How to Test a Used Rowing Machine Before Buying

Rowing machines deliver one of the most complete full-body workouts available from home fitness equipment, but premium rowers from brands like Concept2, Hydrow, and NordicTrack can cost $1,000-$2,500 new. Buying used can save 40-60% off retail, but without proper testing you risk purchasing machines with worn resistance systems, failing monitors, or damaged rails that compromise your workout. This comprehensive guide walks you through every test needed to evaluate a used rowing machine and ensure you're getting equipment that will last for years of training.

Resistance System Testing

The resistance system is the heart of any rowing machine, determining workout quality and long-term durability. Different rowers use different resistance technologies—air, water, magnetic, or hydraulic—each with unique failure modes and testing requirements. Understanding how to evaluate each type ensures you're getting a machine that performs as expected.

Air Resistance Testing (Concept2 Style)

Air resistance rowers use a flywheel with fan blades to create resistance that increases naturally with rowing intensity. To test, row at increasing speeds and verify resistance scales smoothly without sudden changes or dead spots. Listen for unusual sounds—rattling often indicates loose fan cage hardware, while scraping sounds suggest damaged or worn bearings. The flywheel should spin freely when you release the handle and coast to a gradual stop. If it stops abruptly, bearings may be failing. Test the damper setting through its full range, ensuring smooth adjustment and distinct resistance changes at different levels.

Water Resistance Testing

Water rowers create resistance using paddles rotating through a sealed water tank, providing a smooth rowing feel and authentic sound. Inspect the tank for any cracks, cloudiness, or discoloration—water should be clear. Check the tank seal and water level markings. Row at various intensities to verify smooth resistance without surging or inconsistent drag. Listen for sounds that indicate air bubbles in the tank or worn paddle bearings. The water should swirl smoothly without sloshing sounds that indicate improper water level or tank damage. Check for any moisture or leaks around the tank and base.

Magnetic Resistance Testing

Magnetic rowers use adjustable magnets near a flywheel to create smooth, quiet resistance. Test all resistance levels from minimum to maximum, verifying distinct changes at each setting. Resistance should feel smooth throughout the stroke without grabbing or surging. Unlike air rowers, magnetic resistance doesn't increase automatically with speed, so verify the resistance level matches your expectations for workout intensity. Check that the adjustment mechanism works smoothly—sticky or jumpy adjustments indicate worn cables or mechanisms. Listen for any clicking or grinding that could indicate magnet or flywheel issues.

Rail & Seat Testing

The rail and seat system enables the sliding motion fundamental to rowing exercise. This high-wear area experiences constant friction and stress, making it critical to evaluate for smooth operation and remaining lifespan. Problems here significantly impact workout quality and comfort.

Rail Condition Assessment

Examine the rail along its entire length for scratches, dents, or debris accumulation. Rails should be straight without visible bowing or warping. Run your finger along the rail surface—it should feel smooth without rough spots that would impede seat travel. For aluminum rails, check for oxidation or corrosion that creates drag. Mono-rail designs (single beam) should be checked for twist or lateral movement. Dual-rail designs should have parallel tracks without separation or splaying at ends.

Seat Roller Testing

The seat rides on wheels or rollers that glide along the rail. Sit on the seat and push off, gliding forward and backward through the full range. Movement should be smooth and silent. Grinding, clicking, or resistance indicates worn rollers or bearings. Lift the seat slightly to inspect rollers—they should be round (not flat-spotted from wear) and spin freely. Check for debris wrapped around axles. Rock the seat side to side; excessive lateral movement suggests worn roller guides or rail issues. Replacement rollers are available for most machines but add to your cost.

Seat Comfort and Condition

Examine the seat itself for cracks, wear patterns, or broken mounting points. Contoured seats should retain their shape without deformation. Padding (if present) should be intact without compression that's bottomed out. The seat should mount securely to the roller carriage without wobbling. Sit on the seat in rowing position and verify it's comfortable and stable through the full range of motion. Uncomfortable or damaged seats can be replaced on most machines, but factor this cost into your offer.

Monitor & Electronics Testing

Modern rowing machines feature sophisticated monitors that track stroke rate, distance, time, pace, and calories. These electronics are essential for effective training, providing feedback that helps you improve. Testing monitor function thoroughly ensures you'll have accurate data for your workouts.

Display Function Testing

Power on the monitor and verify all display segments illuminate properly. LCD displays should be clear without missing segments, dark spots, or faded areas. LED displays should have even brightness across all elements. Check display visibility from normal rowing position—you'll need to read it mid-workout. For backlit displays, verify the backlight functions and provides adequate illumination. Touch screens (on smart rowers) should respond accurately across the entire surface without dead zones or delayed response.

