Hey, Thanks, When I broke my first set of pedals, I had the option of going with a smart trainer. I decided to buy another set of power meter pedals to use on my trusty and reliable spin bike.
I spent the entire day researching this subject, yet I was left with more questions than answers considering living with multiple sclerosis and wondering which method would be safe, interactive, and fun. I was seriously considering getting a smart trainer mainly because of their apps/power adaptation and almost put myself at risk due to my MS-related vertigo. Man, I really can not thank you enough. I'm definitely going with a spin bike along with the Favero power meter. The trainer is just not worth the cost and the risk. Thank you so much!!
Nice summary, glad to see the endorsement of a spin bike for use with Zwift. I have a Schwinn IC4 and think it works great with Zwift, I’m getting my resistance settings dialed in now for output and it has the built in power meter. I don’t like riding on roads and have mountain bike for IRL riding so this is an awesome set up for less $$$. I couldn’t justify a smart trainer plus road bike for $2K all in. Plus my girlfriend can just scoot the seat down and also hop in.. Zwift is awesome, thoroughly enjoying it after about a month.. Ride On!
When researching spin bike set ups, I did look at the Schwinn IC4, It was a high contender on my list of options. I went with my set up so that when I race a time trial I could use the pedals on my Giant Trinity Advance SL0 and have power on that bike. I did about 3 TT races in a year so that means changing pedals very little. I think that is great if your girlfriend can use it as well, that was not an option for me I had to get two spin bike, one for me and one for my wife. We both race and have been fitted by a local bike pro/coach. So having two bikes with our exact measurements was important to make sure we keep that same riding position from outdoor to indoor. You wouldn't think it is a big deal but when you are dealing with nose of saddle to center of crank and top of bar below top of saddle along with all the other measurements, it is quite important for someone that races. I will look for you on Zwift, Ride On!
I now finally understand how these pedals work. It calculates the force your foot is applying which you can increase by adding resistance to the flywheel. Neat!. Shame you didn't show your spin bike. I wonder what kind of flywheel weight and resistance type is best. I just bought a spin bike but unfortunately it was defective so I'm researching to find another spin bike. But this is a great way to get into zwift in stages. Spin bike first. work on getting your fitness up, then drop some money for the pedals after a few months with a subscription and you're good to go. I like it when you can buy things in increments and that the pedals are separate from the bike so you can attach them to something else if you ever needed to upgrade.
Well, I'm still missing notifications when someone comments on a video. I hope this setup workouts out for you, I still use it to this day as my primary indoor training setup. The bike I purchased is solid and I've had no problems with it going on almost 5 years now. I've adjusted the chain one time and that is about it. Check the link in my description for the model I got. I would recommend the additional cost for a belt drive, however my chain drive runs fairly quiet and smooth.
@@powerkarma Only thing that would be better is cheaper indoor power pedals. Don't really need fancy high cost low weight, rain proof, indestructable outdoor pedals for an indoor only spin bike that costs more then the spin bike. bike I got does have a belt drive. Still waiting on the replacement bike unfortunately. I've thought about using the cadence and speed sensors. but don't think I can put them in the correct place for a spin bike. A trainer would be good if I had a suitable bike frame. But I'm doing this for pure fitness rather then competition sports hence the low budget. Good to know you're still using the same setup!
Hey I appreciate your help and commentary on this . I'm waiting on my bike to get here Saturday I ordered and I hope I get a chance to ride with you sometime on zwift.
Just got the echelon connect sport and Assioma uno power meter pedals for zwift! And other apps. It’s seems all these apps are based on power so if you have power pedals you are good to go on any cycling app but the spin bike and pedals were actually cheaper then the kickr core. Also it seems a spin bike is less maintenance overall. Just want to stay in shape but I was curious how hills worked with spin bike resistance and power pedals so thank you! Should still be a great workout!
I too was wondering why I could not get my watts above 400. I have the same SunnyFit cycle, I was looking for a way too get on the Zwift app without spending a lot. I use my Apple TV along with a cadence, speed and HR. Sensors from Wahoo. Would love to get a power meter but that’s not possible now. For now I am enjoying the Zwift app. Thanks, your channel is awesome!
