Boat Speed Comparator
Compare speed differences between different boat classes based on your erg split.
Compare Boats
Your Erg Split (/500m)
Minutes
Seconds
From Boat Class
To Boat Class
1x
Single Scull
8+
Eight
5:41.5
Predicted 2K Time
+18.7% faster
Erg Split
/500m
Predicted Split
/500m
Speed Factor
vs 1x
All Boat Predictions
Single Scull
Solo sculling boat, the purest test of individual rowing ability.
Eight
The flagship boat class. ~23% faster than 1x (Men WR: 5:18).
- Speed factors are based on average crew power output ratios
- More rowers = more power, but also more weight and drag
- Sculling boats (2x, 4x) are slightly faster than sweep (2-, 4-)
- The Eight (8+) is the fastest boat class overall
Erg to On-Water Conversion
Erg times don't translate directly to boat speed because water resistance, crew synchronization, rigging, and conditions all play a role. This tool uses empirical correction factors derived from published rowing research to estimate how erg watts translate to boat speed in each class. The conversion is approximate — on-water performance varies with technique, weather, and crew quality.
See our Methodology for the models used.
Related Tools
- Performance Calculator — analyze your erg session
- Weight-Adjusted Score — compare across weight classes
- Ranking Percentile — see where you rank
Standards & Guides
- 2000m Rowing Standards — erg-to-boat performance reference
- Muscles Used While Rowing — on-water vs erg muscle engagement