Rogue Barbell Club

[thejosef]

Just got this new Rogue Stainless Ohio Power Bar (45 lb. version). I actually sold my 'next gen' Kabuki power bar to a buddy (fellow gym addict) and swapped to this one. Put some cash in my pocket too. No regrets. Ha.

For those curious, the $395 stainless OPB knurl feels identical to the $250 bare steel OPB.. which I expected, but was curious. The knurl is very course, aggressive, sticky.. as we all know by now.. I do not wanna hit my bald/shaved head on this thing. I still prefer the Kabuki knurl over the OPB, but prefer Rogue's finish offerings (bare steel or stainless), their quality control, and quick turn around (had bar in 5 days from ordering). This bar has less sleeve "slop" too. I would notice it on the Kabuki walking back a squat, but don't feel it all on the OPB. I think Rogue could clean up their knurl start/stops a bit, but they're all very consistent, which is more what I look for. Very nice bar.. fairly priced, IMO.

[twoforme2]

Just got this new Rogue Stainless Ohio Power Bar (45 lb. version). I actually sold my 'next gen' Kabuki power bar to a buddy (fellow gym addict) and swapped to this one. Put some cash in my pocket too. No regrets. Ha.

For those curious, the $395 stainless OPB knurl feels identical to the $250 bare steel OPB.. which I expected, but was curious. The knurl is very course, aggressive, sticky.. as we all know by now.. I do not wanna hit my bald/shaved head on this thing. I still prefer the Kabuki knurl over the OPB, but prefer Rogue's finish offerings (bare steel or stainless), their quality control, and quick turn around (had bar in 5 days from ordering). This bar has less sleeve "slop" too. I would notice it on the Kabuki walking back a squat, but don't feel it all on the OPB. I think Rogue could clean up their knurl start/stops a bit, but they're all very consistent, which is more what I look for. Very nice bar.. fairly priced, IMO.

Just bought the same bar about a month ago, and it has become my favorite. I like the more aggressive knurl. (I definitely don't front squat with this bar.) I honestly don't know what more I could ask for in a bar.
The only negative I have found is that with the more aggressive knurl it makes re-positioning on the j-cups a bit more work and I always have to wipe off a little abused UHMW after each session.

While I much enjoyed the Rep Stainless V2 bar for the short time I used it, this bar has relegated the Rep Stainless bar to "dust collector" status. Of course the Rogue was twice the price of that bar, but that knurl is OH SO worth it.

[thejosef]

Just bought the same bar about a month ago, and it has become my favorite. I like the more aggressive knurl. (I definitely don't front squat with this bar.) I honestly don't know what more I could ask for in a bar.
The only negative I have found is that with the more aggressive knurl it makes re-positioning on the j-cups a bit more work and I always have to wipe off a little abused UHMW after each session.

Nice! Yeah great point on the j-cup thing. MAN this thing sticks to the j-cups like glue.. more so than any other bar I've owned.

[Jason2459]

Take the plastic off and makes bar adjustment left or right a simple twist.

[Cleveland33]

I'm starting to wonder what it takes to flatten knurl.

We have OPBs at the gym, less than a year old. Knurl is completely flattened. I've never seen them in the old Reflex racks and the Elite racks have plastic.
And most of the big squatters grab the Iron Wolfe, I'll have to check that one's. Then again, they usually use the mono too.

[EricAtl]

Just got this new Rogue Stainless Ohio Power Bar (45 lb. version). I actually sold my 'next gen' Kabuki power bar to a buddy (fellow gym addict) and swapped to this one. Put some cash in my pocket too. No regrets. Ha.

For those curious, the $395 stainless OPB knurl feels identical to the $250 bare steel OPB.. which I expected, but was curious. The knurl is very course, aggressive, sticky.. as we all know by now.. I do not wanna hit my bald/shaved head on this thing. I still prefer the Kabuki knurl over the OPB, but prefer Rogue's finish offerings (bare steel or stainless), their quality control, and quick turn around (had bar in 5 days from ordering). This bar has less sleeve "slop" too. I would notice it on the Kabuki walking back a squat, but don't feel it all on the OPB. I think Rogue could clean up their knurl start/stops a bit, but they're all very consistent, which is more what I look for. Very nice bar.. fairly priced, IMO.

Great looking bar, use it well. I have an opb and a stainless Ohio boneyard bar. I maybe need to updrage to stainless.

[irongrandpa]

Just got this new Rogue Stainless Ohio Power Bar (45 lb. version). I actually sold my 'next gen' Kabuki power bar to a buddy (fellow gym addict) and swapped to this one. Put some cash in my pocket too. No regrets. Ha.

