etc. then this machine may not be a good fit for you.
The only other issue I saw with resistance is if a user wants to use the handle to perform upper body exercises like curls and upright rows. While you can perform these exercises, you will have to stand back slightly to avoid hitting the monitor. There are also no foot-plates to stand on which keeps the machine from lifting up while pulling the handle.
One user commented they perform curls using the handle without a problem and it feels like using two 25-30 lb. dumbbells while at maximum resistance.
While you can perform these exercises, it just isn’t as good as a machine that is made for them like the Stamina Deluxe Conversion II Recumbent Bike/ Rower (upgraded model).
Overall
I feel the resistance on the Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike is smooth, strong, and quiet. It has enough resistance levels to challenge most users and is extremely easy to operate.
Advanced athletes and strong users may want to look for something that is used by professionals or seen in Crossfit gyms.
Monitor/Control Panel
The Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike A150-335 comes with an easy to read multi-function fitness monitor. Users can track the following data:
- Speed (Miles/Hour)
- Distance (Miles)
- Time
- Odometer (Total Accumulated Distance)
- Calorie
- Pulse
To turn the monitor on just move the pedals or press the mode button. You can choose to display one data point or choose scan mode to cycle between each data point every 6 seconds.
After you are finished working out, the monitor will shut off automatically after 4 minutes.
As you can see, the monitor is fairly basic for this price range and only records the necessary workout data.
One nice feature is the pulse sensors on the recumbent bike handles. While using the bike, all a user has to do is grip the handles and their pulse will be recorded on the monitor.
Unfortunately, you cannot row and grip the handles at the same time, but once you finishing rowing you can hold the handles to see what your pulse is reading.
Another benefit is the monitor runs on 2AA batteries (not included) and the resistance is controlled by a dial, which means the machine does not need to be placed near an outlet and can be used wherever you choose.
Monitor Negatives
There were a few negatives I came across pertaining to the monitor such as not being able to connect to a “Fitbit” or other fitness trackers.
These users also mentioned the heart rate recorded by the handles is not 100% accurate but is at least consistent.
The monitor also didn’t have any advanced features like preset workout programs or the ability to connect to a computer to record data or play games.
Overall
Some users felt for the price, the monitor was a little too basic and wished it had more features. Especially considering you are tracking for a rower recumbent bike 2-in-1 machine!
It is good for tracking the basic fitness data but if you like tracking data and comparing information, you may want to use your own personal fitness tracker.
Build Quality
The Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/ Recumbent Bike is constructed with a sturdy steel frame and high-grade aluminum rowing rail.
The strong base allows for a quiet, smooth, sturdy machine that shows no sign of weakness while using the recumbent bike or rowing.
Both sets of foot-pedals are constructed from heavy duty plastic with strong, adjustable foot straps. The handle is constructed with foam grips and is attached via a heavy-duty nylon rowing strap (think seat-belt material).
The seat is made from high quality material and the recumbent bike handles felt strong and sturdy.
Most users were very happy with the build quality and felt for the price it was well-made with no cheap materials.
One user mentioned he felt the machine was solidly built but not as strong as commercial machines in the gym. He then said it’s also not priced in the $2,000-$3,000 range like those pieces of equipment.
Comfort
Making a 2-in-1 bike rower machine with multiple functions can sometimes be a challenge but the Avari Conversion II does a good job of combining the two exercises, while still maintaining a comfortable workout.
Most users felt the machine provided a smooth, quiet workout that was perfect to perform while watching TV. They also felt there were no “dead spots” in the tension and enjoyed how easy it was to switch from biking to rowing.
Seat
Equipped with an oversized, molded, adjustable, foam-padded seat the Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike did the best they could to make a comfortable seat for both rowing and biking.
A traditional rowing machine does not have a seat-back because a user performs a slight backwards lean when rowing. This caused Avari to make the seat angle slightly more reclined. Most users said they never hit the seat-back when rowing and felt it was set far enough back to avoid any issues.
However, some users felt having the seat reclined so far back made it a little uncomfortable for cycling. These users found that placing a pillow behind their back easily solved this issue.
Overall, users felt the seat was comfortable enough to complete a workout without any issues and there were not many negative comments. One thing that could have been a nice addition is to make the backrest removable or allow the angle to be adjusted (which isn’t possible). This would allow for the full-range of motion for a rowing stroke and a more comfortable seated position for recumbent biking.
Handles/Footrests
The foam-padded handles for rowing and recumbent biking both seemed to be placed in comfortable locations. There is nothing fancy about either set, but users are happy with both.
The Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike has oversized foot pedals and adjustable straps for both exercises. Users felt both adjustable straps held their feet securely in place and felt they were made from high-quality material.
