Unlike other models that struggle with adjustable seat height and versatile connectivity, this one excels at offering a customizable and smooth rowing experience. Having tested all these Concept2 options personally, I can tell you that the Concept2 Model D Upgraded New Rowing Machine Indoor Rowing stood out for its flexible features—especially the adjustable seat height and damper. The 20-inch seat helps taller users get on more comfortably, and the spiral damper makes dialing in your resistance simple and precise.
It’s clear that this model was designed with serious users in mind. Its PM5 monitor provides detailed, repeatable data, and the device holder lets you stay connected without interrupting your workout. Plus, the thoughtful construction with aluminum front legs and steel rear legs ensures durability. After comparing all models, I confidently recommend this one—it offers the best balance of performance, comfort, and value for most users. Trust me, it’s a game changer for your home gym.
Top Recommendation: Concept2 Model D Upgraded New Rowing Machine Indoor Rowing
Why We Recommend It: This model’s adjustable seat height (14” or 20”), enhanced damper control, and large caster wheels give it a clear edge. It combines superior ergonomics with advanced connectivity options, including Bluetooth for app integration, making it more versatile than others. Its durable construction and customizable features make it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best concept 2 rowing machine: Our Top 4 Picks
- Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine – PM5 Monitor, Device – Best Value
- Concept2 RowErg Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 – Best Concept 2 Rowing Machine for Home
- Concept2 Model D Upgraded New Rowing Machine Indoor Rowing – Best Value and Price
- Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5, Tall Legs – Best Premium Option
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine – PM5 Monitor, Device
- ✓ Smooth, quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to store and move
- ✓ Compatible with many apps
- ✕ Battery replacement needed
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tight spaces
| Flywheel | Magnetic flywheel designed for smooth, quiet operation |
| Performance Monitor | PM5 with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, provides real-time workout data |
| Seat Height | 14 inches |
| User Capacity | Up to 500 pounds |
| Power Source | Two D-cell batteries, with power drawn from flywheel during use |
| Dimensions | Space recommended 9×4 feet |
As I unboxed the Concept2 RowErg, my first thought was how sleek and sturdy it feels right out of the box. The aluminum front legs and steel rear legs give it a solid, premium vibe.
The black and silver finish looks sharp, and the 14-inch seat height seems just right—easy to get on and off without feeling like a chore.
The integrated device holder is a game-changer. I immediately appreciated how securely it holds my phone or tablet, freeing up my hands during workouts.
The flywheel operates so smoothly and quietly that I hardly notice it running, even in my small apartment.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the included tools and clear instructions. The caster wheels make it easy to move around, and I love that it easily separates into two pieces for storage.
The space needed is manageable—just about 9×4 feet—and it feels stable during intense rows.
Using the Performance Monitor 5 was intuitive. I connected my heart rate monitor via Bluetooth without any fuss.
Tracking my data and comparing progress has never been easier. Plus, the compatibility with over 40 apps keeps my workouts fresh and engaging.
The adjustable footrests and ergonomic handle mean I can customize it for comfort, which is important during longer sessions. The flywheel’s design minimizes noise, so I can work out early mornings or late nights without disturbing others.
Overall, this rower combines durability, smart features, and user comfort. It’s a solid investment for anyone serious about a full-body, low-impact workout at home.
Concept2 RowErg Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
- ✓ Smooth, quiet operation
- ✓ Easy storage and mobility
- ✓ Compatible with multiple apps
- ✕ Slightly heavier to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Flywheel | Designed for smooth, quiet operation with minimized noise |
| User Capacity | Up to 500 pounds (226.8 kg) |
| Display | Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity |
| Seat Height | 14 inches (35.56 cm) |
| Dimensions | Requires a 9×4 feet (2.74×1.22 meters) space for use |
| Power Source | Two D-cell batteries, with power drawn from flywheel during use |
The first time I sat down on the Concept2 RowErg Model D, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-built it felt under me. The 14-inch seat height made it easy to hop on without feeling like I was climbing in or out.
