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CommunityCOMPARISON

SINGLE-SIDED POWER VS DUAL-SIDED POWER

QUICK VERDICT

For training, single-sided is accurate enough. For known imbalances or bike fitting, dual-sided justifies the premium. Most amateurs should start single-sided.

SIDE BY SIDE

FEATURESINGLE-SIDED POWERDUAL-SIDED POWER
AccuracyDoubles one leg — ±2-5%Both legs — ±1%
Left-right balanceNo — assumes 50/50Yes
ConsistencyHighly consistentConsistent and accurate
Cost$200-400$500-900

CHOOSE SINGLE-SIDED POWER IF

  • ✓Budget-conscious riders
  • ✓Balanced pedal strokes
  • ✓First power meter

CHOOSE DUAL-SIDED POWER IF

  • ✓Known left-right imbalances
  • ✓Bike fit clients
  • ✓Post-injury riders

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