I have that exact spin bike (actually had it for a few years now) but just discovered Zwift. I have been using a Wahoo Cadence Sensor along with the HR2PV app but am getting the Favero Assioma Duo pedals in today and some bike shoes tomorrow, so cannot wait to jump on with those and see the difference. I have been using a method of turning the resistance knob on the bike approximately 1-minute (using a standard clock face) for each degree of incline so that a 10% incline would be at about 2:00. Does that sound ok or am I WAY off on how much resistance is realistic?
I think there is too much variability to use a setting to gauge incline. I'm not saying you haven't figure out a system that is working but my experience is the resistance changes over time and can change during intervals. As an example if I was doing some on and off interval of 250 and 400 watts, the wheel would heat up during the 400 watts which means it is expanding, so when I would turn the knob back to my mark for 250 it would never be precise do to the heat then trying to cool off a little at 250. You will get a better experience after you upgrade to the power pedals. I don't think you will ever be able to gauge a certain resistance to watts simply because of temperature changes and the pads do wear over time. I do lubricate my pads regularly with mineral oil to keep the ride smooth, reduce noise and keep the pads from wearing.
Great explanation , I have a sunny bike and planning to grab power pedals. meanwhile , I did came across the HR2PV app for power based on heartrate. what is your opinion on this , can you try to review this compared to power meter ?
I have no experience with this app. I'm not sure I want to spend a couple of bucks a month to test it out. I do have experience with heart rate power meters, when I got into power meter training in 2012 I started out with the PowerCal HR Power meter. I thought the algorithms were really good, when I would put in a hard effort and the power would change according. My understanding is they not only look at rate, but the intensity between beats. When I used it on Zwift it would work good but I saw a lot of inaccuracies such as surging. I think HR power meter are good for getting started in power meter training. I would watch some of the reviews on the app to see what everyone is saying about it.
I have a Peloton and will get the Assioma Duo’s in on Wednesday! Can’t wait to try it! Had to compromise with the wife so she had something as well, which is why we got the Peloton vs Road bike and a smart trainer. What heart rate sensor are you using? Thanks for the video!
I have a question. I’m trying to avoid power pedals because of the cost. I already have left sided stages power meter crank on a road bike. I’m wondering if the crank lengths on stationary bikes are compatible with the ones on road and mountain bikes. If they are id rather go with a left crank replacement for as little as $300 vs the double power pedals from $700-1000 depending on what brand you’re looking for. My road bike at this time uses a 175mm length. I know they can range from 160mm all the way to 185mm. Do you know what length your stationary bike left side crank is? I guess it’s in the specs at the website but was looking for a quick answer from your experiences. By the way, excellent videos with great information.
I'm sorry for the late response, I've been traveling a lot for work right now. The crank arm length is 170mm, I think you will not be able to get a stages crank arm on that bike, unless the make a square slot arm like an old school bike.
Hi, I've got the favero uno pedals on my spin bike, what I don't understand is when I increase my cadence my wattage actually decreases?? I don't get it and it's quite frustrating as if I spin faster I have to add resistance too, to increase wattage
I'm sorry, I don't know how I miss all these comments. My question is do you already have some resistance that causes effort, in other word are you already in a tempo. I will test mine, but I think if you are not running much resistance the spin up will not get you more watts. If you are doing a workout with some resistance, then increase rpm should increase the watts.
SMART Trainer = ERG MODE.... Using a spin bike or a non-smart trainer with Power meter pedals will also do fine for those with a training goal not to just ride. Which spin bike are you using ? SUNNY? Have you used the Schwinn IC4 ? Thoughts? Using speed sensors for speed (watts) on a spin bike attached on the flywheel is not accurate.
I bought the Sunny Health & Fitness as in the description. I looked at many spin bikes before I purchased. The IC4 was on my list, but not in my price range to do what I needed it to do.
I use the Zwift App on Apple TV, Apple TV is picking up Bluetooth signal from my Wahoo Tickr for Heart Rate. It is picking up cadence and watts from my pedals.
