I've had a Concept 2 Model C since 1993! It's still going strong nearly 30 years later! I upgraded the handle with the newer design when the Model D was introduced many years ago, but that's about it. They are built to last! It gets regular use still looks brand new.
I'm currently rebuilding a model C and doing a lot of cross referencing with the D and E, keep the C. the other models have been lightened in many ways.
Arrived as expected with all parts intact, also included two hex keys for assembly. ruclips.net/user/postUgkxwOUUBdw8-88Iu4QnQS7q6b2NwZkHiYVl Had to adjust mine slightly to fit my bike, this was easy enough with instructions. I bought it to train with my track bike and found it to have resistance similar to climbing a slight gradient. Takes a while to learn to balance but there is plenty of guidance to help on the internet. Edit: There was more resistance at lower speeds because of the number of contact points but at higher speeds it is much easier as you don’t have to contend with drag.
C2 Rowergs cost over a thousand pounds in the UK, which is generally the case for our consumer goods: a £ Sterling for a US dollar. However, I've done 20 million metres on mine, and it's going as well as the day I bought it nine years ago. They do indeed hold their resale value - about 90-95% of the price for a new one. I'll resell mine to pay for my funeral in maybe half a century's time: longer than that if I keep rowing 🖖🤓. It's the best expensive fitness investment there is, and if one starts a C2 logbook, there's no way out of that particular addiction save death...and this is another good thing about Concept 2: they send you free stuff every 5 million metres - t-shirts for 5 and 15, a sweatshirt for 10, and a sports bag for 20, as well as pin badges each time. 👍 I did my first million or so metres on various gym rowergs, and decided to buy one once I'd realised I could commit to using it a lot, and doing the online challenges. I used to do a lot of road running and racing, but quit that after I started losing strength and speed in my 40s, so indoor rowing has replaced that as my main sport. The rowerg doesn't train all one's muscles, though: I do bench presses, press-ups, dips and various pull-ups, chin-ups and muscle-ups to fill in the gaps.
I saw a nearly brand new Black C2 with new Rowerg lettering going for £150 on Facebook marketplace. Usually older people will buy them, use them once and sell at huge loss. Keep an eye out
I on my fourth Concept 2. Not because I've ever had a single problem but when I get short of cash, I sell it and then buy another one when I'm flush again. Resale prices mean it's way less than borrowing money! 😁
Concept 2 have a great online community and online tables, you can measure your performance against rowers around the world at various distances, times etc. That is a great motivator.
I got an older model Concept2 (with the PM2 computer), essentially the same as the newer models, for just over $400 off of Craigslist. If you want a Concept2 for a lower price, just wait it out.
I got same for $500. Guy had it in attic, stopped using it. Only had 3 logged workouts on it....my dad has the original PM1 with wooden handle, that was in our house for my childhood and he still does his daily 8K meters on it.
For some, the cheaper entry point will allow you to workout in a way you couldn't otherwise. For others, getting cheaper equipment isn't as thrilling or exciting if you're just trying to fill a void, and you may not be as excited use it. Spending more on something might also cause one to use it more just to get the value from it, which could lead to healthier habits moving forward. While motivation to work out and all that stuff should come first of course, I think knowing yourself in what else is effective is necessary, too.
You get what you pay for. Support the companies that actually designed and built a reputation for quality like Concept 2. Some things are worth saving/waiting for.
@@guitarsandcars2586 normal is very subjective. it wouldn't be the best selling most recommended rower if people weren't buying it.There are plenty of normal people that are just more committed to quality than you for example.
I have a similar China sourced rower. You won't be able to replace the stock monitor with a PM5 since the connector's different. The China monitor also counts calories and distance wrong since it just takes the strokes and multiples it to get calories (strokes X 2) and distance (stroke X 4 or 5). The sensor coil is completely missing from the China one.
I bought an airgo 8.0 for $650 out the door brand new and it is just like this model. the plastic rollers and the foot beds are a little lower quality. the monitor is pretty good it has bluetooth for heart rate and tracks everything the concept 2 does. In 6 weeks I have fallen in love w/ this machine and what it does 2 my body! My next rower will be a concept 2 but would recommend the airgo 8.0 for the price.
Concept2 ergs aren’t even that expensive compared to other gym equipment. If they were like 5k and the knock-offs $500, I’d understand. But it’s not worth buying a fake one to save a couple hundred bucks. The authentic ones last decades. Your grandkids might be able to use it. And it’s a standardized piece of equipment. People use them for challenges and even indoor rowing competitions.
I live near China and the original Concept2 with shipping is nearly 6 times the cost compared to the locally-made knockoffs. $250 vs $1.4k. That's more than a grand I save in a place where a grand goes very, very far. I figure if I use this enough to break it, I will be able to justify spending the money on the good stuff.
@@Kendharma I’ve got a Series A, everything is original aside from the monitor - the old one died from battery corrosion. Made in 1984 and used it today!
