Concept2 Model D Review: The Ultimate Rowing Machine?

The Model D by Concept 2 is one of the best selling indoor rowing machines in the world. It is the same rower that is used by Olympic rowers to workout and you will find the Model D in many gyms, as well as individual homes. There are many happy customers and positive reviews online. If you aren’t convinced yet, do not worry, because we are about to cover the details of what makes it such an amazing rower.

First off, this is not the cheapest indoor rowing machine that is on the market, but you will find that it is not very expensive either. You may have noticed the Concept 2 Model E more than the Concept 2 Model D and it may be a great rower, but it doesn’t mean that it is worth spending the extra cash.

What makes the Concept Model D such an amazing piece of equipment is the great build quality, the manufacturer, Concept2 has stated that it has been designed to last users a lifetime. You can basically workout and abuse this indoor rower every single day and it will still give you an effective, and powerful workout. This alone makes it worth the investment, a great choice when you stop and think about how much an annual gym membership costs, then you also have the added benefit of working out in the privacy of your own home.

Concept2 Model D

Features and Specifications

You would certainly expect a high end rower to have an air resistance design that will help to give a user a genuinely realistic feel when they are rowing, this is also one of the top reasons why many professionals use the Model D to improve their fitness. Another added benefit about using air resistance is that you do not have to constantly adjust the resistance like other types of indoor machines. The Model D allows you to determine your resistance, e.g. the harder that you row, the higher your resistance will in fact be. If you want to push yourself harder, then just do it and begin to burn off all of those calories. Luckily the seat is pretty nice and doesn’t get uncomfortable after sitting for a long time.

Performance Monitor

Included on the Model D is an adjustable performance monitor that will allows you to manage various advanced features to control your workout while you are operating it. Your monitor will start working as soon as you begin to row and it will begin to track your performance. It will track your speed, distance, calories burned, and pace while it monitors your heart rate, if you happen to have a heart rate monitor equipped.

One of the interesting features that the Model D has, is that it is able to recharge the batteries while you are rowing, in order to extend the life, so all of your rowing efforts are put in use. It also lets you play games while you are rowing. Many people find that they will become motivated by trying to get a new high score.

There is also the removable LogCard, which will allow you to store all of your data and preferences from your workouts. You are able to then upload it to your computer. This tends to be a bit of a gimmick to many people, but the best part of all is that it will allow you to save data for 5 different users, something other machines cannot offer.

Adjustable Damper

Your resistance level depends on how much effort you put into rowing, although you are able to adjust the airflow of the flywheel. This great feature will allow you to change how the stroke feels to your preference. The higher settings will make you feel as if you are rowing a large, heavy boat while the lower settings will make you feel as if you are rowing in a small boat. The former will produce quite an intense workout.

How it folds away

The Model D will break down into two separate parts using a quick-release mechanism, so there will be no tools required. This is great for people who have limited space, even though it is a larger machine, it folds away quite well. When not in use, can you place it out of sight instead of letting it take up much needed space.

Other Features

• • Nickel plated chain.
• • Ergonomic handle and adjustable footrests.
• • Stainless steel track.
• • 2-year warranty on the moving parts and performance monitor.
• • 5-year warranty on the frame.

Specifications Summary

Machine Weight: 57 lbs
Width: 24 in
Length: 96 in
Max. Weight capacity: 500 lbs
Storage: Breaks down into two parts
Color: Black or Grey

The Good

• Fairly expensive, but great value.
• Excellent Performance Monitor.
• Built to last.
• Easy to assemble.
• Realistic rowing motion.
• Used by professional rowers
• Comfortable seat.

The Bad

• Quite long, although it folds away well.
• Tends to be fairly noisy due to the air resistance.

Verdict

If you’re looking for an indoor rowing machine that has a high standard, has been tested, and has plenty of satisfied customers and rowers, then you certainly will not be disappointed. The Concept Model D will give you a great fat burning workout every day, and when you think about how this rower has been designed to last for years, you will know that it is a great value for what you spend.

Concept2 Model D