After using very expensive power meters for years, stopping, and then re-introducing myself to power, I'm amazed at how inexpensive and relatively accurate a one-legged crank-based system is. It's certainly not sports-science lab accurate, but its close enough to help me measure my efforts and intervals, and at this price, I have them on two bikes, meaning that I get more power data than I otherwise would've back when a power system cost $1k.
I have Stages power meters on 3 of my bikes and have had zero issues with any of them. They connect every time to my head unit and calibrate when you point the arm down every time. I never have any of them ever cut out during a ride and the batteries last a long time. Recommended to gain some sort of power measurement if you have never used a power meter. Riding with Power is really the only true measurement of your performance and your performance gains.
I bought my first pedal based PM in 2017 when it was still quite expensive. Swapping between bikes when I needed to (with proprietary cleats... if I wanted to wear different shoes for road vs. gravel) has been a huge pain. I finally decided that I've had enough and caught this Stages PM on sale. It's simple, not perfect (only single sided) but for training purposes works great.
My first attempt to add a power meter to my bike was a disaster and I returned it. (PowerPod v3). It was nearly impossible to calibrate the device and I got wildly unreliable readings once I did.
In contrast to the PowerPod, the Stages Power Meter is simple to pair, and periodic calibration is even easier. Obviously installation will require pulling your original left-side crank arm and replacing it with the Stages version. If you don't already have it, you'll need to buy the Shimano dust cap tool (spend a couple extra bucks to get the metal tool vs. the plastic one), but don't be intimidated -- it's a super easy installation process that can be performed in 5 minutes or less.
I'm using the Stages Power Meter in conjunction with a Garmin Edge and Di2. Power readings are reasonable and consistent. If you haven't used a power meter before, it will add an entirely new dimension to your training/fitness regimen. At some point I may add the right side power meter, but for now I feel like I'm getting tremendous value. Highly recommended!
Great for amateurs and those looking to work with a training program. I find no reason to spend more money on dual side power meters. This unit is foolproof and just works well. I enjoy it the most when I have a headwind as it reassures me that my efforts are still strong even though my speed is lower.
I have wanted a power meter for some time but the prices of all the options just kept me from buying one. The Stages power meter has received excellent reviews and a sudden price drop made this the perfect Father's Day gift (for me!). It integrates easily with my Wahoo ELEMNT and freed up a cadence sensor for use on another of my bikes. Having the power metric is truly useful on climbs, You can know if you are working too hard before it feels too hard. I think training with power will be effective for me. Also, if you wanted to try indoor training you do not need a smart trainer to get started. A Stages power meter will work with all the popular apps like Zwift and The Sufferfest, you can use a non-smart enabled trainer and still get many of the benefits of these applications. My indoor training options for this winter are improved.
I've used Stages (Shimano alloy) for several years. The new generations work great. I pair with a Garmin 130. The readings you get will be very accurate for your left leg. I have verified them against Powertap hubs and chainrings (with 2-sided measurement) with good results. Be sure to have the crankarm pointing straight down when you calibrate.
For the price, I don't think there is a better way to get power on board. Easy installation and has worked without a hiccup for me.
I love Stages. Power meter adds only 20 grand, runs a watch battery, super easy to swap between bikes. One sided is close enough to support all of my training needs.
This power meter is the cheapest option that you can get around the 350 usd, it will work very good in cases when the rider has symmetrical pedaling option if this is your case not looking more.
The power meter arm arrived on time, it was an easy fit to my road bike and synced up to my Garmin right away. I've been using it for weeks now and it seems to be working perfectly. Good accuracy and easy installation.
I have been using the Stages Power meter for over 2 months and it has been a great product. Very accurately captures my power outputs to help better manage my training activities. I found it to read very consistent with my Wahoo indoor smart trainer power ratings so very happy with the power integration into the crank arm.
After researching a bunch of options for a single power meter I ended up purchasing the Stages one. Great price point, super easy to install (with the right tools) and flawless communication to my Wahoo. The sensor is mounted really nice on the crank and doesn't require tons of clearance, it really is 'fit and forget'.
Easy to install, good app for firmware updates. I use it for power and cadence connected to my Garmin Edge 830. I've compared the power readings results to my Tacx Neo2 and find it within a few watts. Good enough for me.
Reliably provides power data to my Wahoo Elemnt. Just works. Is it accurate? Who knows? But I've seen no reason to question its accuracy, and it helps encourage me to ride harder and more consistently.
Waited a Long Time for Stages Very Good Product and Easy to Install and Reads Good on Garmin 520.
Best intro power meter, easy to install and it's reliable and accurate. It only provides power on one side but still a great product for the price.
Best intro power meter, easy to install and it's reliable and accurate. It only provides power on one side but still a great product for the price.
I wanted some power data on my outdoor rides. The stages single leg is the least expensive way to get what I wanted. And the install is simple.
Installs easily and immediately identified by my Wahoo head unit for readings.