@@dinhdatVN I bought mine in China on the second hand market for 6000 RMB in pristine condition, instead of 8500 for a new one. Prior to that I bought one of those many knock offs of Waterrower, but the monitor was horrible so I decided to invest in the real stuff. Besides their sturdiness, Concept2 rowers will always beat their knockoffs thanks to their monitor and the ecosystem of apps that are compatible with them.
it's a neat idea--but I think someone would be a fool to buy this (new). They are saving less than 400 bucks on something that ideally should last for years--but the murtisol will likely have random pieces on it wear out and break every few months, while the C2 is basically good as new many years later. I bought my c2 new 11 years ago, but would have no problem buying used if it looks like it is coming from a private residence. I'd be hesitant to drive far to buy one from a gym or someone that was using them for crossfit b/c those ergs are more likely to have a slightly 'ragged out' feel to them (stretched chain). But if a person is really handy with replacing parts, they should consider any fairly new model C2, imo.
You can buy two of these for the price of a concept2, but parts were breaking on this during the video. I think you'll end up buying ten if these in the lifetime of a concept2.
@@deadapostle in China, far from Concept2 manufacturer's site, they are selling these knockoffs for $250 shipped, whereas the Concept2 is $1400 shipped. Crazy I know. I know C2 is better, but are they 6 times better? IMO This is an execellent way to try out rowing, like I intend to do.
@@dinhdatVN it depends on frequency of breakage and the 'feel' of the knockoff. It's likely that the c2 is 10x better b/c the C2 takes a beating with basically nothing breaking. Someone really powerful (maybe pulling like sub 1:40 for 500m) might stretch the chain a tad after a few years, but I'm not even certain about that.
as a rower. I only will used concept 2 equipment or nordic track if erging solo. Having a monitor that is interactive is super helpful for me maybe its just my adhd or whatever but Nordic track and concept 2 is all you need. Much love
Purchased a Row Warrior that is another Concept 2 rower clone. Looks great but that’s about it. Unless my unit is defective, there’s zero discernible difference in resistance/tension between levels 1-10. Returned it and ponied up for a Concept 2.
I've had my model D since 2013. Just under 16 million meters and counting. The only "maintenance" is an occasional oiling of the chain. Otherwise it's by far the best $899 I ever spent. I've bought a lot of bicycles, but this is my solid go-to. Go to your local gym, try out a Concept 2, then spend the money and treat your body right. Happy rowing.
I have the Murtisol I bought cheap on OfferUp. It was almost new, but Had to replace the footrests and straps from Concept as the old ones cracked after a month of use. The computer only registers about half of the distance, so that was pain to figure out. It does the job though.
Usually people don't use their home gym equipment enough to break it if it is reasonably built unless it is their one piece of kit. My next pickup is going to be a rower but I doubt I'll log more than couple hours a week on it. For now a cheap belt driven bike is meeting my cardio needs and the rower will just supplement my cardio rotation and HIIT work.
@@apeekintime yeah bro im rocking an " dp airgometer" fan bike i picked up on fb market place for $10...works fine...does what it supposed to do lmao. hell my entire gym which includes a 350lb high/low tower, smith machine with high/low pully, bench press with hig/low pully, treadmill, fan bike, rower cost me less than $300. picked up 2 sets of 310lb bar/plate sets from dicks for $250 each...so all that equipment and 500lbs of plates and 2 bars for under $800...
We had a Concept 2 a long time ago. The resale value is so high that after selling it, I had basically rented it for a couple hundred dollars. Investing in the Concept 2 is the way to go. If you ever sell it, you’ll have spent less money on a net basis than you would have otherwise spent if you bought the knock off and tried to resell that.
The overview of build quality, replacement parts, etc. was good but with the other major differentiator being the display, more in depth compassion/visual examples here would have been beneficial.
Leave the handle on the rest holder and you stretch the shock chord cutting the life of the shock chord considerably. Always return the handle to the monitor stand when not in use. The erg will maintain its original feel much longer.
This is some internet myth repeated BS nonsense. I've seen rowing team C2's with 20 million plus meters on the original shock cords and they still return all the way to the chain guard just fine after the handles were always put in the rest hook. Plus shock cords are a whopping 12 bucks from Concept and take 15 minutes to replace...
As someone who has rowed for over 4 decades and rowed on C2 ergs for nearly as long this is not only an internet myth but is a deeply ingrained concept in the rowing community. It is a rule that the handle needs to be returned to the monitor stand after every row at nearly every boat house and rowing program. Anecdotally I can say that as a former rowing coach in a High School program that received many donated machines the handles that were stored in the rest holder usually needed a shock chord replacement. Again anecdotally my local gym purchases a C2 erg every few years. The members return the handle to the rest holder only; on a new erg in a matter of months the erg begins to loose resistance at the start of the drive.
@@avinashtyagi2 if you got it as a gift thats a different story but personally saving i would wait an extra few months..... im currently saving up for mag grips in the UK the set of 7 is £850 but can get ones simular on amazon for £199 but want the proper ones its annoying just a mind thing I suppose
You should do another video of the copy rower after 6-8 months of use. I bet that is when you really see the difference and the value of a Concept2 rower.
I have the cheap rower a yr now and it's still working great! My only annoyance is the monitor. If anyone could figure out how to stick the concept monitor on one of these that would be incredible
I have been servicing gym equipment for over 13+ yrs and have come across some original bone stock Concept 2 rowers from 1998/2003 with original/chains/bearings and everything untouched aside from batteries in the console👌👌
I don't think the comparison should be this versus a C2. It is this versus whatever else you can get for the same money. And it sounds like this one may hold its own pretty well at that price point.
