C2 is used among most, if not all, rowing programs at least in the US. I cant even imagine the mileage that each erg gets put in every season. My college team had 3 teams that rotated through, and we rowed about 20k per day. so that's at least 60k per day. If we assume 200 days per year, then that's 12 million meters per year. We probably upgrade every 10 years or so. C2 has proved their durability.
As a former international Rower, Concept 2 is everywhere. My first erg was the model 1 with a steel wheel ( so heavy and sounded like a hurricane) more than 25 years ago, and it's such a fantastic company that actually cares about athletes (they were very often coming during international competitions for us to test and give feedback on their products)...I'm not sure how I feel about Rogue bringing up a similar design with a few tweaks... (any competitive rower will make the C2 jump forward; I bet it will be the same for the Rogue)
I started rowing in 2007 in college and I remember the hours spent on at that time C2 version, It was a great machine but the handle could be a little wider.
Rogue is also known for releasing products with a lower price, waiting for the reviews to come out favorably, then jacking up their price. Combined with this made in china. no thanks.
Yeah I don’t have a rower but if I ever get a bigger house and home gym i will be getting concept2. I see no reason to go rogue just to save 150 bucks. I have many rogue things so no shade but c2 is the goat and rogue would have to significantly improve upon it, not simply match it.
The PM# module and connected apps are a major part of the rower for training purposes. I’m disappointed there wasn’t more depth given to the computers that come with them. I’ve had my C2 for 21 years now and am giving it to my grown children. There’s no way I’m going to replace it with something that has no track record. Definitely going to buy another C2.
It's going to take years for any track record to be developed that matches the C2. Fine for the crossfit crowd perhaps. But, the C2 is still the international std for high schools, colleges, olympic level, and everything in between on rowing.
I think one of those things missed here is the Concept 2 PM5 app ecosystem. The Erg LogBook App/Website is amazing and you can use the same app to track workouts across all their devices. You can also setup things like Erg triathlons if you have all 3. There's no such feature here with the Rogue Echo products. I have the BikeErg and SkiErg that I love I can use the same app to track workouts on both of them. I eventually plan to get the RowErg over this for the same reason. If you could retrofit a PM5 here I'd be more interested.
I have all 3 Ergs and I have to say this is something I think of everytime I see another Row Erg, Skierg, etc. come into the marketplace. The Erglathon is a huge selling point of the PM5.
I've decided to stick with C2 for now. I’ve really bought into the C2 ecosystem, and I have to say, their customer service is the best in the industry. If you ever need parts, you can find most of them on their website, and if something isn't listed, just give them a call-there's a real human on the other end! The fast shipping and minimal costs for parts are a huge plus too.
I pulled the trigger on one of these on my birthday when I saw that they were in stock with free shipping. For reference I'm currently around 450 pounds, and it's super solid, I have no issues with it, but the seat is tiny. I actually had an old drum throne laying around, and I replaced the stock seat with that and it was so much better for me. I'm 6'5" so the extra height helped a bit too. Thanks for the review.
One thing you didn‘t say: the big community of the c2, so that you can compare or compete to other (professional) rowers. I think, that is by far the most important point for someone who will row more professionally. For the normal user the rougue rower seems a quite good choice!
I see a lot of reasons to buy a C2. Community, proven quality, replacement parts, looks, history, used by all real rowers and pros, used at all competitions, supporting the inventor instead of the copycat...this should be worth more than 150 bucks!
The quick release foot straps look convenient, the turf wheels are nice, & the folding design looks easier than taking the C2 apart. Yet I agree they're worth it over C2 community, competition use, reliability, replacement parts, and customer service. I'll spend the extra $150
C2 needs to make backwards compatible quick release straps for their parts store. Then they need to put them on an updated model which has a easy folding design and optional terf wheels.
Thanks for the review. I've been looking for a great side-x-side comparison. This video was the best I've seen. It definitely helped me make up my mind now..
@@JWB671 I've seen a lot of commercial gyms and liquidators sell them super low...sometimes they're new models but usually a Gen 2 or Gen 3 rower. Not sure if people know they can be refurbished to basically brand new.
Awesome breakdown. I'd love to see you take the rower apart and see the internal differences. Would be interesting to see if they could engineer something with similar reliability. My takeaways: If you're using a rower for metcons/crossfit, the Rogue rower is clearly made for that user. Love the price point / free shipping too. C2 still the champ for anyone who wants to just sit down and row, plus no concerns with resale value / reliability.
I would like to see a bit more details about the rogue’s console. I had bad time with it on echo bike and on c2 the experience was very good. Things like connection with chest strap or training apps. Maybe showing what it can display on console. For example I really like power curve view on c2.
Looks like a solid machine. I like the larger wheels, foot strap quick release, and hinging fold rather than complete disconnect into two pieces. That being said, I will never ditch the Concept2 because of the online logbook. It's got my lifetime meters recorded and I can rank all my best rows. Hopefully this rower motivates Concept2 to come out with an updated rower with similar improvements
The tablet arm kicks ass! Just got it for my iPad. There’s also a guy on Etsy who 3D prints a custom arm that has a standard VESA monitor mount so you can add your own TV/monitor up to 24”, possibly more. It also refits to mount the PM5 to the side.
