Concept2 RowErg 2712 Rowing Machine Review
A benchmark air rower with a data-rich monitor
The Concept2 RowErg combines a responsive air flywheel with the PM5 monitor, giving you accurate pace, watts and distance data in a 26 kg rower that separates into two pieces for storage.
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Our verdict
The Concept2 RowErg 2712 Rowing Machine is an air resistance rower built around the PM5 performance monitor, which gives you accurate, comparable data on every stroke. Its responsive flywheel, adjustable spiral damper and 227 kg maximum user weight suit everyone from newcomers to people training hard.
Practical design touches add to the appeal. The frame separates into two pieces without tools, caster wheels help you move it, and a smartphone and tablet holder is included. UK customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with buyers praising its solid build, quick assembly and motivating data. The main points to plan for are floor space and some air noise, both easy to manage.
Key specifications
Pros and cons
What we like
- PM5 monitor with accurate, comparable workout data
- Air flywheel responds to the effort of every stroke
- Spiral damper adjusts the feel of the stroke
- Separates into two pieces without tools
- Generous 227 kg maximum user weight
- Bluetooth Smart, ANT+ and ErgData app support
What to consider
- Needs a 274 x 122 cm footprint; splits in two to store
- Audible air whoosh; one buyer still enjoys music while rowing
- Technique takes practice; one buyer found Concept2’s videos helpful
- Long-legged users may need an extra-long monorail; Concept2 can advise
- Front legs need fitting; tool and illustrated instructions included
A home rower built for accurate, motivating training
PM5 monitor, adjustable air resistance and a 227 kg capacity in a frame that splits in two.
PM5 performance monitor
The PM5 is what sets the Concept2 RowErg apart from many home rowers. It shows distance, speed, pace, calories and watts for every workout, on an adjustable monitor arm. You can choose between five displays: all data, force curve, bar chart, large print and a paceboat or pacer.
Concept2 describes the data as accurate and comparable, so you can measure progress from one session to the next. One buyer who upgraded from a cheaper rower said the PM5 rewards stroke strength rather than simply counting strokes. Buyers also found the display clear and easy to use.
Air flywheel and spiral damper
The RowErg uses air resistance, so the flywheel responds to your effort on every stroke. Pull harder and the resistance rises with you, keeping you in full control of your exertion. Concept2 says the flywheel design minimises noise while keeping the stroke smooth.
The spiral damper lets you change the feel of the stroke to suit your preference. One buyer compared adjusting the drag factor to changing gears on a bike rather than switching to a hard mode. That makes it easy to move between endurance and strength-focused sessions.
Adjustable fit and comfortable handle
The adjustable footrests are designed for quick sizing and accommodate a wide range of shoe sizes. The seat sits at 35.5 cm, and the ergonomic handle has a 10 degree bend for a natural arm and hand position. A nickel-plated chain completes the drive.
The 137 cm monorail suits a wide range of heights, and one buyer who is 6 ft 4 in tall reported no issues. Users with an inseam of 96.5 cm or more may need an extra-long monorail, so Concept2 recommends contacting them for advice.
Two-piece storage and easy mobility
A quick-release framelock lets you separate the RowErg into two pieces without tools. Concept2 recommends a storage space of 63.5 x 83.8 x 137.2 cm. Caster wheels on the front foot let you roll the assembled machine into position.
In use, the rower needs a footprint of 274 x 122 cm, so it’s worth measuring your room before ordering. Buyers liked standing the two sections upright against a wall, and one said getting it ready to row again takes about 30 seconds.
Bluetooth, apps and heart rate support
The PM5 supports Bluetooth Smart and ANT+, so you can pair compatible heart rate chest belts wirelessly. It’s also USB compatible, letting you save results to a flash drive. Power comes from two D batteries, which are included.
With a compatible iPhone or Android phone, the free ErgData app connects wirelessly and stores your workouts automatically. Buyers said it links with Concept2’s free online logbook, where you can track progress and join challenges. Several found that steady feedback kept them rowing consistently.
Good to know: warranty and monorail length
The product information lists a 2-year manufacturer guarantee, while the item description mentions a 5-year frame warranty. This review uses the 2-year figure as the cautious overall cover, and the seller can confirm what applies to the frame. If your inseam is 96.5 cm or more, contact Concept2 about the extra-long monorail before you buy.
Who should buy the Concept2 RowErg 2712 Rowing Machine?
It’s best suited to adults who want a durable home rower with detailed performance data and room to progress.
