York Platinum R700 Rower

Advantages: Sturdy robust machine combining bike and rower features
Disadvantages: Needs sufficient space and heavy to shift around

...the LARGE package arrived was if I would manage to fit it together OK on my own, as I am by no means an expert in anything DIY related. However the instructions were musician-proof and with a little judicious balancing of the apparatus against a wall at one point, I was able to complete assembly. I certainly agree with the other reviewer about how robust and sturdy this machine is. She has described the features in great detail already, so suffice it to say that I'm on my 4th week or so and after a steep improvement curve currently aiming to cycle 3 miles in just over 15 minutes on the "4" setting and I've already lost half a stone and feel much fitter in general. I don't use the rower quite so much yet, as violinists tend to have pretty strong shoulders anyway but agree that conversion from one to the other is easy and the rower also... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Ease of use and worlds best
Disadvantages: Huge! Very costly.

...I am what you would describe as a fitness freak and have used many pieces of gym equipment. The Concept 2 Rower is bar far the most superior rower I have used. I use the Model E which is a newer version of the rower and immediately recongised by the frame being higher off the ground allowing a raised seating position which in my opinion is a far more natural and comfortable position. This rower is fitted with a performance Monitor known as PM4, simply the key pad you enter the distance/time and so forth. Being wireless enabled allows you to actually race another rower using a concept 2, as well as wireless heart rate monitoring. The rower even has a game function which allows you to actually add some enjoyment into your workout, it consists of a simple fish game where you must avoid the larger fish and eat the smaller ones... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Good solid bike with lots of information on built in computer
Disadvantages: Size and cost

...In a vain attempt at getting fit, whilst not spending a fortune at the local gym, we purchased a York 2 in 1 Cycle Rower. We actually brought ours from eBay for £150.00 but if you are buying new you can expect to pay somewhere in the region of £260.00 at the cheapest search on Kelkoo. ##THE LOOK## This is a very solid bike/rower and is therefore by default very heavy. This is reflected in the look of the machine and you have a very solid, sturdy piece of equipment, taking up a relative amount of space in your living room. Ours is situated at the end of the room, by my desk, so is not too intrusive, but if you have a smaller room I would suggest a smaller bike as this really is quite a beast. The makers suggest in the guide that you should place the bike on an exercise mat or similar due to the fact that it has mechanisms... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful