Power Meter Buyer's Guide | Cycling Weekly

What is a power meter? Do I need a power meter? Which power meter is best for me and what features should I look for and be aware of?  | Subscribe to Cycling Weekly here: https://www.youtube.com/user/CyclingW...

All these questions and more are answered in our comprehensive guide to power meters, including links to reviews of the latest products.

What is a power meter?

A power meter is a device fitted to a bike that measures the power output of the rider.

Most commonly, power meters use strain gauges that deflect slightly when a force is applied. By measuring this torque and combining it with angular velocity, power (measured in watts) can be calculated.

If you want to get the most out of your training then a power meter is the best tool to quantify your workouts.

As ever, there no single power meter that is the best. This will depend on how you intend to use it, your bike, your bike placement options, your budget and if you want to used it with more than one bike.

What are the different types of power meter?
Currently, power meters can be placed in five key areas of a bike. Of course, each has their own advantages and disadvantages. These are:

The rear wheel hub
The bottom bracket/spindle
Chainrings and crank spiders
Crank arm
Pedals
Hub based systems such as the PowerTap G3 are amongst the most simple power meters on the market. With fewer forces acting on the strain gauges, many engineers regard the hub as the most accurate location to measure power.

Power measurement will be slightly lower here than on a pedal or crank system as you’re measuring what is left, post drive train losses. It also means your power output can be a bit lower if your drive chain is very dirty.

Bottom bracket systems can be accurate and low maintenance. However, installation is more difficult and is made all the more complicated by the varying bottom bracket standards available today.

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