This is my second Whipr rower--I bought it because Whipr is selling off assets. This is an amazingly compact rower that gives a great workout. It is different from the standard Concept 2 but for the average rower, it really works well.
It's a little difficult to put together the first time--just the three dimensions of it, but once you do it it's easy after that. All parts are modular, which had the potential to be swapped out, including the central ERG unit. It's all very simple and logical.
The ERG unit housing is manufactured out of high impact plastic. Everything is solid. All other parts are manufactured to the highest standards out of steel and high end components. Everything was packed well.
I had no problems with set up and no problems with use. I use it nearly every day and got a second one as a back up.
I am surprised that no one would buy the technology here. This is Whipr's first product and it's really great. At $229 it's a steal--this thing functions like a real rowing machine whereas the rest of the garbage you'd buy at this price point won't last and won't give much of a workout. (Even at 'full' price, the rower was a great buy.) The Whipr isn't the loudest set up out there but is louder than most water and magnetic rowers. At a full clip, it is about as loud as a concept 2.
This thing can be broken down and moved to a new location easily. It can even fit in a suitcase for travel. The rower gives a decent workout. Adherents of the Concept 2 and high-end rowers may find the action less smooth and may not quite get the high end resistance they are looking for, but the rest of us will be satisfied. And if you live in a small space or need a portable rower, this is the one to choose.
I am certain if Whipr had stayed open, Whipr 2.0 would have been even better. The engineering on this thing was just excellent. I guess, when you come down to it, most start ups do fail. It's just sad to see a company that put their heart and soul into this machine got dinged by supply chain issues and added costs courtesy of the pandemic. I, for one, am sorry to see them go.
Again, this thing is a steal for $229--get one while you can!