Recent got a wahoo cadence and speed sensor. I noticed my watts do not go any higher than 400. I’ve done some research and it says it caps it at 400, is there anyway fix this?
I know of only one fix. You have to upgrade your experience if you want to see over 400 watts. As I stated in the notes in another video, when you use a speed and cadence sensor it is a low cost option. If you want a better experience you will need to upgrade to a power meter.
@@aaronflanagan8340 Yes power meter pedals are compatible unless you have some very unusual bike that does not have the normal threads of pedals. I've only used one type the PowerTap P2, these are a little more expensive because they read left and right power amzn.to/2LMIC3m . The FAVERO cost a little less and will work great. amzn.to/3oJBNhG.
Hi Powerkarma. I have a spin bike setup with garmin vector. I am unable to generate more then 450W even with the most resistance. How much Watts can you output max on your pedals??
@@TheMan750 I will try my best to help, I'm going to tell you what I would do, but keep in mind that I have other equipment to check my connections. 1. I would see if the pedals connect to other computers (garmin bike computer or garmin watch) that read bluetooth or ANT. 2. I would make sure other ANT capable device can connect to your ANT dongle. You may not have these additional device, therefore it will make it hard to figure out what the problem is, but it has to be one of two things, the pedals are not sending an ANT signal so need to try bluetooth, or the ANT dongle is not working. Another possiblity is make sure your ANT dongle is in a USB 3 extension. Keep me posted I will help if I can.
When you are using power meter pedals you are not limited to 400 watts. I can do 1200 watt sprints on the spin bike with power meter pedals. clips.twitch.tv/CrypticBrightTigerHotPokket
@George Armstrong Yes, I am using the SF=B901 as in the link in the description. As for coasting you will never really coast physically on this bike, however to get your avatar on zwift to coast can be done. When you come to the top of the hill you have to keep the intensity going over the top as speed starts to build when you start descending give the red brake handle on the bike a quick push to stop the wheel. Your avatar will go into aero coasting mode. As for the 1200 watts that's tricky, first of all I'm a big guy, large leg muscles 6'1" 200 pounds, I'm not a good endurance racer, I'm a sprinter and criterium racer capable of 1700 watts. The resistance gets cracked to as far as I can turn it, I wouldn't doubt that I'm putting it to the point that the pad arms are about to brake off. Any big sprint I do on zwift requires a build up. I crank it down and build up to about 500 -700 watts and right before the spring line I reach down and crank it as much as I can. The key is high resistance and really important to keep the rpm as high as you can. If you start to loose rpm your watts will go down no matter how hard you have the resistance. Leg speed drills help with keeping high rpm. A good speed drill my coach gave me is to do several sets of build ups, start at 70 rpm and increase 10 rpm every 20 seconds until you reach 130 rpm.
@@ronp5615 Not too many come back and give a sorry for a comment. I do appreciate that. I used this setup on Zwift for 7 years before I upgraded to the Wattbike for the ESport national championships. My wife still uses this spin bike setup to this day, since she doesn't compete on a national level.
The best explanation. Thanks! I totally understand the interactivity of smart trainers but also like the idea of convenience of spin bikes…
Hey, Thanks, When I broke my first set of pedals, I had the option of going with a smart trainer. I decided to buy another set of power meter pedals to use on my trusty and reliable spin bike.
I spent the entire day researching this subject, yet I was left with more questions than answers considering living with multiple sclerosis and wondering which method would be safe, interactive, and fun. I was seriously considering getting a smart trainer mainly because of their apps/power adaptation and almost put myself at risk due to my MS-related vertigo. Man, I really can not thank you enough. I'm definitely going with a spin bike along with the Favero power meter. The trainer is just not worth the cost and the risk. Thank you so much!!
Happy to help!
Nice summary, glad to see the endorsement of a spin bike for use with Zwift. I have a Schwinn IC4 and think it works great with Zwift, I’m getting my resistance settings dialed in now for output and it has the built in power meter. I don’t like riding on roads and have mountain bike for IRL riding so this is an awesome set up for less $$$. I couldn’t justify a smart trainer plus road bike for $2K all in. Plus my girlfriend can just scoot the seat down and also hop in.. Zwift is awesome, thoroughly enjoying it after about a month.. Ride On!
