Reviews

PowerTap P1

New pedal-based power makes measurements simpler than ever before

Options in the power meter market have positively exploded over the last few years, with more ways to collect training data than you can shake a spreadsheet at.

But of all the recent power meter releases, one that’s really caught the eye are PowerTap’s new P1 pedals, which take power measurement to a simpler level than ever before.

Pedal-based power isn’t a new thing, with Garmin and LOOK/Polar having both cast products into the market before now, but rarely has it come in so accessible a package as with the P1s. You’ll probably know PowerTap best as the hub power specialists, with their G3 a unique product in an otherwise crowded marketplace, but over the last five years they’ve been scheming to bring both pedal and crank-based options to market.

And they achieved that goal in 2015, releasing both the P1 pedals and C1 crankset to widespread acclaim – not only for the innovation behind the products, but the fact the RRP was notably lower than many of their rivals.

Pedal-based power isn’t a new thing but rarely has it come in so accessible a package as with the P1s.

The P1s are powered by a single AAA battery in each pedal, good for 60hrs riding time according to PowerTap, and installation is as simple as attaching the pedals using an 8mm allen key. There are no special tools or complicated torque ranges to achieve, just mount the pedals and go.

Those pedals transmit data gathered from eight strain gauges (in each) via ANT+ or Bluetooth Smart, meaning you can use the head unit of your choice. They’ll also analyse your pedal stroke, helping you to figure out where you put the power down, or help you boost your pedalling efficiency. That latter capability comes thanks to the innovative ‘Multipole Ring’ sensor, which measures application of force through each pedal stroke.

They’ll also show right/left balance, helpful for combating imbalances in your pedal stroke, and that data is provided on the go, meaning you can make adjustments as you ride with almost immediate feedback.

While they might be heavier than Garmin’s Vector 2s – 398g compared to 352g – they don’t require the finicky pods installation, as everything is house in the pedal itself. As a result, they’re bulkier as well but you’ll save £200 buying a set of these compared to the Vector 2.

Price: £999.99
Website: PowerTap
UK distributor: Paligap

Cleats are similar to LOOK’s Keo, but PowerTap supply their own with the pedals and don’t recommend the use of LOOK cleats with the P1s. This is because there are enough differences between the two to mean you might not find as secure a fit. There are two sets of cleats in the box, one with float and one without so there is a choice to fit your preference.

One other difference is stack height, with the P1s having a higher stack height than many standard pedals, meaning you’ll have to adjust seat height to compensate if you want to be millimetre perfect.

Overall though, the price combined with the quality of the product is sure to find many admirers. Plus the simplicity of installation makes the P1s the best choice around for anyone who wants to swap their power measurement between bikes. Especially anyone who can’t afford a power meter for every bike they own.