cbr shadow wrote:
I'm looking to buy a power meter for my road bike that I also use for duathlon and TT.
Several of the people on my group rides use Stages and like them, so I'm leaning towards that. I'm sure there are "better" power meters out there but it looks like they cost more. Is stages the best "value"?
I see I can get the Stages Dura Ace 9000 172.5 for $550-$600 range if I find a good deal on sale online.
My needs are:
1) Use this to compare Computrainer power
2) Use this to pace my TT and duathlons
3) Track power on my outdoor and group rides.
I have stages for last 3 years on my cyclocross bike, no issues at all, I did try on TT bike it worked fine... Battery drain is most likley due to battery door not sealing properly and moisture accumulation inside. I took silicone grease and applied all over the rubber ring, I have no issues at all, battery last for a full season.
This power meter was submerged not once, covered in mud, takes massive beating and it is still going strong.
I also have PowerTap P1, Garmin Vectors and PowerTap wheel, I would never take Vectors and P1 for CX race, they are simply to nice and delicate.
It all depends what you are using your power meter for, if just for simple pacing stages might be fine, but there are much better options on the market now.
Would I buy Stages again? For CX bike yes/maybe (I would try to get Pioneer), for road and TT no.
For training: dual leg power meter like Vectors, P1s, Pioneer, are much better an provide very valuable feedback on your pedal stroke, you can really increase your efficient quickly based on that feedback.
P1 are great for TTs, but way to thick for road races.