When researching spin bike set ups, I did look at the Schwinn IC4, It was a high contender on my list of options. I went with my set up so that when I race a time trial I could use the pedals on my Giant Trinity Advance SL0 and have power on that bike. I did about 3 TT races in a year so that means changing pedals very little. I think that is great if your girlfriend can use it as well, that was not an option for me I had to get two spin bike, one for me and one for my wife. We both race and have been fitted by a local bike pro/coach. So having two bikes with our exact measurements was important to make sure we keep that same riding position from outdoor to indoor. You wouldn't think it is a big deal but when you are dealing with nose of saddle to center of crank and top of bar below top of saddle along with all the other measurements, it is quite important for someone that races. I will look for you on Zwift, Ride On!
That was very helpful and it was exactly the information I was looking for. Big thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
I now finally understand how these pedals work. It calculates the force your foot is applying which you can increase by adding resistance to the flywheel. Neat!. Shame you didn't show your spin bike. I wonder what kind of flywheel weight and resistance type is best. I just bought a spin bike but unfortunately it was defective so I'm researching to find another spin bike. But this is a great way to get into zwift in stages. Spin bike first. work on getting your fitness up, then drop some money for the pedals after a few months with a subscription and you're good to go. I like it when you can buy things in increments and that the pedals are separate from the bike so you can attach them to something else if you ever needed to upgrade.
Well, I'm still missing notifications when someone comments on a video. I hope this setup workouts out for you, I still use it to this day as my primary indoor training setup. The bike I purchased is solid and I've had no problems with it going on almost 5 years now. I've adjusted the chain one time and that is about it. Check the link in my description for the model I got. I would recommend the additional cost for a belt drive, however my chain drive runs fairly quiet and smooth.
@@powerkarma Only thing that would be better is cheaper indoor power pedals. Don't really need fancy high cost low weight, rain proof, indestructable outdoor pedals for an indoor only spin bike that costs more then the spin bike. bike I got does have a belt drive. Still waiting on the replacement bike unfortunately. I've thought about using the cadence and speed sensors. but don't think I can put them in the correct place for a spin bike. A trainer would be good if I had a suitable bike frame. But I'm doing this for pure fitness rather then competition sports hence the low budget. Good to know you're still using the same setup!
Hey I appreciate your help and commentary on this . I'm waiting on my bike to get here Saturday I ordered and I hope I get a chance to ride with you sometime on zwift.
Absolutely, I will keep an eye out for you on Zwift.
Strange, this is coming up as a new comment from 2 years ago.
Just got the echelon connect sport and Assioma uno power meter pedals for zwift! And other apps. It’s seems all these apps are based on power so if you have power pedals you are good to go on any cycling app but the spin bike and pedals were actually cheaper then the kickr core. Also it seems a spin bike is less maintenance overall. Just want to stay in shape but I was curious how hills worked with spin bike resistance and power pedals so thank you! Should still be a great workout!
Happy to help!
Thank you for sharing! Hoping to get my spin/zwift setup soon.
Ride On! let us know how you like it.
I too was wondering why I could not get my watts above 400. I have the same SunnyFit cycle, I was looking for a way too get on the Zwift app without spending a lot. I use my Apple TV along with a cadence, speed and HR. Sensors from Wahoo. Would love to get a power meter but that’s not possible now. For now I am enjoying the Zwift app. Thanks, your channel is awesome!
Thanks for stopping by. I will continue to put out some good content.
I have that exact spin bike (actually had it for a few years now) but just discovered Zwift. I have been using a Wahoo Cadence Sensor along with the HR2PV app but am getting the Favero Assioma Duo pedals in today and some bike shoes tomorrow, so cannot wait to jump on with those and see the difference. I have been using a method of turning the resistance knob on the bike approximately 1-minute (using a standard clock face) for each degree of incline so that a 10% incline would be at about 2:00. Does that sound ok or am I WAY off on how much resistance is realistic?
