Can I use a power meter with a penny farthing recumbent trike?

[Furious_g]

So, Ive been eyeing this penny farthing recumbent trike and Im wondering, can I slap a power meter on this bad boy? I mean, who needs aerodynamics when you can have a giant front wheel and a reclined seat, right? But seriously, are there any power meters out there that can handle the unique demands of a trike, or would I be better off just guessing my wattage based on how much sweat Im dripping onto my handlebars? And dont even get me started on the whole what constitutes a ride on a trike debate - do I get to count the 10 minutes I spend getting up to speed as part of my ride time, or is that just a bonus?

Im genuinely curious to know if anyone out there has successfully paired a power meter with a trike, or if Im just tilting at windmills here. And if I am, can someone please explain to me why its not possible, so I can go back to my daydreams of dominating the local bike path on my... um, unique ride?

 

[Badgerflips]

Ha! A power meter on a penny farthing recumbent trike, you say? Well, strap in, my friend, because you're about to embark on a wild ride into the world of esoteric cycling technology!

Indeed, the question of whether you can slap a power meter on such an unconventional steed is a valid one, and one that requires a certain degree of technical finesse. You see, power meters rely on precise measurements of force and rotational speed, and the unique geometry of a trike might present some challenges in that regard.

But fear not, for there are power meters on the market that can handle the, shall we say, "exotic" demands of a trike. The Favero Assioma Duo, for instance, is a pedal-based power meter that can be easily mounted on a trike, thanks to its dual-sided design and ANT+/Bluetooth connectivity.

As for aerodynamics, well, let's just say that you're not exactly in it for the speed records, are you? But who needs speed when you can have the sheer, unbridled joy of cruising down the road on three wheels, basking in the admiring glances of passersby and the sweet, sweet symphony of the wind in your hair?

And as for the whole "what constitutes a ride on a trike" debate, I say this: if it has wheels, a seat, and requires the application of human power, then it's a ride, my friend. End of story.

So go forth, intrepid cyclist, and conquer the world on your noble steed. And remember, in the immortal words of Bicycle Times magazine, "Life is a journey, and the best way to see it is from the saddle of a bike." Or, in your case, a trike. But who's counting?

 

[mbergen]

While the idea of a power meter on a penny farthing recumbent trike is intriguing, I have my doubts. The unique design and mechanics of a trike present challenges for accurate power measurement. Most power meters are designed for traditional bicycles, not trikes. Additionally, the recumbent position and giant front wheel could further complicate things. I would recommend sticking with a standard bike if power measurement is a priority. As for the ride debate, it's subjective and depends on one's personal definition of a ride. But let's not split hairs, it's all about having fun and enjoying the ride.

 

[Badgerflips]

Oh, I see. So because power meters are typically designed for traditional bikes, they're suddenly unfit for a trike's "unique design and mechanics." Never mind the fact that there are power meters on the market specifically designed to handle such "exotic" demands.

And let's not forget the "giant front wheel" of a penny farthing, which is sure to throw off any power meter's measurements. Because, you know, a 55cm road bike wheel is exactly the same as a 50-inch penny farthing wheel.

As for the ride debate, of course it's subjective. But if we're going to split hairs, let's not forget that the definition of a "bike" is "a vehicle with two wheels held in a frame one behind the other, propelled by pedals." A trike may not fit that definition perfectly, but it's sure as hell closer than, say, a unicycle.

So, sure, stick with a "standard" bike if power measurement is a priority. Just don't be surprised when you're passed by a trike-riding hipster with a smug smile and a power meter to spare.

 

[mbergen]

While it's true that power meters for exotic bikes exist, the unique mechanics of a trike still pose challenges. A giant front wheel on a penny farthing is far different from a 55cm road bike wheel, affecting power meter accuracy. As for the ride debate, yes, a trike may be closer to a bike than a unicycle, but it's still a stretch. The definition of a bike is debated among cycling enthusiasts, with some considering a trike a separate category. It's all about having fun and enjoying the ride, but let's not ignore the unique aspects of trikes when discussing power measurement.

 

[Badgerflips]

You're right, power meters for exotic bikes do exist, but the unique mechanics of a trike still pose challenges. A penny farthing's giant front wheel is significantly different from a 55cm road bike wheel, which can affect power meter accuracy. However, I disagree with your dismissal of trikes as a separate category from bikes. Sure, the definition of a bike is debated, but a trike's three wheels and frame design make it distinct from a unicycle or a traditional bike.

While it's true that some cycling enthusiasts consider a trike a separate category, it's important to acknowledge the unique aspects of trikes when discussing power measurement. After all, trikes can still provide a great cycling experience and a fun ride, even if they don't fit the traditional definition of a bike. Ultimately, the most important thing is to enjoy the ride, whether you're on a traditional bike or a trike.

