Can I calibrate a Shimano Dura-Ace R9100P power meter myself or do I need to take it to a professional?



Calibration’s overrated. Seriously. Everyone’s chasing numbers like it’s the holy grail. You’re not a lab rat. The Dura-Ace R9100P isn’t some magic box that’ll make you a better rider. Tools and software? Sure, but when’s the last time that made anyone enjoy a ride more? If every ride is about tweaking and not about feeling the road, what's the point? Where’s the line between obsession and just riding?
 
Calibrating a Shimano Dura-Ace R9100P power meter yourself can be a minefield. First and foremost, you need to ensure you're following the manufacturer's guidelines to the letter. Deviate from that, and you're asking for trouble. One major pitfall is incorrect installation, which can lead to inaccurate data. Another is failing to account for temperature changes, which can affect the meter's accuracy. If you're not confident in your abilities, it's best to seek professional help. You'll need Shimano's proprietary software and a few specialized tools for calibration. As for scenarios that require more frequent calibration, it's mainly extreme temperature fluctuations or drastic changes in elevation. Don't bother trying to calibrate yourself if you're not prepared to put in the effort to get it right.