$538? The Concept 2 is $900. I can't imagine anyone wanting to buy the inferior one. The C2 also now syncs with bluetooth to your phone so you always have a log of your workouts with a lot of very accurate data. I guess you could buy the PM5 computer, but that's $160. At that point it's a $200 difference between both and one has cheap plastic rollers and inferior rope, inferior everything, including resale. It absolutely makes no sense to go any way except C2. If you can't afford it, wait.
Ordered a concept 2 today because I want the real thing! I have had two cheap rowers and NEITHER were as good as a C2. My opinion is the C2 is a better machine that ANY rower on the market and if you are going to row with serious dedication--get the best machine. I have seen C2s at the gym get used, abused, and even misused and they keep on going. Other than being on the water the fricking thing is perfect!
I bought a knockoff concept2 from a local fitness equipment liquidator about a year ago when stuff was harder to find. It was branded as their house rower. The main difference (compared to C2) that made me return it was that it didnt read distance while "coasting" it only recorded distance of the pull. Curious if the model you reviewed had the same issue... Im assuming these clones are made in the same factory as each other and just rebranded differently.
Not great, the wiring doesn’t just plug in.., so I had to order a new generator and it still doesn’t communicate with the monitor… may have to get a new flywheel too… so yeah, I wouldn’t recommend it
The Concept 2 is one of the best values I’ve ever seen especially in fitness equipment most of which seems generally overpriced to me. It’s so well designed and constructed it could literally last a lifetime. For all that I have to add Concept 2 customer service is unquestionably the best I’ve ever dealt with. Real humans answer the phones and connect you with other real humans that actually understand problems because the product has been around so long they’ve seen everything. They have a record of my purchase and my name and can reference any thing that has happened previously, it’s like they actually know me when I talk to them. Finally their monitor also seems the best of the several I’ve seen, the basic stuff is accurate, easy to access and synchs easily with an online logbook to monitor everything. Pretty high on the list of best money I’ve ever spent
Row Warrior rowing machine is awesome alternative to concept 2 and price is about $660 so why pay more ??? It a Texas Startup and they have 5 years support including parts replacement. Their customer support is also really good. Highly suggest Row Warrior Rowing Machine if you cannot afford concept 2
Hi .. I just wanna ask one thing .. can I place a pm5 monitor on this .. ? I have a copy like this and I want to place a pm5 monitor on this ??? Please reply ??
Plasticologist - LOL! As the saying goes, you get what you pay for and cutting corners usually comes back to bite you in the butt! Thanks for demonstrating the risks with considering the knockoffs.
I have one of these beasties and it was a decent rower while I had a membership/subscription. Usability is very limited without an ongoing subscription
the problem is not in cheap plastic, or rather not only in it! the flywheel is made of plastic, while in the original it is made of metal. because of this difference in weight. also because of the plastic flywheel, there is no resistance when rowing
Can you see any reason why the knockoff version has a max user weight of 330 and the C2 is 500? There’s a knockoff version on marketplace in my area and I’m considering it if it’s an exact clone. The plastic he said in the video shouldn’t have anything to do with the weight bearing
This is one instance in which I definitely would not buy the cheap knock-off. Just my opinion, and of course everyone has their own. I would definitely have less motivation to do cardio if using a cheap knock-off, and I hate cardio, so I need all of the motivation I can get there lol
It's hard to pass up on something so proven as the C2 rower. What is such a high level of known durability, community, and trust worth? I'm sure more than the difference in price even for the casual rower. While it's good to have this information and "debate" I really don't feel this is even close. This is true for so many things in life but rarely is it this obvious when you have so many high level people using for so long. I have had a C2 Rowerg for just under a year but was inspired to buy because my aunt has one that feels just as good but has to be around 20 years old. I don't even want to go down the path of the concept of trying to support the most local company which this country has forgotten but will probably be forced to remember when we realize that putting our reliance on some foreign entities wasn't a good idea. Amazon doesn't care about that, though.
Once I bought and tested fake fleshlight...long story short...got a rash, ER visit..but they managed to save my 'best friend'...My advice just get the real thing :)
you can buy 2 of these for the price of 1 c2 rower - and the single c2 will still outlast both of them. Plastic handles break, footrest mounts break, consoles break - and c2 offers all their parts at very reasonable prices and are always available. If its going to end up a clothes hanger - great go for it, save your money. but if you know you are going to use it...just get the c2. and if you end up not using it, you'll get a great price for it used still. The PM5 monitor will NOT work on the knockoff. Did you compare the quality of the axle and bearings on the flywheel? the sprocket hardness/durability? no...you didn't. this comparison video barely scratches the surface.
This came right right before I was heading to pickup a used model D for about $750, not an amazing deal but seems like would equal buying the knock off plus having to buy a couple things in a month or two that broke.
Barbells... Vast majority of us do not need and will not notice the difference between the best of the best Rogue and Eleiko barbells and a lower tier barbell company like Bear or whatever. That doesn't mean you should buy a cheap knockoff, because a good barbell is the most important part of a home gym, it simply means that your money is better off getting a more economic bar.
