Things to Consider When Buying a Used Rowing Machine
A used model could give you years of service for a great price - or a real big headache that ends up costing you more than if you'd brought it from new. If you know what you're looking for, it's possible you may find a top model for much less than its brand new price tag.
You can sometimes get really lucky and find a used ex-gym model for a great price - and if they've been looked after and regularly serviced, they're a no-brainer.
But, on the other hand, it could be a machine which breaks down quickly and you're left with a piece of junk taking up space that is no use to you at all.
You can sometimes get really lucky and find a used ex-gym model for a great price - and if they've been looked after and regularly serviced, they're a no-brainer.
But, on the other hand, it could be a machine which breaks down quickly and you're left with a piece of junk taking up space that is no use to you at all.
The Pros and Cons of Buying Secondhand
Advantages of a Used Machine
One advantage working in your favor when looking for a used rowing machine, is the large number of people who buy home fitness equipment and then hardly use it! This explains the wide range of used fitness equipment available on sites like eBay. Someone with good intentions buys a machine, uses it for a week or two, gets fed up and then has to look at it taking up valuable space in their home - and feeling guilty they don't use it. So you could be doing them a big favor by taking it off their hands :0)
So you get a nearly new rowing machine for a fraction of the cost when it was new.
So you get a nearly new rowing machine for a fraction of the cost when it was new.
Disadvantages of Buying Pre-Owned
Of course there is the risk that you're buying a wreck. If you're buying online from a site like eBay you will have some protection. Check out the sellers score and returns policy and you should be safe. If you can try out the machine first this is better. Look for signs on hydraulic machines for oil leeks on the cylinders, (or I'd go as far as saying don't buy an hydraulic model second hand). Although if you really feel you have to have one, cylinders aren't expensive to replace but it is extra hassle that you could do without. If buying a water resistance rower check the seals on the tanks are tight, or for signs of a poor repair job.
We recommend buying a used air rower or magnetic because the mechanisms are less susceptible to wear and tear. Also look at the chain or straps attached to the handle for excessive wear. The state of the foot rests and straps will also give you an idea of how well the machine has been looked after. |
|
Other Considerations When Buying Used Fitness Equipment
If buying a used rower we recommend you buy a top model such as a Concept2, or with a reputation for durability such as the budget Kettlers. These machines were built to last and, if they've been looked after, will probably still have years left in them. Another consideration is spares. Buying a top model means you'll always be able to get replacement parts if necessary.
And don't be put off buying an ex-gym model as they would have been regularly serviced and looked after. If buying online, look closely at the seller's photographs for signs of misuse such as dents, chips or parts missing. Be wary of buying from a seller who uses a manufacturers photographs.
If buying direct, sit on the machine and wriggle your butt :0) Does the seat move sideways? It should feel stable and only move up and down the rail. Row for a few minutes and listen. Can you hear squeaks, grating or crunching sounds?
If you do, it may not have been looked after - see about maintenance here. If it's a hydraulic rower - see below - does the resistance suddenly change (become harder or easier) after 10 minutes. If so, the pistons will need changing.
If buying direct, sit on the machine and wriggle your butt :0) Does the seat move sideways? It should feel stable and only move up and down the rail. Row for a few minutes and listen. Can you hear squeaks, grating or crunching sounds?
If you do, it may not have been looked after - see about maintenance here. If it's a hydraulic rower - see below - does the resistance suddenly change (become harder or easier) after 10 minutes. If so, the pistons will need changing.
As mentioned above with buying online, check for chips in the frame or signs of a botched repair job. Has the machine been used on a mat?
A proper mat will have helped protect the machine from shocks and vibrations that may have weakened the moving parts. Is the machine stored or used in a room that doesn't suffer from condensation (causes rust) or outdoors (same reason) or in low temperatures (can cause cracks in the housings). In short, does it look like a machine that's been looked after/ lovingly cared for?
If you have any doubts about the machine walk away because there will be plenty more out there to choose from.
You are here: Home | Buying a Rowing Machine | Used Models
A proper mat will have helped protect the machine from shocks and vibrations that may have weakened the moving parts. Is the machine stored or used in a room that doesn't suffer from condensation (causes rust) or outdoors (same reason) or in low temperatures (can cause cracks in the housings). In short, does it look like a machine that's been looked after/ lovingly cared for?
If you have any doubts about the machine walk away because there will be plenty more out there to choose from.
You are here: Home | Buying a Rowing Machine | Used Models