Body-Solid R300 vs Concept 2: Which Rower Is Better?

Introduction to Body-Solid R300 vs Concept 2

If you’re deciding between the Body-Solid R300 Endurance Rower and the Concept 2 RowErg, here’s the tea: both deliver a total body workout, excellent cardio endurance, and unmatched durability, but they cater to different needs. The R300’s self-generating machine and precision-engineered flywheel design make it perfect for compact home gyms and intense movements, while the Concept 2 stands out for its interactive console and user-controlled air resistance.

This guide dives into their unique features, helping you decide which rower best meets your fitness goals, space, and budget. Let’s get into it!

Benefits of Using a Rowing Machine

Rowers like the Body-Solid R300 and Concept 2 RowErg deliver exceptional fitness benefits, making them ideal for both home gyms and commercial settings. They’re space-saving and engage major muscle groups, including the hip flexors, arms, core, and legs. Rowing machines also promote cardio endurance, improving your heart health while delivering an efficient workout. 

The low-impact rowing movement is gentle on joints, making it suitable for rehabilitation and joint health without compromising workout intensity. Additionally, rowers are great for high-intensity calorie-burning sessions, supporting weight loss and cardiovascular improvements. 

Key Differences Between the Body-Solid R300 Endurance Rower and Concept 2 RowErg

Design and Build Quality

The Body-Solid Endurance Indoor Rower R300 is designed with a nickel-plated chain for durability, featuring a self-generating power system that requires no external electricity, and therefore no power requirements to meet. Its sturdy frame supports up to 500 lbs and weighs 82 lbs, plus it comes with a convenient cell phone holder so you won’t have to worry about getting one that works with your machine.

With its precision-engineered flywheel, fully-adjustable footrests, and ergonomic handle, the R300 ensures both performance and a comfortable workout. Measuring 95.1” L x 24.4” W x 39.8” H, it’s compact enough for home gyms yet durable enough for commercial settings.

The Concept 2 RowErg, known for its portability, offers two weight options: 57 lbs with standard legs and 68 lbs with tall legs. While lighter in weight, it also features a solid base designed for stability. Whether you choose the standard legs or tall legs version, the frame is built to handle rigorous use. Its lighter frame makes it easy to move and store, while its nickel-plated steel chain and high-quality materials deliver durability even with frequent use. Additionally, the RowErg’s foldable design and transport wheels add convenience for easy storage.

Resistance Mechanism

Both the Body-Solid R300 and Concept 2 RowErg utilize air resistance systems, meaning resistance is directly proportional to the user’s effort—the harder you row, the greater the resistance. Each rower features a fan flywheel, ensuring smooth and consistent resistance while naturally adjusting to the rower's intensity.

Both machines generate similar levels of noise due to the airflow through the fan blades, though the Concept 2's damper settings allow for slight airflow adjustments that can marginally impact sound. The Concept 2 RowErg allows users to modify drag via damper settings (1-10), while the R300 maintains a fixed flywheel design that self-regulates based on rowing intensity.

In essence, the resistance experience between these two rowers is nearly identical, with the primary difference being the Concept 2's damper adjustability for fine-tuning airflow.

Console and Tracking Features

The Body-Solid R300 is equipped with an interactive console that displays key workout metrics to help you track time, distance, strokes per minute, calories burned, and heart rate when used with a compatible monitor. The console's straightforward interface allows users to track their progress and adjust their workouts accordingly easily.

The Concept 2 RowErg, on the other hand, features the PM5 Performance Monitor, which is widely regarded as the gold standard for rowing data tracking. The PM5 delivers comprehensive real-time feedback, including pace, watts, stroke rate, and calories burned, ensuring precise performance analysis. It also features a distance cycle mode, which helps track long-term progress—a crucial tool for serious rowers and competitive athletes.

The PM5 truly stands out in its connectivity and customization. It supports Bluetooth and ANT+ integration, allowing seamless pairing with fitness apps, heart rate monitors, and third-party devices for a more interactive training experience.

While the R300 offers a functional, easy-to-use console, the Concept 2 PM5 is unmatched in performance tracking and connectivity options. For those who prioritize data-driven training, the RowErg is the clear winner.

Performance and Versatility

Due to their high quality build, both the Body-Solid R300 and Concept 2 RowErg deliver exceptional performance and versatility, making them suitable for a variety of fitness goals and environments. Each machine is built to handle intense workouts, from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to prolonged endurance sessions.

Their durable construction ensures reliable performance as personal or commercial fitness equipment and even in group workouts. Both machines allow for group workout settings, making them excellent additions to commercial gyms or CrossFit gym setups. 

Maintenance

Both the Body-Solid R300 and Concept 2 RowErg require similar maintenance routines to keep them in top condition.

Nickel-Plated Steel Chain: Both rowers use a nickel-plated chain that requires occasional oiling (every 40–50 hours of use) to maintain smooth operation and prevent wear.

Flywheel Cleaning: Since both machines use air resistance mechanisms, their flywheel housings should be dusted periodically to prevent buildup that could affect performance.

General Upkeep: Wiping down the seat, handle, and rail after workouts helps maintain longevity, especially in high-traffic environments.

Overall, both machines have minimal maintenance requirements and are built for long-term durability with regular upkeep.

Price Range

The Body-Solid R300 Endurance Rower is priced at $799 on our website. This competitive pricing includes its robust build, self-powered system, and performance-driven features, making it a good option for home and commercial gym setups. The Concept 2 RowErg is priced slightly higher at $990 to $1,155, depending on the model (standard legs or tall legs). 

Drawbacks of Using Rowing Machines

While rowing machines like the Body-Solid R300 and Concept 2 RowErg offer incredible benefits, they aren’t without drawbacks. One challenge is the learning curve involved in mastering the proper rowing movement. Beginners may initially struggle with maintaining correct posture, which is essential for preventing strain and maximizing efficiency.

Another factor to consider is space requirements. Though both machines are relatively compact for their category, they still require dedicated floor space, especially with models like the RowErg in its extended position. 

Rowers also have limited lower body isolation, focusing on a balanced total body workout rather than targeting specific muscle groups like a leg press. Additionally, the repetitive motion of rowing can increase the risk of overuse injuries if proper form and rest periods are neglected. With attention to technique and proper planning, these issues can often be mitigated.

Which Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide between the Body-Solid R300 and the Concept 2 RowErg based on your needs:

• Budget-Friendly Option: The Body-Solid R300 is priced at $799, making it a great choice for those with a limited budget without sacrificing performance and durability. If you’d like to invest more and get the RowErg, it’s priced between $990 and $1,155.

• Advanced Tracking: If detailed metrics and app compatibility are a priority, the Concept 2 RowErg s ideal with its PM5 monitor and on-water rowing simulation capabilities.

• Space Considerations: Both machines are suitable for smaller spaces, but note that the RowErg’s foldable design and lighter frame make it easier to move and store.

• Workout Focus: For HIIT and intense endurance training, the R300’s self-generating power system and robust build are perfect. The RowErg excels for users seeking customizable resistance and realistic rowing movement.

Body-Solid R300 vs Concept 2 RowErg: Conclusion

The Body-Solid R300 and Concept 2 RowErg are both exceptional rowers, each catering to different priorities. The R300 shines with its self-generating power system, precision-engineered flywheel, and affordable pricing at $799, making it a top pick for budget-conscious users and those seeking reliability in their commercial or home gym.

The Concept 2 RowErg offers advanced features like the PM5 monitor, user-controlled air resistance, and a foldable design, ideal for users prioritizing tracking capabilities and a realistic rowing experience, priced between $990 and $1,155. 

At the end of the day, choosing the right rower depends on your fitness goals, budget, and space. Find the best rowing machine for you: check out the Body-Solid R300 and our lineup of high quality rowers.