How is it possible to copy exactly the C2 without getting charged by C2? Why do they have no copyright or something like that?! Is it just because they don´t call it the same and named it Murtisol and use an other monitor?!
The monitor is soooo bad, I just got one and totally hate it. ESP if you used to the concept 2 UI,, 1 Thing that totally a deal breaker to me that I wouldn’t recommended it to those who is a serious workout people is that it was too light even at its Lt 10. Dampener, and the flywheel stop way too slow, it’s hard to do a repetitive hard pull, ..ps I got mine for just under $300 shipped, it was 1/6th of C2 price in Thailand, FYI C2 is $1700 +shipped and Thai minimum wages is around $9 a day 🎉
Do you think an concept 2 controller would work on one these overseas units? I have an opportunity to pick a friends unit up extremally cheap. It is an Amazon that looks exactly the same as the one you demonstrated in the video, but a different brand, The unit was hardly used, and they are moving to small place and want to dump it. I would like to buy it, and then install Concept 2 controller on it if possible. Just want to know if you think it is actually possible to that without serious modifications. Thank you in advance.
I always wondered which sport you can improve on using these things. I am a gymrat, I personally never liked rowers. I rather watch youtube on a croastrainer. Or even go outside for a bike ride as cardio
Without getting into the details of the deficiencies of the monitor this review isn't much of a review. Does the monitor support BT and ANT+ connections? Can it record .FIT files? Does it have removable memory? Are there any mobile software programs for it? Does it synch with Garmin or Strava? Do you even know if the C2 monitor would be compatible with the hardware? This is a HUGE pass based on the hardware but the software side is probably an even bigger fail.
I've had a Concept 2 Model C since 1993! It's still going strong nearly 30 years later! I upgraded the handle with the newer design when the Model D was introduced many years ago, but that's about it. They are built to last! It gets regular use still looks brand new.
I'm currently rebuilding a model C and doing a lot of cross referencing with the D and E, keep the C. the other models have been lightened in many ways.
Arrived as expected with all parts intact, also included two hex keys for assembly. ruclips.net/user/postUgkxwOUUBdw8-88Iu4QnQS7q6b2NwZkHiYVl Had to adjust mine slightly to fit my bike, this was easy enough with instructions. I bought it to train with my track bike and found it to have resistance similar to climbing a slight gradient. Takes a while to learn to balance but there is plenty of guidance to help on the internet. Edit: There was more resistance at lower speeds because of the number of contact points but at higher speeds it is much easier as you don’t have to contend with drag.
C2 Rowergs cost over a thousand pounds in the UK, which is generally the case for our consumer goods: a £ Sterling for a US dollar. However, I've done 20 million metres on mine, and it's going as well as the day I bought it nine years ago. They do indeed hold their resale value - about 90-95% of the price for a new one. I'll resell mine to pay for my funeral in maybe half a century's time: longer than that if I keep rowing 🖖🤓. It's the best expensive fitness investment there is, and if one starts a C2 logbook, there's no way out of that particular addiction save death...and this is another good thing about Concept 2: they send you free stuff every 5 million metres - t-shirts for 5 and 15, a sweatshirt for 10, and a sports bag for 20, as well as pin badges each time. 👍
I did my first million or so metres on various gym rowergs, and decided to buy one once I'd realised I could commit to using it a lot, and doing the online challenges. I used to do a lot of road running and racing, but quit that after I started losing strength and speed in my 40s, so indoor rowing has replaced that as my main sport. The rowerg doesn't train all one's muscles, though: I do bench presses, press-ups, dips and various pull-ups, chin-ups and muscle-ups to fill in the gaps.
860 pounds in UK
I saw a nearly brand new Black C2 with new Rowerg lettering going for £150 on Facebook marketplace. Usually older people will buy them, use them once and sell at huge loss. Keep an eye out
I on my fourth Concept 2. Not because I've ever had a single problem but when I get short of cash, I sell it and then buy another one when I'm flush again. Resale prices mean it's way less than borrowing money! 😁
Concept 2 have a great online community and online tables, you can measure your performance against rowers around the world at various distances, times etc. That is a great motivator.
I got an older model Concept2 (with the PM2 computer), essentially the same as the newer models, for just over $400 off of Craigslist. If you want a Concept2 for a lower price, just wait it out.
Just checked Craigslist in my area and found one for $499.
In my area the best price I have found for a used model (and it looked WELL used or had been left outside) was $800.
@@apeekintime Yeah for sure, you have to get lucky, but you *can* find one.
Yeah if you’ve got a model C, you can always upgrade the monitor very easily to a pm5
I got same for $500. Guy had it in attic, stopped using it. Only had 3 logged workouts on it....my dad has the original PM1 with wooden handle, that was in our house for my childhood and he still does his daily 8K meters on it.
For some, the cheaper entry point will allow you to workout in a way you couldn't otherwise. For others, getting cheaper equipment isn't as thrilling or exciting if you're just trying to fill a void, and you may not be as excited use it. Spending more on something might also cause one to use it more just to get the value from it, which could lead to healthier habits moving forward.
