Rowing machine Review - Well Worth Price
352584
Shipping - Fed Ex arrived very fast
Assembly - easy about 12 screws, took about 20 min , instructions were fine
Product - Rowing is somewhat hard at the base minimal level - so beginners you will have to work your way up to longer sessions on the unit -
oh well thats what its for to get into shape -
Wonderful product, great shipping, easy assembly, Cant wait to use it for long term and see how it lasts.
2808704
i am so happy to have this rower!  It was quite easy to assemble (thank goodness).  It is very easy to use, and feels good.  I have only one item of discontent:  it is difficult (for me, anyway) to adjust the foot pads.  If someone other than me wants to use the rower, it is very difficult to resize the pad for them.  But I like the look and feel of this rower.
2389609
I just finished putting this machine through it's paces by making a casual buttondown shirt out of a heavy quilting cotton and a pair of lined wool dress trousers - and I'm pleasantly surprised!  I have previously used a vintage Singer machine for all straight stitching, a cheap Brother (XR4040) for anything other than straight stitches, and a Brother 1034D for serging.  I was pleasantly surprised with the stitch quality of the machine, the ease of using the embroidery features, how smoothly and quietly it runs, and the general overall quality.  It comes with just the right amount of accessories (I added a walking foot)...but it would be nice if it included an invisible zipper foot and a rolled hem foot or a binding foot.  These are cheap and plentiful on Amazon though.

Pros:
-Quiet/Smooth
-Cheap/Excellent Value
-Much easier to use than previous SE400
-Great stitch quality
-Thread cutter works great and pulls threads to the bottom side
-It embroiders (would be worth this price even if it didn't)
-surprisingly powerful (went through ~10 layers of heavy quilting cotton and interfacing with minimal fuss)

Cons:
-Probably won't last as long as my 1934 Singer, but it still feels like it will last plenty long
-Horizontal thread with caps are a pain (I use bigger cones/king spools and put them in a glass/mug behind the machine and skip the pin
-Embroidery is only 4x4
-No included software for embroidery and included designs are mediocre (I am using Stitch Era Universal instead)
-Doesn't stitch as fast as an industrial machine
-Feed dogs aren't the best (average for a home machine, not as good as a true straight stitch machine, walking foot helps)
60098
I initially purchased this machine 'like new' from amazon warehouse deals. It was broken on arrival...poorly packaged. I returned the machine and purchased it new. It arrived in original box; securely packaged. This machine is a great buy for $330. I should say that I sew every day, apparal and quilting. I have had primarily higher end machines (janome and viking) but needed a backup machine for when my main machine is out for maintenance and for when my daughter wants to sew. I have never owned a Singer and was hesitant to buy a Singer because they don't have the best reputation. I couldn't beat the price so went for it. This is a great machine considering the price point. It has lots of stitches, a thread cutter, and a number of feet are included (on higher end machines many of the feet have to be purchased separately and can range from $20 to over $100). The buttonholes are even better than those on my Janome 4900qc (but not as good as my Viking Sapphire). The only complaints I have are when comparing this machine to my higher end machine and that is not a fair comparison. The harp space is of average size which is a problem if you plan to sew quilts. I don't get the extension table which isn't much bigger than the bed...it serves no purpose. The stitch quality is good and the machine is surprisingly quiet. I've only had this machine a few days, but have experimented with all of the stitches. I can't speak to the longevity of this machine but it is a great deal! Anyone who complains about this machine has unrealistic expectations. You would spend well over $1000 (or 2k or 3k) to get any of the higher end machines with these same features. I have also owned a brother, which appears to be a popular low end machine. It sewed okay and came with lots of accessories but was poor quality, felt cheap (BTW, Brother makes a decent serger but stay away from their sewing machines). This machine is cheap but feels high quality, has some weight to it. I guess this is a result of the amount of metal in the frame. Buy it, you can always upgrade later, and this machine will be well worth the investment.
2467593
I had searched rowing machine reviews online and this one came up as a top buy for not much money.  I was worried it may not be as high quality like a more expensive rower, but as soon as I saw the large box at my front door I knew I wouldn't be disappointed. Very easy to put together and was using it in less than 30 minutes. I am over 5' 10" and I fit perfect on it. Got a great workout in the first day, and sore the next!  Great all over body workout and I love I spent under $80 on it!!  Very happy overall.
4219071
Took about 1/2 hour for me to get out of box and assemble. Opened side of box as suggested and not an end. Rower is simple to use.
2549736
This is an excellent rowing machine.  I like it better than the liquid machines I've used at health clubs.  It has a very useful display that is powered by the rowing.  The motion is smooth and stable. The machine is sturdy and clearly well built of heavy materials.
2404768
I wanted to wait a bit before posting a review.  Have had the C2 since Aug and am rowing 8K per day now with a 10k goal. Did a lot of research prior to buying and had narrowed it down to C2 and Waterower.  Really was a toss up and went with the C2 because it was $115 less.  My biggest concern was that C2 would be too loud.  Didn't need to be concerned at all - you can hear the fan, but it isn't overly loud, certainly can hear a TV or music while you row.
Build quality is very high, and set up is super easy.  Machine will last for years if you maintain it using the simple steps C2 describes in the manual.
You can work out as hard or as lightly as you want on this rower.  Very easy to increase intensity, use interval type strategy, or just do a lazy trip down the river. Simply pull harder on the stroke to increase workout intensity, if that's what you want.  Monitor will let you know how may calories per hour you're burning, how far you've rowed and elapsed time.  This rower has been a great addition to my hone gym, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a high quality low impact  cardio workout.  I am 58, have had multiple hydraulic rowers in the past, and kick myself for not investing in a C2 before now.  I can assure you my home will always have a C2 going forward.  It really is that good.
388501
First time having a rowing machine so I didn't really know what to expect aside from hearing that it gives you a pretty complete workout. Assembly was quick and easy. Packaging was good and without damage. Feel like I am getting a decent work out. However first thought was that even at the highest resistance level it didn't feel that difficult. After looking up rowing machine techniques online I figured the problem is me and not that machine. Seems to be holding together nicely and stores well when not in use.
4754682
Sometimes simple is better.  This rowing machine operates as promised.  I've had it a couple of months now and love that I can pick it up and move it wherever I need to, yet it is still sturdy enough to give me a good workout.  No, it's not going to train you to be an Olympic rowing medalist, but for a way to vary your exercise routine at home, it works just fine.
4803237
I ordered this rower after having bought and returned the 1399 rower by the same manufacturer.. There is a vast difference between the two rowers. The 1399 is close to the floor and it was difficult for me to get up and down to use. I am 6'4" and I have peripheral neuropathy and loss of balance. A rower is the only machine that will give me the stability I need to get some exercise without fear of falling.
The ATS is much more sturdy than the 1399 rower. I had ordered that one because it had such high reviews behind the Concept 2 and water rowers. The nose of the 1399 came up when I pulled back and my wife who is 5'4" could not come in close enough on the rail without hitting the stop.
All of our problems are solved with the ATS except for the fact that we actually have to use it to get a good workout.
I'm giving the ATS four stars because the chain makes a rattling noise on the way back in after the stroke. Other than that, the rower works great and would be quiet enough for watching TV while you exercise.
3898061
I've used mine for almost two years now, so far with no issue (knock on wood). The biggest advantage of this boat is that, when deflated, it fits into a large bag that can be stowed away aboard my 26ft sailboat. I have used this as a tender for said boat, and with a trolling motor have taken it around in the Columbia river many times. I can't see for certain if this seller provides a motor mount, but if not it's another $40 and is surprisingly solid. So solid in fact that I've never bothered to take it back off, as it would be more work than it's worth and the boat still fits in its carry bag.