For those curious, the $395 stainless OPB knurl feels identical to the $250 bare steel OPB.. which I expected, but was curious. The knurl is very course, aggressive, sticky.. as we all know by now.. I do not wanna hit my bald/shaved head on this thing. I still prefer the Kabuki knurl over the OPB, but prefer Rogue's finish offerings (bare steel or stainless), their quality control, and quick turn around (had bar in 5 days from ordering). This bar has less sleeve "slop" too. I would notice it on the Kabuki walking back a squat, but don't feel it all on the OPB. I think Rogue could clean up their knurl start/stops a bit, but they're all very consistent, which is more what I look for. Very nice bar.. fairly priced, IMO.

There you go , raising the bar again. Repped.

[Hardgains88]

It makes it tough to take the kabuki seriousely when a bar fihalf the prce from a conpany with more credibility gives you more; stainless steel, tighter tolerances, better fit and finish and better service.. and the bar for twice as much only outperforms possibly in a subjective area like knurl feel! Its one thing to pay more for something only aclittle better if its important to you, but to pay twice as much and havto concede material, fit, and finish to the much cheaper option is silly!

[Jason2459]

Ohio Power Bar is the best value 29mm power bar out right now for sure. I don't feel it's the best bar as that's very individual. It's certainly not the best for me but could be perfect for someone else.

[chadsalt]

It makes it tough to take the kabuki seriousely when a bar fihalf the prce from a conpany with more credibility gives you more; stainless steel, tighter tolerances, better fit and finish and better service.. and the bar for twice as much only outperforms possibly in a subjective area like knurl feel! Its one thing to pay more for something only aclittle better if its important to you, but to pay twice as much and havto concede material, fit, and finish to the much cheaper option is silly!

Have you seen the Kabuki end caps? How can you not take them seriously?

[mrcheeze36]

On sale for $699 (+tax in some states) and free shipping if anyone is looking to buy one. Counter on site shows a little over 17 days left for the deal.

https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-echo-bike

[cald24]

Long time lurker here, I am planning to build a garage gym in my home and could use some help.

Brief summary, moved from a big city to the suburbs 1 year ago. Going to the gym in the city was easy. Get home, walk a couple blocks, and workout. Pretty much did the big 4 lifts, I enjoy doing them and the accessories, moved throughout the different powerlifting programs as I became bored or outgrew them. Main lifts a year ago were 405 squat, 285 bench, 515 deadlift.

Things are harder now, with work being busier and a child on the way. For the past year, I have been doing strictly dumbbell workouts and it just isn't enough. I lift for my health, for fun, and for the competitive recreational sports I still play. I planned to put a complete rogue garage gym together when I moved into my current house a year ago and now it has finally moved to the top of my list of priorities. I don't want to say that money is not an option, but I want to put together a nice looking gym, functional, and for my family to use as well. I am willing to spend what I need to. I have a 3 car garage and plan to use of the the spots for the gym. I could always extend the space in the future to another garage spot, but the plan is for 1 for now. The space is 11x18, ceiling is high enough to accommodate any of the pieces below, I also live in the northeast so different climates/humidity in the garage obviously. Also anything with FAMILY by it is a necessity for my family members so no changing, those pieces have to be there lol.

Here is what I have so far and questions for each:

1) Rack- I planned on getting the RML-490C. Also looked at the RM-4 monster rack 2.0. I do not want to bolt anything down and what I have researched, it doesn't seem I will need to with these. I also liked the additions to add onto the RML or RM. Planned to add:
- Extra J cups or monolift
- Matador
- X43-M pull up bar
- Safety straps for inside, monster lite safety spotter arms to bench outside the rack and for pulls, rows. Not sure which is better? or maybe both?
- Plate storage on the rack.

2) Plates- rogue competition plates vs calibrated steel plates. Will I have any issues with steel plates with humidity? Any deals on competition plates maybe with the recent crossfire stuff going on (I don't do crossfit, but wouldn't mind the plates).

3) Dumbbells- I already have the powerblock U90 set. Saves space and I really like them.

4) Bars-
- Planned on getting a cerakote Ohio power bar as 1 bar.
- For the other, I planned on either an Ohio bar or the deadlift bar for my pulls.
- Rogue curl bar (FAMILY).

5) Monster lat pulldown machine (FAMILY)
- Question for those that have it, can the low pulley be used for things like bicep curls, lat raises etc. Need this for my wife (FAMILY).
- I know it is expensive (FAMILY).
- Will get necessary attachments.

6) Treadmill (FAMILY)
- Any suggestions on something reasonable in the 1,000 dollar range?

7) Adjustable bench- already have one. Maybe get a 2nd? Other one is decent quality.

8) Any other rack attachments? Monster lever arms? That new squat belt thing looks interesting, but who knows when it will be out and does it get in the way of lifts when inside the rack.