Metric Accuracy Testing

Row at a steady pace and observe the metrics. Stroke rate should increase and decrease appropriately as you change pace. Distance should accumulate consistently. Compare the machine's readings to general expectations—typical recreational stroke rate is 18-24 strokes per minute, competitive rate is 24-34. If the machine shows wildly different numbers, the sensor may be faulty. For Concept2 rowers, the PM5 monitor is highly accurate and used for official competitions; significant inaccuracies indicate sensor or cable problems.

Data Storage and Connectivity

If the monitor stores workout history, check that this feature works. Navigate through menus to verify all functions operate. Test connectivity features—Bluetooth to phone apps, ANT+ to heart rate monitors, or USB for data export. These connections are important for training programs and tracking progress. For smart rowers with streaming content (Hydrow, Ergatta), verify the screen and speakers work properly. Check if the subscription can be transferred to your account.

Frame & Structural Inspection

The frame provides the foundation for the entire rowing machine and must withstand significant forces during use. Structural issues compromise safety and workout quality. A thorough frame inspection reveals problems that might not be apparent during casual observation.

Weld and Joint Inspection

Examine all welds and frame joints for cracks, separation, or stress marks. Pay particular attention to high-stress areas: where the rail attaches to the main frame, footrest mounting points, and the resistance unit connection. For steel frames, check for rust at weld points—this area is particularly vulnerable. Aluminum frames should be checked for fatigue cracks. Rock the machine firmly side-to-side and front-to-back; excessive movement or creaking indicates loose joints or frame fatigue.

Footrest Assessment

Footrests endure significant stress as you push off during each stroke. Check mounting bolts for security and inspect the footplate for cracks. Straps should be intact without fraying, and adjustment mechanisms should operate smoothly through their full range. The footrest angle should be adjustable (on machines with this feature) and hold position firmly. Plastic footrests crack over time from repeated stress; examine carefully around mounting points and edges.

Stability Testing

Set the machine on a flat surface and verify it sits stable without rocking. Row with moderate intensity and check for any frame flex or instability. Front and rear stabilizers should be intact and level. For foldable rowers, test the folding mechanism multiple times—it should lock securely in both positions. Check pivot points on folding models for wear or looseness that could cause the machine to collapse unexpectedly during use or storage.

Handle & Drive System Testing

The handle and drive system (chain, strap, or cable) transmit your rowing power to the resistance unit. This high-tension system requires careful evaluation as failures here can cause injury or render the machine unusable.

Handle Condition

Examine the handle grip for wear, cracks, or deterioration. Rubber grips should be intact without separation from the handle core. The handle should be straight without bending from abuse. Check where the drive system attaches to the handle—this connection point experiences maximum stress. Ergonomic handles should retain their shape. Metal handles should be checked for corrosion or stress marks. A worn handle is inexpensive to replace but indicates overall machine usage level.

Chain/Strap Evaluation

For chain-driven rowers (like Concept2), inspect the chain for rust, stretched links, or kinks. The chain should move smoothly through the sprockets without binding. Listen for clicking or grinding that indicates worn sprockets or chain. Proper chain tension allows about 1/4 inch of deflection. For strap-driven machines, check for fraying, cuts, or stretched material. The strap should retract smoothly and fully when released. For cable systems, check for fraying, kinks, or stretched sections that would weaken the cable.

Recoil System Testing

Pull the handle out and release it. The handle should retract smoothly and fully under spring or bungee tension. Sluggish return indicates worn springs or friction in the system. The recoil should be strong enough to maintain tension throughout your recovery phase. For adjustable recoil systems, test all tension settings. An overly loose recoil makes rowing technique difficult; an overly tight recoil causes premature fatigue. Listen for any grinding or catching during retraction that indicates internal wear.

Smart Features Testing

Premium rowing machines increasingly include smart features like streaming workouts, connected apps, and interactive training programs. These features add significant value but also create additional testing requirements and potential subscription costs to consider.

Streaming Content Access

For smart rowers with built-in screens (Hydrow, Ergatta, NordicTrack with iFit), verify you can access the content library. These machines typically require ongoing subscriptions—confirm the subscription status and whether it transfers with the machine. Some sellers include remaining subscription time; others don't. Test video playback quality, ensuring smooth streaming without buffering. Audio from built-in speakers should be clear and loud enough for effective workouts.

App Connectivity

Test Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity with companion apps. Concept2 machines connect to the ErgData app; verify this connection works. Heart rate monitor pairing should function if the machine supports it. For machines that sync workouts to platforms like Strava or Apple Health, test this data flow. Account migration may be required—verify the process with the manufacturer. Lost credentials for smart rowers can be problematic; ensure the seller provides all necessary account information.

Software and Updates

Check the current firmware or software version. Outdated software may lack features or compatibility with current apps. For machines with updatable firmware, verify the update process works. Some older models may have reached end-of-life for software support—research the manufacturer's support policy. Smart features require ongoing server infrastructure; consider the manufacturer's longevity and commitment to supporting older products.

Brand Reliability Guide

Fair Pricing Guide

Final Testing Checklist

Use this interactive checklist during your evaluation. Every item should pass before purchasing: