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Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy?
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Hi All,

I'm wanting to upgrade my fluid trainer to an ergo to help me get through long threshold intervals.

I'm considering a Powerbeam Pro. I can get the ANT+ version with Joule GPS heart rate etc for $1000 AUD, either that or get a used Computrainer. I know the Computrainer is rock solid but it's more than a bit dated now. PerfPro seems to have sorted a lot of issues however.

What I have read is that Powerbeam can take a while to ramp up in ERG mode. Is this really an issue for most users?

Also, how reliable is the Powerbeam? I know saris have a good reputation for customer service but mailing back a trainer to the USA is going to be cost prohibitive, so it has to be reliable for me.

I'm not interested in the KICKR its price point is too high here ($1400 AUD)

Looking forward to getting some feedback.

Cheers,
Stu
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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If that is the version with the programmable software from Cycleops you will be paying for it for as long as you use the trainer.

It is a subscription service so the $1000 you spend gets you the hardware and not the software.

Now I do know you can control it from a Joule without the software but then why bother with that kind of trainer.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [jaretj] [ In reply to ]
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jaretj wrote:
If that is the version with the programmable software from Cycleops you will be paying for it for as long as you use the trainer.

It is a subscription service so the $1000 you spend gets you the hardware and not the software.

Now I do know you can control it from a Joule without the software but then why bother with that kind of trainer.

Which is another advantage of the CT - whether RacerMate intended or not, the CT is well-supported by just about every piece of 3rd-party software on the market - Golden Cheetah, Tour de Giro, Zwift, TrainerRoad, PerfPro, etc all support CTs, and probably will forever. As a developer and a rider, I _love_ the wired connection. It's so much easier to reliably have software talk to a CompuTrainer compared to any of the wireless devices.

Also, ANT+ connections inevitably lead to the painful pre-ride debugging of "why can't <software> talk to my trainer?", which means killing garmin (express/ant agent), or unplugging/replugging the ANT+ dongle, or many other approaches.

STAC Zero Trainer - Zero noise, zero tire contact, zero moving parts. Suffer in Silence starting fall 2016
Last edited by: AHare: Mar 3, 15 8:12
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [AHare] [ In reply to ]
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Your software is the bomb! :)

jaretj
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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I've had a Powerbeam Pro for a little over a year and I have been mostly happy with it. It doesn't seem to have as much 3rd party support as the kickr or computrainer, although it does look like trainerroad can now control it. I don't think that was the case when I got it. Either way, I've never used it. I just use Cycleops' Virtual Training app on my phone to control it. I don't pay for their app. I just use the free version that limits the free ride to an hour, which isn't a big deal, you can just restart it when time runs out. It lets you set it to erg mode or slope mode. Personally, I like simplicity. I don't like having to deal with stuff... setting up the bike, software, workouts, etc. I just want to put my bike on the trainer and be riding as quickly as possible. That was one thing that kept me away from the kickr because I would be using a tri bike that I often ride outside and didn't want to have to deal with constantly removing the wheel and getting the bike on the trainer with its horizontal dropouts.

The powerbeam is great for setup. It takes no time to set it up and start riding. The power data seems to be accurate over time. It is only rated to +/- 5% accuracy rather than the 2% that you see from most power meters. It is a bit slow to respond in erg mode (at least compared to a computrainer) and seems like it wouldn't be the best solution for short intervals like 30/30s unless you're just riding in slope mode and shifting gears yourself. I have done that a couple of times. It hasn't been an issue for me. erg mode works great for longer tempo/threshold intervals. I usually ride a powertap wheel on the trainer and they seem to match up well, easily within a couple of percent in most cases. The power profile from erg mode is certainly artificially smooth though. I have also ridden on a computrainer a good bit and the power file that it sends out even when in erg mode still has the peaks and valleys that the trainer has to react to if you don't keep your cadence constant. The Powerbeam seems to assume a much smoother power output from the rider when in erg mode so the profile comes out very smooth, but as I said, it always seems to match up well with the powertap over several minutes.

When I first got the trainer I was using the app on an Android tablet with an Ant+ stick and I would often have communication issues. Since I got the Samsung Galaxy S5 with built in Ant+ last year, I have had no trouble connecting to the trainer to control it with the phone. I think the old tablet was the issue more so than the software, but it's something else to keep in mind.

As for reliability, I've had no problems with it since purchasing in November '13. I try to keep my trainer time down as much as possible so I've probably only used it 40 times or so, but no issues so far.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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i have a powerbeam pro and love it. also has best cust service and warranty. I use it with trainer road and virtualtraining and its super easy to use.

erg mode is erg mode
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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I've had mine for something like 3 1/2 years. It probably has many more features than I'll ever use, since I like to keep things simple and use Spinervals DVDs for at least 80% of my indoor riding. I have a TV/DVD combo in front of my bike in the pain cave so all I do is pick the DVD, stick it in, start spinning slowly for the Joule to read the power then follow the program. I use erg occasionally when it fits with what I'm trying to achieve. The only improvement would be to have the ability to set erg mode at 5 watt increments instead of 10. I don't think the ramp-up (~10 secs) is an issue unless you are doing short intervals.