While motivation to work out and all that stuff should come first of course, I think knowing yourself in what else is effective is necessary, too.
You get what you pay for.
Support the companies that actually designed and built a reputation for quality like Concept 2.
Some things are worth saving/waiting for.
Yeah but no normal person wants to pay 1000 + dollars for a damn exercise machine. Plenty of machines for less than a thousand that are just as good.
@@guitarsandcars2586 normal is very subjective. it wouldn't be the best selling most recommended rower if people weren't buying it.There are plenty of normal people that are just more committed to quality than you for example.
I have a similar China sourced rower. You won't be able to replace the stock monitor with a PM5 since the connector's different. The China monitor also counts calories and distance wrong since it just takes the strokes and multiples it to get calories (strokes X 2) and distance (stroke X 4 or 5). The sensor coil is completely missing from the China one.
And does your damper do anything? I change the resistance on mine and feel nothing. Only difference is that the meters go up slower
@@davidprendergast7697 makes the workout harder for sure (how it feels) but I don’t notice anything different about the calories or distance.
What if you replace the power generator too?
Concept2 Rowers are the gold standard in the indoor rowing community. Good review.
I bought an airgo 8.0 for $650 out the door brand new and it is just like this model. the plastic rollers and the foot beds are a little lower quality. the monitor is pretty good it has bluetooth for heart rate and tracks everything the concept 2 does. In 6 weeks I have fallen in love w/ this machine and what it does 2 my body! My next rower will be a concept 2 but would recommend the airgo 8.0 for the price.
I find if I wipe down aluminum rail for seat after workout and take a microfiber towel 2 the roller and keep roller clean the seat moves pretty good.
Concept2 ergs aren’t even that expensive compared to other gym equipment. If they were like 5k and the knock-offs $500, I’d understand. But it’s not worth buying a fake one to save a couple hundred bucks. The authentic ones last decades. Your grandkids might be able to use it. And it’s a standardized piece of equipment. People use them for challenges and even indoor rowing competitions.
exactly! there are still 30 year old concept rowers on the used market. Concept will outlast your rowing career.
I live near China and the original Concept2 with shipping is nearly 6 times the cost compared to the locally-made knockoffs. $250 vs $1.4k. That's more than a grand I save in a place where a grand goes very, very far. I figure if I use this enough to break it, I will be able to justify spending the money on the good stuff.
@@Kendharma I’ve got a Series A, everything is original aside from the monitor - the old one died from battery corrosion. Made in 1984 and used it today!
There is also the massive online Concept rankings data that will only ever be comparable....on a Concept Rower...standardized indeed.
@@dinhdatVN I bought mine in China on the second hand market for 6000 RMB in pristine condition, instead of 8500 for a new one. Prior to that I bought one of those many knock offs of Waterrower, but the monitor was horrible so I decided to invest in the real stuff. Besides their sturdiness, Concept2 rowers will always beat their knockoffs thanks to their monitor and the ecosystem of apps that are compatible with them.
I was curious about this as I see them time to time.. Can you do a follow up on the concept bikeerg clone?
Definitely love to see a ski erg comparison too!
it's a neat idea--but I think someone would be a fool to buy this (new). They are saving less than 400 bucks on something that ideally should last for years--but the murtisol will likely have random pieces on it wear out and break every few months, while the C2 is basically good as new many years later. I bought my c2 new 11 years ago, but would have no problem buying used if it looks like it is coming from a private residence. I'd be hesitant to drive far to buy one from a gym or someone that was using them for crossfit b/c those ergs are more likely to have a slightly 'ragged out' feel to them (stretched chain). But if a person is really handy with replacing parts, they should consider any fairly new model C2, imo.
You can buy two of these for the price of a concept2, but parts were breaking on this during the video. I think you'll end up buying ten if these in the lifetime of a concept2.
@@deadapostle in China, far from Concept2 manufacturer's site, they are selling these knockoffs for $250 shipped, whereas the Concept2 is $1400 shipped. Crazy I know. I know C2 is better, but are they 6 times better? IMO This is an execellent way to try out rowing, like I intend to do.
@@dinhdatVN it depends on frequency of breakage and the 'feel' of the knockoff. It's likely that the c2 is 10x better b/c the C2 takes a beating with basically nothing breaking. Someone really powerful (maybe pulling like sub 1:40 for 500m) might stretch the chain a tad after a few years, but I'm not even certain about that.
Like the review. In this case I’m gonna save up for the real thing. Thanks for sharing.
as a rower. I only will used concept 2 equipment or nordic track if erging solo. Having a monitor that is interactive is super helpful for me maybe its just my adhd or whatever but Nordic track and concept 2 is all you need. Much love
Purchased a Row Warrior that is another Concept 2 rower clone. Looks great but that’s about it. Unless my unit is defective, there’s zero discernible difference in resistance/tension between levels 1-10. Returned it and ponied up for a Concept 2.
I've had my model D since 2013. Just under 16 million meters and counting. The only "maintenance" is an occasional oiling of the chain. Otherwise it's by far the best $899 I ever spent. I've bought a lot of bicycles, but this is my solid go-to. Go to your local gym, try out a Concept 2, then spend the money and treat your body right. Happy rowing.
