This
machine superceded the Model A. The Model B comes as standard
with a PM1 monitor, but this can be upgraded to any of the
later performance monitors.
The Model B has a flywheel encased in a black metal cage,
this has a vent on the side which controls the amount of
air going through the machine- and so the resistance. If
the vent is fully closed - its nice & easy, if you open
it - pulling becomes harder.
The monorail is usually chrome or stainless steel. This
is the bit that the seat slides along. Unlike the newer
machines, there is no easy way of separating this from the
front of the machine for storage. It's a one piece machine
and measures approx 8 ft long.
Inside the monorail is the shock/ return cord & a chain.
As you pull, the chain goes over the 'bicycle' cog in the
flywheel at the front and creates resistance, at the finish
of the stroke, the shockcord pulls the handle back to the
starting position.
The Model B has a wooden footplate. There are straps to
hold your feet in place. There are three different height
levels to which the footplate can be adjusted .
The handle is wooden with rubber/ foam style grips as found
on Model C machines.
Rowgear's
Verdict: Excellent 'entry level' machine. Robust. Reliable. User
friendly. Monitor can be upgraded for more sophisticated
training.
Model
C
This
machine superceded the Model B.
On the Model C, the flywheel is quieter and fully enclosed.
There are 10 distinctive resistance settings. Number 1 being
the easiest and 10 being really hard. There is an easy to
use lever to change resistance.
The monorail that the seat slides on has changed in shape
from the Model B. If you look at it from the end, It is
a capital 'I' shape as opposed to the Model B's square box
style. The track that the seat rollers run on can be replaced
if necessary, and the shockcord and chain have moved from
inside the monorail to inside the grey front box section.
The Model C has a fully adjustable plastic footplate, giving
6 possible height levels. As with the Model B, the handle
is wooden with foam/ rubber style grips.
This machine comes with a PM2 monitor, but can be upgraded
to a PM3 or PM4.
Rowgear's
Verdict: Easier to store than the Model B as it comes apart in
the middle. Also easier to carry or push about using the
wheels on the front. Monitor has some useful functions for
the more serious rower. Rowing action pretty identical to
the 'B'. Model C's hold their value exceptionally well.
Model
D
This
machine superceded the Model C in 2003.
The machine itself has been jazzed up a bit. Its more colourful
than the Model C and the old wooden handle has been replaced
with a more shapely plastic one with rubber handgrips. It
looks a bit less rugged than the Model C, a little quieter,
but underneath, not much has changed. The Model D usually
comes with a PM3 monitor, but can be upgraded to a PM4.
Rowgear's
Verdict: Smooth, quieter, minimal depreciation from new. It is
an incredibly popular machine and Worldwide sales are very
high. It's robust, looks good and if you can pick up a second
hand refurbished one for under £700 you're doing well.
The monitor has a number of exciting features - it just
might be a little over the top for many, who in our experience
just want to get fit.
Model
E
The
Model E is the 5th generation of the successful Concept
2 Indoor Rower. It includes all the proven features of the
Model D plus the following additional features:
The frame is 6" higher, positioning you at a comfortable
seat height
One-piece leg design for greater stability and solid feel
Nickel plated chain for low-maintenance and a clean look
Longer monitor arm makes it easier to reach the PM4
Fully enclosed chain housing for easier cleaning
Powder-coated frame is sealed with a clear top coat for
extra durability
Light metallic grey finish with dark blue-grey accents
PM4
Performance Monitor is standard on all Model E Indoor Rowers
Rowgear's
Verdict: A bit over the top for the average home-user. This machine
is better suited to a gym or rowing club where its many
features can be used to their best advantage in a training
or competitive environment.
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