The hull and air floor are well made of thick PVC that feels very secure. While I wouldn't want to hit anything too sharp, I've beached it on gravel without any issues before. Just be careful and know the terrain before you go dragging it around. The included inflatable seat feels more flimsy, but I never use it anyway as it gets in the way more than it helps.

The boat is rated to hold four people. I can attest that it will indeed hold four adults (I think we averaged around 170lbs) but you will be cozy and the boat will be slow with a trolling motor. Three is much more comfortable and leaves room for gear. For your reference, the boat is rated for 660lbs of people and 880lbs max capacity. With four people we had about 680lbs of people, but only another 50lbs for the motor and battery, bringing us to 730lbs total. We were still sitting high enough that the boat could have definitely carried more, but I wouldn't want to ever get to that point of questionable safety.

If you're going to use a motor, bear in mind that you will probably have to register this as a motorboat in your state (I did in Oregon). Cost me $50 for two year tags, and the cost may vary by state. It can be rowed, but the oarlocks really aren't the best and make it difficult to do so by yourself. Two people rowing independantly is much easier. I imagine that a single rower could use a kayak paddle more efficiently than struggling to get your paddle out of the water with the oar locks. Since I bought it with the intent to use it as a motorboat, I've only fiddled with the oars enough to decide that I don't want to anymore. I keep them along in case of emergency though, and they conveniently mount on the side out of the way.

Overall, this is an excellent boat for the money. I certainly wouldn't mind spending a bit more on a rigid floored boat with a solid transom (think Zodiac) if I could keep it on my boat externally, but there really isn't a way to do that. In this case, portability and low cost made more sense. If you're in a similar situation and need something that you can easily pack up, this is the boat  for you.

