PowerTap has been making power meters for almost 20 years. In 2019, the company was sold to Quarq, who is now responsible for production. However the product remains the exact same. PowerTap power meters are available in both pedal (P2) and hub versions (G3). The P2 Pedal has consistently been one of the best-selling pedals. The P2 is compatible with road bikes and features dual-sided power, easy installation and Bluetooth SMART. The G3 is currently the only power meter hub on the market. It is available for road, MTB and track.
Additional Information:
Installation
The P2 pedal installs just like or normal pedal. Installation doesn’t get any easier. Just remove your old pedals and screw these on.
The G3 hub must be laced into your rear wheel in replace of your existing hub. This usually requires the assistance of a bicycle mechanic. This is perhaps the one drawback of the G3 as the initial set-up isn’t as easy as installing a pedal for example. However, once up and running, the hub-based power meter is sure to provide consistent and reliable data.
Weight
The PowerTap P2 power meter weighs 199 grams per pedal. This is a bit heavier than the other pedal-based power meters that are available. The G3 hub weighs between 325-350 grams based on the model.
Power Measurement
All PowerTap power meters are able to measure a rider’s total power. That is, they measure power from both legs. The P2 is also able to provide independent left/right power data since it locates a sensor in each pedal.
Special Features
Yes, the P2 is easy to install, works with all bikes and measures dual-leg power. However, it also works with oval rings – something other pedals cannot do. In addition, it’s the only pedal without a rider weight limit.
The G3 is the only power meter that measure power in the hub. For riders that don’t want to change out any parts of their drivetrain, it’s a great option.
Batteries
The P2 uses lithium AAA batteries and gets 80 hours of battery life. These batteries are relatively affordable and are easy to find, however they are a bit heavier than batteries found in most other power meters.
The G3 uses the popular 2032 coin cell battery and features 200 hours of battery life.
Communication Protocol
All PowerTap power meters feature both ANT+ and Bluetooth SMART. This allows you to use them with your choice of bicycle computers or smart phones. In addition, it allows the power meters to be paired to indoor training apps like Zwift.
Accuracy
These power meters are all accurate to +/- 1.5%. This is the industry standard of accuracy for direct force power meters.
Cadence Detection
Both the P2 Pedal and G3 Hub measure cadence using a built-in accelerometer, the same type of cadence measurement used on most other power meters.
Warranty
PowerTap power meters come with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty covers them from defects in material and workmanship.