We have 24 C2s. We store them upright against a wall. With overlapping storage capability we can put all 24 in a little more than 30' of wall space.That's a plus for C2
i just order mine OMG iv been wanting the c2 for so so long but wife said no because it does not fold up. The wife just gave me the green light to get this only because it folds up. I will not lie i am scaird about getting this unit only because i know how good the c2 is. Im just happy that i got a rower to add to my cardio section of home gym = )
Yes, I'm both happy and sad that someone has matched (and maybe exceeded) the C2 rower. Those guys invented the very concept of a calibrated erg for the industry. I'm curious if the CBreeze airflow-cover cooler is compatible with the Echo. You could have some blindfold-testing comparisons to a C2, although I'm sure the rowing experts could still detect what machine they were on. Is there any possibility that Rogue would do a SkiErg? IDK how popular that machines overall. One thing they could improve on that machine is to provide Leki-style straps that directly transfer force through the wrists without gripping.
I have a C2 Rower and C2 BikeErg. I plan to get the SkiErg too, but if they are so comparable then I would consider a Rogue version and if I were to buy a new rower today, I would also consider the Rogue. That said, C2 are the industry standard everywhere and I struggle to see that changing quickly. Rogue will take the CrossFit market for sure, but if you want to row for any reason otherwise, especially if you are an actual rower, C2 is the one to buy.
I think both are good companies, I’ve had my C2 rower for 9 months & my rogue echo bike for 3 years. I thought about C2 ergbike but decided on the echo because of the arm & leg workout. I’m enjoying the rower because of the online community. I’m ok with my choice. I will be interested in the C2 StrengthErg when it’s released & would love to see a review.
The easy fold and stow should be a no brainer to C2 and is huge for garage gym athletes. Rogue kinda did to C2 what Fringe did to Rogue with the Raptor, adding in extra stuff on a comparable model.
Coming soon…the Titan copy of the Rogue Copy of the C2 Rower. With the R&D and associated costs borne by others, it can only be a cheaper way to go (but not necessarily less expensive).
Let’s be real: There are C2 rowers with 15-20 years of use on them still going strong. Rogue’s product is brand new and they’ll likely be on a V2 or V3 of this rower in 5 years. It’s too early to recommend the Rogue over the C2 for now.
I think you missed big topics during this review because with the c2 the whole erg ecosystem, app integration, community features and Bluetooth connectivity are very important. Those rogue offer something similar?
I’d be interested in seeing different level athletes (expert, intermediate, beginner) levels doing comparison rows of all out sprint, 2000 meter, 5000 meter on both the C2 and Rogue rower. That would truly compare both rowers in most aspects that they would be used for in training.
I actually bought a rower today, i was torn between c2 and rogue. I went with C2 simply because of the availability of replacement parts and the footprint. If
Not so sure why you're surprised Coop. The did the same thing with the Echo bike, but the assault bike did how more faults than the C2. I've had the model D for 10 years, and the current model, minus the name change and very little else is over 20 years old. When I was looking at purchasing 10 years ago, people were complaining about the foot straps and the wheels, so kudos to rogue for actually listening people. Maybe this is the kick in the A$$ concept 2 needs to make some actual improvement on an item, which admittedly is already very very good, that they have been unwilling to do in the past. However, I'd still purchase the concept 2. At least for me, the $100 isn't worth ignoring the Concept2 incredible record with their PM5, their customer service and their history in keeping parts available.
one thing you didnt mention was the fact that on the C2 you can configure your training sessions on the app and then you just connect the phone to the rower and ure good to go. does the echo rower has the same functionality?
@nealsimons I haven't been able to find anything other then that you can connect your HR monitor to the rower so that your HR displays on the machine, but you can't sync data to concer2 logbook, which is how you can connect Garmin and Strava. You can connect ergzone (app) to the rower but can't get that data to Garmin/Strava
You can leave it there without an issue, what was said in the video is not true for the current c2 models. There was an instagram post from c2 years ago stating that there is no need to take the handle out of the holder when storing the c2, they specifically noted that the cable does not suffer when the handle is left in the holder.
I wish i could put different attachment handles on this... as a company that sells lots of cable attachments you'd think they would make them changeable
I am a huge proponent of the C2. I tell any of my friends who are looking to buy a rower to go C2. I rolled my eyes when I saw the Rogue Echo come out but was very surprised when I watched this review. It was a tough decision but I picked up one of these and so far it feels like the C2. I have a model B to fall back on if this ever has issues but so far I am loving it. I will echo what one reviewer said below. The number of apps that connect to this rower is way lower than the C2 and I am missing that. I have been using Ergzone and it has yet to stay connected through a full workout. Not sure if its the rower or Ergzone. I guess I can test it with my PM5. My only concern with this rower, and its huge, is whether it can last as long as the C2. My Model B is still running like a champ.
I would really miss the C2 logbook and ErgData functionality. It's cool to be able to log your rows and compare them to others locally and internationally.
I like the looks of the RowErg c2 a lot better. Also if you were to sell a c2 rower (I did once , my first 14 year old rower with pm3, pitched in another 400 euros and got a brand new Rowerg latest model with pm5) you get good money back. I wish c2 would have turf tires and a better screen, but no way I would trade my RowErg for this machine. I don’t mind paying 100 more, that is not a deal breaker. Love the app, community etc etc too. But I can see people buying this for sure.