I know this configuration will be expensive, but I like the rogue quality and look, also shipping should be free with an order this large. Not sure if rogue gives any deals if you put together an entire garage gym like this, maybe you guys would know.

Also, part of the deal with my family is no used equipment, I know I can do it cheaper on CL, etc. Thanks in advance.

[EricAtl]

Long time lurker here, I am planning to build a garage gym in my home and could use some help.

Brief summary, moved from a big city to the suburbs 1 year ago. Going to the gym in the city was easy. Get home, walk a couple blocks, and workout. Pretty much did the big 4 lifts, I enjoy doing them and the accessories, moved throughout the different powerlifting programs as I became bored or outgrew them. Main lifts a year ago were 405 squat, 285 bench, 515 deadlift.

Things are harder now, with work being busier and a child on the way. For the past year, I have been doing strictly dumbbell workouts and it just isn't enough. I lift for my health, for fun, and for the competitive recreational sports I still play. I planned to put a complete rogue garage gym together when I moved into my current house a year ago and now it has finally moved to the top of my list of priorities. I don't want to say that money is not an option, but I want to put together a nice looking gym, functional, and for my family to use as well. I am willing to spend what I need to. I have a 3 car garage and plan to use of the the spots for the gym. I could always extend the space in the future to another garage spot, but the plan is for 1 for now. The space is 11x18, ceiling is high enough to accommodate any of the pieces below, I also live in the northeast so different climates/humidity in the garage obviously. Also anything with FAMILY by it is a necessity for my family members so no changing, those pieces have to be there lol.

Here is what I have so far and questions for each:

1) Rack- I planned on getting the RML-490C. Also looked at the RM-4 monster rack 2.0. I do not want to bolt anything down and what I have researched, it doesn't seem I will need to with these. I also liked the additions to add onto the RML or RM. Planned to add:
- Extra J cups or monolift
- Matador
- X43-M pull up bar
- Safety straps for inside, monster lite safety spotter arms to bench outside the rack and for pulls, rows. Not sure which is better? or maybe both?
- Plate storage on the rack.

2) Plates- rogue competition plates vs calibrated steel plates. Will I have any issues with steel plates with humidity? Any deals on competition plates maybe with the recent crossfire stuff going on (I don't do crossfit, but wouldn't mind the plates).

3) Dumbbells- I already have the powerblock U90 set. Saves space and I really like them.

4) Bars-
- Planned on getting a cerakote Ohio power bar as 1 bar.
- For the other, I planned on either an Ohio bar or the deadlift bar for my pulls.
- Rogue curl bar (FAMILY).

5) Monster lat pulldown machine (FAMILY)
- Question for those that have it, can the low pulley be used for things like bicep curls, lat raises etc. Need this for my wife (FAMILY).
- I know it is expensive (FAMILY).
- Will get necessary attachments.

6) Treadmill (FAMILY)
- Any suggestions on something reasonable in the 1,000 dollar range?

7) Adjustable bench- already have one. Maybe get a 2nd? Other one is decent quality.

8) Any other rack attachments? Monster lever arms? That new squat belt thing looks interesting, but who knows when it will be out and does it get in the way of lifts when inside the rack.

I know this configuration will be expensive, but I like the rogue quality and look, also shipping should be free with an order this large. Not sure if rogue gives any deals if you put together an entire garage gym like this, maybe you guys would know.

Also, part of the deal with my family is no used equipment, I know I can do it cheaper on CL, etc. Thanks in advance.

Absolutely a home gym is the way to go. Here are my thoughts.
1. The rml 490c seems like a good rack. I would seriously consider a 3 post rack. If you put weight storage on the rack the pegs or weights on them can get in the way. Or consider stand alone plate racks. A Monolift or extra j hooks are a great idea. Straps vs regular spotters are personal preference. I would check out legend fitness, 3133 or the 3171
http://legendfitness.com/product/power-cage/
2. plates are a personal preference. Old school iron always works. I know you said no used equipment but I would check CL.
3. You are good there.
4. I have a zinc opb and it is great. My boneyard stainless steel Ohio bar is fantastic. I would get stainless if possible. Jury still seems out on the cerakote finish. Many members have the curl bar and like it.
5. Someone bought the pulldown and had issues. That’s a lot of cake to lay down for potential problems and who wants to sit on the floor. I have the legend 971, pro lat pulldown low row. I bought it new and it was not cheap with the shipping. But, it is great and no sitting on the floor.
6. We had a sole which was fine. For heavy use you’ll need a commercial treadmill.
7. Do a lot of reading about benches. I have the legend 3-way. I think garage-gyms.com has a review of a bunch of benches and he liked the rogue.
8.dont over buy and have stuff you don’t use. Stand alone dip station or rack mounted.

