How to upgrade your Concept2 indoor rower to a PM5 today

If you have a Concept2 erg and haven't retrofitted your Model A, B, C, D, or E Indoor Rower to the PM5 performance monitor, I most highly recommend the splurge of $160-$180, depending on the model of your rowing machine.  Turnkey wireless everything you'll need, including ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart. So now, heart rate monitors and rowing apps are a wireless snap. 

Lots of Concept2 Indoor Rowers are old and still in use.  I have a Model C erg, made from 1993-2003. The Model C came with an old PM2, a performance monitor that did have infinite battery but lacked Bluetooth, ANT+, or even wireless Polar heart rate monitor support. In order to use a chest strap, you needed to plug in a Concept2 Heart Rate Receiver and Cable (PN 1862) and string it out to under your rolling seat. And to connect to the ErgData app for Android and iPhone, you need to order either an Android connector kit or iPhone connector kit.  

A couple years ago, I upgraded to the PM3, which really only added the LogCard, and then, finally, they added a full upgrade path, from the PM2 that came with my Model C, that took me from my current PM3 all the way to the PM5 I now run.  And I love it. I now have complete wireless and USB support. They got rid of the LogCard, but that's cool, I never used it, but they replaced with the backup to USB thumb drive/USB flash drive. What it also offers to me is something neither the PM2 or PM3 had: always-on monitor backlight.

While the battery doesn't last nearly as long and there's no rechargeable battery back or A/C adapter, the D batteries do last a long time, even when running ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart. So, what I do during my rows is this: I have an iPhone 5 with a stout battery pack that I have mostly dedicated to running ErgData and a Polar HR7 chest strap that I have paired with my PM5.  

It's such a worthy upgrade and only costs $180, which, while expensive on its own, isn't expensive if you think about the fact that once you own a Concept2 rowing ergometer for whatever you spend, be it used for $200 from a couple in Vancouver, Oregon, back in 2010 (to replace the Model C I bought in 2000 and gave to Scott Burns when I moved to Germany) to the still-affordable $900 it costs to grab a Model D or the $1,100 it costs to splurge on the Model E (and maybe save your knees), , any Concept2 Indoor Rower costs nothing to own outside of some D batteries, some cleaning supplies, and a little oil.  Spend for the upgrade!

And, since my erg is well over a decade old and has only required a daily wipe the rail with a cloth after use (I keep Clorox or Lysol disinfectant wipes handy because they're perfect and keep the mess to a minimum) and a weekly or monthly lube of the chain with some TreadLife Rowing Machine Chain Oil from Amazon, though Concept2 also says you can use a teaspoon of purified mineral oil, 3-IN-ONE® oil, or 20W motor oil.

Just apply oil to a paper towel, and rub the paper towel along entire length of chain. Wipe off the excess.

And don't clean the chain with any kind of cleaner or solvent, e.g. WD-40.

So, $14.99 for a bottle of chain lube, a roll of paper towels, and some disinfectant wipes, which you can use in the kitchen and bathroom at home, you'll be itching to spend some of that money you've saved because the gang at Concept2 have apparently never heard of planned obsolescence.

So, save up that $180 and appreciate the fact that it's not major surgery at all.  

While I have never actually had a natural chain or cable failure, I screwed them both up when I was moving my Model C or I have had to replace the chain and elastic cable and all that and it was minor surgery, but retrofitting a PM5 onto my Model C only required unbolting the swing-arm and then bolting on the new replacement swing arm and PM5 and then running the wire in such a way, using the built-in channels, that you don't abrade the wires or put them under any stress. 

Additional Information

1. Comparing the PM5 to Previous Monitors

• PM2: Basic performance tracking without wireless connectivity or backlighting. Required external accessories for heart rate monitoring.
• PM3: Introduced the LogCard for data storage but lacked Bluetooth or ANT+.
• PM4: Added ANT+ wireless capability, but still no Bluetooth Smart. Also included an internal rechargeable battery, which was discontinued in the PM5.
• PM5: Combines Bluetooth Smart and ANT+, backlighting, and USB support, making it the most advanced and versatile monitor for Concept2 rowers.

2. Installation Tips for the PM5 Upgrade

• Ensure all wires are properly secured in the provided channels to avoid abrasion or damage.
• Use the Concept2-supplied tools for the retrofit to simplify the process.
• Check the firmware version on your PM5 after installation and update it via the Concept2 Utility software for optimal performance.

3. Recommended Accessories to Maximize the PM5

• Polar H10 Chest Strap: Works seamlessly with the PM5 for heart rate monitoring.
• Phone/Tablet Mount: To use ErgData or other apps conveniently during workouts.
• USB Flash Drive: For backing up workout data and transferring it to a computer.

