Powermeters

Pedal-based units are easiest to swap between road, gravel, MTB, or indoor trainers, and they let you change pedal bodies for different cleat types. Crank arm meters work well for Shimano users who want a simple install, while spider and crankset options suit racers seeking the most precise dual‑leg measurements.

Dual-sided meters give left/right balance and typically offer ±1% accuracy, which helps with targeted training. Single-sided crank-arm options like Stages are simpler and budget-friendly, often powered by coin cells such as a CR2032.

Battery and connectivity vary by type: pedals often use rechargeable packs with roughly 60-hour life while crank-arm units may use coin cells like CR2032 or LR44 that last 200–300 hours. Most meters broadcast over ANT+ and Bluetooth to pair with head units and training apps, and models like Garmin Rally use rechargeable batteries.

Compatibility depends on standards: bottom bracket-based systems require matching shell widths (68–86.5mm) and specific standards like DUB or BSA, while spider or crankset units need the correct crank length, with 170–175mm being common. Spindle-based meters are compact but only fit compatible cranks, so check your frame and crank standard before buying.

Many units feature sealed strain-gauge designs built into aluminum crank arms or composite pedals for durability, and several pedals meet IPX7 waterproofing for wet conditions. Crank integrations have proven robust in crashes and designs from brands like Stages reflect over a decade of field-tested refinements.