The first piece of gear I purchased, at it's launch, a few years ago on amazon before being aware of rep and all the controversy. Bench is solid as a rock. If you understand how to use tighten-able pop-pins you should have no problem putting up weight very comfortably. The front handle is awkward and I hate how easily the end caps come off. Beyond that, controversy aside, I would have recommended this bench.
I like the zero gap system, but honestly not what sold me on it. It does make the bench a bit more comfortable than my other bench when having to use the bench in unconventional positions.
Performance
Value
Build Quality