BikeRadar

Watch This Before Buying Your Next Power Meter

The video is a deep‑dive into the current power‑meter landscape, comparing spider‑based, crank‑based, and pedal‑based solutions and ultimately naming the Favero Aoma Pro as the top pick for most cyclists. Key insights include the flexibility of spider‑based units, which let riders change crank lengths, versus the fixed‑length limitation of many crank meters. Crank meters such as SRM, Quark, and Stages offer solid accuracy but often demand complex installation, frame magnets, and expensive batteries, while also tying the rider to a specific crank size. Pedal meters, pioneered by Garmin and Favero, sidestep these issues by fitting any bike, offering simple bolt‑on installation, and housing all electronics within the spindle. The presenter cites real‑world examples: a second‑hand SRM Dura‑Ace 7800, a Quark D4, and a 4i Precision 3 Pro, noting battery‑door fragility and water‑ingress problems. He highlights Favero’s Aoma Pro SPD and RS/RL models, which weigh ~60 g less than Garmin’s Rally, boast up to 160 hours of battery life, and cost roughly £600‑£650, compared with Garmin’s £900‑£1,000 price tag and pricier spare parts. For consumers, the takeaway is clear: pedal‑based meters now deliver the best blend of accuracy, durability, and cross‑bike compatibility, making them the most cost‑effective choice for most riders, while serious racers may still consider crank‑based units for maximum protection and left‑right balance.