Power Meter Fundamentals

Power Meter Fundamentals

Power meters measure the actual work you're doing on the bike in watts, providing the most accurate measure of cycling performance.

How Power Meters Work

• Measure force applied to pedals, cranks, or hubs
• Calculate power using torque and angular velocity
• Provide left/right balance data (dual-sided meters)
• Record cadence simultaneously

Types of Power Meters

• Pedal-based: Easy to swap between bikes, measures actual foot power
• Crank-based: Popular balance of accuracy and durability
• Spider-based: Very accurate, integrated into chainrings
• Hub-based: Measures power at rear wheel

Understanding Your Power Data

• Instantaneous Power: Real-time wattage (highly variable)
• 3-second average: Smoothed for easier reading
• Lap/interval averages: For structured training
• Normalized Power: Weighted average reflecting physiological cost

Common Pitfalls

Avoid chasing instantaneous power numbers - focus on intervals and averages. Ensure proper calibration before important rides, and understand that power varies with environmental conditions, fatigue, and fueling.