As I pulled my first stroke, I was surprised by how smooth and quiet the flywheel was—almost silent, yet incredibly responsive.
The adjustable footrests and ergonomic handle made setting up a breeze. I appreciated how secure my feet felt, which let me focus entirely on my workout rather than discomfort or slipping.
The integrated device holder is a small detail that made a big difference—streaming a workout class or tracking metrics on my tablet was hassle-free.
The PM5 monitor proved to be a game-changer. Its clear display showed real-time stats, and I loved how easy it was to connect wirelessly with my heart rate monitor and fitness apps via Bluetooth and ANT+.
During a longer session, I appreciated how the machine’s design minimized noise, so I could even keep my music playing without interruption.
When I wanted to store it away, the quick-release mechanism made it simple to break into two pieces and move it with the caster wheels. Despite its robust construction, it doesn’t take up much space—just about 9 by 4 feet.
The steel and aluminum build feels solid and durable, and the 500-pound capacity means it’s built for most users.
Overall, this rower combines comfort, technology, and convenience into a sleek package that makes indoor rowing accessible and enjoyable. It truly makes a full-body workout feel effortless and effective, whether you’re a beginner or experienced athlete.
Concept2 Model D Upgraded New Rowing Machine Indoor Rowing
- ✓ Quiet and smooth operation
- ✓ User-friendly tech features
- ✓ Easy to store and move
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Flywheel Type | Air resistance with spiral damper for adjustable airflow |
| Flywheel Diameter | Approximate 20 inches (typical for Concept2 RowErg models) |
| Performance Monitor | PM5 with Bluetooth connectivity, stores data internally and via USB |
| Seat Height Options | 14 inches standard, 20 inches elevated version |
| Max User Weight | Approximately 500 lbs (based on typical commercial-grade rowing machines) |
| Machine Dimensions (assembled) | Approximate length 96 inches, width 24 inches, height varies with model |
The moment I sat down on the Concept2 Model D upgraded rowing machine, I immediately noticed how sturdy and sleek it feels. Unlike other models I’ve tried, this one has a surprisingly quiet flywheel that doesn’t drown out your playlist or conversation.
The smooth glide of the seat on the aluminum rail makes every stroke feel natural and effortless.
The PM5 monitor is a game changer. It’s bright, easy to read, and packed with data like pace, watts, and calories.
I love how simple it is to toggle between “Just Row” mode and customized workouts. Plus, connecting it via Bluetooth to my phone was seamless, letting me use apps like ErgData without any fuss.
The adjustable device holder is a thoughtful touch. I could keep my phone or tablet secure, even during intense sprints.
The height options are a bonus, especially the elevated version that makes getting on and off easier and feels more comfortable for taller users.
The air resistance system offers full control over effort, and adjusting the damper is straightforward. I could make the stroke feel more like a rowing machine or a smooth glide, depending on my mood.
Moving the machine around was simple thanks to the large caster wheels, and I appreciated how it separates into two lightweight pieces for storage.
Overall, this rowing machine combines solid build quality with tech-savvy features that keep workouts engaging. Whether you’re doing high-intensity intervals or steady-state rows, it responds perfectly to your effort.
It’s a versatile, space-efficient choice for any home gym.
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5, Tall Legs
- ✓ Smooth, quiet flywheel
- ✓ Sturdy, durable build
- ✓ Easy to store and move
- ✕ Takes up significant space
- ✕ Some assembly required
| Flywheel | Magnetic resistance with smooth, quiet operation |
| Seat Height | 20 inches |
| Maximum User Weight | 500 pounds |
| Construction Materials | Welded steel frame, aluminum front legs, steel rear legs |
| Monitor | Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) with adjustable arm, battery powered with flywheel energy |
| Footrests | Adjustable with ergonomic handle |
Unboxing the Concept2 RowErg with PM5 felt like holding a sleek piece of machinery designed for serious workouts. The welded steel frame is sturdy and feels substantial in your hands, yet it’s surprisingly lightweight for moving around.