The only issue is that the used market smokes a new Echo on price and C2s are everywhere. It'll be a few years before you can find a good used deal for the Echo.
3:46 - FYI I'm a mid 50 year old competitive male rower. Almost all guys I know who are reasonably fast can throw the erg around while doing fast pieces and intervals. In college, we had to have our coxes stand on the ergs during interval workouts. It's not something that is reserved for the world's strongest man competitors.
Got a pooboo water rower for $200. It's pretty solid all things considered, I'm giving it a test trail to see if I can get any results within 3 months, then may move up to c2.
I like the echo rower but the C2 reliability hands down is a major factor when buying a product. Still think C2 wins this one BUT the echo rower is good competition and hopefully used C2s prices will drop after this
The PM5 module and the ability to connect into the ecosystem of the other ergs (ski and bike) is the feature that matters the most - the PM5 and the connection to the community leader board and the erg data app is really awesome with C2. I dont think the new rower from Rogue would make me change or recommend because of the PM5
Hey Coop how about review new Concept 2 strengthErg and compare the pros and cons when put up against the other Concept 2 pieces(rower, bike and skier) for cardio training whole body workout
One idea to help equalize testing. Build a long handle (closet rod, whatever) with eyebolts at each end, long enough to extend over the midline of both rowers (6ft, whatever works), if staged side-by-side. Then attach/clip the eyes to each rower's handle, and using rope and a small pulley with a mounting eye/point, make a "V" cord also attached at the eyes to each side, that then is centered in the v to your "pulling" system (automatic, human, whatever)... so that it can pull evenly (and if it's not pulling evenly, then you know you have an issue #1, they aren't even pulls)... Or just if you have it, put a human on a 3rd rower/seat in the center, and pull the rod from the center evenly. THis way, the input force is dividing across both rowers, so metrics should be consistent at that point simultaneously (or you'll be somewhat sure the differences are rower-specific). To be absolutely sure (because the "V" can allow the rod to shift depending on each rower's resistance), you could use a double pulley with both inputs coming straight from the ends, through a transition pulley, and then through a double pulley so the ropes are being pulled in parallel at the end of the whole mess. This will reuqire each rope end (thus rower handle) to move the exact same amount (but is much more complicate to rig up and describe). Anyhow, regardless of the rigging, a method to pull both rowers the same amount by attaching them both to the one bar to pull both at the same time) seems like the best bet on guaranteeing consistency. Final rigging method I just thought of, same concept with the single bar, but using pulleys at each end instead of eyes, and passing the rope/cable used to pull the handles, THROUGH the pulleys (it'll have to move back further, and you'll have to have a way to anchor the bar to make it stationary between the rowers) would equalize the force completely to a fixed center pulling point. Could anchor the crossbar in this concept, to the front of a squat rack (strapped/tied to the front supports) and then have the pulleys out past each leg, coming together in/behind the squat rack for the pulling input to use. This (to my mind) would be the 100% method to ensure even force is put into the rowers, and may give some idea of how the spin-up/down reacts as well (as if they aren't even, one side may get a little slack while the other is still pulling, for example). Looking forward to final results however ya'll do it!
What about the C2 forum and tracking abilities? Does Rogue have the same kind of network going for them? Because that’s where the real value of a concept2 comes in.
Are you planning on doing a review for the Rogue Milo bike that was recently released. Curious what your thoughts are on this as it's quite different from Rogue's typical products
Sad to be honest. This hopefully doesn’t kill C2. Goes to show that you can’t ever have your business have a dependency on distribution. Might be that the CrossFit industry was a small market share of C2 rowers and most commercial gyms will prefer to continue with C2, but I’m unsure of the dynamic. Maybe C2 will be unfazed by this new competitor.
I don’t see this competing well with c2. It’s to close in price and doesn’t really improve on much. Maybe if you have a small apartment that you want to be able to fold it up
I might be wrong, but it looks like it's made of cheap Chinese powder coated steel, which would also explain the weight. Aviron used the same stuff and my strong series was falling apart before I returned it for a C2.
It looks like a good product. But since c2 is long established as the gold standard (i.e. the standard for official times, world records, etc.) I'm not sure why they bothered getting into this market. I do find the seat on the c2 to be a tad uncomfortable after a few minutes. The seat on the 'assault rower' is similar, but more comfortable. I would like to see c2 adopt certain ideas from these competitors (comfier seat, the quick release straps, which will lessen that fuzzy/shred look they can get after a few months).
@@GorgeousFortress Rogue and Assault Rower are really good products. If someone is not interested in comparing their times to other people, then these other could be worthwhile. I know that c2 can hook up to some 'zwift' app, I'm not sure about these others.
@@monkeyb1820 Yeah, and I'm sure if you are really into the space having the more industry standard one is pretty important since compatibility and comparison. C2 seems to have an amazing community, and lots of people who take rowing very seriously. But from my perspective I just do 30 mins of cardio 2x a week as side for general health and to help improve my endurance lifting, since weights are my mine focus for sure. Rouge seems a better deal for me in that context.