Lastly, a tip: If you're having trouble getting it to fit in the bag, remember that the pump can also be used as a vacuum to suck the air back out if you move the hose to the other hole. Makes fully deflating it so much easier.
3015900
So far we love this rower! Very quiet and a great workout. If you are really fit this isn't for you. It won't be challenging enough. I love that it folds up and can be out of the way. Definitely get a mat if you are on a wood floor. It scoots everywhere. I wish there were more options on the display but for the price point it is ok.
4085097
I have been using this rower off and on for the past year at the gym at my work.  It is very solid and provides a great workout and I find myself using it 3-5 times a week.  I spend 30-60 minutes on it and head home happy after such a great workout the unit provides.  I have raved about it that my wife finally approached me asking for a rower......BINGO, I knew exactly what rower to get without hesitation.  I still did my usual research into other units and lurked on forums.  I knew this was the right one to buy, first-because I have used it and knew what I was getting and would not have buyers remorse.  However, I did order the Model D with the new PM5 electronics.  It will be here tomorrow and I know it was worth every cent to invest in my families health with a safe quality machine.  I am certain this will be the last rower I will need to purchase, the quality really is that good.
1773445
Probably the best purchase I have ever made on Amazon.  I researched all different indoor rowers and the ratings on it are correct...it is THE TOP OF THE LINE ROWER OF THEM ALL.  You can buy more expensive machines, but the Concept 2 is the benchmark standard against which all others are measured.  Two items I recommend you get with it are a Fit 2K seat cushion (makes the 5,000 and 10,000 meter rows a bit more comfortable), and a Polar H7 Heartrate monitor (if your are looking to really use it to its full potential, the H7 will help you stay in the zone).

Update - This is an incredible machine - In only a month's time, it is changing my life (as other reviewers have noted).  When I first got on it, I couldn't go beyond 500 meters without running out of steam.  Now, the long haul rows are challenging, but not impossible.  In addition to the 2 items I mentioned above (a Polar H7 Heartrate Monitor, and a seat cushion from FIT 2K), the third item to make your setup complete is an online rowing system subscription from RowPro.com.  With your machine connected to your computer and their software, there are unlimited possibilities.  You can get individually tailored workout programs.  You can race against opponents (real or imagined).  You can join an online fun row.  The video display on your computer screen is awesome (I have my displayed on a 40" flat screen TV). I have no financial interest in RowPro (or Concept 2, or Polar, or FIT 2K), but these four subsystems together make an incredible Fitness System - Buy the Best and Ignore the Rest!!!!!
282274
I really like this machine.  I have only rowed 30K m on it but know rowing in my house will become a daily event.  It feels good and is fun.

I looked closely at the WaterRower and Concept2.  I'm sure the WaterRower is an excellent machine but for me the choice of Concept2 over WaterRower came down to -

1.  Resistance.  Concept2 resistance varies with rower output.  WaterRower resistance varies with water level.
2.  Adjustable Recovery (hydrodynamics of the "boat").  Concept2 recovery adjusts using a turbine louver.  The more air allowed into the turbine, the sooner the turbine spins down hence the faster "boat" slows after each stroke.
3.  Portability.  Concept2 can be broken down into two equal length pieces to fit in a vehicle.
4.  Construction.  I like wood, but not on an exercise machine.
5.  Assembly.  Concept2 assembly requires fewer steps.
6.  Resale Value.  If I ever sell it (not likely), I know I can get 80% of what I paid.
7.  Spare Parts and Documentation.  Plenty of reasonably priced parts for all models.  Great mechanical documentation.

I chose the Model D over the Model E because I like the smaller size, do not need the added height, and most important - the PM support arm folds away for protection during transport.

I chose the PM4 option for no good reason other than it is the latest monitor version.  I did not want to dig into the differences between the two.

Nice to see the Concept2 model evolution laid out plain and simple on their web site.  They hide nothing.  I like products that are designed by people who actually use them.

Now I gotta go row, bye.

Update - September 4, 2014

I have had this rower for 6 months now and have had access to it for three months.  Have "rowed" 420,000m with out any trouble with the machine.  Keep the rail clean and the chain lightly lubricated.  Rowing will rip you up!
2252894
Required assembly, but the instructions were adequately clear. The rower is very, very sturdy.  The piston is much larger than the competitor's (Sunny) and I will assume that its larger size means better heat dissipation and therefore should last longer.  The only reservation I have are the 4 plastic rollers under the seat.  These 4 rollers bear the weight of the user, and are constantly undergoing wear and tear.  Your guess is as good as mine as to how long plastic stands up in such a situation.  Rollers with ball bearings would have been better, but would have added to the cost.

The rower has 5 resistance settings and should cover all users from beginners to the experienced.  Changing from one setting to another requires lining up the holes on the rower arm with the hole on the piston, and then inserting a short rod. It is not something you could do on the fly -- you have to move the piston and the rower arm together to find the proper alignment and then insert the rod.

Once the resistance setting is done, the rowing is very smooth and you will get a very intense workout.  The noise level is not bad.  Then after you are done, the rower can be stored away vertically against a wall and out of the way.  This is a very nice feature for those with limited space.

This rower is as basic as it gets, but you don't need any fancy features.  The price is very reasonable.  If your goal is to get a very good workout rain or shine, and you have limited space to store a rower, this is the one to get.