Reliability. My original Powerbeam croaked a few weeks after the one year warranty expired. Cyclops shipped me a loaner mag trainer and a shipping label for the old Powerbeam then ended up sending me a brand new Powerbeam with all the latest software and do-dads. So I would rate their customer service top notch!! The replacement model has worked flawlessly. I have a dedicated trainer wheel with trainer tire and swap bikes every 3 months or so.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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I have had one for going on 3 years and have been very happy with the performance. I am not a techie type guy so bells and whistles are not important to me, so I keep it pretty simple.

I calibrate mine before every ride and it takes 2-3 minutes to do the roll down. It may take another minute or two for the Joule to pick up the power from the trainer but it is not a big deal.

I have also loaded my own "courses" based on the rough bike profiles for the races I do but I rarely ride the courses as most of the time I am doing a set workout either in ERG or set power mode.

I should say that I have had zero problems with it and it is simple to use, which for me is a big plus. I just want to get on and ride.

I have tried Computrainers but do not have a lot of experience with them, but my PERCEPTION is that they are more complicated to use overall, that may or may not be the case depending on who you ask.

______________________________________________

I *heart* weak, dumb ass people...
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
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I've had a Powerbeam Pro for a little over a year. Only used Virtual Training for a little bit but I liked it. Last season I was creating workouts on the computer and syncing them up with the Joule to run in ERG mode. Worked really well.

Been using it with Trainerroad this past winter but I've got a powermeter so don't sync Trainerroad with the ERG mode.

Don't have any experience with any other trainers but I really like it.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [mattr] [ In reply to ]
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I should add I have used the powerbeam with trainerroad using my Garmin ANT stick, worked great.

______________________________________________

I *heart* weak, dumb ass people...
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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I own two PowerBeams and have been using them for 1.5 years. I originally bought the trainer with the Virtual Training software which I use occasionally when I deiced to ride a virtual route. I bought a second PowerBeam that included the Joule 3 but ended up selling the Joule because I didn't like the way it worked. It was a little difficult to use. I have been using my PowerBeam with Peripedal software since it was in Beta and I was originally using it with a Fluid2 trainer. Once Peripedal was able to control the PowerBeam I bought my first one. I also have used TrainerRoad with my PowerBeam, but prefer Peripedal.

I'm not sure if TrainerRoad and calibrate the PowerBeam but you can do that with the Joule. Overall I've been very happy with my PowerBeams. You can also use PerfPro and I'm sure there are others.
Last edited by: Burnt Toast: Mar 4, 15 13:25
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Burnt Toast] [ In reply to ]
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Extremely happy w/the PBP. Brand new w/Joule GPS can be had for around $800 at some stores who give a 20% discount off of the first order, which is what I did. Never a problem with slope or erg mode (I mostly ride in ERG mode anyway).

Perhaps the only weird thing I've experienced with it is when TrainerRoad calibrates it. After a 2 min roll down it will not tell me to stop pedaling, it will just keep resetting to an extremely high number of seconds. I have to deliberately stop pedaling at 0 seconds (not a huge deal, but sometimes I wonder if it calibrated correctly...so from that point on I calibrate it via the Joule GPS). I emailed the guys at TR and they said they were working with Saris on a fix for it.

As for customer service, Saris ranks up there at the top in the tri/cycling related companies (along with Polar).
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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Thanks for the feedback all, really appreciated.

To any of you using the Joule GPS, how does it stack up? DCRainmaker didn't think much of the way the menu operates, I've also heard it's difficult to control the Powerbeam from? Has this been improved with Firmware upgrades?

Cheers,
Stu
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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I have the pbp for about 1 year now. I initially used virtual training software with it but that got boring after a while. I exclusively use TrainerRoad with it in ERG mode with my laptop.

There isn't quite as much 3rd party software support. I would like to use TrainerRoad's iPhone app but that doesn't have capabilities to control the PBP yet :(
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [125mph] [ In reply to ]
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I have a PBP that I use with the big Joule 3.0, I usually just use erg mode and do specific intervals, with this terrible winter we have been having I have been forced to do some of my longer endurance rides on the trainer as well, and I have used the Virtual Training for that and I find that it's a pretty fun and effective way to get through a long non interval based trainer ride.
As for using the Joule GPS to control the PBP, I messed with one for a couple of weeks last year, the menu is very non intuitive and a bit of a pain, but it can be done.

To the poster above that said you use Zwift, how do you do that? I have been waiting for a Zwift invite for a while now, actually emailed them last week and they told me that they haven't gotten Zwift to work with the PowerBeam yet.