C2 est LE spécialiste du rameur. Personnellement, j’ai le mien depuis six ans avec plusieurs millions de mètres et jamais aucun problème. Même si j’adore les produits Rogue, ça reste du produit chinois pour ce matériel. Et puis je sais que si je veux réparer mon rameur C2 dans 15 ans, je pourrai toujours me procurer les pièces. Je n’en suis pas si sûr avec le produit Rogue…
One disappointing thing for older eyes is that the Rogue Echo rower device holder is only big enough for a smartphone. C2 will hold anything from a smartphone up to a 12.9" iPad Pro. That seems to me to be a significant shortcoming for the Echo -- older eyes will prefer a tablet. That and the spare parts issue are two reasons to think twice about Echo.
agree with some parts, but one of the big things that C2 has is the community competition, the app where it offers you stuff like "workout of the day" and several other things that keep "rowing" entertaining and dynamic (that I dont know if rogue has it). I am quite curious to know if rogue offers something similar in their computer because if they dont then getting into a rower for exercising without a specific goal in mind for the session gets old quite quickly
One of the biggest pluses of the Concept 2 rower's design philosiphy is how easy and inexpensive it is to maintain. If you visit their site you will see almost any part can be replaced and at a very resonable cost. Sure improvements could be made but that would undermine the whole philosophy behind the rower. It will be interesting how the Rogue Echo will fare over time when compared using this metric.
Maybe the Rogue is a good machine, but it is well known that the C2 is definitely a good machine, and extremely durable. I’ve had mine since 1999, and I’ve only had to replace the monitor. It still feels as sturdy as when I bought it, and it has 10’s of millions of metres on it.
Can you do a Stress Test of the VOLTRA 1 !!! how many reps before it shuts off from heating etc. considering buying one but for the price would like to understand its limits!! folks are questioning reliability considering the price point of the VOLTRA
A few features that Concept 2 has that the Rogue rower is missing: - A community if rowers that log their work and compete with each other. At least, I don't think the Rogue rower can log data to the logbook. - The slides that go under the C2 so that the entire machine moves to mimic on-water rowing. If rogue fixes these, and the apps pick up the Rogue rower then they will be a serious competitor.
C2 PM5 supposedly can connect to 40 different apps, can the Echo? I do love that C2 is made in Vermont, I'm hoping to see if I can pick one up on vacation. Also WaterRower has office in Rhode Island, I'm liking local warranty support, I like GAMIFIED Aviron but I read they aren't as friendly with customer service?
Coop, maybe it’s just the appearance in the video, but is the rowing track (where the seat slide) shorter than the C2? I see Rogue specifies a max rider height, where the C2 does not.
C2 is used among most, if not all, rowing programs at least in the US. I cant even imagine the mileage that each erg gets put in every season. My college team had 3 teams that rotated through, and we rowed about 20k per day. so that's at least 60k per day. If we assume 200 days per year, then that's 12 million meters per year. We probably upgrade every 10 years or so. C2 has proved their durability.
I have a C2 with PM3 that I bought in 2011. The thing is bulletproof. I have only oiled the chain and replaced the batteries in all that time.
As a former international Rower, Concept 2 is everywhere. My first erg was the model 1 with a steel wheel ( so heavy and sounded like a hurricane) more than 25 years ago, and it's such a fantastic company that actually cares about athletes (they were very often coming during international competitions for us to test and give feedback on their products)...I'm not sure how I feel about Rogue bringing up a similar design with a few tweaks... (any competitive rower will make the C2 jump forward; I bet it will be the same for the Rogue)
same here
Rogue rower is also more of a nightmare to weigh down at the front given there is no wide foot to brace at
I started rowing in 2007 in college and I remember the hours spent on at that time C2 version, It was a great machine but the handle could be a little wider.
Rogue is also known for releasing products with a lower price, waiting for the reviews to come out favorably, then jacking up their price. Combined with this made in china. no thanks.
Yeah I don’t have a rower but if I ever get a bigger house and home gym i will be getting concept2. I see no reason to go rogue just to save 150 bucks. I have many rogue things so no shade but c2 is the goat and rogue would have to significantly improve upon it, not simply match it.
The PM# module and connected apps are a major part of the rower for training purposes. I’m disappointed there wasn’t more depth given to the computers that come with them. I’ve had my C2 for 21 years now and am giving it to my grown children. There’s no way I’m going to replace it with something that has no track record. Definitely going to buy another C2.
It's going to take years for any track record to be developed that matches the C2. Fine for the crossfit crowd perhaps. But, the C2 is still the international std for high schools, colleges, olympic level, and everything in between on rowing.
I just bought an echo bike and the module/console feels like cheap quality plastic. While everything on my c2 feels very premium.
Well done with highlighting Sam's contraption for testing metrics. It really illustrates Sam's cleverness and ingenuity. Very impressive.
He’s really got what’s left of his finger on the pulse. 😂
Just got mine last week. It is my first rower, but I'm loving it as an additional option to my echo bike. Rogue is awesome.
I think one of those things missed here is the Concept 2 PM5 app ecosystem. The Erg LogBook App/Website is amazing and you can use the same app to track workouts across all their devices. You can also setup things like Erg triathlons if you have all 3. There's no such feature here with the Rogue Echo products. I have the BikeErg and SkiErg that I love I can use the same app to track workouts on both of them. I eventually plan to get the RowErg over this for the same reason. If you could retrofit a PM5 here I'd be more interested.
My thoughts exactly
I have all 3 Ergs and I have to say this is something I think of everytime I see another Row Erg, Skierg, etc. come into the marketplace. The Erglathon is a huge selling point of the PM5.