@@audiblefart6211 Yes it was! Great investment.
@@audiblefart6211 And I got $700 for it a few months ago when I sold it. After 4-5 days a week on it.
I have the Murtisol I bought cheap on OfferUp. It was almost new, but Had to replace the footrests and straps from Concept as the old ones cracked after a month of use. The computer only registers about half of the distance, so that was pain to figure out. It does the job though.
Do you know if it’s really possible to swap out the monitor with one from C2?
@@ianderso426 I’m not sure. I’d be interested to find out as well. I’m not sure how accurate it would be with the hardware.
I kept waiting for you to elaborate on why the monitor isn't as good...
4:01 "they typically suck.. this one does." LMAO love it
People tend to overestimate their future work outs. I doubt the average person using this cheaper version will likely put out enough kms to break it.
Usually people don't use their home gym equipment enough to break it if it is reasonably built unless it is their one piece of kit. My next pickup is going to be a rower but I doubt I'll log more than couple hours a week on it. For now a cheap belt driven bike is meeting my cardio needs and the rower will just supplement my cardio rotation and HIIT work.
@@apeekintime but plastic breaks off it lol. Not worth 500
@@apeekintime yeah bro im rocking an " dp airgometer" fan bike i picked up on fb market place for $10...works fine...does what it supposed to do lmao. hell my entire gym which includes a 350lb high/low tower, smith machine with high/low pully, bench press with hig/low pully, treadmill, fan bike, rower cost me less than $300. picked up 2 sets of 310lb bar/plate sets from dicks for $250 each...so all that equipment and 500lbs of plates and 2 bars for under $800...
We had a Concept 2 a long time ago. The resale value is so high that after selling it, I had basically rented it for a couple hundred dollars. Investing in the Concept 2 is the way to go. If you ever sell it, you’ll have spent less money on a net basis than you would have otherwise spent if you bought the knock off and tried to resell that.
@@anthonyponafala7973 yea you just can't lift over 300lb or you'll bend the bar.... sounds like you have a garage full of junk
The overview of build quality, replacement parts, etc. was good but with the other major differentiator being the display, more in depth compassion/visual examples here would have been beneficial.
Leave the handle on the rest holder and you stretch the shock chord cutting the life of the shock chord considerably. Always return the handle to the monitor stand when not in use. The erg will maintain its original feel much longer.
Thanks for the tip! I just ordered the concept 2 so I'll do that!
This is some internet myth repeated BS nonsense. I've seen rowing team C2's with 20 million plus meters on the original shock cords and they still return all the way to the chain guard just fine after the handles were always put in the rest hook.
Plus shock cords are a whopping 12 bucks from Concept and take 15 minutes to replace...
As someone who has rowed for over 4 decades and rowed on C2 ergs for nearly as long this is not only an internet myth but is a deeply ingrained concept in the rowing community. It is a rule that the handle needs to be returned to the monitor stand after every row at nearly every boat house and rowing program. Anecdotally I can say that as a former rowing coach in a High School program that received many donated machines the handles that were stored in the rest holder usually needed a shock chord replacement. Again anecdotally my local gym purchases a C2 erg every few years. The members return the handle to the rest holder only; on a new erg in a matter of months the erg begins to loose resistance at the start of the drive.
"I'm not a plasitcologist" hahaha I lost my shit
omg you and Sam are so fucking funny together
Wouldn't it make sense to wait an extra month or two to save for the Concept 2 when you're already spending $530 for the knockoff?
Sure, if you're in such a situation, but say you got the $530 as a gift, and won't be getting enough to afford a C2 any time soon
@@avinashtyagi2 if you got it as a gift thats a different story but personally saving i would wait an extra few months..... im currently saving up for mag grips in the UK the set of 7 is £850 but can get ones simular on amazon for £199 but want the proper ones its annoying just a mind thing I suppose
You should do another video of the copy rower after 6-8 months of use. I bet that is when you really see the difference and the value of a Concept2 rower.
I have the cheap rower a yr now and it's still working great! My only annoyance is the monitor. If anyone could figure out how to stick the concept monitor on one of these that would be incredible
@@davidprendergast7697 could you find out?
@@marce.strong I could not sadly!
If you are following a gym programme that prescribes specific cals/distance etc. then you have to get a C2 as replicas have different algorithms
I have been servicing gym equipment for over 13+ yrs and have come across some original bone stock Concept 2 rowers from 1998/2003 with original/chains/bearings and everything untouched aside from batteries in the console👌👌
I don't think the comparison should be this versus a C2. It is this versus whatever else you can get for the same money. And it sounds like this one may hold its own pretty well at that price point.
They compared it because of the design look almost the same
you should make an update video on this rower to see how it’s held up and maybe compare to the new BoS blitz rower. love the content you put out!
$538? The Concept 2 is $900. I can't imagine anyone wanting to buy the inferior one. The C2 also now syncs with bluetooth to your phone so you always have a log of your workouts with a lot of very accurate data. I guess you could buy the PM5 computer, but that's $160. At that point it's a $200 difference between both and one has cheap plastic rollers and inferior rope, inferior everything, including resale.
