Concept2 Review: Rowing Machines

Founded in 1976 by brothers Peter and Dick Dreissigacker, Concept2 started with a vision to create innovative rowing products from their humble Vermont headquarters. What began as a small operation crafting rowing oars has evolved into the undisputed king of rowing machines worldwide. Their air-resistance flywheel technology has become so universally respected that Concept2 rowing machines are now the official standard for indoor rowing competitions globally. As you'll discover in our comprehensive review, there's a reason why every serious athlete, CrossFit box, and Olympic training facility chooses Concept2 rowing machines above all others.

The RowErg is Concept2's flagship rowing machine

Concept2's primary offering, the RowErg, is priced at just $990 and represents the perfect blend of durability, performance, and value. This aluminum and steel workhorse uses air resistance through Concept2's flywheel technology, allowing users to control workout intensity simply by rowing harder or adjusting the damper setting. The machine comes equipped with the highly regarded PM5 Performance Monitor that tracks distance, speed, pace, calories, and watts with unparalleled accuracy. Available with standard legs (14" seat height) or tall legs (20" seat height), the RowErg can be easily separated into two pieces for storage without tools and includes built-in caster wheels for easy movement.

Concept2's specialized ergometer family extends beyond rowing

Beyond their flagship RowErg, Concept2 offers a complete lineup of specialized air-resistance machines. Their product family includes the SkiErg ($850), which simulates Nordic skiing for a full-body workout while being easier on the knees, and the impressive StrengthErg ($1,500), a compact multi-functional strength training machine that uses the same air-resistance technology to deliver safe, effective resistance training without traditional weights. All Concept2 machines feature the same robust PM5 monitor system, aircraft-grade aluminum frames, and exceptional build quality. Each model connects with Concept2's ErgData app, allowing users to track progress across different workout types. While rowing machines remain Concept2's bread and butter, these specialized ergometers showcase the Vermont-based company's commitment to creating versatile fitness equipment that delivers measurable, comparable results for athletes at all levels.

Concept2 keeps it simple: no subscription required, just pure rowing

Unlike some predatory rowing machine companies that lock essential features of their rowers behind pricey subscriptions, Concept2 offers its ErgData app completely free of charge for both iOS and Android users. This companion to your rowing machine connects via Bluetooth to the PM5 monitor and offers workout tracking, detailed post-workout analysis with stroke graphs and heart rate zones, customizable displays, and even social features like the Real Time Loop where you can row alongside others virtually. Concept2's rowing machines work perfectly fine without the app, with no limitations whatsoever, as the built-in PM5 monitor already provides all essential metrics. Your workout data can be automatically synced to the free Concept2 Online Logbook and exported to other fitness platforms like Strava, Apple Health, and Garmin Connect. While Concept2 doesn't offer instructor-led classes or scenic rows like subscription-based competitors, their approach emphasizes pure athletic performance and community connection through challenges and leaderboards - exactly what serious rowers prioritize in their rowing machines.

Shipping from Concept2 is straightforward but not free

When ordering a Concept2 rowing machine directly, expect to pay for shipping, with costs varying by model and location. Standard RowErg models ship for $55 within the lower 48 states, while taller models that come in two boxes cost $85. Shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico jumps significantly to $175 for standard models. Canadian customers pay $100 for standard models and $140 for taller versions. Most Concept2 rowing machines ship within 1-3 business days, and express shipping options are available for those willing to call their customer service line.

A no-nonsense 30-day return policy backs your purchase

If your Concept2 rowing machine doesn't meet expectations, you have 30 days from the shipping date to return it for a refund of the purchase price. While Concept2 doesn't mention any restocking fees in their policy (a refreshing stance in today's market), they do require you to cover all shipping costs associated with returns. Before sending anything back, you'll need to call Concept2's customer service to initiate the return process.

Industry-leading warranty protection comes standard

Concept2 RowErgs come with a two-year limited warranty on all parts, while the frame itself is protected for five years from your purchase date. However, you'll likely never need to use it - these machines are legendarily durable. As one owner noted, "They last forever. I bought mine at 50 and I expect it to outlive me."

Concept2 earns an "A+" from the Better Business Bureau, confirming its reputation

When it comes to industry credibility, Concept2 delivers impressive credentials with an "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau, though they haven't sought official BBB accreditation. While their Trustpilot presence is modest (just a handful of reviews averaging 3. 9 stars), where Concept2 rowing machines truly shine is in specialized rowing communities and forums. The consensus among serious rowers is crystal clear: these machines are "bombproof and accurate" and widely considered "the standard" against which all other rowing machines are measured.

Real rowers swear by Concept2's legendary durability and accuracy

Customer testimonials for Concept2 rowing machines read like love letters to reliability. The machines earn particular praise for withstanding institutional use: "Durable enough to be abused by high school athletes for 10 years" and "my club keeps them outside and absolutely abuses them and they keep on keeping on." Concept2's customer service also earns compliments, with one customer reporting their monitor issue was "resolved very quickly" with "brilliant service." The rare criticisms tend to focus on noise levels compared to water rowers, with some retired professional rowers preferring the aesthetics and quieter operation of alternatives - though they acknowledge the unmatched accuracy of Concept2's performance metrics.

Concept2 takes the crown as the undisputed champion of rowing machines

After extensive research, Concept2 rowing machines earn our highest possible recommendation with a perfect 5-star rating. These rowing machines combine industrial-grade durability with competition-level accuracy at a price point that represents genuine value. Whether you're a seasoned athlete tracking splits to the millisecond or a fitness enthusiast looking for decades of reliable workouts, Concept2 delivers what matters most. The company's stellar reputation among professional rowers isn't just marketing hype - it's well-earned through consistent quality and performance that other rowing machines simply can't match. If you're serious about rowing, there's no better investment for your home gym than a Concept2.

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On the Concept2 website