Watteam broke ground with the release of PowerBeat, the first add-on, professional grade power meter available at a more affordable price tag than current offerings. Cyclists who value do-it-yourself upgrades will swoon.
The package runs $500 and includes both a right and left power meter. The small, non-intrusive PowerBeat gives riders normalized, average and maximum power data, along with what Watteam boasts as “exact cadence.”
“In an industry where expensive power meters have become the norm, we are offering a power meter that is not only affordable but also one that provides the necessary metrics that cyclists need to reach peak performance,” said Watteam Co-founder and CEO, Ofir Gal-on.
Based in California, with research and development performed in Israel, Watteam is a team of cyclists who create professional-grade products for cyclists.
PowerBeat expands the company’s development innovation, using advanced strain gauge measurement technology to detect power output and provide precise, accurate and consistent data. Built from rods and springs and weighing only 24 grams on each side, two patented mechanical sensors attach to both crank arms, sense pedal stroke up to the millisecond and record the direct and immediate torque applied. The sensor then feeds the data to PowerBeat’s patented algorithm, located inside the comp units, where it is translated to accurate power data.
Furthermore, PowerBeat works on hollow aluminum cranks, no matter the year or make of the cycle, with an aluminum and carbon-compatible version set to release in 2016.
“My passion for riding motivated me to create a pro-level power meter that’s easy to install and use,” said Gal-on, who is also an elite cycling coach with experience training professional and master racers.
The do-it-yourself installation process features video instruction guides for a quick and easy experience. The PowerBeat kit includes two sensors that attach to a bike’s crank and two comp units that attach to each pedal. The comp units feature a rechargeable battery, which lasts 80 hours. The kit also includes a USB compatible battery charger and all the tools needed to attach and calibrate the PowerBeat before hitting the road.
Slated to ship in the U.S. at the end of 2015, U.S.-based customers can find purchase information at watteam.com.