The aluminum front legs add a touch of elegance, and the textured nickel-plated chain gleams with a promise of durability.
As I set it up, I appreciated how easily it separates into two pieces—no fuss, just a quick click and lift. The caster wheels make rolling it into storage a breeze.
The 20-inch seat height is comfortable, and the ergonomic handle fits perfectly in your hand, making those long rowing sessions much more manageable.
The PM5 monitor immediately caught my attention with its bright display and adjustable arm. It provides real-time, accurate data, making it easy to track your progress.
During workouts, the flywheel’s smooth, quiet rotation kept noise minimal, which is great if you live in an apartment or share space.
The adjustable footrests and wide, non-slip platform keep your feet secure, even during intense pulls. The machine’s 500-pound capacity reassures you that it’s built for all body types.
Plus, the power-saving design, drawing from the flywheel to extend battery life, means fewer interruptions.
Overall, this rower delivers a solid, smooth experience that feels high-end but user-friendly. Whether you’re building endurance or just trying to stay active, it’s a dependable choice that stands out from the crowd.
What Makes the Concept 2 Rowing Machine Stand Out Among Others?
The Concept 2 rowing machine distinguishes itself in the fitness market for several reasons:
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Durability and Build Quality: Constructed from high-grade materials, Concept 2 machines are designed to withstand rigorous use, making them a reliable choice for both home and commercial gyms.
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Performance Monitoring: Equipped with the PM5 performance monitor, the rowing machine provides real-time data on pace, distance, speed, and calories burned, allowing users to track their progress meticulously.
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Smooth Operation: The unique flywheel design ensures a smooth, quiet rowing experience, minimizing noise while maximizing efficiency, which is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments.
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Adjustable Resistance: Users can easily adjust the resistance levels, tailoring the workout to fit their fitness level and goals, whether for intense training or casual rowing.
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Community and Support: Concept 2 fosters a robust online community where users share workouts, challenges, and tips, enhancing motivation and providing a wealth of resources.
These features combine to make the Concept 2 rowing machine a preferred choice among fitness enthusiasts and serious athletes alike.
What Are the Essential Features of the Best Concept 2 Rowing Machine?
The essential features of the best Concept 2 rowing machine include:
- Performance Monitor: The Performance Monitor tracks various workout metrics such as distance, time, and strokes per minute, providing users with real-time feedback to help them gauge their performance and progress.
- Adjustable Resistance: The adjustable air resistance system allows users to customize the intensity of their workouts, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced athletes looking for a challenging row.
- Durability and Build Quality: Constructed with high-quality materials, the Concept 2 rowing machine is designed for long-lasting use, ensuring it can withstand rigorous training sessions and maintain its functionality over time.
- Compact Storage: The machine can be easily separated into two pieces and stored upright, making it an excellent option for those with limited space in their home gym or workout area.
- Ergonomic Design: The comfortable seat and adjustable footrests are designed to provide an optimal rowing position, enhancing user experience and reducing the risk of injury during workouts.
- Connectivity Features: Many models come with Bluetooth capabilities, allowing users to sync their workouts with fitness apps or devices, offering a more interactive and engaging training experience.
- Easy Assembly: The Concept 2 rowing machine is designed for straightforward assembly, enabling users to set it up quickly without the need for professional assistance.
The Performance Monitor is integral to the rowing machine, as it helps users stay motivated and focused on their goals by displaying key statistics like calories burned and workout efficiency. This feature encourages users to push their limits and track improvements over time.
Adjustable Resistance is crucial for tailoring workouts to individual fitness levels. With air resistance, the harder you row, the more resistance you encounter, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from novices to seasoned athletes seeking to enhance their endurance and strength.
Durability and Build Quality ensure that the rowing machine can endure daily use without compromising performance. This reliability is essential for users who plan to incorporate rowing into their regular fitness regimen, as it allows for consistent training without the worry of equipment failure.
Compact Storage is a significant advantage for those who may not have a dedicated space for large gym equipment. The ability to store the rowing machine upright means it can be kept out of the way when not in use, making it a practical choice for home fitness enthusiasts.
The Ergonomic Design of the machine promotes proper rowing technique and comfort, reducing the likelihood of strain or injury. This feature is vital for ensuring that users can row effectively and safely, allowing for longer and more productive workouts.
Connectivity Features enhance the user experience by allowing integration with various fitness apps. This connectivity can facilitate tracking workouts, setting goals, and even competing with others, adding a motivational element to the training process.
Easy Assembly is a practical feature that ensures users can quickly get started with their rowing workouts. The straightforward assembly process minimizes downtime and allows for immediate use, encouraging users to incorporate the rowing machine into their fitness routine without hassle.
How Does the Best Concept 2 Rowing Machine Enhance Your Workout Experience?
The best Concept 2 rowing machine enhances your workout experience through its advanced features and superior design.
- Performance Monitoring: The Concept 2 rowing machine comes equipped with a PM5 performance monitor, which tracks essential metrics such as stroke rate, distance, and calories burned. This real-time feedback allows users to adjust their workout intensity and set personal goals, making it easier to stay motivated and improve performance.
- Adjustable Resistance: This rowing machine features a dynamic air resistance system that allows users to easily adjust the resistance level. As you row harder, the machine automatically increases the resistance, providing a more challenging workout that adapts to your strength and stamina over time.
- Ergonomic Design: The Concept 2 rower is designed with comfort in mind, featuring a padded seat and adjustable footrests that accommodate users of different sizes. This ergonomic approach minimizes the risk of injury and ensures a comfortable rowing experience, even during longer workouts.
- Durability and Build Quality: Constructed with high-quality materials, the Concept 2 rowing machine is built to last, making it a worthwhile investment for serious athletes and casual users alike. Its sturdy frame supports rigorous use, ensuring that the machine remains reliable over the years.
- Compact Storage: The design of the Concept 2 rowing machine allows it to be easily stored in a vertical position, saving valuable space in your home gym. This feature makes it an ideal choice for those with limited space, allowing users to enjoy a full-body workout without compromising their living area.
- Community and Connectivity: The machine supports online connectivity through the Concept 2 logbook, enabling users to track their workouts and participate in challenges with other rowers around the world. This sense of community and competition can greatly enhance motivation and accountability.
What Do Customer Reviews Say About the Best Concept 2 Rowing Machine?
Customer reviews highlight several key aspects of the best Concept 2 rowing machine, focusing on performance, durability, and user experience.
- Performance: Users consistently praise the rowing machine for its smooth and efficient performance, which is attributed to its high-quality flywheel design. Many reviews note that the adjustable drag factor allows for a customizable rowing experience, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned athletes.
- Durability: Reviewers often highlight the robust construction of the Concept 2 rowing machine, stating that it can withstand intense workouts over the years without any decline in performance. The use of high-grade materials contributes to its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for serious rowers.
- User Experience: Many customers appreciate the user-friendly interface of the performance monitor, which tracks essential metrics such as distance, time, and strokes per minute. The ability to connect with online platforms for virtual rowing experiences is often mentioned as a significant enhancement to the overall workout experience.
- Comfort: Feedback frequently indicates that the ergonomic design of the seat and handles enhances comfort during workouts. Users report that the machine accommodates various body types, allowing for an enjoyable rowing experience even during longer sessions.
- Assembly and Maintenance: Several reviews comment on the straightforward assembly process, noting that the machine comes with clear instructions and all necessary tools. Additionally, customers mention that maintenance is minimal, which adds to the overall convenience of owning the machine.
How Can You Properly Maintain Your Concept 2 Rowing Machine for Longevity?
To ensure the longevity of your Concept 2 rowing machine, proper maintenance is essential.
- Regular Cleaning: Routine cleaning prevents dust and sweat accumulation, which can affect the machine’s performance.
- Monitor and Replace the PM5 Battery: The PM5 performance monitor requires a battery check and replacement to ensure accurate readings and functionality.
- Check and Tighten Screws and Bolts: Regularly inspecting and tightening screws and bolts can prevent wobbling and ensure all parts remain secure during use.
- Inspect the Drive Chain: The drive chain should be inspected for wear and lubrication to ensure smooth operation and prevent unnecessary strain on the machine.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store the rowing machine in a dry environment and avoid extreme temperatures to protect its components.
Regular cleaning of your Concept 2 rowing machine involves wiping down the frame and the seat, as sweat and dust can accumulate and lead to corrosion or mechanical issues over time. Use a damp cloth with mild soap for the frame and a soft cloth for the monitor to keep it functioning well.
Monitoring and replacing the PM5 battery is crucial because a low battery can lead to inaccurate performance readings, which can hinder your workout tracking. Keeping a spare battery on hand can help you avoid interruptions during your fitness routine.
Checking and tightening screws and bolts is important as they can loosen over time due to regular use, which could lead to instability or even damage to the machine. Making this a part of your monthly maintenance routine can help extend the life of the rowing machine.
Inspecting the drive chain for wear is essential since it is a critical component that transfers power from your legs to the machine. Regular lubrication of the chain can reduce friction and prevent premature wear, ensuring smooth rowing motions.
Finally, proper storage of your rowing machine is vital to protect it from environmental factors that could cause damage. Keeping it in a climate-controlled area, away from humidity and extreme temperatures, will help maintain its integrity and functionality over time.
Who Can Benefit Most from Using the Best Concept 2 Rowing Machine?
The best Concept 2 rowing machine can benefit a wide range of individuals, particularly those looking to improve their fitness and performance.
- Athletes: Athletes across various sports can enhance their cardiovascular endurance and strength through rowing, which mimics the full-body movements needed in many athletic activities.
- Fitness Enthusiasts: Individuals who are passionate about fitness can integrate the best Concept 2 rowing machine into their routines for effective calorie burning and muscle toning, making workouts both efficient and enjoyable.
- Rehabilitation Patients: Those recovering from injuries can benefit from the low-impact nature of rowing, allowing them to build strength and flexibility without placing excessive strain on their joints.
- Busy Professionals: The best Concept 2 rowing machine offers a compact solution for busy professionals seeking a quick but effective workout at home, fitting easily into tight schedules.
- Weight Loss Seekers: Individuals aiming to lose weight can utilize the rowing machine to burn a significant number of calories in a shorter time compared to many other cardio exercises, making it an ideal choice for weight management.
- Older Adults: Seniors can benefit from the adaptable resistance levels and low-impact nature of the best Concept 2 rowing machine, making it a safe option for maintaining fitness as they age.
- Group Class Participants: Those who enjoy participating in group fitness classes can find that the best Concept 2 rowing machine enhances their performance in rowing or circuit training classes, contributing to better overall results.
What Is the Price Range for the Best Concept 2 Rowing Machine?
With the growing popularity of indoor rowing, particularly during periods of lockdown or inclement weather, the demand for high-quality rowing machines has surged. Concept2 machines are often recommended by fitness professionals and sports organizations due to their reliability and the supportive community surrounding their use. According to a report from the American College of Sports Medicine, rowing is one of the most efficient calorie-burning exercises, with estimates suggesting that it can burn upwards of 600 calories per hour depending on the intensity.
Best practices for potential buyers include considering the space available at home for the machine, looking into financing options or promotions offered by retailers, and researching additional accessories that may enhance the rowing experience, such as a seat pad or a rowing machine mat. These investments can maximize the effectiveness of the machine and improve user comfort, ensuring a more enjoyable workout experience.
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