We will see. I like supporting smaller companies, but I do agree that healthy competition leads to innovation.
I've decided to stick with C2 for now. I’ve really bought into the C2 ecosystem, and I have to say, their customer service is the best in the industry. If you ever need parts, you can find most of them on their website, and if something isn't listed, just give them a call-there's a real human on the other end!
The fast shipping and minimal costs for parts are a huge plus too.
I agree the reliability factor for C2 and service still make it winner
Rogue ships fast too… I ordered an echo bike and it arrived in like 18-20 hrs. Nuts
I pulled the trigger on one of these on my birthday when I saw that they were in stock with free shipping. For reference I'm currently around 450 pounds, and it's super solid, I have no issues with it, but the seat is tiny. I actually had an old drum throne laying around, and I replaced the stock seat with that and it was so much better for me. I'm 6'5" so the extra height helped a bit too. Thanks for the review.
One thing you didn‘t say: the big community of the c2, so that you can compare or compete to other (professional) rowers. I think, that is by far the most important point for someone who will row more professionally. For the normal user the rougue rower seems a quite good choice!
I see a lot of reasons to buy a C2.
Community, proven quality, replacement parts, looks, history, used by all real rowers and pros, used at all competitions, supporting the inventor instead of the copycat...this should be worth more than 150 bucks!
Agreed. The support by that Concept2, even for their older products, has been remarkable AND inexpensive. I'm reluctant to buy from anyone else.
The quick release foot straps look convenient, the turf wheels are nice, & the folding design looks easier than taking the C2 apart.
Yet I agree they're worth it over C2 community, competition use, reliability, replacement parts, and customer service.
I'll spend the extra $150
C2 needs to make backwards compatible quick release straps for their parts store. Then they need to put them on an updated model which has a easy folding design and optional terf wheels.
PLUS MADE IN THE USA
Thanks for the review. I've been looking for a great side-x-side comparison. This video was the best I've seen. It definitely helped me make up my mind now..
Competition drives innovation!
For that much money, I'd rather get a C2...long term commitment to customers and repairability. Also 92% of Olympian rowers train on a C2.
I used to make a lot of money fixing and flipping C2 rowers. Used to get old ones cheap from private high schools and colleges.
@@JWB671 I've seen a lot of commercial gyms and liquidators sell them super low...sometimes they're new models but usually a Gen 2 or Gen 3 rower. Not sure if people know they can be refurbished to basically brand new.
“92%” train on C2 because the Rogue rower literally just came out.
This 👍
@@shotparrotno because 92% of row machines are bad. 😂
Just picked this up based off this review. Love it. Never thought anything would ever beat C2 but it does.
Awesome breakdown. I'd love to see you take the rower apart and see the internal differences. Would be interesting to see if they could engineer something with similar reliability. My takeaways: If you're using a rower for metcons/crossfit, the Rogue rower is clearly made for that user. Love the price point / free shipping too. C2 still the champ for anyone who wants to just sit down and row, plus no concerns with resale value / reliability.
I would like to see a bit more details about the rogue’s console. I had bad time with it on echo bike and on c2 the experience was very good. Things like connection with chest strap or training apps. Maybe showing what it can display on console. For example I really like power curve view on c2.
A big plus for concept 2 is the erg data app. I use it every time I row. Great WOD, and you can create your own workouts.
When buying from Rogue in Canada, the Echo rower was 300$ less in total than C2 (1700$ vs 1400$). Competition can only be good for us customers.
$415 cheaper right now with a small sale going on (delivered...no shipping costs on the echo rower).
Looks like a solid machine. I like the larger wheels, foot strap quick release, and hinging fold rather than complete disconnect into two pieces. That being said, I will never ditch the Concept2 because of the online logbook. It's got my lifetime meters recorded and I can rank all my best rows. Hopefully this rower motivates Concept2 to come out with an updated rower with similar improvements
C2 sells the top monitor holder for $1 on their site. You can also buy a tablet/cell phone holder upgrade arm for $15.
The tablet arm kicks ass! Just got it for my iPad. There’s also a guy on Etsy who 3D prints a custom arm that has a standard VESA monitor mount so you can add your own TV/monitor up to 24”, possibly more. It also refits to mount the PM5 to the side.
I think it's included with the machine now, I bought my concept2 just about a month ago and didn't pay any extra for the tablet/cell phone holder.
I’ll stick with my C2 & can’t wait for the strength erg to come out next year.
Great review and comparison!
I'm getting the Rogue Echo Rower.
We have 24 C2s. We store them upright against a wall. With overlapping storage capability we can put all 24 in a little more than 30' of wall space.That's a plus for C2
i just order mine OMG iv been wanting the c2 for so so long but wife said no because it does not fold up. The wife just gave me the green light to get this only because it folds up. I will not lie i am scaird about getting this unit only because i know how good the c2 is. Im just happy that i got a rower to add to my cardio section of home gym = )
Yes, I'm both happy and sad that someone has matched (and maybe exceeded) the C2 rower. Those guys invented the very concept of a calibrated erg for the industry. I'm curious if the CBreeze airflow-cover cooler is compatible with the Echo.
You could have some blindfold-testing comparisons to a C2, although I'm sure the rowing experts could still detect what machine they were on.
