Observations Old vs New Machine

[jliddil]

So I got my new Model D. For a few years the only thing I've used are the Model Cs in my company gym. Well I now see what I was missing out on.

Even with new seat rollers the ones in the gym slide really rough compared to my new machine

Chain much smoother and pull action smoother on new machine.

Obviously the elastic needs adjustment now that I see/feel how is on a new machine

Noise level is much quieter on the new machine

For quite some time I've marveled at how people row 7 minute 2Ks much less break 8 minutes. Well there must be a large amount of friction in the Model Cs at work. I can do a 1:50/500m no problem. Where as on the Model Cs (at equivalent 125 drag). I struggle to break 2:00/500.

I've had them vacuum the fly wheel more than once so that seems not to be the issue. Seems like poor general overall maintenance since these are 10+ years old.

People complain about the Model D seat being hard. Well it's like a sofa compared to the seats at work. They have probably hardened from oxidation over the years. No wonder my right glute was killing me even with bubble wrap.

The PM4 is so much more useful than the PM2.

Now time to give my corporate gym folks some feedback.

JD

[Montanaandy]

I can do a 1:50/500m no problem. Where as on the Model Cs (at equivalent 125 drag). I struggle to break 2:00/500.

Interesting. I have an old Model C with several million meters on it and I too work my fanny off to come close to 2:00/500 at home. When I have used a D or E while traveling I also can break the 2 minute mark fairly easily (I make certain that the drag factor is the same/close to the home drag factor on the gym machine). I really have enjoyed rowing on the D & E when I have had the chance but I guess that as long as my C is operational I will continue with it. Montanaandy

[Carl Watts]

Still using a model C here but it really comes down to how much use it has had and how well it has been maintained.

If you put a model C and a Model D that were brand new side by side I don't think you would find a great deal of difference. You still have the same general layout, bearings, same 14 tooth sprocket etc etc. I have noticed on a gym one I sat on recently that it was the chain that had a problem. I could feel every link of it on the recovery stroke as it went across the sprocket !!!!

I'm the one who is the "Limitation" when it comes down to it and not the Erg itself, but sure it's nice to have a new machine and the PM3 or PM4 is a nice monitor for online rowing.

[Carl Watts]

One test you can try is the flywheel bearings.

With a Drag Factor of between 150 and 160 row at a 2:00ave/500M pace and then stop rowing and start a stopwatch.

The Flywheel on my Model C took 2:30 to come to a complete stop and it was totally silent during that time.

Did try a Model D today and they certainly are smooth if they are in as new condition.

[nj9j]

I thought it was my imagination until I found this thread. I have owned a "C" since 2004 and rowed on a "D" at a boat club. The "D" was much more smooth, quiet and the fan seemed to sustain momentum more efficiently after each drive versus the old machine.