----------------------------
http://www.instagram.com/cyclewise
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [trener1] [ In reply to ]
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I have had the PBP for a while (without the Joule) now and love it (I upgraded from a FluidOps 2 I had for about 10 years). I have tried the Virtual trainer software, but really just use TrainerRoad, as I find it to be better training. I have never had a problem with dropping a signal, and the calibration through TrainerRoad is just a quick 2 min spin, great for warm-up. Really love it, and would recommend it to anyone.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [trener1] [ In reply to ]
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Zwift (beta) is working with the Powerbeam Pro now. It's 'slope' mode but doesn't feel even close to what I think the incline % should feel like.

If you take advantage of the Backcountry.com 20% off code through April 13th. you will drop the price from $1,000 to $800, receive a $100 store credit and get a free 11 speed Force/1170 cassette shipped to your door free in two days. Active Junky members will see a ~$100 check coming their way too. Now is the time to buy a Powerbeam Pro!
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [dangle] [ In reply to ]
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Nice! I've been waiting for that. My PBP's been great -- I use it with TR in erg mode, set it and forget it. Looking forward to getting on Zwift!
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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Freaking awesome trainers. No complaints. I work at a store that has a fleet of Tacx trainers-which are constantly breaking off plastic pieces. been riding mine Powerbeam two years and never had a single problem in any way. Highly recommend!
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Tri_It_JB] [ In reply to ]
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Returned my 2nd replacement Kickr (chronic issues with power readings even after manual belt tension fixes, dropped bluetooth connections...) and thinking of giving this thing a go. Found some complaints about the bluetooth version - seems like ANT+ works just fine for folks? I'll be using it with TrainerRoad in ERG, and Bluetooth would be nice to be able to use with the phone as well as with the laptop, but I'd rather get one that works well and just use the laptop if I have to:)
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [friskyDingo] [ In reply to ]
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So I had (technically still "have" since I never sold it) the bluetooth version. When it worked, it worked wonderfully. My residence is a wireless black hole though (WiFi, Verizon, basically nothing works). What I ended up doing was getting an 8' usb cable and a usb bluetooth smart dongle (you can email saris for what they recommend) and putting the dongle right next to the trainer. I still got dropouts at home but it was rock solid while on the road (I spend a fair amount of time traveling fwiw).

Ended up shelling out for a Computrainer which I'm very happy with :)
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [GreenPlease] [ In reply to ]
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I can't comment on the Bluetooth but I
have used it without issue at all with ant+
connected to my laptop. I use virtual training
but I'm sure it would work just as
Well with trainer road etc..
In Reply To:

----------------------------
http://www.instagram.com/cyclewise
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [stumurray] [ In reply to ]
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I have the PBP ant+ model. It's worked flawlessly for 1.5 years already. I use it with trainerroad, virtual training, and now with zwift.

If it broke on me I would get another one without hesitation. Though I would consider the Bluetooth version instead. I think that's the new standard.

Also, you can get a PBP for $800 on sake.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [friskyDingo] [ In reply to ]
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Like I said in post #3

You'll be paying for the software through a subscription service as long as you are using that trainer.

If you are OK with spending $1K and not being able to use it unless you continue paying then maybe it's for you.

jaretj
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [jaretj] [ In reply to ]
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I actually do the bulk of my training in erg mode using the joule.
and while I would agree with you that computrainer includes a nice
amount of free software, but at the same time it's also almost double the price.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [jaretj] [ In reply to ]
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jaretj wrote:
Like I said in post #3

You'll be paying for the software through a subscription service as long as you are using that trainer.

If you are OK with spending $1K and not being able to use it unless you continue paying then maybe it's for you.

jaretj


Not sure hat you mean by that. You only pay for the virtual training part which can also be used with various other trainers and power meters. The PBP works just fine with software like TrainerRoad, Peripedal, Zwift etc. or can be used as stand alone in slope mode. You can even control the PBP with a CycleOps Joule headunit. The PBP is a power meter so riding in slope mode sends out your power numbers for a Garmin to pick up and display.
Last edited by: Burnt Toast: May 21, 15 7:45
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [friskyDingo] [ In reply to ]
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I have no experience with the bluetooth version, but the ant+ one has been working great for me. It's awesome for any intervals longer than a minute in ERG mode. I use it with TrainerRoad and have played around with it on Zwift where it controls the resistance for you there as well based on the elevation/drafting/etc.

When Backcountry/Competitive Cyclist are running their occasional 20% off coupons, the Powerbeam Pro is hard to ignore. They have one going right now with "summer20" taking off 20%. The Powerbeam constantly makes the DCRainmaker recommendation list too.

When I bought one with 20% off it was $800 (compared to a full price Kickr), another ~$100 coming in from Active Junky, $100 in store credit and for some reason it included an 11 speed cassette too. It has all the features of a Kickr and Computrainer, plus it already comes with the ant+ stick to link it to your computer. I prefer trainers that you keep your wheel on for. Saris (parent company of Cycleops) has amazing customer service too.

So, uh..........get it.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Burnt Toast] [ In reply to ]
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Of course it can be used in slope mode but then why buy that trainer? It can be done for much less money with a KK.
It also works fine with the other software you mentioned but you have to pay more for that.

