Concept2 dealer South Africa. Used vs New Concept2 BikeErg – What Should You Buy?

Building a home gym is one of the best investments you can make in your health and fitness. But with countless equipment options available, how do you decide which pieces deserve a spot in your limited space? If you’re considering cardio equipment, the Concept2 BikeErg should be at the top of your list. Here are the compelling reasons why the BikeErg is an exceptional choice for your home gym. Concept2 dealer South Africa

1. Unmatched Build Quality and Durability

Built to Last Decades, Not Years

When you invest in a BikeErg, you’re not buying a piece of equipment that will need replacing in a few years. You’re buying a machine that will likely outlast your mortgage.

Commercial-grade construction includes:

• Welded aluminum frame – Lightweight yet incredibly robust
• Self-tensioning polygroove belts – No chains to maintain or replace
• Precision-engineered flywheel – The same proven technology from Concept2 rowers
• Minimal moving parts – Fewer components mean fewer potential failures

Home gym owners consistently report their BikeErgs remain in perfect working condition after years of regular use. One user noted their bike is “even more solid than a C2 rower,” which is saying something given the RowErg’s legendary durability. Concept2 dealer South Africa

Warranty That Reflects Quality

Concept2 backs the BikeErg with:

• 5-year limited warranty on frame parts
• 2-year limited warranty on all other components

This generous warranty demonstrates Concept2’s confidence in their engineering. They know their machines last, and they’re willing to stand behind that claim.

2. The PM5 Performance Monitor: Your Personal Training Lab

Data Accuracy You Can Trust

The PM5 Performance Monitor is arguably the best cardio equipment monitor on the market. It provides real-time feedback that’s accurate, consistent, and comparable across all Concept2 equipment worldwide. Concept2 dealer South Africa

Track these metrics during every workout:

• Time and distance
• Pace (per 500m, 1km, or mile)
• Power output in watts
• Cadence (RPM)
• Calories burned
• Heart rate (via Bluetooth/ANT+ connection)

As one reviewer put it, after using the PM5, other monitors feel “frustratingly limited.” The difference is that stark.

Your Workouts, Your Way

The PM5 offers extensive workout programming options:

• Preset workouts from Concept2’s library
• Custom intervals you design yourself
• Distance, time, or calorie-based sessions
• Target pace or wattage goals
• Automatic workout saving – every session recorded

You can create a complex 40-minute EMOM (every minute on the minute) workout, or simply hop on for a quick 10-minute burn. The PM5 handles both with equal precision.

Global Connectivity and Competition

The PM5 isn’t just a monitor – it’s your gateway to a worldwide fitness community:

Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity enables:

• Heart rate monitor pairing
• Zwift compatibility for virtual racing and training
• ErgData app integration for detailed workout tracking
• Third-party fitness app connectivity

Free Concept2 Online Logbook provides:

• Lifetime workout history and statistics
• Progress tracking and goal setting
• Community challenges and competitions
• Seasonal ranking opportunities

As one user noted, being part of this community is a “huge reason to get one” – the ability to compare your 2k time with thousands of other athletes worldwide provides incredible motivation. Concept2 dealer South Africa

3. Authentic Cycling Experience

Air Resistance That Responds to Your Effort

Unlike bikes with preset resistance levels, the BikeErg’s air resistance is infinitely variable and directly proportional to your effort. Pedal harder, encounter more resistance. Ease up, resistance decreases. Just like riding into or away from a headwind.

This creates a workout that’s:

• Completely customizable to your fitness level
• Automatically scaled – beginners and elite athletes use the same settings
• Realistic and engaging – feels like actual cycling

The Clutch Makes All the Difference

The BikeErg includes a clutch mechanism that allows the flywheel to keep spinning when you stop pedaling – just like a real bicycle. This seemingly simple feature transforms the riding experience.

Benefits of the clutch:

• Natural interval training – stop pedaling between efforts without jarring stops
• Realistic ride feel – mimics coasting on a road bike
• Better for technique – encourages proper pedaling form
• Safer for joints – no sudden resistance changes

As noted in reviews, this makes the BikeErg feel like riding out on the road, unlike most stationary bikes where the pedals never stop moving.

