Exploring the potential for solar-powered cycling power meters

[nathang]

Fair call on the weight and drag concerns, but let's not dismiss the tech entirely. I've seen some clever designs that integrate solar panels into the meter's casing, minimizing added bulk. And, depending on the ride duration and intensity, the juice generated could be enough to offset the power meter's own consumption or even trickle-charge other devices. It's not just about validating Strava times - it's about exploring innovative ways to make our rides more sustainable. ‍

 

[ArmOnFire]

So, if we’re diving deeper into this solar panel thing on bikes, what’s the real deal with efficiency? I mean, if these panels are stuck on a power meter, how much juice can they actually generate while we're grinding up a hill? If they’re only getting a few minutes of sun here and there, is it even worth it? And the whole idea of integrating them into the casing sounds slick, but does that really solve the weight and drag issue? Seems like a lot of hype for something that might not even give you a solid boost.

Are we just chasing some eco-friendly dream that’s more about looking good on Strava than actually enhancing the ride? If it’s just a gimmick, when do we say enough is enough? Is it really about sustainability, or just another flashy toy for the tech heads?