Good luck, you will get great advice here.

[gym62richard]

Absolutely a home gym is the way to go. Here are my thoughts.
1. The rml 490c seems like a good rack. I would seriously consider a 3 post rack. If you put weight storage on the rack the pegs or weights on them can get in the way.






Or consider stand alone plate racks. A Monolift or extra j hooks are a great idea. Straps vs regular spotters are personal preference. I would check out legend fitness, 3133 or the 3171
http://legendfitness.com/product/power-cage/
2. plates are a personal preference. Old school iron always works. I know you said no used equipment but I would check CL.
3. You are good there.
4. I have a zinc opb and it is great. My boneyard stainless steel Ohio bar is fantastic. I would get stainless if possible. Jury still seems out on the cerakote finish. Many members have the curl bar and like it.
5. Someone bought the pulldown and had issues. That’s a lot of cake to lay down for potential problems and who wants to sit on the floor. I have the legend 971, pro lat pulldown low row. I bought it new and it was not cheap with the shipping. But, it is great and no sitting on the floor.
6. We had a sole which was fine. For heavy use you’ll need a commercial treadmill.
7. Do a lot of reading about benches. I have the legend 3-way. I think garage-gyms.com has a review of a bunch of benches and he liked the rogue.
8.dont over buy and have stuff you don’t use. Stand alone dip station or rack mounted.

Good luck, you will get great advice here.

I very much agree with Eric, plate storage on a 4 post rack may affect functionality of the rack, my preference would be a 6 post rack.

I have read a couple of negative reviews of the Rogue lat machine, but these were early models and maybe Rogue have ironed out the issues now.

Whilst it's convenient to purchase all the equipment from one source, you may not get the best bang for your buck, Rogue generally offers good value for money, but there is stiff competition out there, like Eric I have a few pieces of Legend equipment, 2 racks and 2 benches and have been completely satisfied with them, but of course this equipment thing is completely subjective.

[ncsuLuke]

Long time lurker here, I am planning to build a garage gym in my home and could use some help.

Brief summary, moved from a big city to the suburbs 1 year ago. Going to the gym in the city was easy. Get home, walk a couple blocks, and workout. Pretty much did the big 4 lifts, I enjoy doing them and the accessories, moved throughout the different powerlifting programs as I became bored or outgrew them. Main lifts a year ago were 405 squat, 285 bench, 515 deadlift.

Things are harder now, with work being busier and a child on the way. For the past year, I have been doing strictly dumbbell workouts and it just isn't enough. I lift for my health, for fun, and for the competitive recreational sports I still play. I planned to put a complete rogue garage gym together when I moved into my current house a year ago and now it has finally moved to the top of my list of priorities. I don't want to say that money is not an option, but I want to put together a nice looking gym, functional, and for my family to use as well. I am willing to spend what I need to. I have a 3 car garage and plan to use of the the spots for the gym. I could always extend the space in the future to another garage spot, but the plan is for 1 for now. The space is 11x18, ceiling is high enough to accommodate any of the pieces below, I also live in the northeast so different climates/humidity in the garage obviously. Also anything with FAMILY by it is a necessity for my family members so no changing, those pieces have to be there lol.

Here is what I have so far and questions for each:

1) Rack- I planned on getting the RML-490C. Also looked at the RM-4 monster rack 2.0. I do not want to bolt anything down and what I have researched, it doesn't seem I will need to with these. I also liked the additions to add onto the RML or RM. Planned to add:
- Extra J cups or monolift
- Matador
- X43-M pull up bar
- Safety straps for inside, monster lite safety spotter arms to bench outside the rack and for pulls, rows. Not sure which is better? or maybe both?
- Plate storage on the rack.

2) Plates- rogue competition plates vs calibrated steel plates. Will I have any issues with steel plates with humidity? Any deals on competition plates maybe with the recent crossfire stuff going on (I don't do crossfit, but wouldn't mind the plates).

3) Dumbbells- I already have the powerblock U90 set. Saves space and I really like them.

4) Bars-
- Planned on getting a cerakote Ohio power bar as 1 bar.
- For the other, I planned on either an Ohio bar or the deadlift bar for my pulls.
- Rogue curl bar (FAMILY).

5) Monster lat pulldown machine (FAMILY)
- Question for those that have it, can the low pulley be used for things like bicep curls, lat raises etc. Need this for my wife (FAMILY).
- I know it is expensive (FAMILY).
- Will get necessary attachments.

6) Treadmill (FAMILY)
- Any suggestions on something reasonable in the 1,000 dollar range?

7) Adjustable bench- already have one. Maybe get a 2nd? Other one is decent quality.