Damper as Your “Gearing”

The 10-position damper allows you to adjust the feel of your ride instantly. Think of it as shifting gears on a road bike:

• Lower damper settings (1-3) – Lighter feel, higher cadence work
• Medium settings (4-6) – Balanced for most riding
• Higher settings (7-10) – Heavier feel, strength-focused efforts

Each turn of the damper wheel causes a more dramatic change than on the RowErg or SkiErg, giving you precise control over your workout feel.

4. Perfect for Home Use

Quiet Enough for Apartments

While the BikeErg uses air resistance (which does create some sound), it’s dramatically quieter than traditional assault bikes with moving handles. The belt-drive system is nearly silent, and the enclosed flywheel dampens noise significantly.

Noise characteristics:

• Quieter than most vacuum cleaners
• Belt-driven (not chain) for minimal mechanical noise
• Can watch TV or listen to music at normal volumes
• Suitable for early morning or late night workouts
• Won’t disturb sleeping family members or neighbors

Many reviewers specifically praise how quiet it is compared to other air bikes, making it “practical in any room of the house.”

Compact and Portable

Footprint: 48″ L x 24″ W Weight: Only 68 lbs (31 kg)

Despite its robust construction, the BikeErg is:

• Lighter than most stationary bikes
• Easy to move with built-in transport wheels
• Fits in small spaces – perfect for apartments or spare rooms
• No electrical outlet required – place it anywhere

The aluminum frame keeps weight down without sacrificing durability. You can easily roll it into a closet or against a wall when not in use. Concept2 dealer South Africa

Simple Assembly and Maintenance

Assembly time: 30-45 minutes with basic tools (all included) Ongoing maintenance: Virtually none

The BikeErg arrives partially assembled and requires minimal setup. As one customer noted, “It was easy to set up because the instructions were so great.”

Maintenance requirements:

• Wipe down after sweaty sessions
• Occasional WD-40 on moving parts
• Change PM5 batteries once or twice per year
• That’s it.

No chains to lubricate. No complex adjustments. No calibration needed. Just ride.

5. Versatile Training Options

From Recovery Rides to Brutal HIIT

The BikeErg excels across the entire training spectrum:

Steady-State Cardio:

• Zone 2 endurance building (the BikeErg’s sweet spot)
• Long aerobic sessions (30-90+ minutes)
• Active recovery rides
• Conversational pace training

Interval Training:

• Tabata protocols (20 seconds work, 10 seconds rest)
• HIIT sessions (30 seconds on, 30 seconds off)
• EMOM workouts (every minute on the minute)
• Pyramid intervals
• VO2 max intervals

Strength Endurance:

• High-damper, low-cadence grinding
• Leg-focused power development
• Single-leg training drills

As one CrossFit athlete noted, they use it for “long pieces/sprints/crossfit work outs/single modalities” – it handles everything well.

Multiple Users, One Machine

The BikeErg’s infinite air resistance makes it perfect for households with multiple users at different fitness levels:

• Tool-free seat adjustment – change height in seconds
• Handlebar adjustment (up/down and fore/aft)
• Accommodates riders from approximately 5’1″ to 6’2″ (standard seat)
• Low seat option available for riders as short as 4’10”
• Weight capacity: Well over 300 lbs

Everyone from teenagers to grandparents can use the same bike comfortably and effectively.

6. Customization Options

Make It Your Own

Unlike most exercise equipment that you’re stuck with as-is, the BikeErg welcomes customization:

Compatible with standard bicycle components:

• Swap in your own saddle – Road bike seat? Comfort seat? Your choice.
• Change the pedals – Clipless SPD? Platform? Whatever you prefer.
• Adjust handlebars – Or replace them entirely with your favorite bars

This means you can create the exact riding position and feel you want, just like on your outdoor bike.