My two friends that have them are unable to use them with the software provided because they chose the virtual software and cannot go back.

They called saris to go back to software that's functional and they wouldn't do it.

It should come with stand-alone software like the CT does with no additional fee.

Perhaps I'm just being nit-picky and/or unreasonable or even uninformed of the current status of their software.
Last edited by: jaretj: May 21, 15 9:07
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Burnt Toast] [ In reply to ]
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Yeah, I don't get his comment either. I know my PBP does a lot more than I ask of it, but I don't use any virtual trainer applications. Pretty much, I do two types of workouts on my trainer:

1. Spinervals DVD w PBP in slope mode. I'm watching my power as I follow the prescribed intervals. On rare occasions I will actually download the workout to Power Agent and review the file.

2. Watch movie w PBP in erg mode. This morning was a good example. Watched a martial arts movie with warm-up, then 7 x 2 mins V02 + 2 x 15 mins Z3. Just lock and load the watts you want and ready, set, sweat!

It really doesn't get any easier.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [jaretj] [ In reply to ]
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jaretj wrote:
Of course it can be used in slope mode but then why buy that trainer? It can be done for much less money with a KK.
It also works fine with the other software you mentioned but you have to pay more for that.

My two friends that have them are unable to use them with the software provided because they chose the virtual software and cannot go back.

They called saris to go back to software that's functional and they wouldn't do it.

It should come with stand-alone software like the CT does with no additional fee.

Perhaps I'm just being nit-picky and/or unreasonable or even uninformed of the current status of their software.

I got somewhat annoyed with the monthly fee ($5/month, for the iPad app, over 3 years is still less than a grand, though), and bought a Joule GPS on eBay for $130 with a powercal and can run erg workouts off that indefinitely without spending an extra dime (I will say the virtual training app is good for planning courses in google earth and pre-riding them without going there). I haven't tried it with Zwift yet, but that was one thing I was excited about hearing they opened it up for the PBP. Fact of the matter is, you get a solid trainer, with excellent customer service, at a good price. It takes a few seconds to react to changes in power or slope, though, which can be a bit frustrating on short intervals, and some of the algorithms on the virtual training site don't play nicely with a TT bike (for example power-speed calcs are based on height and weight, only, so if you have multiple bikes you need to keep going back and forth changing your height to have proper CdA's rather than simply inputting a CdA value).
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [dangle] [ In reply to ]
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Thank you! And everyone else. CompetitiveCyclist is a nice deal: no tax, free cassette (~$80 worth), free 2 day shipping, and Google Trusted Store $1k purchase protection.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [friskyDingo] [ In reply to ]
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Hey, reviving an old thread to see if anyone has had issues with erg mode, specifically when doing intervals above 400 watts or so. I've had a problem on several occasions with it just not sticking at the assigned wattage despite my best pedaling efforts. This is after calibration, which at this point I do for every ride. In the past calibration has fixed this issue, but not every time, and not the last several rides. Thanks!
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [holmes] [ In reply to ]
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holmes wrote:
Hey, reviving an old thread to see if anyone has had issues with erg mode, specifically when doing intervals above 400 watts or so. I've had a problem on several occasions with it just not sticking at the assigned wattage despite my best pedaling efforts. This is after calibration, which at this point I do for every ride. In the past calibration has fixed this issue, but not every time, and not the last several rides. Thanks!


Interesting. It's so rare I'm doing intervals short enough to need 400 watts, that I can't say for sure. Every so often I use my bike with a Power2Max to compare numbers and 8 watts (averages) is the most variance I have had (yes, I know they measure at separate locations and there should be variance).

Are you using TrainerRoad? I have had so many issues with the combination of the newer version (is it still called beta?) of TrainerRoad, ERG mode and the Powerbeam Pro. Calibrating kills ERG mode. ERG mode disappears because I looked at it funny. Plus the "minimal" screen is way bigger than the one from the "Classic" version of TrainerRoad. Even as two weeks ago, I still can't get the new version of TR and their ERG mode to play nicely with my Powerbeam Pro. I wouldn't be surprised of TrainerRoad is the issue and not the Powerbeam. I use the "Classic" version for trouble-free performance and occasionally checked the newer version to see if it's working.

EDIT: Now I'm not 100% sure if I used the last beta or the new/current version of TrainerRoad when ERG mode went out on me in early June. Sorry
Last edited by: dangle: Jun 17, 16 17:18
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [dangle] [ In reply to ]
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dangle wrote:
holmes wrote:
Hey, reviving an old thread to see if anyone has had issues with erg mode, specifically when doing intervals above 400 watts or so. I've had a problem on several occasions with it just not sticking at the assigned wattage despite my best pedaling efforts. This is after calibration, which at this point I do for every ride. In the past calibration has fixed this issue, but not every time, and not the last several rides. Thanks!


Interesting. It's so rare I'm doing intervals short enough to need 400 watts, that I can't say for sure. Every so often I use my bike with a Power2Max to compare numbers and 8 watts (averages) is the most variance I have had (yes, I know they measure at separate locations and there should be variance).