Is there any possibility that Rogue would do a SkiErg? IDK how popular that machines overall. One thing they could improve on that machine is to provide Leki-style straps that directly transfer force through the wrists without gripping.
The concept 2 is so well made and parts are easy to obtain , I have had mine for many years with no issues whatsoever
The PM5 Bluetooth support and app integration still gives it a big advantage.
I have a C2 Rower and C2 BikeErg. I plan to get the SkiErg too, but if they are so comparable then I would consider a Rogue version and if I were to buy a new rower today, I would also consider the Rogue. That said, C2 are the industry standard everywhere and I struggle to see that changing quickly. Rogue will take the CrossFit market for sure, but if you want to row for any reason otherwise, especially if you are an actual rower, C2 is the one to buy.
Got it last week, amazing rower that goes great with my echo bike. 9.7 out of 10 for me. priced great & overbuilt AF
I will be adding this to my toolbox when I expand my garage gym.
I really like the fact that it's overbuilt.
“Motorized arm” Hey honey, can I use your F Machine to test the new rower? 😂😂😂
I think both are good companies, I’ve had my C2 rower for 9 months & my rogue echo bike for 3 years. I thought about C2 ergbike but decided on the echo because of the arm & leg workout. I’m enjoying the rower because of the online community. I’m ok with my choice. I will be interested in the C2 StrengthErg when it’s released & would love to see a review.
The easy fold and stow should be a no brainer to C2 and is huge for garage gym athletes. Rogue kinda did to C2 what Fringe did to Rogue with the Raptor, adding in extra stuff on a comparable model.
I’d have to try it and compare. Looks good.
Coming soon…the Titan copy of the Rogue Copy of the C2 Rower. With the R&D and associated costs borne by others, it can only be a cheaper way to go (but not necessarily less expensive).
Let’s be real: There are C2 rowers with 15-20 years of use on them still going strong. Rogue’s product is brand new and they’ll likely be on a V2 or V3 of this rower in 5 years. It’s too early to recommend the Rogue over the C2 for now.
Rogue proves that a competitor can’t rest in their laurels. Hopefully this drives more design innovation.
I think you missed big topics during this review because with the c2 the whole erg ecosystem, app integration, community features and Bluetooth connectivity are very important.
Those rogue offer something similar?
Needs a VERY long term review for Rogue due to C2 having the reputation of being the best performing rower and price of all time.
I’d be interested in seeing different level athletes (expert, intermediate, beginner) levels doing comparison rows of all out sprint, 2000 meter, 5000 meter on both the C2 and Rogue rower. That would truly compare both rowers in most aspects that they would be used for in training.
I actually bought a rower today, i was torn between c2 and rogue. I went with C2 simply because of the availability of replacement parts and the footprint. If
Parts? LOL. I have a 25 year old model C. I finally had to purchase a set of seat rollers a few months ago.
Not so sure why you're surprised Coop. The did the same thing with the Echo bike, but the assault bike did how more faults than the C2. I've had the model D for 10 years, and the current model, minus the name change and very little else is over 20 years old. When I was looking at purchasing 10 years ago, people were complaining about the foot straps and the wheels, so kudos to rogue for actually listening people. Maybe this is the kick in the A$$ concept 2 needs to make some actual improvement on an item, which admittedly is already very very good, that they have been unwilling to do in the past. However, I'd still purchase the concept 2. At least for me, the $100 isn't worth ignoring the Concept2 incredible record with their PM5, their customer service and their history in keeping parts available.
Awesome review, I wonder if they will have any sort of additional deal on this during Black Friday (Black November)?
one thing you didnt mention was the fact that on the C2 you can configure your training sessions on the app and then you just connect the phone to the rower and ure good to go. does the echo rower has the same functionality?
Wow! Coop picked ROGUE again. I am so very surprised!
Does the Rogue rower interface well with Garmin watches? Sending over pace, distance, etc?
I have this same question. I've done a lot of searching and am unable to find an answer
@nealsimons I haven't been able to find anything other then that you can connect your HR monitor to the rower so that your HR displays on the machine, but you can't sync data to concer2 logbook, which is how you can connect Garmin and Strava. You can connect ergzone (app) to the rower but can't get that data to Garmin/Strava
Good to know about the bungee cord I leave it in the holder all the time.
You can leave it there without an issue, what was said in the video is not true for the current c2 models. There was an instagram post from c2 years ago stating that there is no need to take the handle out of the holder when storing the c2, they specifically noted that the cable does not suffer when the handle is left in the holder.
C2 for me on the rower, the app for me is the decider.
I wish i could put different attachment handles on this... as a company that sells lots of cable attachments you'd think they would make them changeable
its a cardio machine why would it need that
I think I want one.
I am a huge proponent of the C2. I tell any of my friends who are looking to buy a rower to go C2. I rolled my eyes when I saw the Rogue Echo come out but was very surprised when I watched this review. It was a tough decision but I picked up one of these and so far it feels like the C2. I have a model B to fall back on if this ever has issues but so far I am loving it. I will echo what one reviewer said below. The number of apps that connect to this rower is way lower than the C2 and I am missing that. I have been using Ergzone and it has yet to stay connected through a full workout. Not sure if its the rower or Ergzone. I guess I can test it with my PM5. My only concern with this rower, and its huge, is whether it can last as long as the C2. My Model B is still running like a champ.
