The Horizon Oxford 3 and 6 Rower Review - All New Models

The Oxford 3 and 6 are the newest rowing machines offered by Horizon Fitness, replacing the previous Oxford 5 that is no longer available.

With pivoting consoles and adjustable foot straps, these well-priced rowers will comfortably accommodate any sized user.

Let's jump right into our expert review to see what these unique rowers are all about...

Oxford 3/6 - The Rowers

Both Horizon rowers are very similar, built and designed well with form and comfort in mind.  Both have 5.4" displays on consoles that can be adjusted to any angle.  They are the same size and can accommodate the same maximum user weight.

Here are the most important specs...

• Magnetic Resistance (Manual 3, Electronic 6)
  
• Ergo contoured seat
• Easy folding frame
• 5.4" LCD monitor display
• 5-12 workout programs
• Polar Wireless Receiver (6 only)
• Adjustable console/foot pedals
• Transport wheels
• Maximum User Weight – 350 lbs
• Warranty: Lifetime frame, 1 year parts, 1 year labor

The Buzz

The Horizon Oxford 3 and 6 rowers get good reviews from experts as well as users, and they have a lot of interesting features that make them appealing.

The air resistance provides a very natural motion, and the machine feels very sturdy.  The console is much nicer than you find on many other rowing machines, and the fact that you can adjust it is something that you typically do not find.  The consoles are usually fixed on most rowing machines, and other exercise equipment for that matter.

You get a very generous amount of workout programs to choose from, and easy-grip foam handle, adjustable oversized pedals and a comfortably designed cushioned seat.

Another nice feature is the water bottle holder, which is conveniently located above the tension knob for easy access while you work out.  

There is a Polar wireless receiver on the Oxford 6 that you can use with a wireless chest strap to monitor your heart rate more accurately than you can with the contact grips.

The long monorail can accommodate taller users, and the machine can easily fold up and be wheeled away for storage.  

At 121 lbs the Oxford rowers aren't too heavy, and they can accommodate up to 350 lbs.

How are the Oxford 3 and 6 Rowers Different From Each Other?

Although they share many similarities, the Oxford Rowers do have some differences that account for the higher price on the Oxford 6 model.

The Oxford 6 comes with a more comfortable seat, electronic resistance as opposed to manual on the Oxford 3, a Polar heart rate receiver, ViaFit workout tracking capability, a more advanced display and 7 additional workout programs.

So although the two rowing machines look similar, the Oxford 6 is definitely more advanced, and as such cost about $200 more.

Still, both rowing machines are under $1,000 when on sale, and you can't go wrong with either one.

Horizon makes very solid cardio equipment, including treadmills and ellipticals, and despite the very competitive pricing the warranties are rock solid.

Horizon Oxford Rowing Machines - Bottom Line

The Horizon Oxford 3 and 6 rowers are well-built machines with some very nice features.  At around $799-$999 when they are on sale, they are priced similarly to the Sole SR500 as well as our top pick the Concept2 Model D rowing machine, both of which you should consider as well.

We definitely like the fact that you can adjust the console to fit your eye level so you're not looking up or looking down while you row which can sometimes be annoying.  We also like the smooth, natural feel and the large clean looking display.

All in all, the Oxford rowers are solid choice and Horizon is a well-regarded brand in the industry.