Are you using TrainerRoad? I have had so many issues with the combination of the newer version (is it still called beta?) of TrainerRoad, ERG mode and the Powerbeam Pro. Calibrating kills ERG mode. ERG mode disappears because I looked at it funny. Plus the "minimal" screen is way bigger than the one from the "Classic" version of TrainerRoad. Even as two weeks ago, I still can't get the new version of TR and their ERG mode to play nicely with my Powerbeam Pro. I wouldn't be surprised of TrainerRoad is the issue and not the Powerbeam. I use the "Classic" version for trouble-free performance and occasionally checked the newer version to see if it's working.


Hey, I am using TrainerRoad and am actually not sure if I've uploaded the new version yet. I'll try to see if using the classic version will help. I've never really had a problem with accuracy, as I have a PowerTap wheel that I"ll occasionally use to check the numbers. Thank you.
Last edited by: holmes: Jun 17, 16 9:57
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [holmes] [ In reply to ]
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holmes wrote:
Hey, reviving an old thread to see if anyone has had issues with erg mode, specifically when doing intervals above 400 watts or so. I've had a problem on several occasions with it just not sticking at the assigned wattage despite my best pedaling efforts. This is after calibration, which at this point I do for every ride. In the past calibration has fixed this issue, but not every time, and not the last several rides. Thanks!

Sorry to hear about the issues with your PBP man!

We recently had some ERG problems at wattages in the 250 range, but this is all cleared up now. When you open the app with a proper internet connection you'll be prompted to update the app. Have you made sure you're on the most up-to-date version? If you're still running into problems, go ahead and hit up support@trainerroad.com and they'll be happy to make sure you don't run into this in the future. :)

Cheers!

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [dangle] [ In reply to ]
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dangle wrote:
holmes wrote:
Hey, reviving an old thread to see if anyone has had issues with erg mode, specifically when doing intervals above 400 watts or so. I've had a problem on several occasions with it just not sticking at the assigned wattage despite my best pedaling efforts. This is after calibration, which at this point I do for every ride. In the past calibration has fixed this issue, but not every time, and not the last several rides. Thanks!


Interesting. It's so rare I'm doing intervals short enough to need 400 watts, that I can't say for sure. Every so often I use my bike with a Power2Max to compare numbers and 8 watts (averages) is the most variance I have had (yes, I know they measure at separate locations and there should be variance).

Are you using TrainerRoad? I have had so many issues with the combination of the newer version (is it still called beta?) of TrainerRoad, ERG mode and the Powerbeam Pro. Calibrating kills ERG mode. ERG mode disappears because I looked at it funny. Plus the "minimal" screen is way bigger than the one from the "Classic" version of TrainerRoad. Even as two weeks ago, I still can't get the new version of TR and their ERG mode to play nicely with my Powerbeam Pro. I wouldn't be surprised of TrainerRoad is the issue and not the Powerbeam. I use the "Classic" version for trouble-free performance and occasionally checked the newer version to see if it's working.

Sorry to hear you're running into problems with your PBP too! :-/

The new version of the app is in full production. You're probably still using an older version of the beta though because they're different applications. If you download the full production version from the link below, I think you'll have some better luck. :)

Download for Windows

If you're having trouble with the initial pairing process in the new app after downloading the production version, click 'Device Troubleshooting' and your PBP should pop right up and pair. If you're still running into any issues, the good old boys at support@trainerroad.com will be sure to help get you dialed in.

Hope we can get some better results on the updated version man! Sorry again for any inconvenience!

Cheers,

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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Nick Kanwetz wrote:
dangle wrote:
I still can't get the new version of TR and their ERG mode to play nicely with my Powerbeam Pro. I wouldn't be surprised of TrainerRoad is the issue and not the Powerbeam. I use the "Classic" version for trouble-free performance and occasionally checked the newer version to see if it's working.


Sorry to hear you're running into problems with your PBP too! :-/

The new version of the app is in full production. You're probably still using an older version of the beta though because they're different applications. If you download the full production version from the link below, I think you'll have some better luck. :)

Download for Windows

If you're having trouble with the initial pairing process in the new app after downloading the production version, click 'Device Troubleshooting' and your PBP should pop right up and pair. If you're still running into any issues, the good old boys at support@trainerroad.com will be sure to help get you dialed in.

Hope we can get some better results on the updated version man! Sorry again for any inconvenience!

Cheers,



Nick,

Thanks for your support. It's the most recent downloaded version as of ~10 days ago. I think we may have even spoke about a week after Powerbeam Support came out for the beta version. No problems with pairing. I can't get ERG mode to work again after any in-workout calibration with the Powerbeam Pro ant+.

I'm a huge TR fan and subscriber/member, so please don't take this as me complaining. Classic works fine for me and I like that version of the minimal screen better.

