Waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower User Manual

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WaterRower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower Manual

Introduction to the WaterRower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower

The waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower combines low-impact full-body exercise with built-in digital connectivity. Its water-resistance system creates a smooth rowing sensation that responds naturally to effort: pulling harder increases resistance, while controlled strokes provide a quieter, easier workout. This makes the machine suitable for endurance training, interval sessions, technique practice, and everyday fitness.

The rower is designed for users who want more than a basic indoor rowing machine. Its S4 Performance Monitor records essential workout information, while integrated Bluetooth technology supports connection with compatible fitness applications. Users can monitor time, distance, stroke rate, pace, power, and other training data during a session.

A solid hardwood frame gives the Original Series its distinctive furniture-style appearance, allowing it to fit into a home gym, bedroom, office, or living area. The machine can also be stored upright when the tank is positioned securely and the area is clear.

This model suits beginners, experienced rowers, cross-training athletes, and people seeking a joint-friendly cardiovascular workout. It is especially useful for guided digital workouts, progress tracking, and structured training plans. Before use, read the assembly, connectivity, safety, and maintenance instructions carefully to protect the rower and ensure reliable performance.

WaterRower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower Specifications

Resistance type: Water resistance using a WaterFlywheel-style tank system.
Monitor: S4 Performance Monitor with Bluetooth wireless connectivity.
Workout data: Time, distance, stroke rate, pace or speed, power or watts, calories, and compatible heart-rate information.
Frame: Solid hardwood Original Series construction; wood finish can vary by selected configuration.
Approximate dimensions: About 209 cm long, 56 cm wide, and 53 cm high in the operating position.
Seat height: Approximately 30 cm, depending on the configuration and measurement method.
Maximum user capacity: Verify the limit on the model label and supplied documentation before use.
Connectivity: Bluetooth pairing with the WaterRower Connect app and other compatible third-party fitness applications.
Power: The performance monitor uses batteries; the connected tablet or arm assembly may require the supplied AC adapter.
Storage: Designed for upright storage when positioned correctly and secured against tipping.
Environment: Indoor use on a stable, level surface only.

Detailed Description and Daily Use

The waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower uses a rotating water flywheel inside a sealed tank. During the drive phase, the handle turns the flywheel and displaces water. The resulting resistance changes with rowing speed, so a stronger, faster pull produces greater resistance. This self-regulating behavior allows beginners to row gently while experienced users can create demanding intervals without manually changing a resistance setting.

The S4 monitor displays performance information while you exercise. Use the monitor to check pace, distance, elapsed time, stroke rate, and power. When supported, a compatible heart-rate sensor can provide additional training data. Bluetooth pairing enables compatible mobile apps to record workouts or provide guided rowing content.

For daily care, wipe the seat, handle, rails, and contact surfaces after use with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Keep moisture away from electronic connections. Inspect the handle strap, foot straps, seat rollers, and frame before each session. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or excessive water on the wood finish, monitor, or tablet assembly.

How to Set Up and Connect the CityRow Connect Rower

Place the rower on a firm, level indoor surface with sufficient clearance around the handle, seat, footrests, and storage path.
Confirm that the tank assembly, rails, seat, footrests, monitor, tablet arm, and cables are secure before operating the machine.
Raise the tablet arm to its use position. Support the arm while lowering the latch, then confirm that the latch is fully engaged.
Rotate the tablet gently toward the rear of the rower until it clicks into its operating position. Do not force the hinge.
Connect the supplied AC adapter and any required USB or preinstalled cables, then turn on the tablet or connected display.
Install the WaterRower Connect app or another compatible rowing application on the mobile device.
Enable Bluetooth, open the app, and sign in or create an account if required.
Turn on the S4 monitor. In the app, select the monitor identifier beginning with “S4 BLE” and complete pairing.
Follow the app instructions for workout selection, account setup, and any available Wi-Fi configuration.

Keep fingers clear of folding joints and latches. Never use the rower if the tablet arm, seat, handle strap, foot straps, or frame is loose or damaged. If pairing fails, close other rowing apps, restart Bluetooth, replace weak monitor batteries, and repeat the connection process.

Troubleshooting the WaterRower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower

Monitor does not turn on

Check the batteries, confirm correct polarity, and inspect the battery contacts. If the monitor remains inactive, remove the batteries briefly, reinstall them, and test again.

Bluetooth pairing fails

Enable Bluetooth on the mobile device, close competing fitness applications, and keep the device close to the monitor. Select the monitor identifier beginning with “S4 BLE” inside the compatible app rather than pairing only through the device settings menu.

Tablet or display has no power

Check both ends of the AC adapter and USB cable. Test the wall outlet with another approved device and inspect cables for damage. Do not use a damaged adapter.

Workout data is missing

Confirm that the correct monitor is connected and that the app has Bluetooth permissions. Start the monitor before opening the workout session, then verify that the application shows live stroke or distance data.

Seat movement feels rough

Inspect the rails and seat rollers for dust or debris. Wipe them with a clean, dry cloth and check that the rower is level. Do not apply unapproved lubricant.

Water resistance feels unusual

Stop exercising and inspect the tank, handle strap, and pulley area. Do not open the sealed tank or continue using the machine if there is leakage, unusual noise, or visible structural damage.

The supplied manual and the manufacturer’s support service should be used for model-specific repairs, replacement parts, and warranty questions. Keep the product identification information and proof of purchase available when requesting assistance. Never attempt electrical or structural repairs without qualified support.

Pros and Cons of the CityRow Connect Rower

Advantages

Natural resistance: Water resistance responds directly to rowing effort and is easy for beginners to understand.
Full-body training: A correct rowing stroke engages the legs, trunk, back, and arms for cardiovascular and muscular conditioning.
Digital compatibility: Built-in Bluetooth supports performance tracking and compatible guided-workout applications.
Detailed feedback: The S4 monitor provides more useful training information than the basic time-only displays common on entry-level rowers.
Furniture-style construction: Hardwood components give the machine a refined appearance compared with many metal-framed gym rowers.
Low-impact exercise: Smooth seat travel and controlled rowing can provide a joint-friendly alternative to running.

Limitations

Large footprint: The long rail requires dedicated floor space during use.
Water-system maintenance: Tank care and periodic water treatment may be required according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Connectivity dependence: Guided digital workouts require compatible devices, applications, and reliable wireless connections.
Technique requirement: Poor sequencing or excessive pulling with the arms can reduce comfort and training quality.
Not ideal for every space: Users seeking a compact, lightweight, or highly portable rower may prefer a foldable alternative.

This model is best suited to users who value water resistance, durable construction, performance monitoring, and connected rowing workouts. A simpler magnetic or air rower may be more appropriate for buyers who do not need app connectivity or who have limited storage space.

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Faqs

How do I set up the waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower for the first time?

Assemble the frame on a level surface, confirm that all bolts are secure, and check that the footrests and handle move freely. Install the CityRow Connect tablet on its mounting arm, raise the arm into the locked position, and connect the power adapter. Turn on the tablet, follow the setup prompts, connect it to Wi-Fi, and sign in to your CityRow account. Keep the rower unplugged until the tablet arm is correctly secured.

How do I connect the waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower to Wi-Fi?

Turn on the mounted CityRow tablet and open its settings or follow the initial setup prompts. Select your home Wi-Fi network, enter the password carefully, and wait for the connection confirmation before starting a workout. If the network is not listed, move the rower closer to the router or restart the router. Avoid relying on a weak guest network, because interrupted Wi-Fi can affect account access, class loading, and workout synchronization.

Why is my waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower not showing rowing data?

First, confirm that the S4 monitor or connected module is powered on and that its Bluetooth indicator is active. Close other rowing or fitness apps that may already be using the Bluetooth connection, then restart Bluetooth on the phone or tablet. In the WaterRower Connect app, select the monitor ID beginning with “S4 BLE” when available. If data still does not appear, check cable connections, replace depleted batteries where applicable, and restart the monitor.

Can I use the waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower with the WaterRower Connect app?

Yes, the Bluetooth-equipped monitor can connect to the WaterRower Connect app on a compatible iOS or Android device. Install the app, enable Bluetooth, power on the monitor, and select its displayed S4 BLE identification number. The app can record and analyze workout information, but connection behavior may vary by monitor configuration and device. Keep the app open during pairing and update the mobile device software if repeated disconnections occur.

What is the correct water level for the waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower?

Use the water-level gauge on the tank rather than estimating the fill amount. The standard calibration level is typically Level 17, while Level 19 is the maximum; never fill above the marked maximum. A higher water level does not replace correct rowing technique and can increase resistance and tank stress. If the rower was transported or drained, place it flat before filling and replace the stopper securely afterward.

How can I improve workout performance on the waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower?

Begin each session with a gentle warm-up and focus on the rowing sequence: drive with the legs, swing the body, then draw the handle toward the lower ribs. Return in reverse order without rushing the recovery. Keep the handle level, maintain relaxed shoulders, and use consistent stroke timing. Use the digital monitor to compare pace, stroke rate, and distance across sessions, but prioritize smooth technique over increasing speed or resistance.

How do I fix a loose handle or unusual noise on the waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower?

Stop rowing and inspect the handle, pull strap, footrests, seat rollers, and visible frame fasteners. Tighten loose hardware only as directed by the assembly instructions, and do not continue if the strap is frayed or the frame is damaged. A light amount of normal movement may occur during operation, but scraping, grinding, or repeated knocking requires inspection of the rollers and rail. Contact qualified support if the noise remains after basic checks.

How often should I maintain the waterrower Original Series CityRow Connect Rower?

Wipe sweat from the frame, seat rail, handle, and tablet area after each workout, and periodically check bolts, footrests, rollers, and the pull strap. Keep the wooden components dry and avoid harsh cleaners. Inspect the tank water regularly; purification treatment is commonly renewed every three to six months, depending on light exposure and water clarity. Use treated municipal or distilled water, never well water, and keep the rower away from direct sunlight.