It absolutely makes no sense to go any way except C2. If you can't afford it, wait.
Ordered a concept 2 today because I want the real thing! I have had two cheap rowers and NEITHER were as good as a C2. My opinion is the C2 is a better machine that ANY rower on the market and if you are going to row with serious dedication--get the best machine. I have seen C2s at the gym get used, abused, and even misused and they keep on going. Other than being on the water the fricking thing is perfect!
GGR comments section is Blessed with the most helpful inputs👌🏼👌🏼👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻💐💐💐💐
I bought a knockoff concept2 from a local fitness equipment liquidator about a year ago when stuff was harder to find. It was branded as their house rower. The main difference (compared to C2) that made me return it was that it didnt read distance while "coasting" it only recorded distance of the pull. Curious if the model you reviewed had the same issue... Im assuming these clones are made in the same factory as each other and just rebranded differently.
My knock off, the monitor lasted one day, im going to take coops idea and order a real concept 2 monitor and put it on
@@FriendlyCleaningKC how did this work out? Considering doing the same.
Not great, the wiring doesn’t just plug in.., so I had to order a new generator and it still doesn’t communicate with the monitor… may have to get a new flywheel too… so yeah, I wouldn’t recommend it
@@FriendlyCleaningKC thanks for this. I was suspicious it wouldn’t be as simple as Coop made it out to be
@@FriendlyCleaningKC Hi, just curious how this turned out for you as I may have to do the same to mine. Did you buy a new flywheel as well? Thanks!
I spent 600 on an Amazon water rower 2 yrs ago and I have zero complaints.
I like these type of videos. Next one a budget air dyne bike?
Interviewer: "It says here on your resume that you are a plasticologist. Very impressive."
Coop: ...ummm...
Will you be doing a review on the Sorinex P3 GHD? Looks like a good price point and size for home gyms.
The Concept 2 is one of the best values I’ve ever seen especially in fitness equipment most of which seems generally overpriced to me. It’s so well designed and constructed it could literally last a lifetime. For all that I have to add Concept 2 customer service is unquestionably the best I’ve ever dealt with. Real humans answer the phones and connect you with other real humans that actually understand problems because the product has been around so long they’ve seen everything. They have a record of my purchase and my name and can reference any thing that has happened previously, it’s like they actually know me when I talk to them. Finally their monitor also seems the best of the several I’ve seen, the basic stuff is accurate, easy to access and synchs easily with an online logbook to monitor everything. Pretty high on the list of best money I’ve ever spent
Row Warrior rowing machine is awesome alternative to concept 2 and price is about $660 so why pay more ??? It a Texas Startup and they have 5 years support including parts replacement. Their customer support is also really good. Highly suggest Row Warrior Rowing Machine if you cannot afford concept 2
Hi .. I just wanna ask one thing .. can I place a pm5 monitor on this .. ? I have a copy like this and I want to place a pm5 monitor on this ???
Please reply ??
Plasticologist - LOL! As the saying goes, you get what you pay for and cutting corners usually comes back to bite you in the butt! Thanks for demonstrating the risks with considering the knockoffs.
Yeah man. The Snode or the Krato! Very similar to Nuobell
Hey Coop can we get a review on the Versa Climber? Just asking for the community. Especially after seeing Gunnar’s amazing editions to his.
I do wonder how accurate the P5 monitor would be if you retrofitted it onto that one, though.
Props on the AG hoodie. Best made and all I wear.
Can you please review the titan fitness plate loaded functional trainer
The C2 lets you compare your times with anyone else on a C2. You could train for CRASHBs with solid intel.
I have one of these beasties and it was a decent rower while I had a membership/subscription. Usability is very limited without an ongoing subscription
the problem is not in cheap plastic, or rather not only in it! the flywheel is made of plastic, while in the original it is made of metal. because of this difference in weight. also because of the plastic flywheel, there is no resistance when rowing
Can you see any reason why the knockoff version has a max user weight of 330 and the C2 is 500? There’s a knockoff version on marketplace in my area and I’m considering it if it’s an exact clone. The plastic he said in the video shouldn’t have anything to do with the weight bearing
Damn Coop..... 1:19 You keeping some Big Macs warm on that dumbbell rack back there??
Please check some Rogue Bumper plate knock offs and show the difference. Ive been seeing a lot of fake ones lately.
Hope you can make a review of the HEKA 90lbs adjustable dumbbells with hexagon shaped metal plates. Thanks
This is one instance in which I definitely would not buy the cheap knock-off. Just my opinion, and of course everyone has their own. I would definitely have less motivation to do cardio if using a cheap knock-off, and I hate cardio, so I need all of the motivation I can get there lol
Have you done a comparison of the knock off endless ropes from Alibaba etc yet?
Please do a review of the new eco rower. And flip sleds from rouge. They both look so cool
I would probably change out the main components that makes sense per dollar to get the same feel. It won't cost a lot.🤷♂
A good middle ground between these two is the Vulcan Scull Rower.
Coop when are you showing your dumbler standard prototype?
I would love for you to review some of the hand protector things that CrossFit athletes use doing pull ups and stuff
In fact, a counterfeit sells for only 1/7 of the original in its country of origin, with no tax. And it's more stable than you think.
