| I checked the BICYCLING article before I decided to
add this article. The subject is still measuring
power output.
From BICYCLE GUIDE, December 1990, Volume 7, Number 9,
copied without permission:
MAX OUTPUT:
Although cycling computers differ in size, shpe, and features,
most work with a magnet attached to the bike's wheel, which
triggers a sensor mounted on the frame. but the Look MAXone
Computer is completely different. MAXone gets its data from a
special hub that is laced into the bike's rear wheel. A standard
freewheel threads on and drives a "torsion shaft" built into the
hub. When pedaling forces are applied, the shaft distorts slightly,
and this distortion is measured by a digital sensor within the
hub. The information is then displayed on the small computer
terminal on the stem.
The real beauty of this system is that it can determine a rider's
power output. Power gives a more accurate measure of a cyclist's
performance on a ride than basic functions like speed or average
speed, which are easily influenced by weather and terrain. By
examing power output, it is possile to accurately compare
performance from one day to the next, over varying distances and
conditions, or to compare the performance of cyclists riding
in different parts of the world.
MAXone functions include current power, average power, maximum
power, and instant of maximum power (a measure of the rider's
instantaneous peak effort), all measured in watts. It also
calculates power over time in joules [what the heck is a
joule? I know what a jowl is, but not a joule, RSC] which
represents the work performed during one ride. Basic functions
of speed, average speed, maximum speed, trip distance, total
distance and cadence are computed as well.
MAXone is really a whole new way of analyzing your time on the
bike. Other cycling computers don't know the difference
between sucking wheel and making pace, provided your speed is
the same in both cases. But your legs can sure tell the
difference, and so can MAXone. The unit can be used to monitor
your training effectiveness and can also help you select and
fine-tune your equipment.
From its red-anodized hub with sealed cartridge bearings and an
oversize aluminum axle to its sleek digital console, MAXone
exudes quality. Not surprisingly, this system comes at a premium
price; it will set you back about $400, not including the cost
of a new rim, spokes, wheelbuilding, and installation. But this
is a serious piece of equipment that offers a wealth of new
information, and it does so with a minimal amount of space,
weight, and fuss. More details are available from Look Cycle
Distribution, P.O. Box 947, 8 Avenue D, Williston, VT, 05495.
Phone: (802) 863-7971.
[I just realized that this place is in Williston, Vermont,
where my sister in law lives.]
Scott
|
| presumably it has the usual array of cadence, speed, avg. speed, etc.
that a standard-type computer has?
> [I just realized that this place is in Williston, Vermont,
> where my sister in law lives.]
Can she get us a good discount? (70 % disc. would be nice... :-) )
ken
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