
Biking is a great hobby and a good way of training as well. If you’re planning to get fit cycling, you’ll most probably need a way to control your progress and the performance of your gear. Let’s ride into different ways of doing so.
Power Meter vs. Cadence Sensor
A power meter is a device that measures the power output of the biker. Most of them use strain gauges to obtain their data and then convert into readable digits. Distance, time, and torque are some of the factors power meters take into account.
By using a power meter, you would be able to structure your training. As you get to know your body in a better way thanks to the meter’s feedback, and not just your speculation on your performance, you will be able to reinforce what you are already efficient at and put some more work on what you need to improve. Values will also help you plan your pace to make it more efficient.
A cadence sensor, on the other hand, measures pedal cadence. This is done by placing two magnets on either side of an electronic pod. It registers rotation for every time the magnets and the pod coincide due to pedaling. In this way, we obtain RPM and can adjust our performance to the goals we want to meet.
Cadence sensors are ideal when riding in variable conditions. Going uphill or through strong winds, for example, affect our rpm’s. If we apply the benefits of a sensor, we can make the most out of our gear. In this way, we maintain our efforts in a comfortable cadence range, which allows us to perform in a constant efficiency. Thus, our pace is not affected, and performance is improved.Power Meter Shoes
As power meters are incorporated into a bike, there was no comfortable way of getting performance feedback on different rides. So, power meter shoes appeared to fix this. The meter is built into the shoe. Readings correspond to each foot’s power output, cadence, balance, and torque.
RPM² has manufactured an insole sensor that monitors your physical activity and performance and translates it into a connected device. Even though they are designed for running, they can also be used for cycling, with excellent results.
Take a look at this video of how RPM² power meter shoes work (Credits to RPM²):
Cannondale Power Meter Activation Cost
Cannondale has launched a bike model integrating an NG Power2Max Eco Power Meter. It would look pretty much like “buy and ride,” apart from a simple yet important detail. To activate the sensor, you need to pay a $500 fee.
The good side of this deal is that you skip the issue of changing other accessories to make your power meter work. So, even though you need to pay the fee, it’s still worthwhile if you do not wish to purchase a power meter separately and set it up on your own.
Canyon Ultimate Power Meter
If you have recently acquired a Canyon Ultimate bike and are looking for a power meter that best suits your new ride, there are a number of options to consider. Quarq’s DZero power meter is accurate, easy to use, and has pleasant aesthetics. Meanwhile, Stages is also a popular brand for many bikers.
Summary
So, having reviewed the different ways of measuring your own performance while cycling, you can now decide on which component and data fit your needs best. If you are still uncertain about your options, it may be a good idea to check these with your local bike shop.