8) Any other rack attachments? Monster lever arms? That new squat belt thing looks interesting, but who knows when it will be out and does it get in the way of lifts when inside the rack.

I know this configuration will be expensive, but I like the rogue quality and look, also shipping should be free with an order this large. Not sure if rogue gives any deals if you put together an entire garage gym like this, maybe you guys would know.

Also, part of the deal with my family is no used equipment, I know I can do it cheaper on CL, etc. Thanks in advance.

In regards to your rack, I have the RML-490 and love it but if I did it all over again I would have gotten the RML-690, if you have the space I would recommend that because your storage won't get in the way and you definitely don't need to bolt it down. I might buy the pieces to convert mine at some point but currently I have mine bolted down so I'd have to also buy new mats since I cut through those too.

[thejosef]

Just an FYI, but Rogue lowered the prices on their 28mm Stainless Oly bars.. Both the standard Stainless Oly (200k) and the newer Pyrros Stainless (200k) was lowered $100 each, now bringing them to $595 shipped.
https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-o...tainless-steel
https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-pyrros-bar-28mm

As far as the differences b/w the two, the standard Oly Stainless has a fast spin, no center knurl, & a mild knurl pattern. It's a fantastic bar for training. The Pyrros has slower (more controlled) spin, more aggressive knurl (Pyrros asked for this), and half-depth center knurl (this has been corrected recently.. first versions of the bar had the center knurl the same as rest of bar as was waaaay too aggressive). This bar is more suited to lower reps, or just for someone who prefers a more grippy/aggressive knurl. Would be an awesome bar for deadlifts too.

It's a very competitive price for some sweet bars in stainless. I, personally, would choose either of these stainless bars over the Euro (215k), mainly due to the great stainless knurl feel over the chromed Euro.. though all three bars are awesome.

[C123C]

Long time lurker here, I am planning to build a garage gym in my home and could use some help.

Brief summary, moved from a big city to the suburbs 1 year ago. Going to the gym in the city was easy. Get home, walk a couple blocks, and workout. Pretty much did the big 4 lifts, I enjoy doing them and the accessories, moved throughout the different powerlifting programs as I became bored or outgrew them. Main lifts a year ago were 405 squat, 285 bench, 515 deadlift.

Things are harder now, with work being busier and a child on the way. For the past year, I have been doing strictly dumbbell workouts and it just isn't enough. I lift for my health, for fun, and for the competitive recreational sports I still play. I planned to put a complete rogue garage gym together when I moved into my current house a year ago and now it has finally moved to the top of my list of priorities. I don't want to say that money is not an option, but I want to put together a nice looking gym, functional, and for my family to use as well. I am willing to spend what I need to. I have a 3 car garage and plan to use of the the spots for the gym. I could always extend the space in the future to another garage spot, but the plan is for 1 for now. The space is 11x18, ceiling is high enough to accommodate any of the pieces below, I also live in the northeast so different climates/humidity in the garage obviously. Also anything with FAMILY by it is a necessity for my family members so no changing, those pieces have to be there lol.

Here is what I have so far and questions for each:

1) Rack- I planned on getting the RML-490C. Also looked at the RM-4 monster rack 2.0. I do not want to bolt anything down and what I have researched, it doesn't seem I will need to with these. I also liked the additions to add onto the RML or RM. Planned to add:
- Extra J cups or monolift
- Matador
- X43-M pull up bar
- Safety straps for inside, monster lite safety spotter arms to bench outside the rack and for pulls, rows. Not sure which is better? or maybe both?
- Plate storage on the rack.

2) Plates- rogue competition plates vs calibrated steel plates. Will I have any issues with steel plates with humidity? Any deals on competition plates maybe with the recent crossfire stuff going on (I don't do crossfit, but wouldn't mind the plates).

3) Dumbbells- I already have the powerblock U90 set. Saves space and I really like them.

4) Bars-
- Planned on getting a cerakote Ohio power bar as 1 bar.
- For the other, I planned on either an Ohio bar or the deadlift bar for my pulls.
- Rogue curl bar (FAMILY).

5) Monster lat pulldown machine (FAMILY)
- Question for those that have it, can the low pulley be used for things like bicep curls, lat raises etc. Need this for my wife (FAMILY).
- I know it is expensive (FAMILY).
- Will get necessary attachments.

6) Treadmill (FAMILY)
- Any suggestions on something reasonable in the 1,000 dollar range?

7) Adjustable bench- already have one. Maybe get a 2nd? Other one is decent quality.

8) Any other rack attachments? Monster lever arms? That new squat belt thing looks interesting, but who knows when it will be out and does it get in the way of lifts when inside the rack.

