Concept2 Damper Setting Explained (RowErg, SkiErg & BikeErg)

The damper setting controls how much air enters the flywheel.

This changes how heavy or light the machine feels — not the resistance itself.

Think of it like gears on a bike, not weight on a gym machine.

You create resistance by how hard you pull or pedal.

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Damper 1 vs 10 (In Short)

Damper 1

• Light, smooth, fast feel

• Flywheel keeps spinning

• Higher stroke rate

Damper 10

• Heavy, powerful feel

• Flywheel slows quickly

• Lower stroke rate

Higher is not better — just different.

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Best Damper Setting by Training Goal

🔥 Sprints

Damper 6–8

Powerful feel, more force per stroke. Best for short distances.

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🏃 Long Workouts

Damper 3–4

Efficient, sustainable, easier to hold technique.

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🐢 Low Pace / Easy Rows

Damper 2–3

Smooth, low strain. Ideal for recovery and aerobic work.

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🔁 Intervals (Most Rowers)

Damper 4–5

The most common range. Balanced power and speed.

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Quick owerview

Goal	Damper
Sprints	6–8
Long workouts	3–4
Easy pace	2–3
Intervals	4–5

Damper ≠ Resistance

• Resistance comes from your effort

• The damper only changes feel

• Pace and watts stay accurate due to drag factor

You can row hard at damper 3 — and easy at damper 8.

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FAQ: Do You Pull Longer at Damper 10?

Yes — in time, not distance.

• High damper (10): heavier feel, longer force application, slower strokes

• Low damper (1): lighter feel, quicker force, faster strokes

Stroke length stays the same — only the time under tension changes.

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Final Takeaway

The damper controls feel, not intensity.

If you’re unsure where to start:

👉 Damper 4 works well for most workouts.

Understanding the damper helps you train smarter and more efficiently.