Have you heard of the Metis rowering machine, if so what do you think, it looks exactly like the concept 2,however looks can be deceiving.
Great review. Thank you
Nice American Giant hoodie!
Got my beautiful C2 off craigslist for 200$ it was practically new. Couldn't believe it!!!
Im still saving up for a c2 and won't be taking this shortcut. However, dibs on the c2 you threw out in thumbnail!
@garagegymreviews coop, can we have a video on your favorite cable attachments?
I have a Murtisol rower. Can I replace the monitor and power generator for the c2? Tks.
Sounds like Coop is just mad at Sam for not listening to him 😂
Does it fold/stand up for storage when not using?
It's hard to pass up on something so proven as the C2 rower. What is such a high level of known durability, community, and trust worth? I'm sure more than the difference in price even for the casual rower. While it's good to have this information and "debate" I really don't feel this is even close. This is true for so many things in life but rarely is it this obvious when you have so many high level people using for so long. I have had a C2 Rowerg for just under a year but was inspired to buy because my aunt has one that feels just as good but has to be around 20 years old. I don't even want to go down the path of the concept of trying to support the most local company which this country has forgotten but will probably be forced to remember when we realize that putting our reliance on some foreign entities wasn't a good idea. Amazon doesn't care about that, though.
Once I bought and tested fake fleshlight...long story short...got a rash, ER visit..but they managed to save my 'best friend'...My advice just get the real thing :)
What are the benefits of using a rowing machine?
you can buy 2 of these for the price of 1 c2 rower - and the single c2 will still outlast both of them. Plastic handles break, footrest mounts break, consoles break - and c2 offers all their parts at very reasonable prices and are always available. If its going to end up a clothes hanger - great go for it, save your money. but if you know you are going to use it...just get the c2. and if you end up not using it, you'll get a great price for it used still. The PM5 monitor will NOT work on the knockoff. Did you compare the quality of the axle and bearings on the flywheel? the sprocket hardness/durability? no...you didn't. this comparison video barely scratches the surface.
Can you review the Vulcan Scull Rower?
How would you fit PM5 on it>? Will it read correct results?
We have a Concept 2. Less than 1 year old. Great machine.
This came right right before I was heading to pickup a used model D for about $750, not an amazing deal but seems like would equal buying the knock off plus having to buy a couple things in a month or two that broke.
Where did your gym flooring come from?
Do the bells of steel air bike!
Yeah but what if I replace the cheap parts with the good ones? Does it make still a good decision?
Thanks coop. I said it before. You need to get to prime TV 📺
Barbells... Vast majority of us do not need and will not notice the difference between the best of the best Rogue and Eleiko barbells and a lower tier barbell company like Bear or whatever. That doesn't mean you should buy a cheap knockoff, because a good barbell is the most important part of a home gym, it simply means that your money is better off getting a more economic bar.
How is it possible to copy exactly the C2 without getting charged by C2? Why do they have no copyright or something like that?! Is it just because they don´t call it the same and named it Murtisol and use an other monitor?!
The whole "resale" point behind concept is sort of moot, I regularly see latest model Concept 2 rowers sold for $500-700.
The monitor is soooo bad, I just got one and totally hate it. ESP if you used to the concept 2 UI,, 1 Thing that totally a deal breaker to me that I wouldn’t recommended it to those who is a serious workout people is that it was too light even at its Lt 10. Dampener, and the flywheel stop way too slow, it’s hard to do a repetitive hard pull, ..ps I got mine for just under $300 shipped, it was 1/6th of C2 price in Thailand, FYI C2 is $1700 +shipped and Thai minimum wages is around $9 a day 🎉
Junk is junk even if it's cheap.
Do you think an concept 2 controller would work on one these overseas units?
I have an opportunity to pick a friends unit up extremally cheap. It is an Amazon that looks exactly the same as the one you demonstrated in the video, but a different brand, The unit was hardly used, and they are moving to small place and want to dump it. I would like to buy it, and then install Concept 2 controller on it if possible. Just want to know if you think it is actually possible to that without serious modifications. Thank you in advance.
I always wondered which sport you can improve on using these things.
I am a gymrat, I personally never liked rowers. I rather watch youtube on a croastrainer. Or even go outside for a bike ride as cardio
Keep it up sir! Thank you
Without getting into the details of the deficiencies of the monitor this review isn't much of a review. Does the monitor support BT and ANT+ connections? Can it record
.FIT files? Does it have removable memory? Are there any mobile software programs for it? Does it synch with Garmin or Strava? Do you even know if the C2 monitor would be compatible with the hardware?
This is a HUGE pass based on the hardware but the software side is probably an even bigger fail.
Is there a difference in manufacturing countries? Seems like they are just rebranded.
Can you do this same kind of video with the Ski Erg?
Monitor is not that good, but you can buy original concept 2 monitor to replace it? 🤔
Would be cool if you could buy highly rated but cheap Amazon equipment and review them for us. I think it would get a lot of views
Not at all related, but what brand is that hoodie?
I own a Murtiso. Works fine.
Two years and my knock off one is still in one piece
Any engineers out there able to stick a concept 2 monitor on one of these rowers? That would be incredible