I know this configuration will be expensive, but I like the rogue quality and look, also shipping should be free with an order this large. Not sure if rogue gives any deals if you put together an entire garage gym like this, maybe you guys would know.

Also, part of the deal with my family is no used equipment, I know I can do it cheaper on CL, etc. Thanks in advance.

Couple thoughts...

Already mentioned was plate storage on a 6 post rack which is awesome - plate storage on a 4 post rack is nearly a non-starter. I have the RML 690 with custom swing in safeties from Black Widow as well as Mech's Monos, 4 sets of J Cups, and Rogue 24" safeties for another station off the front. 6 posts is great and I already had all Rogue ML stuff but the 690 is a VERY large rack...really oversized. I'd look at Legend also as timing and existance of already having RML attachments pushed me to Rogue again. You simply don't need this giant footprint but all in all I'm really happy with it. Realize I own and have owned a TON of Rogue stuff so if I steer you in a different direction it's not anti Rogue (racks, bars, bumpers, reverse hyper, GHR 2.0 etc....)

For plates unless there's a special need I really like grip plates. I have Ivanko Revolvers but doing it again I'd get Rogue 6 shooters and be done. I also have Rogue training bumpers 2.0.

I like and have the Ohio bar as my main bar. It works and does basically everything. Unless you are getting a rackable curl bar just get something generic and cheap (IMO). My next bar would be a dedicated DL bar. Rogue's is a decent option there.

I've seen a couple people post issues with the Monster Lat Pulldown. It's an expensive piece. I'd be looking on the used market. I considered it and a few of the Legend pieces. Ended up with a Legend plate loaded for $600 on Craigslist and have been thrilled with it (row and pulldown). I have some heavy duty magnet hooks and hang all my attachments off of it too. I'd buy a new Legend piece with stack before I went Rogue due to a few reviews. This just isn't a piece that they make a lot and its a staple for Legend. A lot of us like American Barbell and MAG attachments (suppinate medium being a big favorite and if space is an issue their wide is 38" vs 48" on a standard lat bar which saves room and gets the machine closer to a wall).

I'm a big fan of Rogue benches. I have their 1.0 adjustable and totally happy. They don't get enough credit for their pads. Perfect texture, firmness and nice 12" width. I also have a custom Fat Pad bench but that's another story. I'd buy my Rogue adjustable again in a second and would use it forever as my primary. Continues to impress every time I use it. Their higher end bench is nice too but I happen to like ladder style.

For rack attachments I think you are fine. I have a feeling their lever arms and belt squat are Monster line only as they really need to differentiate that offering from the much cheaper ML. For a ML or similar you can opt for a loading pin, belt squat belt, and rack platforms (black widow). I also like the rack handles Rogue makes for SSB though I have a Crepisek SSB.

[litljay]

Absolutely a home gym is the way to go. Here are my thoughts.
1. The rml 490c seems like a good rack. I would seriously consider a 3 post rack. If you put weight storage on the rack the pegs or weights on them can get in the way. Or consider stand alone plate racks. A Monolift or extra j hooks are a great idea. Straps vs regular spotters are personal preference. I would check out legend fitness, 3133 or the 3171
http://legendfitness.com/product/power-cage/
2. plates are a personal preference. Old school iron always works. I know you said no used equipment but I would check CL.
3. You are good there.
4. I have a zinc opb and it is great. My boneyard stainless steel Ohio bar is fantastic. I would get stainless if possible. Jury still seems out on the cerakote finish. Many members have the curl bar and like it.
5. Someone bought the pulldown and had issues. That’s a lot of cake to lay down for potential problems and who wants to sit on the floor. I have the legend 971, pro lat pulldown low row. I bought it new and it was not cheap with the shipping. But, it is great and no sitting on the floor.
6. We had a sole which was fine. For heavy use you’ll need a commercial treadmill.
7. Do a lot of reading about benches. I have the legend 3-way. I think garage-gyms.com has a review of a bunch of benches and he liked the rogue.
8.dont over buy and have stuff you don’t use. Stand alone dip station or rack mounted.

Good luck, you will get great advice here.

Having just went through what you are going through, I agree with Eric.

1. Consider the 6 post or stand alone plate storage. A 4 post with plate storage will limit the rack. I went Legend for my rack but Rogue makes quality racks also. Go with the Monster J-cups. I use the Rogue version on my Legend and they are awesome.
2. I bought the Rogue 6 shooters plates. The competition or calibrated plates are really nice, but for general fitness not necessary.
3. Have the same Power Blocks and love them.
4. I have a boneyard cerakote Ohio bar. I like it a lot. Not sure I would pay the extra for a non-boneyard version though.
5. I don't yet own a cable anything yet. Would like to get my hands on one though. Look around, there are a lot of options, but stay with commercial grade if you can.
6. We have a Nordic Track X9i incline trainer. We've had to replace the main board on it once, but Nordic Track shipped the board quickly and I installed it. Other than that issue, it's a decent treadmill.
7. Consider adding a flat bench. I have my adjustable (legend) set up with the "DB station" and the flat (Rep fitness) moves in and out of the rack.
8. I purchased the dip station attachement. In all honesty, I wish I would have just gone with a stand alone pull up/Dip station.

