Power Meter
The ultimate tool for improvement
Why use a power meter?
The benefits go far beyond simply displaying numbers on a head unit.
- Surgical precision: You measure what you actually produce, with no lag. It is the ideal tool for short interval sessions.
- Endurance management: By knowing your power zones (FTP), you manage your energy on climbs or long rides to avoid "bonking".
- Training load monitoring: You precisely analyse your fatigue and your progress over the months to arrive in peak condition on the day of your goal event.
- Pedalling balance: "Dual" models (measuring both legs) allow you to analyse left/right leg balance and the efficiency of your pedalling technique.
Discover our overview of the market-leading brands: Favero, Garmin, and the challenger Wahoo.
The choice for pure performance
Favero Assioma
The Assioma is the market reference for its unbeatable reliability-to-price ratio.
- Key strengths: Extreme accuracy (±1%), integration of gyroscopes for faithful measurement even on hilly terrain, and recharging via magnetic connector (no battery replacement needed).
- Key models: The Assioma DUO (bilateral measurement) for competitors and the Assioma PRO MX for those who want the same precision on their MTB or Gravel bike (Shimano SPD standard).
- Verdict: Ideal for the demanding cyclist who wants a reliable tool without aesthetic frills.
Unlimited versatility
Garmin Rally
Garmin has designed an interchangeable "pedal body" system, allowing you to switch from one cleat standard to another without changing the electronic axle.
- Key strengths: Complete ecosystem, seamless integration with Edge head units and advanced physiological metrics (Cycling Dynamics). The RS models are for Shimano SPD-SL cleats, the RK for Look KEO, and the XC for MTB.
- Key models: RS200 (dual measurement) or RS100 (single measurement, upgradeable).
- Verdict: The choice for those who own several bikes (Road and Gravel) and want an ultra-comprehensive data ecosystem.
Speedplay ergonomics
Wahoo POWRLINK ZERO
Wahoo has integrated power measurement technology into the iconic Speedplay pedal, renowned for its dual-sided engagement and precise angular float adjustments.
- Key strengths: The only power pedal in the world with dual-sided engagement. The native connection with KICKR Home Trainers and ELEMNT head units creates a seamless user experience.
- Key models: POWRLINK ZERO Dual-Sided for a complete analysis or Single-Sided for a more affordable entry into power measurement.
- Verdict: Essential for fans of the Speedplay system and dedicated users of the Wahoo ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you choose a single-sided (Single) or double-sided (Dual) measurement?
A single-sided measurement (left side only) multiplies the value by two to give the total power output. This is sufficient for beginners. Dual measurement is crucial if you have a muscular imbalance or if you want to optimise your pedalling technique through torque efficiency analysis.
What is the average battery life of these pedals?
The Favero pedals offer around 50 hours (rechargeable). The Garmin Rally goes up to 120 hours (coin cell batteries). The Wahoo POWRLINK offers around 75 hours (rechargeable).
Can I install my pedals on any bike?
Yes, that is the major advantage over a bottom bracket-based sensor. The pedal thread is universal. You can swap them from your road bike to your turbo trainer bike in seconds with a 15 mm spanner or an 8 mm Allen key.
Does the weight of the pedals significantly change the riding feel?
The weight increase is minimal (around 30 to 60 g per pair compared to high-end pedals without a sensor). For 99% of cyclists, this extra weight is negligible compared to the benefit of training data.
Do you need to calibrate your sensor before every ride?
It is recommended to perform a "Zero Offset" (zero reset) via your head unit at the start of each ride, especially if the temperature has changed significantly since the previous day. This guarantees consistent accuracy of ±1%.
Are these pedals water-resistant?
All these models carry an IPX7 certification. They are designed to withstand rides in heavy rain and jet washing (without direct high-pressure water on the seals).
What is the difference between "Instant Power" and "3s Power" on my head unit?
Instant power fluctuates enormously with every pedal stroke, making it difficult to read. By displaying "3s Power" (a smoothed average over 3 seconds), you get a stable value that is much more useful for managing your pace.
Ultimately, which pedal should you buy?
The sensible choice: Favero Assioma
This is the pragmatic cyclist's choice. If you are looking for the most reliable accuracy on the market at the fairest price, look no further.
- For whom? The competitor or sportive rider who wants a "bulletproof" tool, as easy to charge as a smartphone, and who does not want to pay for superfluous design.
- Our tip: Go for the Assioma DUO if you are working towards specific goals — bilateral measurement is a real asset for analysis.
The ecosystem choice: Garmin Rally
This is the solution for those who want total integration and do not want to be limited to a single cleat standard.
- For whom? The user already equipped with an Edge head unit or a Fenix watch who wants to make the most of "Cycling Dynamics" (seated/out-of-the-saddle position analysis, etc.). It is also the only viable choice if you alternate between road (Shimano/Look cleats) and Gravel/MTB (SPD cleats) thanks to the interchangeable pedal bodies.
- Our tip: Go for the Rally RS200 (Shimano) or RK200 (Look) if you have several bikes with different pedals.
The ergonomics choice: Wahoo POWRLINK ZERO
This is the choice of Speedplay system purists and fans of the American brand.
- For whom? Cyclists who have knee problems or require precise angular float, as well as those who appreciate dual-sided engagement (very practical in the city or in a criterium). If you already own a KICKR Home Trainer, data consistency will be perfect.
- Our tip: Choose the Dual-Sided model for a complete measurement — especially if you already use classic Speedplay pedals, the transition will be seamless.
Our final verdict:
- Do you want the best value for money and reliability? Go with Favero.
- Do you want versatility and a complete ecosystem? Go with Garmin.
- Are you devoted to Speedplay ergonomics? Go with Wahoo.