That Rogue rower looks like it's a Hummer going off-roading in the mountains. 😂
Too bad it isn't made in USA. Guess that's how they get the price below C2.
The echo bike isn’t either I believe
Not made in USA means no buy for me. Love Rogue but disappointed they couldn’t have this made stateside.
I'm disappointed they couldn't come up with an original design rather then just knocking off C2
Ooooo, yeah, I want one.
I would really miss the C2 logbook and ErgData functionality. It's cool to be able to log your rows and compare them to others locally and internationally.
I like the looks of the RowErg c2 a lot better. Also if you were to sell a c2 rower (I did once , my first 14 year old rower with pm3, pitched in another 400 euros and got a brand new Rowerg latest model with pm5) you get good money back. I wish c2 would have turf tires and a better screen, but no way I would trade my RowErg for this machine. I don’t mind paying 100 more, that is not a deal breaker. Love the app, community etc etc too. But I can see people buying this for sure.
Does it work with a Garmin watch with ANT+ like C2? Not just the heart rate but all the metrics and allows you to get credit for it in Garmin Connect?
Sauna review please
Coop did you try the rep rower and is it good
The only issue is that the used market smokes a new Echo on price and C2s are everywhere. It'll be a few years before you can find a good used deal for the Echo.
I thought the same! A used c2 is easily available for cheaper. I got one with 250k meters for $550 last year
@@Shopwolfe The post pandemic used gym market was glorious.
Sam out here giving me hair envy
3:46 - FYI I'm a mid 50 year old competitive male rower. Almost all guys I know who are reasonably fast can throw the erg around while doing fast pieces and intervals. In college, we had to have our coxes stand on the ergs during interval workouts. It's not something that is reserved for the world's strongest man competitors.
Got a pooboo water rower for $200. It's pretty solid all things considered, I'm giving it a test trail to see if I can get any results within 3 months, then may move up to c2.
I like the echo rower but the C2 reliability hands down is a major factor when buying a product. Still think C2 wins this one BUT the echo rower is good competition and hopefully used C2s prices will drop after this
The PM5 module and the ability to connect into the ecosystem of the other ergs (ski and bike) is the feature that matters the most - the PM5 and the connection to the community leader board and the erg data app is really awesome with C2. I dont think the new rower from Rogue would make me change or recommend because of the PM5
Does this rower have connectivity with smart watches etc.? The Rogue Echo Bike is missing pretty much everything in that realm and it really sucks.
Just bought a brand new c2 for my parents a few months before this dropped would have been nice to save a little money
Hey Coop how about review new Concept 2 strengthErg and compare the pros and cons when put up against the other Concept 2 pieces(rower, bike and skier) for cardio training whole body workout
One idea to help equalize testing. Build a long handle (closet rod, whatever) with eyebolts at each end, long enough to extend over the midline of both rowers (6ft, whatever works), if staged side-by-side. Then attach/clip the eyes to each rower's handle, and using rope and a small pulley with a mounting eye/point, make a "V" cord also attached at the eyes to each side, that then is centered in the v to your "pulling" system (automatic, human, whatever)... so that it can pull evenly (and if it's not pulling evenly, then you know you have an issue #1, they aren't even pulls)...
Or just if you have it, put a human on a 3rd rower/seat in the center, and pull the rod from the center evenly.
THis way, the input force is dividing across both rowers, so metrics should be consistent at that point simultaneously (or you'll be somewhat sure the differences are rower-specific).
To be absolutely sure (because the "V" can allow the rod to shift depending on each rower's resistance), you could use a double pulley with both inputs coming straight from the ends, through a transition pulley, and then through a double pulley so the ropes are being pulled in parallel at the end of the whole mess. This will reuqire each rope end (thus rower handle) to move the exact same amount (but is much more complicate to rig up and describe).
Anyhow, regardless of the rigging, a method to pull both rowers the same amount by attaching them both to the one bar to pull both at the same time) seems like the best bet on guaranteeing consistency.
Final rigging method I just thought of, same concept with the single bar, but using pulleys at each end instead of eyes, and passing the rope/cable used to pull the handles, THROUGH the pulleys (it'll have to move back further, and you'll have to have a way to anchor the bar to make it stationary between the rowers) would equalize the force completely to a fixed center pulling point. Could anchor the crossbar in this concept, to the front of a squat rack (strapped/tied to the front supports) and then have the pulleys out past each leg, coming together in/behind the squat rack for the pulling input to use. This (to my mind) would be the 100% method to ensure even force is put into the rowers, and may give some idea of how the spin-up/down reacts as well (as if they aren't even, one side may get a little slack while the other is still pulling, for example).
Looking forward to final results however ya'll do it!
What about the C2 forum and tracking abilities? Does Rogue have the same kind of network going for them? Because that’s where the real value of a concept2 comes in.
Rogue should have made a spot on the back of the seat to clip in the anti-roll seat clip (that way it has a home and you always know where it is)
it looks like it could clamp onto the bottom of the rail. But a gym owner should just remove it entirely.
Yes the folding part... No way you separate the monorail of the C2 as you did (5:44).🤣
Are you planning on doing a review for the Rogue Milo bike that was recently released. Curious what your thoughts are on this as it's quite different from Rogue's typical products
The reason for me would be the PM5.