[Afo3]

What is this DB station option for your Legend bench you mention? I can't find it anywhere.

Having just went through what you are going through, I agree with Eric.

1. Consider the 6 post or stand alone plate storage. A 4 post with plate storage will limit the rack. I went Legend for my rack but Rogue makes quality racks also. Go with the Monster J-cups. I use the Rogue version on my Legend and they are awesome.
2. I bought the Rogue 6 shooters plates. The competition or calibrated plates are really nice, but for general fitness not necessary.
3. Have the same Power Blocks and love them.
4. I have a boneyard cerakote Ohio bar. I like it a lot. Not sure I would pay the extra for a non-boneyard version though.
5. I don't yet own a cable anything yet. Would like to get my hands on one though. Look around, there are a lot of options, but stay with commercial grade if you can.
6. We have a Nordic Track X9i incline trainer. We've had to replace the main board on it once, but Nordic Track shipped the board quickly and I installed it. Other than that issue, it's a decent treadmill.
7. Consider adding a flat bench. I have my adjustable (legend) set up with the "DB station" and the flat (Rep fitness) moves in and out of the rack.
8. I purchased the dip station attachement. In all honesty, I wish I would have just gone with a stand alone pull up/Dip station.

[litljay]

What is this DB station option for your Legend bench you mention? I can't find it anywhere.

Not something purchased. I made a small DB station/spot using the legend 3-way bench in my gym.







Question: "Who Made the Stand?" Answer: Powerblock. It's their U-125 Rack stand. Bought the bigger one in case I expand the powerblocks in the future.

[c00nc4t]

That Pyrros bar looks really cool. I picked up the regular SS Olympic bar for peanuts on a trade, and I agree with Pyrros; the spin, while super fast, feels loose and out-of-control compared to my Eleiko and AB bars, which I prefer. My other gripe with the bar is the lack of center knurl (seriously, why?), so this new bar addresses both of my main complaints with the old SS Olympic bar. I really like the knurl of the regular SS bar for daily training but a more aggressive pattern will be welcome for heavy singles and people who are lifting a ton of weight.

I agree, this might be the best Olympic bar in their lineup right now, especially if the new EU steel tariffs our stable genius announced today get passed through to consumers on the EU bar, which they likely will.

Just an FYI, but Rogue lowered the prices on their 28mm Stainless Oly bars.. Both the standard Stainless Oly (200k) and the newer Pyrros Stainless (200k) was lowered $100 each, now bringing them to $595 shipped.
https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-o...tainless-steel
https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-pyrros-bar-28mm

As far as the differences b/w the two, the standard Oly Stainless has a fast spin, no center knurl, & a mild knurl pattern. It's a fantastic bar for training. The Pyrros has slower (more controlled) spin, more aggressive knurl (Pyrros asked for this), and half-depth center knurl (this has been corrected recently.. first versions of the bar had the center knurl the same as rest of bar as was waaaay too aggressive). This bar is more suited to lower reps, or just for someone who prefers a more grippy/aggressive knurl. Would be an awesome bar for deadlifts too.

It's a very competitive price for some sweet bars in stainless. I, personally, would choose either of these stainless bars over the Euro (215k), mainly due to the great stainless knurl feel over the chromed Euro.. though all three bars are awesome.

[thejosef]

That Pyrros bar looks really cool. I picked up the regular SS Olympic bar for peanuts on a trade, and I agree with Pyrros; the spin, while super fast, feels loose and out-of-control compared to my Eleiko and AB bars, which I prefer. My other gripe with the bar is the lack of center knurl (seriously, why?), so this new bar addresses both of my main complaints with the old SS Olympic bar. I really like the knurl of the regular SS bar for daily training but a more aggressive pattern will be welcome for heavy singles and people who are lifting a ton of weight.

I agree, this might be the best Olympic bar in their lineup right now, especially if the new EU steel tariffs our stable genius announced today get passed through to consumers on the EU bar, which they likely will.

Thanks for your feedback on the SS Oly! I'd like to grab one of these two bars soon, and am leaning towards the Pyrros, also for the reasons you mentioned (controlled spin & center knurl).

[dailob]

i could be wrong, but i THINK i remember seeing a Pyrros in the boneyard section recently...

