Model B still worth buying?

[Paddler1]

I'm in the market for a Concept2 but have an extremely limited budget. I have an opportunity to buy a model B for $200. Assuming it's in good condition (have only seen pics and what the owner's telling me), is this still a good investment to make?

[Ombrax]

Check out the threads below, and maybe PM the starters. (I bet they'll say "Go for it!")

I think the real answer depends on what you expect from the machine, and if you think you'll need to do any upgrades.
(also, as an alternative, how long you might willing to pay for / wait for a deal on a Model C)

Good Luck !


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[gvcormac]

It'll function fine, but it doesn't fold and isn't very portable.

It has two sprocket positions, which give you different effective mass from each other, and different from the Model C/D.

If you want to connect to the rest of the world, you'll need to get a PM5 monitor. But if you don't mind entering your log entries manually, the existing monitor will do (provided it works).

[Carl Watts]

What monitor does it have on it ?

Personally I wouldn't go for a Model B, the Model C was a massive jump and the drag factor moved to being continuous not a 2 position sprocket.

[Ombrax]

Paddler, do you have any data points on how much Models C's (or D's) are selling for in your area? How often are they offered for sale?

Knowing those things might help you decide if $200 for a B is a good choice or not.

[gvcormac]

What monitor does it have on it ?

Personally I wouldn't go for a Model B, the Model C was a massive jump and the drag factor moved to being continuous not a 2 position sprocket.

The model B had a damper as well as 2 sprockets.

[adouglas]

I have a Model B purchased used in 2021 in excellent condition for IIRC $200. Since buying it I've added all available upgrades, including buying a PM5 (current stretchers, current handle, seat pad...). I even picked up some slides. Functionally, it's just great and I have no regrets.

Most of the updates were just "nice to have" things and not at all essential.... except for the computer. The PM5 really does make a difference and I'd call it a must-have upgrade for any rower that doesn't have one already... and i'd include rowers with a PM4 in that. The original computer that came with the Model B still worked but the PM5 is such a massive upgrade that it transforms the user experience.... Bluetooth, wireless heart monitor integration, app connectivity, etc. etc.

If you're looking for a basic machine to get a good workout for short money, I'd go for it and set a little aside each month for the computer upgrade. You'll still be ahead of the game.

The only thing that I'd like to have is greater portability. The newer machines come apart, can stand up to be stored vertically, etc. The Model B is pretty much one piece. I have a space for it so no big deal.

[JoeCruse]

While we upgraded to a new RowErg late last year, I still have a Model B that I bought used about 20 years ago that still does the job just fine.Even running the original PM1 and handle and foot stretchers on it was no problem, and it did well for me. I made my own speed ring for it with roofing paper, which I really liked. It does have a different "feel" as far as drag is concerned, to me, and is a lot louder, even with the speed ring on it, than a new RowErg. I updated it a year or two ago with the newer foot stretchers and a PM5, and it's even better to use.

I still feel like it's a valuable training/WO tool, and would still be happily using it if we hadn't upgraded. It sits a good bit lower to the ground than a RowErg with the tall legs. We got this one with tall legs, to try to get my wife using it, who has some mobility issues, and to use it inside the house, with a quieter machine. The B is out in my shop, and winter workouts are not a lot of fun when the temps get below 20F.

[Cyclist2]

I still have a Model B that I bought used about 20 years ago that still does the job just fine.

I could have written your post, except that I bought mine new 35 years ago, and it has gotten several upgrades over the years, too. I bought a used model C about 20 years ago for almost nothing and still use it. The model B sits in my garage also, I still haul it outdoors occasionally when the weather is nice since the model C is in an upstairs room on slides.

C2 machines just refuse to die if taken care of.

[Markbods]

I just picked up a Model b from FB marketplace - GBP£50. Its bombproof.
I installed new footplates and a new handle and am in the process of creating a extra damper 'speed disc' and i am sure it will go on for another 20 years.