Rogue Castro Rig vs TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine

This is a comparison between the Rogue Castro rig and the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine including pros, cons, and alternatives. Follow the links for more details.

Overview and review of the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine $329

This is an overview of the TITAN bicep /tricep curl machine including pros, cons and alternatives. This article was originally posted in Which gym machine to get from TITAN. Follow the links for additional information.

Overview of the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine

The TITAN bicep / tricep machine is a classic machine you will find in most gyms all over the country. The swing arm can be adjusted so that you either pull the weight up or push it away while having your arms on a preacher curl bench. There is also an adjustable seat included and the machine is plate loaded. A curl machine works to build bigger biceps and triceps. It might eat up too much space in some gyms, as these exercises can also be done with dumbbells. The full specifications of this machine are:

- Bicep curls and Tricep extensions in one machine

- Olympic style plate loadable

- High-quality vinyl padding to minimize discomfort

- Heavy-duty steel frame construction

- Intuitive adjustable pin design

- Bolt-together assembly is fast and easy

- Overall Height: 39-in.

- Overall Width: 33-in.

- Overall Length: 44.25-in.

- Loadable Sleeve Length: 9.75-in

- Handle Grip Length: 8.5-in. (each)

- Overall Handle Length: 22.75-in.

- Adjustable Seat Height: 16-in - 21-in

This is a great machine for a good price to build your arms. It can be used in a commercial setting and home gym alike as it does not eat up too much space.

Pros of the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine

The pros of the TITAN bicep / tricep machine are:

Isolated movement
Plate loaded
Easy to use

The TITAN bicep / tricep machine is great to isolate the bicep and tricep. Compared to dumbbell movements there is a smaller likelihood of you activating other muscle groups than the arm muscles to complete your repetitions. This makes this machine great for sets with as many repetitions as possible on a lighter weight to really feel the burn.

The plate loaded design saves cost in home gyms or gyms that mainly offer plate loaded machines. This way you do not pay the weight stack in each machine and can work with the plates you already have.

The mechanics of this bicep / tricep curl machine are easy to use and robust. There are only a few moving parts which makes it easy to assemble and adjust.

Cons of the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine

The cons of the bicep / tricep curl machine are:

Space requirements
One trick pony
Plate loaded

While this is a small machine it still takes up some footprint in your gym. If you have very little space and can only fit a squat rack in your room, this is not an option and can be replaced with dumbbells.

While the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine is great at what it does, it still only does this one thing. There are other machines from TITAN that give you more variety with their two in one design.

While a plate loaded machine is great when you are the only one using your gym it can be tricky in a crowded public scenario. Loading plates and transporting them takes more time and also can lead to multiple tripping hazards. In such scenarios a machine with an integrated weight stack is the better option.

Alternatives to the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine

TITAN Preacher curl station
TITAN dumbbells

The TITAN preacher curl station does the same as the bicep / tricep curl machine. You will need to get an EZ bar in addition to get the most out of this. If you are into a training station for your arms it is a par between the preacher curl station and the bicep / tricep curl machine in terms of cost, space and footprint (if you factor in the bar). Here you have to decide whether you prefer a free weight or machine type of style of training.

TITAN dumbbells are a lot more versatile than the bicep / tricep curl stations and also come at alter price point. If you want to do your curls while seated you have to factor in the price of a bench.

Conclusion for the TITAN bicep / tricep curl machine

This is a great machine and any gym that has the space should get the bicep / tricep curl machine or a preacher curl station. If you do not have the space you can do the exercises with dumbbells I stead while standing or kneeling in front of your bench.

Overview and review of the Rogue V2 Castro Rig

Price: 1.866

This review was originally posted in the longer article "Which strength equipment to buy from rogue" in which you can read about 25 products of Rogue which cost more than 1.000$. The Rogue Castro V2 rig is the ultimate Rogue construction for the outdoor home warrior. See the details in this article.

What else to consider from Rogue

Overview of the Castro V2 rig

Rogue describes the Castro V2 as the ultimate backyard gym. Its basis is the Rogue Monster Lite system. With the Castro you get everything you need from squatting stations, to pull up bars and the height you need for rope climbs.

The Castro rig weighs 474LB with a footprint of 80'' x 53''. It is 70'' long and has a width f 43''. IT is 144'' high which makes it one of the highest options in the Rogue portfolio. For the price tag, it comes with all components ready to assemble. If you want to get some extra toys it is also compatible with Rogue Monster lite accessory series.

How many clients should the Castro Rig bring you?

If you think that the Rogue Castro V2 will bring you 7 new clients who pay you 50$ on a 1-year retainer it is worth the investment. This will yield 4.200$ net new revenue against an investment of 1.866$. Adjust the numbers for your own gym accordingly.

Pros of the Castro V2 rig

The Rogue V2 Rig provides everything you need for calisthenics and climbing needs in your own home. Bars at different heights for muscle ups. Anchors to attach ropes to. A fully functioning rack setup to put your barbell on and get ready to rumble.

Cons of the Castro V2

The con of the Castro V2 rig is that it is definitely an outdoor option unless you install it in a big industry hangar. I don't know about your backyard, but I live in Ireland and I wouldn't put it there.

Alternatives to the V2 Castro Rig

Here are some alternatives to the V2 Castro Rig based on budget

1x Rogue RML 690 @ 1595$

The Rogue RML 690 is a cost-effective, sturdy option for a fully functioning home gym in your basement or garage. The height of the Castro rig only makes it possible to install it outdoors for most homes, unless you are Oprah. If you do not want to spend more than 2.000$ on the skeleton of your gym this is a good option. You save money compared to the RM6 or RMLC versions while still providing multiple squat stations and plate storage space. The only downside is that it does not have the height for rope climbs. Find a tree in your backyard.

1x Rogue USMC PUll up rig @ 1.550$

If you want to train outside and have a lot of people to take care of the USMC Pull up rig is your go to. This setup maximizes the pull-up stations you get at a minimum price. The pull up always has been a staple of marine training it works. They are a force to be reckoned with. So can your local football or rugby team by installing this beauty next to the pitch.

Conclusion

The Rogue castro V2 rig is a solid option to train in your own backyard. Rogue did the thinking and building to provide you with a secure construction on which you can climb and do your favorite barbell exercises while enjoying the fresh air.