Pls explain PowerTap?

[acrafton]

Ok, somewhat interested in a PowerMeter and the PowerTap looks interesting. I am confused as to how it installs, etc. . .If I buy it do I then need to pay my LBS to 'build' it into a wheel or can I install it myself? Can I buy a wheel (should I)? So, any info/thoughts would be appreciated.

Adam

[rule]

Here's what I can offer in regards to the PowerTap.

"I am confused as to how it installs, etc."

Installation Manual link -

http://www.cycleops.com/pdf/New%20Version%20-%20PTap%20Manual%20-%20Standard%20&%20Pro%20(Yellow%20CPU).pdf

"If I buy it do I then need to pay my LBS to 'build' it into a wheel or can I install it myself?"

The PowerTap is basically a hub reading/transmitting device, which is read by a sensor assembly that is installed on your chain stay. It connects via wiring to provide read out and downloads through a handlebar mounted CPU. The CPU mounts on a quick connect bracket and can be removed for connection to your PC for data downloading. The install of the sensor plate assembly and CPU is pretty simple. Your LBS may be able to do the install quicker and make their version look prettier than yours, but that is about it. If they don't get many orders for them, they may not know as much about them as you do after reading the install manual. :D

If you can build a wheel then you can certainly build one around the PowerTap hub. Typically though, if you have to ask this question, I'm guessing that you probably don't know how to build a wheel. You can buy the hub and a wheel kit, and get a buddy who knows how to build it out for you. I know guys who have done that. You can take the same approach and get your LBS to build the wheel out for you. I know guys who have taken that approach to save themselves the LBS mark up on all the components. Some LBS's may not build a PowerTap wheel out for you unless you buy all of your gear from them though.

You can certainly buy a PowerTap and wheel combo, where you get the PowerTap already mounted on your chosen wheel. You can buy these directly from many online bike sites. Your LBS should be able to do the same thing for you, and perhaps even offer you a wider choice of wheels.

If you have questions, my suggestion would be to start by addressing them with your LBS's PowerTap guru. If they don't have one, your best bet may be to buy a completed hub and wheel direct and do the sensor/CPU installation yourself.

Hope this helps. ;)

[webist]

Ok, somewhat interested in a PowerMeter and the PowerTap looks interesting. I am confused as to how it installs, etc. . .If I buy it do I then need to pay my LBS to 'build' it into a wheel or can I install it myself? Can I buy a wheel (should I)? So, any info/thoughts would be appreciated.

Adam

Here's the clearest explanation I've found.
http://www.cyclingnews.com/tech/?id=2002/reviews/powertap