EDIT: Now I'm not 100% sure if I used the last beta or the new/current version of TrainerRoad. Sorry.
Last edited by: dangle: Jun 17, 16 17:17
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [holmes] [ In reply to ]
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I was on my PBP for 4 hrs this morning, but I can only do 400+ watts for very short sprints -- I wish I had your problem. I have an old Joule 3 and lock in watts for erg mode with that. Never had a problem and I don't have any need for Trainer Road. My PBP has lasted and lasted.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [dangle] [ In reply to ]
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dangle wrote:
Nick,

Thanks for your support. It's the most recent downloaded version as of ~10 days ago. I think we may have even spoke about a week after Powerbeam Support came out for the beta version. No problems with pairing. I can't get ERG mode to work again after any in-workout calibration with the Powerbeam Pro ant+.

I'm a huge TR fan and subscriber/member, so please don't take this as me complaining. Classic works fine for me and I like that version of the minimal screen better.

You're most welcome!

Ah shoot! We probably did! I recently got moved over into TR's marketing side of things. :)

In any case, I'm going to relay this to our Support Development Specialists to try and replicate this. Do you have any open tickets with us right now?

And thanks for the love man — we just want to make sure you're able to use your PBP in it's full capacity within our newer version of the app too! Stoked you're able to use the older version in the meantime too though!

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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Oh snap, I have 3 TrainerRoad applications on my computer!! I thought the 3rd was the companion app (for when two people were together, but I never actually tried it), but it turns out it's beta, classic and new/current. I deleted the old companion app instead of the beta app. I'm not 100% sure if I used beta or new/current that last workout where ERG mode disappeared when calibrating after 10-15 or so minutes. I'm still a little worthless that early in the morning.

I'll edit my last post too. I'll update this after trying the PBP on the new/current version (if I accidentally still used BETA before) and using ERG mode.
Last edited by: dangle: Jun 17, 16 17:19
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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I couldn't get the new windows app to work consitently with my PBP. Tried several times but either the PBP or my power meter (quarq) would frequently drop out. Gave up and went back to old app and not had a problem since.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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I used new/current this morning. Power2max controlling the Powerbeam with a Scosche HR monitor connected too. TR lost the connection to the PBP 1:14:00 in. The ant+ stick is ~3ft from the PBP and I have never had a dropout before. After about 8 attempts of trying to re-connect with the PBP (didn't see it, but saw other devices) it lost connection with all devices and crashed. No saved workout.

I opened up classic, everything connected instantly and I skipped ahead to the last 46 minutes of the workout. Everything worked as normal.

At this point, I have never had a successful workout with the former beta or new/current TR program and my Powerbeam Pro Ant+. It's been a near flawless combo on classic ~3x a week for well over a year. Using the PBP to control ERG mode always works great, but every once in a while I would get few seconds of wildly increasing resistance when using the P2M to control the PBP. That's been rare and fixes itself quickly though. I have even tried tricking TR in the past with multiple ant+ sticks and programs going and just couldn't faze classic. Especially with how much better the minimal screen is when extending to a tv, I'll probably stick with classic as long as I can.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [dangle] [ In reply to ]
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Sounds identical problem. Either PBP drops out and won't reconnect or quarq drops out and resistance goes through the roof.

Happy to stick with old app but would rather issue was fixed as sure they'll come a point when old app isn't supported.

Asked about iOS app in the past but it didn't support PBP at the time - not sure if that's changed since.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [dangle] [ In reply to ]
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dangle wrote:
I used new/current this morning. Power2max controlling the Powerbeam with a Scosche HR monitor connected too. TR lost the connection to the PBP 1:14:00 in. The ant+ stick is ~3ft from the PBP and I have never had a dropout before. After about 8 attempts of trying to re-connect with the PBP (didn't see it, but saw other devices) it lost connection with all devices and crashed. No saved workout.

I opened up classic, everything connected instantly and I skipped ahead to the last 46 minutes of the workout. Everything worked as normal.

At this point, I have never had a successful workout with the former beta or new/current TR program and my Powerbeam Pro Ant+. It's been a near flawless combo on classic ~3x a week for well over a year. Using the PBP to control ERG mode always works great, but every once in a while I would get few seconds of wildly increasing resistance when using the P2M to control the PBP. That's been rare and fixes itself quickly though. I have even tried tricking TR in the past with multiple ant+ sticks and programs going and just couldn't faze classic. Especially with how much better the minimal screen is when extending to a tv, I'll probably stick with classic as long as I can.

Shoot! That's a bummer man. :(

Thank you for all your feedback with your experiences from both the Legacy (older version) and the new app as well. This is all useful information for the rest of the team to know so we can perfect the PBP interaction with TR. I'm sure you're a bit tired of going back and forth with us on the problem (especially since you're still able to use it seamlessly on the legacy app), but if you hit up support with this exact explanation of your issue I think we'll be able to get things back on track. They'll be able to take a look at your log files to see exactly what's going on here.

Thanks again — cheers!

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [chrisb7] [ In reply to ]
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chrisb7 wrote:
Sounds identical problem. Either PBP drops out and won't reconnect or quarq drops out and resistance goes through the roof.