Sad to be honest. This hopefully doesn’t kill C2. Goes to show that you can’t ever have your business have a dependency on distribution.
Might be that the CrossFit industry was a small market share of C2 rowers and most commercial gyms will prefer to continue with C2, but I’m unsure of the dynamic. Maybe C2 will be unfazed by this new competitor.
I don’t see this competing well with c2. It’s to close in price and doesn’t really improve on much. Maybe if you have a small apartment that you want to be able to fold it up
If you had to pick one. Which do you get an assault style bike or a rower?
I might be wrong, but it looks like it's made of cheap Chinese powder coated steel, which would also explain the weight. Aviron used the same stuff and my strong series was falling apart before I returned it for a C2.
It looks like a good product. But since c2 is long established as the gold standard (i.e. the standard for official times, world records, etc.) I'm not sure why they bothered getting into this market. I do find the seat on the c2 to be a tad uncomfortable after a few minutes. The seat on the 'assault rower' is similar, but more comfortable. I would like to see c2 adopt certain ideas from these competitors (comfier seat, the quick release straps, which will lessen that fuzzy/shred look they can get after a few months).
Some markets the price difference is pretty significant. It's about 350$ CAD less shipped in Canada.
@@GorgeousFortress Rogue and Assault Rower are really good products. If someone is not interested in comparing their times to other people, then these other could be worthwhile. I know that c2 can hook up to some 'zwift' app, I'm not sure about these others.
@@monkeyb1820 Yeah, and I'm sure if you are really into the space having the more industry standard one is pretty important since compatibility and comparison. C2 seems to have an amazing community, and lots of people who take rowing very seriously.
But from my perspective I just do 30 mins of cardio 2x a week as side for general health and to help improve my endurance lifting, since weights are my mine focus for sure. Rouge seems a better deal for me in that context.
C2 est LE spécialiste du rameur. Personnellement, j’ai le mien depuis six ans avec plusieurs millions de mètres et jamais aucun problème. Même si j’adore les produits Rogue, ça reste du produit chinois pour ce matériel. Et puis je sais que si je veux réparer mon rameur C2 dans 15 ans, je pourrai toujours me procurer les pièces. Je n’en suis pas si sûr avec le produit Rogue…
One disappointing thing for older eyes is that the Rogue Echo rower device holder is only big enough for a smartphone. C2 will hold anything from a smartphone up to a 12.9" iPad Pro. That seems to me to be a significant shortcoming for the Echo -- older eyes will prefer a tablet. That and the spare parts issue are two reasons to think twice about Echo.
What is that monitor you have on the C2?
C2 all the way. Smaller footprint, better monitor, and made in the USA. Competition is always good though
agree with some parts, but one of the big things that C2 has is the community competition, the app where it offers you stuff like "workout of the day" and several other things that keep "rowing" entertaining and dynamic (that I dont know if rogue has it). I am quite curious to know if rogue offers something similar in their computer because if they dont then getting into a rower for exercising without a specific goal in mind for the session gets old quite quickly
How do the numbers compare to C2? The ability to compete with the same ergs is a huge selling point with C2
I'm currently considering a Rower and the C2 still looks like the Number One Choice to me.
The Rogue has no track record.
One of the biggest pluses of the Concept 2 rower's design philosiphy is how easy and inexpensive it is to maintain. If you visit their site you will see almost any part can be replaced and at a very resonable cost. Sure improvements could be made but that would undermine the whole philosophy behind the rower. It will be interesting how the Rogue Echo will fare over time when compared using this metric.
Maybe the Rogue is a good machine, but it is well known that the C2 is definitely a good machine, and extremely durable. I’ve had mine since 1999, and I’ve only had to replace the monitor. It still feels as sturdy as when I bought it, and it has 10’s of millions of metres on it.
The rp3 rower is gaining popularity in the pro rowing community, although it’s expensive af sadly
Can you do a Stress Test of the VOLTRA 1 !!! how many reps before it shuts off from heating etc.
considering buying one but for the price would like to understand its limits!! folks are questioning reliability considering the price point of the VOLTRA
A few features that Concept 2 has that the Rogue rower is missing:
- A community if rowers that log their work and compete with each other. At least, I don't think the Rogue rower can log data to the logbook.
- The slides that go under the C2 so that the entire machine moves to mimic on-water rowing.
If rogue fixes these, and the apps pick up the Rogue rower then they will be a serious competitor.
What are the metrics and can you download data to Strava, Garmin Connect, or C2 logbook?
C2 PM5 supposedly can connect to 40 different apps, can the Echo? I do love that C2 is made in Vermont, I'm hoping to see if I can pick one up on vacation. Also WaterRower has office in Rhode Island, I'm liking local warranty support, I like GAMIFIED Aviron but I read they aren't as friendly with customer service?
Is this available in Europe yet?
It does not seem to appear in the European Rogue on-line store...
Any clues?
Need to cover app integration as well. What apps can you use with it?
I already own a C2 so probably not for me though I generally like Rogue’s stuff. I have an Echo bike. I actually bought my C2 from Rogue
Coop, maybe it’s just the appearance in the video, but is the rowing track (where the seat slide) shorter than the C2? I see Rogue specifies a max rider height, where the C2 does not.
Coop, what do you think rep will do? Their cardio equipment should come out soon at a price point of 1200-1500 for their two and four blade rower?