[thejosef]

i could be wrong, but i THINK i remember seeing a Pyrros in the boneyard section recently...

Yep, that's correct. I didn't bite as the first batch of Pyrros bars had the center knurl way too sharp.. it was same aggressive knurl as rest of the bar. I lot of lifters' necks at the Arnold were getting eaten up. I didn't wanna risk the boneyard bar having the same issue. New bars have been corrected and have a nice half-depth knurl.

[Hardgains88]

Here is what I have so far and questions for each:

1) Rack- I planned on getting the RML-490C. Also looked at the RM-4 monster rack 2.0. I do not want to bolt anything down and what I have researched, it doesn't seem I will need to with these. I also liked the additions to add onto the RML or RM. Planned to add:
- Extra J cups or monolift
- Matador
- X43-M pull up bar
- Safety straps for inside, monster lite safety spotter arms to bench outside the rack and for pulls, rows. Not sure which is better? or maybe both?
- Plate storage on the rack.

2) Plates- rogue competition plates vs calibrated steel plates. Will I have any issues with steel plates with humidity? Any deals on competition plates maybe with the recent crossfire stuff going on (I don't do crossfit, but wouldn't mind the plates).

3) Dumbbells- I already have the powerblock U90 set. Saves space and I really like them.

4) Bars-
- Planned on getting a cerakote Ohio power bar as 1 bar.
- For the other, I planned on either an Ohio bar or the deadlift bar for my pulls.
- Rogue curl bar (FAMILY).

5) Monster lat pulldown machine (FAMILY)
- Question for those that have it, can the low pulley be used for things like bicep curls, lat raises etc. Need this for my wife (FAMILY).
- I know it is expensive (FAMILY).
- Will get necessary attachments.

6) Treadmill (FAMILY)
- Any suggestions on something reasonable in the 1,000 dollar range?

7) Adjustable bench- already have one. Maybe get a 2nd? Other one is decent quality.

8) Any other rack attachments? Monster lever arms? That new squat belt thing looks interesting, but who knows when it will be out and does it get in the way of lifts when inside the rack.

I know this configuration will be expensive, but I like the rogue quality and look, also shipping should be free with an order this large. Not sure if rogue gives any deals if you put together an entire garage gym like this, maybe you guys would know.

Also, part of the deal with my family is no used equipment, I know I can do it cheaper on CL, etc

————————————————� �————————-

I have a r4 that i wound up adding 24” weight storage uprights too. I am almost positive that theres a way to add less then 24” weight storage if you call rogue. Rep also names a 3”x3” 6 post thats 36” and 12” or something close, but pretty sure theres a rogue option. Seperate Weight storage winds up taking as much room as the added posts because you need plenty of room to walk around. It also is a much bigger pain then you probably think to walk the weoghts to the opposite side of the rack if its of to one side. Been on here for years and yet to read the post ‘so glad i didnt waste money on the exta posts for weight storage,”

Front spotter arms a must have for front of rack use. I have a second rack without front spotter arms and thats the accesorry i most miss on the newer rack. The strap safeties are a great option but not ibstead of spotter arms.

Bars are decent. I have the Rogue curl bar, awesome bar but I probably wouldnt have bought it if i didnt already have a rackable troy curl bar also. In a small limited equipment set up like yours i think the rackable option is important,
As far as lat pulldiwn, im sire the monster is nice, but i agree the low row off the floor sucks when spending that type of money. By the way, yes, the low pulley can do curls but lateral raises must be done one arm at a time.
I agree with others, get a fiat bench as the second bench, there cheap enough. Assuming your other bench is commercial, you didnt mention what it is.
Im not seeing enough reason to go caroke finish when theres a stainless option. Your in a garage in the NE, while the finish may protect great, i am pretty sure tge areas where it wears or is chipped wont, either go with an inexpensive teaditional finish or stainless.

[Bench905]

Freedom Bar: https://www.roguefitness.com/cerakot...mm-freedom-bar

[dailob]

Freedom Bar: https://www.roguefitness.com/cerakot...mm-freedom-bar

landing page shows someone curling in a rack while wearing nothing but just compression underwear...

'murica

[thejosef]

Freedom Bar: https://www.roguefitness.com/cerakot...mm-freedom-bar

Neat.

landing page shows someone curling in a rack while wearing nothing but just compression underwear...

'murica

Yeah. That's what's it all about. FREEEEEDDDOOMMMM!!!

[lsi1]

saw the curl bar on closeout maybe a v2 thats coming?

[swimmer32]

Freedom Bar: https://www.roguefitness.com/cerakot...mm-freedom-bar

Total marketing ploy to sell barbells.


But I really want one (srs). 'Murica.


Ugh. Really don't need it.....