Concept2 Model D Review
The 40-year-old design that still can't be beaten.
Jake has logged 2,000+ hours on rowing machines including 6+ years on the Concept2 Model D in our Denver facility.
6 Years in Our Facility
Our Concept2 Model D arrived in October 2019. As of this writing, we have logged approximately 4,200 cumulative meters on it — not a typo. It has required one repair in that time: a replacement handle strap in year 4, which cost $8.95 and took 3 minutes to replace. The frame, flywheel, chain, monitor, and footstraps are all original. There is no comparable piece of cardio equipment I can say that about.
The Model D's PM5 monitor has been the standard for athletic testing because it measures actual watts — not estimated watts, not relative effort, but real power output via the flywheel physics calculation. This means a 2:00/500m split on any Concept2 in the world is comparable. It's why the rowing world record is set on a Concept2 and why the CrossFit Games uses Concept2 equipment.
The Air Resistance Advantage
Air resistance scales infinitely with effort — the harder you pull, the more resistance you face. The damper setting (1–10) adjusts the "drag factor" rather than the resistance itself — higher damper settings mimic a heavier boat in water (more drag), lower settings mimic a lighter boat (less drag). Most recreational rowers use damper 3–5. Elite athletes often prefer 4–6 for balance of rowing speed and power application.
The Model D is LOUD at high effort. This is the main consideration for apartment dwellers or anyone training in a shared space. At damper 5 and a 2:00/500m pace, it's roughly 70 dB. Electromagnetic rowing machines (Hydrow, NordicTrack) are significantly quieter if noise is a primary concern.
Pros and Cons
- ✓ The global rowing standard — Olympic, CrossFit Games, and athletic testing all use Concept2
- ✓ PM5 measures real watts — comparable across any Concept2 anywhere
- ✓ 500 lb weight capacity — highest of any rower on our list
- ✓ Separates for storage in approximately 24 x 54 inches vertical
- ✓ 6 years daily use — one $9 repair
- ✓ Bluetooth + ANT+ connects to all major training apps
- ✓ USA made in Vermont
- × Loud at high effort — not ideal for apartments
- × No connected content without third-party apps
- × Industrial aesthetics don't suit living room environments
- × $1,005 price is reasonable but not cheap
Is the Model D or Model E Better?
The Model E is the same machine with a metal frame monorail (vs. the Model D's aluminum) and sits 6" higher off the ground — easier for taller athletes or people with mobility issues to get on/off. The performance is identical. The Model D is $200 cheaper. For home gym use, we recommend the Model D unless you specifically need the higher seat height.
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