Overview:

The Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 Monitor is a high-quality piece of machinery that is designed to deliver a complete body workout for individuals of any age and fitness level. The flywheel design maximizes the smooth operation of each stroke and minimizes noise. The rowing machine is extremely portable, breaking down into two parts for storage and providing casters for mobility. The PM5 Performance Monitor on this rower provides a multitude of options including pre-loaded workouts, games and the ability to transfer the data to computers and online apps. Quick version of this review? The Model E is one of the best rowing machines you can buy, next to the Concept2 Model D.

The Model E Indoor Rower is manufactured by Concept2, a rock-solid company based in Vermont that has been a leading manufacturer in the fitness industry since 1976. They are known for building quality products and have often been seen as the benchmark for other manufacturers to follow. You’re in good hands with these guys.

Click here to see the price of the Concept2 Model E Rowing Machine on Amazon.

Technical info:

Packaging dimensions:

The Concept2 Model E comes shipped in two (2) boxes.

Box 1

Length: 15 inches
Width: 21.5 inches
Height: 56 inches
Weight 70 lbs

Box 2

Length: 13 inches
Width: 26 inches
Height: 28 inches
Weight: 30 lbs

Assembled space requirements:

Assembled dimensions: 8 ft x 2 ft (Weight: 65 lbs)
With Clearance for Use: 9 ft x 4 ft
For Storage: 27 inches x 47 inches x 54 inches (can be separated into two parts for storage)

Features:

PM5 Performance Monitor with a longer arm that keeps it all within reach, and can wirelessly monitor your heart rate.
Flywheel and Damper that minimizes noise and allows quick airflow adjustment to the flywheel.
A 20 inch seat height allows comfort and ease when getting on and off the machine.
Quick-release framelock mechanism so the machine can be separated into two pieces
for easy storage.
Nickel plated chain and enclosed chain housing that keeps the mechanism clean and reduces the need for maintenance.
Adjustable footrests and ergonomic handles allow rowing in a natural foot, arm and hand position.
Aluminium monorail with a stainless-steel track for smooth, gliding seat movement.
Caster wheels make the rower fully mobile and easily moveable from room to room.
Maximum User Weight: 500 lbs.

Computer Features:

Wide range of features such as preset workouts, games and multiple languages.
View force curve, pace boat, bar chart, large print or all data.
Stores performance data and/or transfer data to your computer via a USB Flash Drive (included).
Using ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart with compatible heart rate monitors (Garmin chest strap included).
Supports machine-to-machine racing, plus connectivity to computers and smartphones.
Workout data includes:
- Distance
- Speed
- Pace
- Calories Burned
- Watts

Warranty:

The Concept2 Model E is covered by a five year limited warranty on the frame and two year warranty on the Performance Monitor and moving parts. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Assembly:

The assembly manual comes with visual depictions of every step and comes in a number of different languages. Assembly is very quick and can be assembled in 15-45 minutes.

What We Love About the Concept2 Model E Indoor Rower:

The Model E is a great rower specifically designed for a in-home workout that will hit all of the major muscle groups and leave you winded but ready for more. Concept2’s reputation ensures it is a well-designed, durable product and it comes with a good warranty. It has many features that allow you to optimize your workouts and track your progress. This rowing machine is designed with the user in mind with easy set up and use.

Computer Features

The PM5 Performance Monitor provides a lot of great features. First of all it wirelessly receives information for the included Garmin chest strap heart rate monitor so that you can maximize your workout by training in your optimal heart rate zone. Besides all the typical displays, the computer also includes games such as the ones that allow you to race against another rower. Additionally, you can race against your own previous workouts as a motivation to continue to improve on your own personal performance. The PM5 also comes with a memory card that allows you to store and transfer you workout data to a computer where you can upload data or connect it to online apps.

Easy to Use from Start to Finish

While the Concept2 Model E may look complicated at first glance, it is actually very easy to use. Starting with assembly, it’s pretty impressive that some reviewers said that assembling the two boxes took as little as 15 minutes. The raised 20 inch seat height allows users to get on and off the rower comfortably and provides a very natural rowing movement. The many computer features are actually very easy to use as well, even without taking a look at the instruction manual. With the Model E, you’ll be able to get your rower set up quickly and you’ll be into your workout in no time at all.

Reputable & Well Built

Concept2 has been known as a leading manufacturer in the fitness industry for a number of years. The Model E Indoor Rower was originally designed for commercial, heavy-duty use in gyms and the military. Now adapted for home use, the rower is still built from solid and long-lasting materials. The rowing machine comes with a solid warranty to ensure functionality for a long time.

What Isn’t So Great:

Drawbacks for the Concept2 Model E Rower were difficult to find, but if we are to find some they probably have to with its size and comfort features.

Large Footprint

To use the Model E comfortably it takes large open space. At 9 foot long, the rower takes up a lot of room. You will also need at least 4 feet of clearance to accommodate your rowing motion. Though the Model E breaks down into two pieces, it will still take up a lot of space in the corner of your room or in your closet for storage.

Seat Comfort

While the Model E provides a thick padded seat, many reviewers claimed that it was actually kind of hard and uncomfortable. This can be bad when trying to extend your workouts. A lot of people find seats on rowers to be uncomfortable at first, but get somewhat used to the feel. Adding some cushioning can help.

Fan Noise

Concept2 claims that the flywheel and damper combination minimizes noise, but again some reviewers stated that it was a little loud. The fan noise, obviously, will increase with the effort that you put in. Some people may find it motivating to hear the fan get louder as the burn more calories, as others may find it as just a nuisance.

Final Word on the Concept2 Model E Indoor Rower:

For the durability and great workouts you can get, the Concept2 Model E Indoor Rower is a fantastic buy. The commercial-grade construction ensures a quality product for your in-home use for a very long time. The computer features are unmatchable and provide a number of different motivational settings to assist you in optimizing workouts. The Model E also comes with a Garmin chest-strap heart monitor, a memory storage device and built-in wireless capability. For the money, you are getting a durable, quality product with many amazing features. Highly recommended.

Click here to see the price of the Concept2 Model E Rowing Machine on Amazon.