Concept2 PM2

[cmcphotos]

I am new to rowing and considering purchasing a used C2 PM2. The "owner" was a high school rower who has now gone to college. His father purchased the C2 PM2 approximately 4 years ago (used). He says the machine is in excellent condition and well maintained. He is asking $650.00 for it. Is this a reasonable amount to pay? He says the rower does not need any parts replaced. I did look on the C2 website and see all of the replacement parts should I need them. Lastly, he said this model was one of the last models that doesn't have a plastic flywheel and is much sturdier than new models. Any advice would be great. (I'm new to rowing, but looking forward to learning more)

[Citroen]

The PM2 is the monitor, not the rowing machine.

If it's a model C (from 2003 or earlier) with a PM2 then $650 is way over priced - you can buy a brand new machine for $850.

The new models are just as sturdy and much quieter in operation.

http://www.concept2.com/service/indoor-rowers
http://www.concept2.com/service/monitors

[cmcphotos]

Thanks for your reply. Yes, I see that I can get a new model for $850. In all my research on the model he was offering, I neglected to check out a new model. Couldn't see the forest for the trees. I'll continue my research. None of my local fitness equipment stores sell the Concept2 brand. I suppose there is always Amazon...

[Citroen]

There's always direct from http://Concept2.com

[Bob S.]

A major problem with that machine is that most of the PM2s are on their last legs and might go out at any time. You can replace it with a more up to date PM, but that is another expense.

Bob S.

[jackarabit]

Rogue Fitness in Columbus OH offered a slight price advantage over both C2 and Amazon before the advent of the new monitor. I don't know that they retain that advantage now but worth a look if you're in the CONUS. Jack

[Hollywood_Kuma]

The guy asking $650 for a Model C with a PM2 is a comedian. I would suggest $350 might give you a bargain. I say "might" because the last Model C was manufactured in July 2003, so this is a very old machine. I think you need to factor in $200 for a monitor retrofit, because the PM2 is probably on its last legs. Other parts are not so expensive, but the monitors are costly to replace.

I also wouldn't deal with the guy, because he's also a scoundrel who is trying to trick you with stories about the relative sturdiness of the machines which are simply untrue. I've owned a Model C and two Model D machines, and both models are indestructible. His line about flywheel durability is dishonest nonsense.

In fact, there are some important innovations with the Model D which make it a better product. The flywheel on a Model D is much quieter, which is a major improvement. The handle and foot-stretchers on the D are better. The locking mechanism (that enables you to take the machine apart for storage) is much improved. And, most significantly of all, the PM3, PM4 and PM5 monitors are much more sophisticated than the PM2 (or PM2+).

I purchased each of my Concept 2 ergs directly from Concept 2. If you do have any issues, you deal with C2 directly, and I've always found the company to be extraordinarily helpful. There are stories in the Amazon reviews about ergs getting damaged during delivery and, although this might happen if you buy direct, I think it will be less hassle dealing with C2. If you do buy a new erg, inspect the box carefully when it is delivered, and refuse delivery if there is any obvious damage.

My Model D with PM5 was $945 delivered. You get a two year guarantee on everything, and five years on the frame. It's worth paying the extra.