Crank or pedal potentiometer: Which one to choose?

Cycling is a sport where accurate measurement of performance is key to training and competition. This is where bicycle power meters come into play, revolutionary devices that have transformed the way cyclists monitor their effort and power. These ingenious devices measure the power generated when pedaling in watts, providing valuable data for more efficient training. At the moment, We can find two main types of meters: pedals with a potentiometer or those located on the crank.. But which is better?

crank potentiometer

The crank potentiometer is a sophisticated tool designed for cyclists looking for the maximum precision and reliability in your measurements of power. Integrated into the bicycle crank, this device directly measures the force applied to the drive train. It is installed on one or both cranks, allowing precise measurement of the effort made in each leg. Additionally, being located in a less exposed position, it is generally more resistant to impacts and wear.

As for the main and advantages We found the crank potentiometer to be ideal for really advanced performance analysis as it allows cyclists to adjust their technique and effort more effectively. On the other hand, we have already mentioned that it is less exposed, this allows it to be more protected not only from possible knocks but also from environmental conditions. This motif combined with a robust design makes it a long-term investment.

Pedals with potentiometer

Pedals with potentiometers, on the other hand, are an option more accessible and versatile, ideal for cyclists who value comfort and ease of interchange between bicycles. It is a technology that is installed directly on the pedals, which makes installation from one bike to another much faster and easier. In addition, it does not require a professional hand or special tools, so the user can do it without problems. Finally, it should be noted that there are models that offer separate measurements for each foot, which can be useful to correct imbalances in pedaling technique.

For all this, we see that the main and advantages The main advantages of pedals with a potentiometer are their versatility and their ease of changing them from one bicycle to another. It is lighter and, above all, it is a generally cheaper product so it is more affordable for all budgets.

Which to choose?

If you are already prepared with the best possible equipment, the choice between a crank potentiometer and a pedal one depends, to a large extent, on the type of cyclist and their objectives:

• Professional and High Performance Cyclists: They probably prefer crank potentiometers for their accuracy and data reliability. They want data-driven workouts that accurately measure their power.
• Amateur and Multidisciplinary Cyclists: For those who use several bicycles or are looking for a practical and low-cost solution, the best option will be pedals with a potentiometer.

With all the data provided throughout this article, you should now know which potentiometer best suits your needs. You only need the last step: get yours. Enter 365Rider, discover the wide range of power meters we have and get yours. You will take a differential leap with your bike!