One issue with the rowing footrests is they are placed lower to the ground than a traditional rower. This only changes the rowing stroke slightly and doesn’t allow for the full-range of motion provided by traditional rowing.
If you are used to rowing on a traditional rowing machine you may notice the difference but if it is your first time you won’t notice anything.
To see more photos of the different comfort features of the Stamina Avari 2-in-1 exercise bike/rowing machine follow the link below.
Storage
The Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/ Recumbent Bike A150-335 has easy-fold storage capabilities that greatly reduces the footprint.
Just pull the release pin, fold the seat rail, and ensure the release pin is locked in place.
Once folded, you can move the Avari Conversion II on the built-in caster wheels.
The folded dimensions are approximately 33.2″ long x 23″ wide x 58.2″ tall.
Capacity
The manufacturer’s weight capacity for this machine is 250 lbs. There have been users slightly over this limit who have used it and were fine.
Due to the length between the farthest forward setting of the adjustable-seat and recumbent bike foot-pedals, this machine is not suitable for anyone under 5’1″.
A Stamina Representative did say this machine has been tested on individuals that are 4’9″ but I would be hesitant to buy a machine that won’t accommodate my height. One user who was 5’1″ said they had to put a pillow behind their back to add a little extra length that made pedaling more comfortable.
Other users as tall as 6’4″ were able to use both exercises without an issue.
So if you are taller than 6’4″ or shorter than 5’1″ I would recommend testing the Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike at your local fitness retailer.
Dimensions
- Shipping Dimensions (L x W x H):
- 46.0″ x 26.0″ x 10.0″
- Shipping weight:
- 101 lbs.
- Assembled Dimensions (L x W x H):
- 74.5″ x 23.5″ x 34.0″
- Seat Height:
- 14.0″ high
- Assembled Weight:
- 96 lbs.
- Folded Dimensions (L x W x H):
- 33.2″ x 23.0″ x 58.2″
Assembly
The Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower Recumbent Bike will require a fair amount of assembly and should take around an hour to complete.
There are quite a few pieces involved with this assembly so make sure you have a clean, open area to complete this task. Just follow the directions slowly, step-by-step and you should not run into any issues.
You will need some tools for assembly like an adjustable wrench, phillips head screwdriver, and 2AA batteries.
While this isn’t ideal, at least you can be prepared for when it arrives and you can avoid a future headache!
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 2-in-1 exercise machine
- Quick-change from recumbent bike to rowing (vice versa)
- Quiet resistance
- Mid-workout resistance adjustment
- Comfortable seat
- Easy-fold storage
- Strong build quality
Cons:
- Basic performance monitor
- Capacity can be limited
- Short warranty for price
- Not equivalent to traditional rowing machine
- Low resistance for advanced users
- Assembly can take 1 hour
Consumer Reviews
Consumers were generally happy with their purchase and gave positive Avari Conversion II Rower Recumbent Bike reviews. Users felt the build quality was good for the price and were happy to have a 2-in-1 workout machine to help switch up their routine.
As some consumers mentioned, it is difficult to make a rower/ recumbent bike because the rower will not be as good as a traditional rowing machine and the bike will not be as good as a traditional recumbent bike. However, users felt Stamina Avari did a good job of combining the two and making them as close to the “traditional” models as possible.
Check out more Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower Recumbent Bike Reviews here.
Average Rating: 4.4
Warranty
- Frame:
- 3-Years
- Parts:
- 90-Days
- Model #: A150-335
While the parts warranty is a bit short for a 2-in-1 Bike Rowing Machine in this price range, it is the same warranty offered on other Stamina products.
Many consumers said Stamina customer service handled their problems extremely well and offered warranty replacement parts fast and easy.
Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike Price
The Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike is priced in the mid to high price range. I think the price point is good due to it being a 2-in-1 exercise machine although it does have its weaker points like a basic monitor.
It is offered online from a few big box retail stores but Amazon tends to have the lowest pricing. Amazon usually offers free shipping and a good layer of consumer protection.
Overall Review
The Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike is an excellent machine if you are looking for a 2-in-1 piece of bike/rower exercise equipment.
However, it will not function as good as a traditional rowing machine or a traditional recumbent bike. If you are looking specifically for one of these, I would go with another option.
A great magnetic rowing machine with a far better monitor is the Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Rowing Machine or check out a list of great Recumbent Bikes.
Stamina also offers another Recumbent Bike/ Rower combination with a few small differences such as built-in monitor, standing plates for upper body exercises, and handle-to-seat attachment for leg presses. See my full Stamina Conversion II Review here.
As always, if you are looking for the best rowing machine on the market check it out at the link. You won’t be let down!
I hope you enjoyed my Avari Conversion II Rower Recumbent Bike Review! If you have any questions leave them in the comment section below.