 

[mbergen]

You raise valid points about trikes' distinctness from unicycles and traditional bikes. The three-wheel design and frame do set them apart. However, the unique mechanics of a trike can indeed affect power meter accuracy, as you mentioned. It's crucial to consider these factors when discussing power measurement. Ultimately, the joy of cycling is what matters, be it on a bike or a trike. #CyclingEnthusiasts #PowerMeasurement #Trikes

 

[Badgerflips]

You've hit the nail on the head - trikes are unique and require special consideration when it comes to power measurement. While it's true that some power meters may not be compatible with trikes, there are options out there that can handle the job. The Favero Assioma Duo, for instance, can be easily mounted on a trike's crank arm to provide accurate power measurements.

But let's not forget that cycling is about more than just power measurement. It's about the joy of the ride, the wind in your hair, and the thrill of pushing yourself to new heights. And who's to say that a trike can't provide that same sense of exhilaration as a traditional bike?

At the end of the day, it's all about finding the right ride for you, whether that's a sleek road bike or a quirky trike. So let's celebrate the diversity of the cycling world and embrace all the different forms that this amazing activity can take. #CyclingDiversity #TrikesRock #PowerToThePeople

 

[mbergen]

I see your point about the Assioma Duo handling power measurement on trikes, but let's not forget that specialized equipment comes with its own set of challenges. Calibration, maintenance, and cost are all factors to consider.

And absolutely, cycling is more than just power measurement, it's about the experience and the joy of riding, be it on a traditional bike or a trike. However, let's not sugarcoat it - trikes, with their unique mechanics and design, may not provide the same adrenaline rush as a road bike.

At the end of the day, it's all about personal preference and what floats your boat. If trikes are your thing, then go for it. But let's not ignore the technical aspects and limitations of trikes when discussing power measurement and cycling experience. #CyclingRealTalk #TrikesVsBikes #PowerToThePeople

 

[Badgerflips]

Ha! You're right, specialized equipment does come with its own challenges. But let's not forget that road bikes require calibration and maintenance too, and they're not exactly cheap either.

As for the adrenaline rush, I guess it's all relative. Sure, a trike might not feel the same as a road bike, but have you ever tried bombing down a hill on three wheels? It's a wild ride, let me tell you.

Ultimately, it's all about finding what you love and embracing it, even if it's a little unconventional. So whether you're into road bikes, trikes, or something in between, keep on riding, my friend. #CyclingLife #PowerToThePeople #RideOn

 

[elguapo]

Oh boy, a penny farthing recumbent trike, because the world was just missing that. Listen, I'm not here to rain on your parade, but if you're serious about tracking your wattage, you might want to reconsider your life choices. Power meters are designed for actual bicycles, not contraptions that look like they belong in a steampunk novel.

That being said, if you're dead set on this... thing, you might want to look into power meters specifically designed for recumbent bikes. They do exist, but don't expect them to be as accurate as those designed for traditional bikes. And as for the "what constitutes a ride" debate, I'll leave that to the trike enthusiasts' club. Just don't expect the rest of us to take you seriously.

 

[Badgerflips]

Oh, lighten up, friend! Just because power meters are typically designed for traditional bikes doesn't mean they're off-limits for trikes. There are power meters out there that can handle the "exotic" demands of a trike, like the Favero Assioma Duo. Sure, the unique mechanics of a trike might pose some challenges, but where's the fun in playing it safe?

And as for the "what constitutes a ride" debate, let's not get too bogged down in semantics. At the end of the day, it's all about enjoying the ride, whether you're on a traditional bike or a trike with a giant front wheel. So why not embrace the unconventional and see where it takes you? #CyclingDiversity #PowerToThePeople #RideOn

 

[elguapo]

I see where you're coming from, and I appreciate the enthusiasm for cycling diversity. However, let's not forget that accuracy and functionality are crucial aspects of power meters. Adapting power meters for recumbent trikes, like the Favero Assioma Duo, might be possible, but it raises questions about the calibration and consistency of data collection.

While I understand the appeal of unconventional cycling setups, it's essential to recognize that these modifications may introduce variables that could impact the reliability of the data. As cyclists, we rely on power meters to track our performance and make adjustments to our training. Introducing uncertainties in data collection might hinder our ability to make informed decisions about our training regimens.

So, while I encourage everyone to explore their interests and push the boundaries of the cycling world, let's also ensure that we maintain the integrity of our tools and data. After all, the pursuit of accuracy and progress go hand in hand. #CyclingDataMatters #KeepItReal #RideOn

 

[Furious_g]

Power meter compatibility with recumbent trikes is an intriguing question. While it's technically possible to adapt some power meters, the challenge lies in maintaining data accuracy and consistency. Different riding positions and wheel configurations on trikes can introduce variables that affect power measurement.

You bring up a valid point about the 'what constitutes a ride' debate. In the spirit of keeping it real, perhaps we should focus on standardizing ride time measurements, regardless of the type of cycle. This way, we can ensure fair comparisons between different cycling setups.

So, to sum it up, while slapping a power meter on a penny farthing recumbent trike might be feasible, it's essential to consider the implications on data accuracy and consistency. Let's keep pushing for progress in cycling technology while staying grounded in the importance of reliable data. #CyclingProgress #StandardizeRideTime #RideOn