Bike Forums - View Single Post - Strava power estimates

08-11-11 | 07:41 PM

#6

psuaero

Never fear the hills...

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 872

Likes: 0

From: Maryland

Bikes: 2011 Giant TCR Advanced, 2010 Motobecane Fantom Cross Pro, 2011 Redline Monocog Flight 29r

I think the answer is it depends on the ride. I just did a couple quick comparisons of two vastly different rides.

22 miles time trial race (C-130, Dover DE) - completely flat
Strava power estimate: 231W
Wired Powertap: 233W (not in the Strava file)

34.5 mile group ride (9 guys working mostly together), rolling terrain, 20.5 mph ave.
Strava power estimate: 201W
Wired Powertap: 161W (not in the Strava file)

Looks like Strava over estimates when there is any drafting involved. I've found it to be 10-15% high on most of my solo rides... 20% or higher if I'm riding with a group.

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