I think there is too much variability to use a setting to gauge incline. I'm not saying you haven't figure out a system that is working but my experience is the resistance changes over time and can change during intervals. As an example if I was doing some on and off interval of 250 and 400 watts, the wheel would heat up during the 400 watts which means it is expanding, so when I would turn the knob back to my mark for 250 it would never be precise do to the heat then trying to cool off a little at 250. You will get a better experience after you upgrade to the power pedals. I don't think you will ever be able to gauge a certain resistance to watts simply because of temperature changes and the pads do wear over time. I do lubricate my pads regularly with mineral oil to keep the ride smooth, reduce noise and keep the pads from wearing.
thanks for the very usefull information
You are welcome
Great explanation , I have a sunny bike and planning to grab power pedals. meanwhile , I did came across the HR2PV app for power based on heartrate. what is your opinion on this , can you try to review this compared to power meter ?
I have no experience with this app. I'm not sure I want to spend a couple of bucks a month to test it out. I do have experience with heart rate power meters, when I got into power meter training in 2012 I started out with the PowerCal HR Power meter. I thought the algorithms were really good, when I would put in a hard effort and the power would change according. My understanding is they not only look at rate, but the intensity between beats. When I used it on Zwift it would work good but I saw a lot of inaccuracies such as surging. I think HR power meter are good for getting started in power meter training. I would watch some of the reviews on the app to see what everyone is saying about it.
I have a Peloton and will get the Assioma Duo’s in on Wednesday! Can’t wait to try it! Had to compromise with the wife so she had something as well, which is why we got the Peloton vs Road bike and a smart trainer. What heart rate sensor are you using? Thanks for the video!
Great compromise, I'm use to always having to buy a his and hers of everything. I use the Wahoo Kicker blue tooth HR.
Thanks for the info.. now makes sense!
Great! I hope the videos help. You must be considering the spin bike option.
I have a question. I’m trying to avoid power pedals because of the cost. I already have left sided stages power meter crank on a road bike. I’m wondering if the crank lengths on stationary bikes are compatible with the ones on road and mountain bikes. If they are id rather go with a left crank replacement for as little as $300 vs the double power pedals from $700-1000 depending on what brand you’re looking for. My road bike at this time uses a 175mm length. I know they can range from 160mm all the way to 185mm. Do you know what length your stationary bike left side crank is? I guess it’s in the specs at the website but was looking for a quick answer from your experiences.
By the way, excellent videos with great information.
I'm sorry for the late response, I've been traveling a lot for work right now. The crank arm length is 170mm, I think you will not be able to get a stages crank arm on that bike, unless the make a square slot arm like an old school bike.
Hi, I've got the favero uno pedals on my spin bike, what I don't understand is when I increase my cadence my wattage actually decreases?? I don't get it and it's quite frustrating as if I spin faster I have to add resistance too, to increase wattage
I'm sorry, I don't know how I miss all these comments. My question is do you already have some resistance that causes effort, in other word are you already in a tempo. I will test mine, but I think if you are not running much resistance the spin up will not get you more watts. If you are doing a workout with some resistance, then increase rpm should increase the watts.
SMART Trainer = ERG MODE....
Using a spin bike or a non-smart trainer with Power meter pedals will also do fine for those with a training goal not to just ride.
Which spin bike are you using ? SUNNY? Have you used the Schwinn IC4 ? Thoughts? Using speed sensors for speed (watts) on a spin bike attached on the flywheel is not accurate.
I bought the Sunny Health & Fitness as in the description. I looked at many spin bikes before I purchased. The IC4 was on my list, but not in my price range to do what I needed it to do.
How do you get all of these metrics, such as heart rate, watts, etc?
I use the Zwift App on Apple TV, Apple TV is picking up Bluetooth signal from my Wahoo Tickr for Heart Rate. It is picking up cadence and watts from my pedals.
Recent got a wahoo cadence and speed sensor. I noticed my watts do not go any higher than 400. I’ve done some research and it says it caps it at 400, is there anyway fix this?
I know of only one fix. You have to upgrade your experience if you want to see over 400 watts. As I stated in the notes in another video, when you use a speed and cadence sensor it is a low cost option. If you want a better experience you will need to upgrade to a power meter.
