Choosing a bike power meter

Lucas, a mechanic at Bcyclet and also a competitor, explains how to choose a power meter.
He lists the advantages and disadvantages of each solution and explains the basics of how to use them.

1- Pedal-based power meters

• Advantages: Power meters built into the pedals are easy to install and switch between different bikes. They measure the power of each foot, allowing you to distinguish the performance of each leg. They are also lightweight and very accurate.

• Disadvantages: The main disadvantage is the price, which can be higher than other systems. In addition, some pedals may wear out more quickly, requiring more frequent maintenance.

2- Power meters on the cranks

• Pros: This type of sensor is often more affordable than pedals. It measures the power on each side of the pedal stroke, but on only one side of the crank, which is sufficient for many cyclists. The cranks are also easy to install and are very durable.

• Cons: The main disadvantage here is that some crank sensors do not allow independent measurement of the power of both legs, which can limit accuracy for cyclists seeking detailed analysis of their pedaling.

3-Power sensors on the crankset

• Advantages: The crankset is the most accurate system because it measures the total power generated by the entire pedaling motion. It can also be more reliable in the long term, with fewer moving parts that wear out.

• Disadvantages: Installing a sensor on the crankset is often more complex and requires more work. It can also be more expensive, and the sensors are sometimes less versatile if you change bikes often.

For beginner cyclists, I often recommend starting with a power meter on the cranks or pedals. These options are more affordable while still offering good accuracy. Pedals, in particular, are very easy to install and allow you to try out a power meter without too much commitment.

For a more experienced cyclist or competitor, a crank-based sensor is often the best choice. It offers optimal accuracy and comprehensive pedaling analysis. Pedal sensors are also a good option if you are looking for detailed analysis of both legs and a solution that is easier to move from one bike to another.

My advice would be to carefully consider your goals and budget before making your choice. If accuracy is paramount, opt for a crank-based power meter. If you’re looking for a compromise between price and performance, pedal or crank-based power meters can be an excellent choice. Remember that a power meter is an investment in your long-term performance, so choose the one that will provide you with the best analysis for your training.

4- 5-minute MAP (Maximum Aerobic Power) test

The first step with a power meter is to define your power zones. To do this, start with a gentle one-hour warm-up, including a few light accelerations to gradually increase your heart rate.
Then, perform a 5-minute test at full speed on a steady incline (between 6% and 10% gradient). The goal is to maintain intense, constant effort throughout the test.
Important tip: Don’t start too fast! The goal is to remain as steady as possible throughout the effort to obtain reliable results. Also avoid climbs where you will be forced to stop before the end of the test (climbs that are too short, intersections, red lights, etc.).

Once the test is complete, you can refer to the table below to calculate your different power zones based on your results.
Once your power zones have been established, you can start doing lots of exercises to improve!

Feel free to come see me in the store to discuss exercises tailored to your goals and fitness level!