MTB power meters

Pedal-based power meters for mountain biking

This page brings together power meters built into the pedals, the best-suited option for mountain biking. Crankset- and spider-based power meters, more common on road bikes, are in the road range.

Why choose pedal-based power meters for mountain biking?

• It can be moved from one bike to another in two minutes : a real advantage if you have both an XC and an enduro bike, or travel with a hire bike.
• It measures each leg separately on dual-sided versions, providing left-right balance and pedalling dynamics.
• It requires no specific bottom bracket, compatible crankset or dismantling.
• The trade-off is that it is exposed to impacts. That's by design: the pedal bodies and spindles can be replaced separately.

Single- or dual-sided power meter

• Single-sided : only one pedal measures power, and its reading is doubled. Less expensive, and perfectly adequate for tracking your training and power zones.
• Dual-sided : true measurement of both legs, left-right balance and detailed analysis of your pedal stroke. The choice if you really use the data.

Favero and Garmin

• Favero Assioma Pro MX : SPD-compatible pedal body, magnetic charging connector and a claimed accuracy of 1%.
• Garmin Rally XC : also features an SPD-compatible pedal body, replaceable batteries instead of recharging, and native integration with the Garmin ecosystem.
• Both transmit via ANT+ and Bluetooth, making them compatible with almost all cycling computers, watches and training apps.

When fitting and before every ride

Follow the manufacturer's specified tightening torque and orientation, then perform a zero-offset calibration before every ride. This keeps readings consistent from one day to the next: a poorly calibrated sensor doesn't stop working; it gives plausible but incorrect figures — which is much worse.

Spare parts

Left or right pedal bodies, spacer washers, magnetic connectors and repair kits. A crash never means buying a new pair: the electronics are housed in the spindle, while the pedal body takes the knocks.

To find out more: How to choose your power meter

See also: Mountain bike pedals · MTB cranksets and crank arms · Road cycling power meters