Whether you’re new to triathlons or a more experienced triathlete, you understand that time is of the essence during both your triathlon training and race day. During training it can be tough to get in working out, recovery, and proper nutrition all while balancing normal family and work life. Because triathletes are always crunched for time, using a power meter is one of the best ways to create a better and more efficient workout.
A power meter is a device fitted to a bike that measures the output of the cyclist. By measuring this torque and combining it with velocity, power (measured in watts) can be calculated.Most power meters use strain gauges placed in various parts of the pedal-to-tire force chain, but some use air pressure and other methods.
Take a look at these top choices for power meters:
1. FAVERO Assioma Duo Side Pedal Based Power Meter
When it comes to the combination of portability and functions, the Assioma is a top contender. With a dual-sided power meter, riders can squeeze every drop of data out of each training session—looking at balance between left and right pedals, smoothness, efficiency, and more. Assioma DUO offers cutting-edge cycling technology to make the most of each pedal stroke with a reasonable price tag.
2. Garmin Vector 3
A contender for top best data-driven power meter, the Garmin Vector 3 power meter offers a sleek dual-sided pedal system that provides cyclics with a ton of useful data from their ride. The power meter system runs for roughly 120 hours and weighs in at 158g per pedal. Accurately measuring your power while cycling has never been simpler than with the new Garmin Vector 3 pedal-based power meter.
3. Wahoo KICKR CORE
Perfect for indoor training, the KICKR CORE is the latest in Wahoo’s line of smart indoor bike trainers. It delivers a realistic, accurate, and quiet indoor training experience by using the proven flywheel technology and advanced algorithms of Wahoo’s legendary indoor bike trainers. The KICKR CORE indoor trainer is built with the durability to withstand all of your indoor training sessions and no other brand of smart trainers has more apps and software training options, including Zwift.
4. Velocomp PowerPod Lite V3
Heavy on performance, and light on the wallet, the PowerPod Lite power meter delivers the critical features cyclists want, at an incredible price of $199. Unlike the other power meters, the PowerPod uses a combination of wind sensors, barometric sensor, accelerometers, and a host of calculations to deliver a power reading that’s said to be accurate to within -/+2%. Keep in mind with this power meter, you won’t get any pedaling analysis or other high-end cycling dynamics, but in terms of price, low-profile, and simplicity, this could be a great option.
If you’re considering taking your cycling to the next level by incorporating a product that will allow you to train more efficiently, a power meter is an excellent investment. The best power meter choice for a triathlete is one that fits their specific needs and budget. It’s also important to remember that it isn’t ultimately the gadgets that guide you across the finish line – it is going out and doing the training. Don’t get hung up on whether you have the most expensive or fancy gadget, think about what you need to do to get the best out of yourself and do that, enjoy it and don’t stress.
Are you looking for more ways to train more efficiently for your next race? Contact me today!
Train Right, Tri Right!
Coach MJ