Add accessories:

• Device holder (included) for tablets or phones
• Water bottle cage
• Heart rate monitor chest strap
• Floor mat for added stability and floor protection
• Shimano bike accessories from authorized retailers

7. Effective Cross-Training Tool

Complements Other Training

The BikeErg is exceptional for:

Cyclists:

• Indoor training during bad weather
• Off-season base building
• Interval work without road hazards
• Race-specific preparation
• Consistent, measurable training data

Runners:

• Low-impact cardio alternative
• Active recovery between hard running sessions
• Maintaining fitness during injury recovery
• Building aerobic base without pounding joints

CrossFit Athletes:

• Engine-building work
• Cardio portions of WODs
• Benchmark testing (compare with RowErg and SkiErg times)
• Recovery between heavy lifting sessions

General Fitness Enthusiasts:

• Reliable, repeatable cardio workouts
• Joint-friendly exercise for all ages
• Time-efficient calorie burning
• Scalable intensity for any fitness level

Professional athlete testimonials confirm its effectiveness. One HWPO PRO athlete used it throughout their career, noting they “spent countless hours on the BikeErg each week, from zone 2 endurance training to short intervals.”

8. Space-Efficient Cardio Solution

More Efficient Than Running

For the same caloric burn and cardiovascular benefit, the BikeErg:

• Takes up less space than a treadmill
• Costs less than quality treadmills
• Safer – no risk of falls
• Lower impact – easier on joints
• Quieter – won’t shake the floor or disturb neighbors

Complements Other Equipment

The BikeErg pairs perfectly with other home gym staples:

Concept2 Ecosystem: If you already own a RowErg or SkiErg, adding the BikeErg creates a complete conditioning trio. All three share the same PM5 monitor, so your data is comparable across modalities.

Barbell Training: Use the BikeErg for:

• Warm-ups before lifting sessions
• Conditioning work after strength training
• Active recovery between heavy sets
• EMOM workouts combining lifts and bike intervals

Minimal Equipment Setup: Even in a small home gym, the BikeErg fits easily alongside:

• Power rack or squat stand
• Barbell and plates
• Bench
• Pull-up bar

You can build a comprehensive training facility in a one-car garage or spare bedroom.

9. Investment That Holds Value

Exceptional Resale Value

Concept2 products hold their value remarkably well:

• Used RowErgs often sell for 60-80% of retail price
• BikeErgs maintain similar value retention
• High demand in the used market
• Easy to sell locally or online

If you ever need to sell, you’ll recoup a significant portion of your investment – something virtually impossible with most exercise equipment.

No Ongoing Costs

Unlike Peloton or other subscription-based bikes:

• No monthly fees required
• No forced software updates
• Free workout programs via Concept2
• Free data tracking via Online Logbook
• Free app (ErgData)
• Optional app subscriptions (like Zwift) only if you want them

You own the bike outright with no strings attached.

10. Proven Track Record

Trusted by Elite Athletes and Military

The BikeErg is used by:

• Professional athletes across multiple sports
• CrossFit Games competitors and regional athletes
• Olympic training centers
• Military special operations units
• College and high school athletic programs
• Physical therapy clinics
• Commercial gyms worldwide

This widespread adoption by professionals speaks to its effectiveness and reliability. If it’s good enough for Olympic-level athletes, it’s certainly sufficient for home use. Concept2 dealer South Africa

The Concept2 Reputation

Concept2 has been building world-class fitness equipment since 1981. Their RowErg is considered the gold standard for rowing machines and has remained largely unchanged for decades because it works.

The BikeErg brings this same engineering philosophy to cycling:

• No gimmicks – just effective, reliable training
• Proven technology – flywheel system with 40+ years of refinement
• Customer-focused company – Responsive support and fair policies
• Made to last – Equipment that serves you for decades

As one reviewer stated simply: “The BikeErg is a Concept 2 product; we think that speaks for itself.”

11. Ideal for Zone 2 Training

The Foundation of Endurance

Zone 2 training (moderate intensity, conversational pace) is crucial for:

• Building aerobic base
• Improving metabolic health
• Enhancing fat oxidation
• Increasing mitochondrial density
• Supporting recovery

The BikeErg is particularly well-suited for Zone 2 work:

• Comfortable for long sessions (45-90 minutes)
• Consistent resistance for steady heart rate
• Easy to monitor pace and power on PM5
• Entertainment-friendly – watch shows while riding
• Low joint impact – sustainable long-term

Many users specifically praise the BikeErg for steady-state cardio, noting it’s “great for time in zone 2 or 3.”

