Storing your Indoor Rower

The Concept2 Indoor Rower is easy to move and store. Caster wheels on the front foot allow you to wheel it around easily. Our indoor rowers are also compact enough to fit in most vehicles for transport—check out this Model D, boxed, fitting inside a tiny smart car! (Unboxed, the Models D and E fit well in most standard vehicles.)

Between workouts, some athletes find it convenient to separate their Model D or Model E Indoor Rowers for storage. Separated into two pieces, the indoor rower can fit into a corner or closet more easily.

The frame locking mechanism on the Model D and Model E makes storage convenient and safe. Our helpful video shows how to connect the monorail end of the indoor rower with the flywheel end. (Please note that the procedure is identical for the Model D and E, unless you have a Model D manufactured between July 2003 and August 2006.) Use caution while attaching the monorail section to the flywheel section and while operating the frame locking mechanism. With practice, it becomes easier to line up and connect into place. Always have the frame locking mechanism in the locked position, with the frame locking lever completely closed, when the flywheel and monorail sections are connected. Failure to do so may result in injury if the unit is lifted or moved.

At some boathouses and fitness clubs, Concept2 Indoor Rowers are stored incorrectly, standing up on the front end with the two halves attached (see illustration). This poses the danger of the indoor rower falling down and causing injury. It can also cause frame damage to your equipment. As a reminder: Do not stand the indoor rower up on end as the indoor rower may tip over.

Some boathouses and fitness clubs instruct users to avoid using the handle hook for storage. The handle hook can be used for extended storage; it won’t damage the shock cord. The handle hook is very helpful: place the handle against the chain guide or in the handle hook before letting go, otherwise a retracting handle can potentially damage the Performance Monitor.

When storing the indoor rower for longer periods of time, we recommend a clean, dry location. Indoor rowers should not be stored outside in the elements, even with the Concept2 dust cover. Oil the chain using purified mineral oil, 3-IN-ONE oil, or 20W motor oil (this should also be performed as regular maintenance). The monorail should be wiped clean of dust and dirt with window cleaner and a paper towel. Inspect all screws and fasteners and tighten as necessary. Pay special attention to the screws that hold the seat onto the frame and the screws that attach the front and back legs. If there is dust in the flywheel enclosure, vacuum as needed; follow our procedure for opening and cleaning the flywheel.

It is important to remove the batteries to prevent corrosion or battery drain while not in use for extended periods of time. If you have a PM4 with a rechargeable battery, charge the battery fully before storage. To fully charge a battery, use a USB cable to plug the Performance Monitor into a computer overnight. Take the charged battery pack out of the PM4 and store separately. Similar to other computer equipment, the Performance Monitor should not be stored where there are vast fluctuations in temperature or in damp environments, so find a temperature-controlled dry place to store your Performance Monitor.

We provide full instructions on maintenance for your convenience.