Concept2 Model E Review

Update: September 2021: Due to the ongoing Covid-19 situation, the price of this popular machine has caused the price to treble (note, as good as it is, it's seriously not worth this much!!). A good alternative is the Sole SR500. If you can go the extra mile with your budget, the Hydrow Reality Rower is one a whole new level, or for around $800, the Xebex Air is another option.

The Concept2 is the first choice for many serious rowers and rowing clubs for indoor and out of season training. It's been around for years now setting the benchmark for other manufacturers to follow.

The Model E is around $200 more than the model D, but what extra do you get, and is it worth it. Well yes and no. The E is definitely sturdier with its welded steel frame so will suit the bigger rower. The seat sits a good six inches higher so will be easier to get on and off for the taller person - but once on it there's little difference. The nickel coated chain on the Model E means it's more resistant to corrosion and therefore will need less maintenance - but this takes very little time anyway so won't make much difference.

So if you're on the large side, tall or will be giving your rowing machine some serious stick then perhaps the Model E is for you, otherwise the D will give you almost as much - for less.

If you're unsure which model is for you, check our quick guide to the Model D vs Model E

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The Console/ Monitor
The monitor that comes as standard with the Concept2 E is the PM5. The LCD screen is functional if not fancy and shows everything you need to know about your workout, including strokes per minute, distance rowed, calories and session time etc. You can select the format of the display to suit the type of workout you're doing.

The PM5 contains with three games that help to bring some competition to your training - these aren't to everyone's taste so you can take them or leave them. A popular program is the 'race boat'.

With this option you can compete against another rower (shown on screen) and either set the pace or race against one of your previous sessions - nothing like losing against your past self to get you motivated!

The PM5 is compatible with the wireless Garmin heart rate monitor and comes with a chest strap. This means you can train in your optimum heart rate zone for maximum benefits. It can also be used with Polar heart monitors but you need to purchase an additional receiver first.

Also well worth considering is the Slide accessory to give you the sensation of rowing on water. You place the machine on the slides and as you pull you slide back as if you were on water - neat!

Summary:
The Concept2 E is sturdy model that will last for years with very little maintenance. It's a great machine to use, comfortable, and particularly good if you're tall or well-built. Ask any serious rower and they'll tell you that a Concept2 most closely resembles to feel of rowing on water. This isn't necessarily vital if you just want to get fit, but if you're considering taking up rowing as a sport, this might be a deciding factor.

UPDATE: Now available with the new all-singing and dance PM5 performance monitor. The PM5 has even easier to use features, including a USB socket to download data to your PC. And now you can compete online against other Concept2 rowers using the software.

Concept2 Model E: Rating 9.0/10 9.0 Stars

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We Like...

The very smooth action.
The padded seat and height.
It's durability and reliability - it will last for years!
The shape of the handle is easy on your hands.
Console displays more information than you'll ever need.
The higher rowing position.
Your performance can be stored on a PC - plus online options.

We Don't Like...

The flywheel is noisy in a confined space.
And that's it - there's really nothing else to not like about this one :0)

Technical specification:

Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Machine weight:
Storage space:

Air / flywheel
500 lbs
95" x 24" x 30"
65 lbs
27" x 47" x 54.5" (h)

Warranty:
5 Years on frame.
2 Years on moving parts and console.

QUICK REFERENCE

The Concept2 Model E rowing machine side view in silver

The Concept2 Model E Rower

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Good, supportive seat

The all-new PM5 monitor

Folds but due to its size it takes up room

Also worth a look:
For a few hundred dollars less, you might consider the Concept2 Model D, or you may want to take a look at the LifeSpan RW7000 or the exciting monster machine known as the Assault AirRower . Or you may want to check out the BodyCraft VR500 if you love pre-set programs and gadgets!

Concept2 (E) owner's reviews

"I tried both the Concept2 models and chose the model (E) as I'm tall and like the higher seat position. I owned a cheaper machine for nearly 18 months and decided I wanted to row more and my old rower couldn't handle it. This is a tough mother of a machine and easily handles my weight." Giuseppe (had Model E for nearly a year)

"Brilliant! Brilliant! And did I mention it is brilliant!" Kellie (one satisfied user - 1 year)

"As a rower I've used a Model E at my club for years and decided to get one for my home. I don't care what anyone says about the other top-rated machines, this one feels like the real thing and I wouldn't consider buying anything else." Tim J. (users f many years)

"Why would you buy anything else? My fitness club has used Concept2 for ever since I can remember so when I decided to get one for the home the choice was a no-brainer. Had it now for seven months and even with daily usage it's still as good as now." Viv P.

Please tell us what you think:-

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