Price: $129
Weight: 1.4 lbs (0.57kg)
Dimensions: 5.6″ x 3.6″ x 1.85″ (14.2cm x 9.1cm x 4.7cm)
# of Massage Heads: 4, including: Soft Head, Dual Head, Spike and Flat Head
Speeds: 4 speeds (1800 RPM, 2200 RPM, 2600 RPM, 3200 RPM)
Battery Life: (7+ hrs) with a 15-minute self-timing shutoff
Sound: 40 decibel
Materials: Aircraft grade anodized aluminum body
Colors: Carbon Black, Ruby Red, Champagne Gold, and Mint Green
Availability: Online and retail
How Obtained: Company sample
RBR Advertiser: No
Enhance Recovery Anywhere, Any Time
Last month Roll Recovery announced its first foray into the percussion massage device market. I’ve reviewed other products from the company and looked forward to testing the R1. I found it ideal for cyclist as it’s easily portable, has a long battery life, and is affordable.
The R1 is recommended for use as part of a pre-workout routine to increase range of motion and flexibility. The company also states it also enhances neuromuscular performance. As a post-workout tool, the R1 is similar to a foam roller as it improves blood flow, loosens stiff muscles, reduces localized muscle pain, and prevents delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
I use the R1 after rides, especially on my IT band, keeping it handy when watching TV to work sore or tight muscles. Its lightweight, compact design lets me hit even some back muscles.
Multiple Heads and Speeds for a Custom Massage
The R1 comes standard with four interchangeable massage heads, including soft, dual, spike, and flat heads, allowing you to dial in what works best for various muscle groups. You can set the percussion speed, too, with four settings from 1800 to 3200 RPMs. Experimenting with the different heads and speeds provides the desired intensity to relieve muscle tension and soreness.
Also included in the box is a cloth travel/storage bag for your R1. At only 1.4 pounds, its lightweight and compact size make it perfect for taking with you on a weekend or a long cycling tour.
The R1 comes in four colors to match your personality: carbon black, ruby red, champagne gold, and mint green. It is also quiet and, according to the company, holds a charge for over 7 hours. I think it is well over 7 hours as I’m still on my first charge.
Bottom Line
Roll Recover has another winner on its hands when it comes to recovery products. The new R1 Percussion Massage Device is excellent at relieving sore or tight muscles. According to the company, the R1’s percussive therapy features also help calm the nervous system and improve sleep quality, thus furthering tissue repair.
It’s the first time I’ve tried a percussion gun, and I’m adding the R1 to my packing list for the next bike vacation and leaving the foam roller at home.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
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