4. ErgData App Features

• Displays real-time data, including pace, watts, and heart rate.
• Automatically syncs workouts with the Concept2 Online Logbook.
• Provides advanced metrics for detailed analysis of your performance.

5. Maintenance Best Practices for Older Rowers

• Monitor the Shock Cord: Replace it if it loses elasticity, as this impacts the return of the handle.
• Inspect the Chain and Seat Rollers: Ensure they move smoothly and replace worn parts to avoid interruptions during workouts.
• Handle Replacement: Consider replacing worn or cracked handles for better grip and comfort.

6. Benefits of Using ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart

• ANT+: Ideal for connecting multiple devices simultaneously, such as a fitness watch and a heart rate monitor.
• Bluetooth Smart: Offers broader compatibility with mobile apps and devices, ensuring seamless connectivity.

7. Environmental Considerations

Concept2 rowers are built to last for decades, reducing waste compared to other fitness equipment. Investing in an upgrade like the PM5 extends the rower's lifespan, contributing to a more sustainable fitness practice.

Additional FAQs

7. Can I upgrade my PM5 firmware at home?

Yes, you can update the PM5 firmware using the Concept2 Utility software on your computer. Connect the PM5 via USB and follow the prompts in the software.

8. Is the PM5 compatible with third-party apps?

Yes, the PM5 supports several third-party rowing apps such as RowPro, Kinomap, and Zwift, offering diverse workout options.

9. How long do the D batteries last in the PM5?

Under typical use, the D batteries in the PM5 can last for up to 300-400 hours, depending on the frequency of ANT+ and Bluetooth use.

10. Can I use the PM5 with older Polar heart rate monitors?

Yes, the PM5 is compatible with Polar heart rate monitors that support ANT+ or Bluetooth Smart.

Expanded Glossary

• Shock Cord: The elastic cord responsible for returning the handle to its starting position after each stroke.
• Seat Rollers: Components on the underside of the seat that allow smooth movement along the rail.
• Concept2 Utility Software: A free program from Concept2 that enables firmware updates and data management for PM monitors.
• Third-Party Apps: Applications developed independently of Concept2 that enhance rowing experience and provide additional features.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is a PM5 performance monitor, and why should I consider upgrading to it?

• The PM5 is an advanced performance monitor for Concept2 rowing machines. It offers features such as wireless connectivity, including ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart, allowing for seamless integration with heart rate monitors and rowing apps. The upgrade enhances user experience with more detailed tracking and easier data accessibility.

2. What models of the Concept2 rower can be upgraded to the PM5?

• You can upgrade Models A, B, C, D, and E of the Concept2 indoor rowers to the PM5 performance monitor.

3. How much does it cost to upgrade a Concept2 rower to the PM5?

• The cost to upgrade varies between $160 and $180, depending on the model of your Concept2 rowing machine.

4. What are the benefits of upgrading to the PM5 from older performance monitors like the PM2 or PM3?

• Upgrading to the PM5 provides significant enhancements like an always-on monitor backlight, improved battery life despite the high energy consumption due to wireless functions, and USB support for data backup, replacing older systems like the LogCard.

5. What should I consider before performing the upgrade to PM5?

• Ensure that your rower model is compatible with the PM5. Consider the cost of the upgrade in relation to the improved features and functionality. Prepare for simple installation procedures and check compatibility with your current devices and apps for connectivity.

6. How do I maintain my Concept2 rower after installing the PM5?

• Regular maintenance includes wiping the rail with a cloth after use, occasionally lubricating the chain with specific oils recommended by Concept2, and avoiding the use of harsh cleaners or solvents like WD-40 on the chain.

Glossary

Concept2

• A leading manufacturer of rowing machines known for their durability and widespread use in both home and gym environments.

PM5 (Performance Monitor 5)

• The latest generation of performance monitoring technology from Concept2, featuring enhanced connectivity options like Bluetooth Smart and ANT+, a backlit display, and USB data transfer capabilities.

ANT+

• A wireless protocol similar to Bluetooth used primarily for fitness tracking devices to communicate with other devices, such as heart rate monitors and cycling computers.

Bluetooth Smart

• A wireless communication technology designed for short-range communication between devices, ideal for transmitting small amounts of data with low energy consumption.

LogCard

• A data storage device used in older Concept2 performance monitors (like the PM3) to record workout data, which can be transferred to a computer for analysis.

ErgData

• A mobile app developed by Concept2 that connects to their rowing machines via Bluetooth to track and store detailed workout data.

USB Support

• Refers to the capability of a device to use USB connectivity for functions such as data transfer and software updates.

Model C

• A specific model of the Concept2 rowing machine, produced between 1993 and 2003, known for its durability and basic performance features.

Heart Rate Receiver and Cable (PN 1862)

• An accessory for older Concept2 rowers that allows the machine to receive heart rate signals from compatible chest straps.