12. No Learning Curve

Anyone Can Use It Immediately

Unlike rowing (which requires proper technique) or skiing (which many haven’t tried), everyone knows how to ride a bike:

• Intuitive movement pattern
• No technique coaching required
• Safe for all ages
• Minimal injury risk
• Accessible to beginners

You can get an effective workout on day one without learning proper form. This makes it perfect for family use or when you just want to hop on and go.

13. Excellent for Injury Recovery and Rehab

Low-Impact Alternative

The BikeErg is frequently used in physical therapy because:

• Zero impact – no ground reaction forces
• Smooth, circular motion – easy on joints
• Adjustable intensity – from very gentle to intense
• Seated position – stable and secure
• Accommodates limited mobility – unlike running or jumping

Whether recovering from:

• Running injuries (shin splints, stress fractures)
• Knee problems
• Hip issues
• Back pain
• Post-surgical rehabilitation

The BikeErg allows you to maintain cardiovascular fitness without aggravating injuries.

14. Time-Efficient Workouts

Maximum Results, Minimum Time

The BikeErg’s air resistance allows for incredibly effective short workouts:

10-Minute Options:

• Warm-up (5 min easy) + 5x1min hard with 1min easy between
• Steady power output for time
• Tabata (20 seconds all-out, 10 seconds rest, 8 rounds)

20-Minute Sessions:

• Classic 2k time trial
• 5x3min at threshold with 2min recovery
• Pyramid intervals (1-2-3-4-3-2-1 minutes)

30-40 Minutes:

• Zone 2 aerobic development
• Mixed interval session
• EMOM combinations (bike + bodyweight movements)

As one gym owner noted, clients “love how much of a sweat you can work up in just 5-10 minutes.” The BikeErg makes efficient use of your limited time.

15. Works With Your Favorite Apps

Seamless Integration

The PM5’s Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity enables use with popular training platforms:

Zwift: Virtual racing and structured workouts TrainerRoad: Power-based training programs ErgData: Concept2’s free companion app Strava: Social fitness tracking MyFitnessPal: Nutrition and calorie tracking Apple Health/Google Fit: Overall health monitoring

This flexibility means you can use the BikeErg exactly how you want – from simple solo rides to complex training plans to virtual group rides.

Conclusion: Is the BikeErg Right for Your Home Gym?

The Concept2 BikeErg earns its place in a home gym through:

• Exceptional build quality that will serve you for decades
• The industry’s best performance monitor
• Versatile training options from recovery to HIIT
• Quiet operation suitable for any living situation
• Minimal maintenance and virtually zero ongoing costs
• Authentic cycling experience with air resistance
• Compact footprint that fits any space
• Outstanding value when amortized over years of use

Who Should Buy the BikeErg?

Ideal for:

• Cyclists wanting reliable indoor training
• Anyone building a long-term home gym
• Zone 2 cardio enthusiasts
• CrossFit athletes (when paired with other equipment)
• Multi-user households
• People recovering from impact-related injuries
• Serious athletes wanting precise data tracking
• Anyone who values quality over features

Consider alternatives if:

• You primarily want full-body assault bike workouts (Echo Bike)
• You want built-in entertainment screens and classes
• You need a recumbent position for back issues

Final Thoughts

The BikeErg isn’t the cheapest indoor bike. It’s not the fanciest. It doesn’t have a touchscreen or built-in classes.

But it’s arguably the best-built, most durable, most accurate cycling-focused indoor bike you can buy for home use. It’s a tool that will serve you faithfully for years or decades, providing consistent, measurable training whenever you need it. Concept2 dealer South Africa

In a world of subscription services and planned obsolescence, the BikeErg represents old-school values: quality engineering, honest performance, and equipment built to last a lifetime.

If you’re serious about your training and want equipment you can rely on for the next 20 years, the Concept2 BikeErg deserves a spot in your home gym.