Happy to stick with old app but would rather issue was fixed as sure they'll come a point when old app isn't supported.

Asked about iOS app in the past but it didn't support PBP at the time - not sure if that's changed since.

Dang! :(

We wholeheartedly agree on getting it fixed. And you're right, there isn't PBP compatibility on our iOS app. Not sure if that'll be added or not, I'll check.

When you get a chance, go ahead and send in an email to support@trainerroad.com with an explanation of your experience with your PBP and the new version of TR. We want to get this solved for all you PBP users ASAP, and your feedback will help us do so. :)

Thanks man!

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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I've raised tickets with support at TrainerRoad a couple of times in the past (last a couple of weeks ago when I resubscribed) but to be fair to them I've never spent any real time trying to get it to work.

Gave the new app a couple of tries again a couple of weeks ago without any luck but rather than spending any real time trying to resolve the problem just went back to using the old app as it's frustrating wasting time mid way through a session trying to get it working again.

They didn't really come up with any suggestions which put me off trying a bit but said they were willing to work together to get it working. When I've got a little more time I'll contact them again.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [chrisb7] [ In reply to ]
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chrisb7 wrote:
Sounds identical problem. Either PBP drops out and won't reconnect or quarq drops out and resistance goes through the roof.

Happy to stick with old app but would rather issue was fixed as sure they'll come a point when old app isn't supported.

Asked about iOS app in the past but it didn't support PBP at the time - not sure if that's changed since.

I had the same problem a while ago with the resistance spikes while trying to have my PM control the PBP. The spikes were absurd and when I contacted TR, blame was placed on the PBP and the way it talks to the computer over Ant+. And that was on the legacy app. I've tried the new app a few times, but every. single. time. I try to a do a spindown calibration, the app loses connection with the PBP right when I'm down to about 2 seconds or when I start coasting. Incredibly frustrating. I gave up and went to Zwift.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [tpero] [ In reply to ]
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I'll add my $0.02.. I love my used computrainer. I bought a circa 1996 Computrainer that's been used every Fall/Winter for 20 years. I purchased it 3 months ago for $200 and spent $50 on an updated controller chip. It works GREAT, and I can't tell a difference in ride quality compared to my friend's 2 year old Computrainer. Also when I couldn't get it to pair with my new computer after buying it I called Computrainer and their customer service was amazing. He explained that I needed a newer chip in the controller and emailed me a link to order it. This fixed the issue and I could ride immediately. Depending on how close to a large city you are, these do pop up on Craigslist often.

I only have experience with Computrainer's though, so I can't compare to the Powerbeam Pro or Wahoo Kickr.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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I'll add my name to the chorus.

I submitted calls earlier this year regarding the issue of resistance spikes with TR and my PowerBeam Pro and PowerTap. I am running on a Mac and was told to wait for the new Mac version to get the latest updates.

I did try to install TR on a Windows machine and was able to do a few rides without the spikes. In that configuration it would sometimes not give me enough resistance to hit the target power levels.

If I unpair the PowerTap it's much less frustrating, but doesn't match my power on the road.

I'm not on the trainer as much right now, but may have to look for an alternative by fall.

Thanks

-- Scott
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [chrisb7] [ In reply to ]
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chrisb7 wrote:
I've raised tickets with support at TrainerRoad a couple of times in the past (last a couple of weeks ago when I resubscribed) but to be fair to them I've never spent any real time trying to get it to work.

Gave the new app a couple of tries again a couple of weeks ago without any luck but rather than spending any real time trying to resolve the problem just went back to using the old app as it's frustrating wasting time mid way through a session trying to get it working again.

They didn't really come up with any suggestions which put me off trying a bit but said they were willing to work together to get it working. When I've got a little more time I'll contact them again.

Totally understandable. :-/ You should be able to do this without any trouble at-all.

The rest of the team has the heads-up on everyone's concerns. We'll look forward to hearing back from you to get everything dialed in.

Thanks again man!

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [tpero] [ In reply to ]
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tpero wrote:
chrisb7 wrote:
Sounds identical problem. Either PBP drops out and won't reconnect or quarq drops out and resistance goes through the roof.

Happy to stick with old app but would rather issue was fixed as sure they'll come a point when old app isn't supported.

Asked about iOS app in the past but it didn't support PBP at the time - not sure if that's changed since.


I had the same problem a while ago with the resistance spikes while trying to have my PM control the PBP. The spikes were absurd and when I contacted TR, blame was placed on the PBP and the way it talks to the computer over Ant+. And that was on the legacy app. I've tried the new app a few times, but every. single. time. I try to a do a spindown calibration, the app loses connection with the PBP right when I'm down to about 2 seconds or when I start coasting. Incredibly frustrating. I gave up and went to Zwift.

I hear ya man. Definitely frustrating. :-/

The calibration issue sounds pretty consistent with drops in connection or some sort of interference. Not sure about the power spikes. If you're willing to try and get things back on track, please don't hesitate to get back in touch with support. We'd be more than happy to make sure you can get back on the bike and train with us.