A good fit if you want
- Accurate, comparable data to track progress over time
- Adjustable air resistance for varied sessions
- A sturdy frame rated to 227 kg
- A rower that splits in two for storage
- Wireless heart rate and app connectivity
Look elsewhere if you need
- A near-silent machine for a shared space
- A very compact rower for a small room
- Numbered magnetic resistance levels rather than air resistance
What UK customers say
UK customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Buyers consistently praise the solid build quality, smooth stroke and full-body, low-impact workout, with one noting no wobble or creaking when pushing hard. Several said assembly took between 5 and 15 minutes, and buyers liked the PM5, the built-in device holder, the ErgData app and Concept2’s online logbook.
The points raised are minor and manageable. One buyer said it takes up a decent amount of floor space and advised checking the measurements, which the two-piece storage helps with. Another found it louder than a cheaper rower, though mostly the whoosh of air and unlikely to bother a neighbouring room. One buyer took about a week to get their technique right, and another recommended Concept2’s technique videos.
How we researched this review
This review is based on the manufacturer’s product information and UK customer feedback rather than hands-on testing. We weigh the listed specifications against practical points raised by buyers. Read our review process
Buying advice
1
Measure your space first. Allow a 274 x 122 cm footprint for rowing and 63.5 x 83.8 x 137.2 cm for storing it in two pieces.
2
Check your inseam. The 137 cm monorail suits most users, but an inseam of 96.5 cm or more may need the extra-long version.
3
Experiment with the damper. Try different settings to find the stroke feel that suits your sessions, and use the ErgData app to track your progress.
Full product details
| Brand | Concept2 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Concept2 |
| Model name | Modelo D |
| Model number | 2712 |
| Manufacturer part number | 2712 |
| Item type | Rowing machine |
| Colour | Black |
| Resistance mechanism | Air |
| Tension supported | Adjustable |
| Monitor | PM5 performance monitor |
| Display | LCD, backlit |
| Data shown | Distance, speed, pace, calories, watts |
| Display options | All data, force curve, bar chart, large print, paceboat or pacer |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Smart, ANT+, USB flash drive compatible |
| App | ErgData for compatible iPhone and Android phones |
| Maximum user weight | 227 kg |
| Product dimensions | 0.61D x 2.44W x 0.36H metres |
| Required footprint | 274 x 122 cm |
| Storage space | 63.5 x 83.8 x 137.2 cm |
| Monorail length | 137 cm |
| Seat height | 35.5 cm |
| Item weight | 26 kg |
| Frame material | Aluminium |
| Material type | Aluminium alloy steel |
| Chain | Nickel-plated |
| Handle | Ergonomic, 10 degree bend |
| Footrests | Adjustable |
| Mobility | Caster wheels on front foot |
| Storage design | Quick-release framelock, separates into two pieces |
| Power source | Battery powered, 2 D batteries included |
| Included components | PM5 performance monitor, smartphone and tablet holder |
| What’s in the box | User manual, performance monitor quick start guide, tools, assembly instructions |
| Assembly | Front legs fitted with eight screws, about 20–30 minutes |
| Country of origin | USA |
| Warranty | 2-year manufacturer guarantee |
| Frame warranty | 5 years, as stated in the item description |
Frequently asked questions
What monitor does the Concept2 RowErg use?
It comes with the PM5 performance monitor, which shows distance, speed, pace, calories and watts on an adjustable arm.
What is the maximum user weight of the Concept2 RowErg?
The listed maximum weight recommendation is 227 kg.
Does the Concept2 RowErg need assembly?
Yes. You fit the front legs using eight screws, with the tool and illustrated instructions included, and Concept2 suggests allowing about 20–30 minutes.
How do you store the Concept2 RowErg?
A quick-release framelock separates it into two pieces without tools, and Concept2 recommends a storage space of 63.5 x 83.8 x 137.2 cm.
Does the Concept2 RowErg need mains power?
No. It’s listed as battery powered, using two D batteries that are included.
Can the Concept2 RowErg connect to my phone?
Yes. The PM5 connects wirelessly to the free ErgData app on compatible iPhone and Android phones, which stores your workouts automatically.
Final verdict
A dependable home rower with genuinely useful data
The Concept2 RowErg is a standout choice if you want a home rower that rewards your effort and tracks it accurately. Its PM5 monitor, responsive air flywheel, adjustable damper and 227 kg capacity give it a feature set that suits casual and serious rowers alike.
The main points to plan for are the 274 x 122 cm footprint and some air noise. The two-piece design makes storage simple, and the included tool keeps assembly quick. If you want a rower built to handle regular training, the RowErg is well worth considering.
