Originally Posted by
bazap
Coming from a running background its weird to me how objective the power meter measurements are. Running is always more of a feel based sport / efforts.
I have been interested in getting a power meter but they always seem so expensive. I have a Trek 1.2 (shimano sora components, look keo classic pedals) and I am wondering what power meter would be decent and not cost as much as a new bike at this level. It seems more realistic for me to just not get one but I am curious if such options exist
Fellow runner here with 15 years of running background who started doing triathlons a few years back.
I totally get what you mean. With running, pace stays pretty consistent and you learn what certain paces feel like, effort-wise.
For cycling, I'd say a power meter is only worth it if you're going to be seriously getting into cycling. When I was in college (and just after college), cycling was mostly a way to cross-train. Something to do during the off season or on a "off" day that got me outside for an hour or more that I more or less enjoyed. While looking at my GPS speed was fun, I wasn't really in it for the any competitive means. If cycling for you is just this, I don't think it is necessary.
Two years back, I moved to Colorado from Illinois. In IL, I could go 25+ miles and maybe have 100-150' of elevation change. Here in CO, I could easily hit 1000'+ on an average ride, or if I go into the mountains, you're looking 2000-3000+ feet in total climbs. Speed became irrelevant then. Where I used to be able to go between 18-20 and call it a good workout, now, 30MPH could be easy and 12MPH could be hard. That's where power comes in for me. Helps me to keep my ride efforts consistent.