@@powerkarma I’m using a spin bike, are power meters compatible with them? If so, what are the best ones to get?
@@aaronflanagan8340 Yes power meter pedals are compatible unless you have some very unusual bike that does not have the normal threads of pedals. I've only used one type the PowerTap P2, these are a little more expensive because they read left and right power amzn.to/2LMIC3m . The FAVERO cost a little less and will work great. amzn.to/3oJBNhG.
Hi Powerkarma. I have a spin bike setup with garmin vector. I am unable to generate more then 450W even with the most resistance.
How much Watts can you output max on your pedals??
I have seen as high as 1300 watts with my pedals, most of my sprints on Zwift average about 1200 watts. I have the PowerTap P1 pedals
Did you use anything else besides the power meters to connect to the account.
Or is that all you need
I use two devices, 1 power meter pedals and 2 heart rate sensor. The power meter pedals provide cadence and power signals.
@@powerkarma do you need the heart rate sensor
@@TheMan750 You don't absolutely needed it, but if you want better readings of your efforts or if you are racing then yes you need it.
@@powerkarma UPDATE: I have the pedals(UNO), and the Ant+ dongle and there’s not connection, I’ll keep trying but it’s just not connecting
@@TheMan750 I will try my best to help, I'm going to tell you what I would do, but keep in mind that I have other equipment to check my connections. 1. I would see if the pedals connect to other computers (garmin bike computer or garmin watch) that read bluetooth or ANT. 2. I would make sure other ANT capable device can connect to your ANT dongle. You may not have these additional device, therefore it will make it hard to figure out what the problem is, but it has to be one of two things, the pedals are not sending an ANT signal so need to try bluetooth, or the ANT dongle is not working. Another possiblity is make sure your ANT dongle is in a USB 3 extension. Keep me posted I will help if I can.
How did u get above 400w? The limit for the spinbike is only 400w right?
When you are using power meter pedals you are not limited to 400 watts. I can do 1200 watt sprints on the spin bike with power meter pedals. clips.twitch.tv/CrypticBrightTigerHotPokket
@@powerkarma what kind of power meter are u using?
@@jayminions on my spin bike PowerTap P1 Pedals, On my road bike 1 quarq crank, roadbike 2 , Powertap Hub
@George Armstrong Yes, I am using the SF=B901 as in the link in the description. As for coasting you will never really coast physically on this bike, however to get your avatar on zwift to coast can be done. When you come to the top of the hill you have to keep the intensity going over the top as speed starts to build when you start descending give the red brake handle on the bike a quick push to stop the wheel. Your avatar will go into aero coasting mode. As for the 1200 watts that's tricky, first of all I'm a big guy, large leg muscles 6'1" 200 pounds, I'm not a good endurance racer, I'm a sprinter and criterium racer capable of 1700 watts. The resistance gets cracked to as far as I can turn it, I wouldn't doubt that I'm putting it to the point that the pad arms are about to brake off. Any big sprint I do on zwift requires a build up. I crank it down and build up to about 500 -700 watts and right before the spring line I reach down and crank it as much as I can. The key is high resistance and really important to keep the rpm as high as you can. If you start to loose rpm your watts will go down no matter how hard you have the resistance. Leg speed drills help with keeping high rpm. A good speed drill my coach gave me is to do several sets of build ups, start at 70 rpm and increase 10 rpm every 20 seconds until you reach 130 rpm.
Can you do a legit FTP test with a spin bike and power pedals? Also can you do legit races with this set up? Thanks
Absolutely, I've done FTP testing, training plans and racing with this set up.
Good 'splainer. vid.
I'm definitely not a shill, and I used this product for years before I upgraded to the Wattbike.
@@powerkarma Thanks, No offense I just see so many selling out and it seemed to catch me in that way. Sorry about that. Peace!
@@ronp5615 Not too many come back and give a sorry for a comment. I do appreciate that. I used this setup on Zwift for 7 years before I upgraded to the Wattbike for the ESport national championships. My wife still uses this spin bike setup to this day, since she doesn't compete on a national level.