Thank you for your patience!

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [TriScott] [ In reply to ]
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TriScott wrote:
I'll add my name to the chorus.

I submitted calls earlier this year regarding the issue of resistance spikes with TR and my PowerBeam Pro and PowerTap. I am running on a Mac and was told to wait for the new Mac version to get the latest updates.

I did try to install TR on a Windows machine and was able to do a few rides without the spikes. In that configuration it would sometimes not give me enough resistance to hit the target power levels.

If I unpair the PowerTap it's much less frustrating, but doesn't match my power on the road.

I'm not on the trainer as much right now, but may have to look for an alternative by fall.

Thanks

Thanks for your feedback here man.

That's strange it's working on the older version for 'dangle' above^, but not for you. :-/ Because that older version is the same between both platforms. If you're willing to get back in touch with support, I'm confident we'll be able to get things working as it should. Another possible solution could be just to monitor the offset between your PowerTap and the PBP. You could do that using a separate head-unit.

We'll be looking forward to hearing from you and getting you set-up for this coming training season.

Thanks!

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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Nick Kanwetz wrote:
Thanks for your feedback here man.

That's strange it's working on the older version for 'dangle' above^, but not for you. :-/ Because that older version is the same between both platforms. If you're willing to get back in touch with support, I'm confident we'll be able to get things working as it should. Another possible solution could be just to monitor the offset between your PowerTap and the PBP. You could do that using a separate head-unit.

We'll be looking forward to hearing from you and getting you set-up for this coming training season.

Thanks!

Thanks for the response Nick.

Any idea when the new Mac version will be released?

-- Scott
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [Nick Kanwetz] [ In reply to ]
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Nick Kanwetz wrote:
tpero wrote:
chrisb7 wrote:
Sounds identical problem. Either PBP drops out and won't reconnect or quarq drops out and resistance goes through the roof.

Happy to stick with old app but would rather issue was fixed as sure they'll come a point when old app isn't supported.

Asked about iOS app in the past but it didn't support PBP at the time - not sure if that's changed since.


I had the same problem a while ago with the resistance spikes while trying to have my PM control the PBP. The spikes were absurd and when I contacted TR, blame was placed on the PBP and the way it talks to the computer over Ant+. And that was on the legacy app. I've tried the new app a few times, but every. single. time. I try to a do a spindown calibration, the app loses connection with the PBP right when I'm down to about 2 seconds or when I start coasting. Incredibly frustrating. I gave up and went to Zwift.


I hear ya man. Definitely frustrating. :-/

The calibration issue sounds pretty consistent with drops in connection or some sort of interference. Not sure about the power spikes. If you're willing to try and get things back on track, please don't hesitate to get back in touch with support. We'd be more than happy to make sure you can get back on the bike and train with us.

Thank you for your patience!

But the calibration issue would happen at the same time every time. I tried recalibrating 4-5 times in a row and every time it got disconnected right at the end of the 120sec countdown. I never have this problem doing a spindown in Cycleops' software.
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [TriScott] [ In reply to ]
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TriScott wrote:
Nick Kanwetz wrote:

Thanks for your feedback here man.

That's strange it's working on the older version for 'dangle' above^, but not for you. :-/ Because that older version is the same between both platforms. If you're willing to get back in touch with support, I'm confident we'll be able to get things working as it should. Another possible solution could be just to monitor the offset between your PowerTap and the PBP. You could do that using a separate head-unit.

We'll be looking forward to hearing from you and getting you set-up for this coming training season.

Thanks!


Thanks for the response Nick.

Any idea when the new Mac version will be released?

Very welcome!

Nate mentioned in the main TR thread that we're 80% done with Mac and that was on June third. So still no definitive ETA, but we are certainly getting closer to getting a beta out for everyone to get on. That and Android are where all our development resources are at the moment.

ps. I did see a screenshot of Mac the other day and it's looking reeeeal purrty. :)

Hope to have you back on the bike with us soon mate!

Cheers,

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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Re: Powerbeam Pro users- are you happy? [tpero] [ In reply to ]
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tpero wrote:
But the calibration issue would happen at the same time every time. I tried recalibrating 4-5 times in a row and every time it got disconnected right at the end of the 120sec countdown. I never have this problem doing a spindown in Cycleops' software.

Definitely super strange considering our calibration protocol is the same. :-/

Again, sorry it was such a hassle to get things going. The calibration value is stored on the machine, so you could still use TR and trust the numbers doing the calibration in the Cycleops app. That said, you shouldn't have to jump through hoops to get a calibration done. If you're willing to give things another shot we'd be genuinely happy to work it out with you.

Most commonly, calibrations will fail when 50% of the packets being sent are lost. You can download 'simulANT' from 'thisisant.com', pair the device and see exactly how many packets you're losing in your connection. May be worth checking if you think you may be running into any connection problems.

Let us know if you'd like to give it another shot.

Thanks again,

Get Faster with TrainerRoad
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