20 Years; Concept2 Rower: A Gold Standard That Still Delivers

Concept2 remains the gold standard in rowing machines—and for good reason. Renowned for unmatched reliability and long-term durability, it’s the rower of choice in gyms around the world. Walk into almost any fitness center, and chances are you’ll find a Concept2 before any other brand.

This December 2025 marks 20 years since I purchased my Concept2 Model D Indoor Rower—December 6th, 2005, to be exact. The Model D Indoor Rower was manufactured between July 2003–August 2006. It originally came equipped with the now-retired PM3 monitor. Over the past two decades, one of the most underrated benefits of owning a Concept2 has been the company’s commitment to backward compatibility and continual upgradeability. That forward-thinking approach has kept older machines relevant—with new features and accessories often available at no extra cost.

In 2015, I upgraded to the PM5 monitor—a game-changer for connectivity and functionality. Ironically, it now costs $20 less than when I purchased it. I also added the Android Smartphone Cradle for basic wired integration.

By 2021, I installed the PM5 C/D Retrofit Device Holder, adding Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility—enabling seamless pairing with modern tablets, smartphones, and heart rate monitors.

In 2023, it was time for a new Complete Seat Assembly, which came with enhanced rollers that noticeably improved the smoothness of each stroke. Then in 2025, I opted for the Tall Legs Retrofit Kit, raising the seat height from 14″ to 20″. Let’s face it—aging is inevitable, and that extra height makes getting on and off the rower significantly easier.

But hardware isn’t the only place Concept2 has excelled.

Before 2020, workout logbooks were stored locally on the PM monitors. That changed with the rise of Concept2‘s ErgData app and the Online Logbook. Though the ErgData app first launched in 2012, a major update in July 2022 transformed it—adding a modern UI, easier workout setup, real-time stat tracking, and accessibility features like audio guidance.

Meanwhile, the Online Logbook, introduced in 2020, brought cloud-based storage to the experience—with no subscription fees, no paywalls, and unlimited access to your workout history.

Today, the updated ErgData app supports custom workouts, goal tracking, live stat display, and even interactive racing with other users around the globe—directly from your phone or tablet.

After two decades of regular use, my Concept2 Indoor Rower still performs like a champion. Thanks to Concept2’s thoughtful design, ongoing innovation, and user-focused upgrades, it’s hands down the best investment I’ve ever made in home fitness.

Last Revision: May 8, 2026