What is the best value cycling power meter 2017. We review the top options.
Once the domain of only the pro elite , the power meter has over recent years become a widely used training/racing tool for many cyclists. The technology has become more affordable and the demand has risen so many manufacturers have taken an interest in the field. So what do they do and should you get one? In a nutshell they tell you how much power you are putting through the bike (measured in watts). This is useful for training to a program (and viewing data results) and also to gauge a measured effort (like on a long climb) so that you don’t over exert yourself too early. Although this is not essential, a power meter can have a large beneficial effect on training and racing.
Garmin Vector 2 S Pedal Power Meter
What they say: The Garmin Vector 2S allows you to gauge your training intensity with unprecedented precision and by working seamlessly with compatible Garmin devices, helps you to train smarter. Power measurements are taken from the left side pedal only.
What we say: The vector pedal power meters are excellent. I have used the single sided measuring version extensively (a more expensive dual sided version is available that measures power in both pedals). They are reliable accurate and can be taken from bike to bike (especially good for training and race bikes and also for hiring).
Buy this if you have several bikes or rent/hire bikes often.
- Cheap for a power meter
- Can be upgraded to dual sided but this is not needed
- Can be taken from bike to bike
- Replaces pedals which could be a problem for some.
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Stages power Meter (all types)
What they say: The Stages power meter is very light, weighing a mere 20 g. Discretely placed on the inner side of the left crank arm (see image), the power meter measures the force applied to this point via microscopic material changes in the crank arm resulting from strain.
What we say: Stages replaces your non drive side crankarm with one containing a power meter fro single sided power data. Super reliable and simple to use. Great quality system. As used by team sky. Great little unit.
Buy this if you want a super quality well thought out fit and forget unit.
- Easy to use
- Fit and forget
- Lightweight
- Cant be taken from bike to bike easily but otherwise amazing
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FSA Powerbox Alloy Road ABS Chainset
What they say: The Powerbox combines trusted FSA Chainset Technology with Power2Max power functionality to give you all the data you need.
What we say: Great quality all in one FSA Power meter crankset. The power side is driven by a Power2max power meter and transmits both ANT+ and bluetooth. This unit works with 10 and 11 speed road drivetrains. For such a good quality power meter and crank all in one the price is quite a bargain.
Buy this if you want an all in one chainset with power data at a low price.
- Relative low price
- High quality fsa chainset in alloy
- some may not want to replace the whole crank but is a great option for a new build
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PowerTap G3 Rear Hub
What they say: The PowerTap G3C and G3 hubs raise the bar to another level altogether: lighter, stiffer, ANT+ compatible and better than ever. This hub offers superb accuracy in measuring your power & cadence outputs when on the bike.
What we say: Powertap have sell affordable rear hub based power meters that are light , accurate and affordable. Once built in to a wheel they are easy to switch between bikes and are basically fit and forget. They give power readings at the rear hub (post drivetrain) and also supply cadence data like most other meters.
Buy this if if you don’t want to replace pedals or cranks.
- Affordable price range
- easy to switch between bikes (as a wheel)
- Accurate power and cadence readings
- Has to be built in to a wheel but that is about it.
See more reviews and discount prices on Wiggle
