How estimated power works

A useful estimate, not a power meter

When BikeNet is not receiving data from a power meter, it can estimate your power from speed, acceleration, road slope, rider and bike weight, bike type, and recent wind information. The calculation allows for the effort needed to overcome rolling resistance, climb, accelerate, and push through the air.

The result can be helpful for seeing broad changes in effort, but it is still a model. A power meter measures what you produce on the bike and will be more dependable, especially over short intervals.

Why confidence changes

BikeNet labels estimated power so it is not confused with a sensor reading, and it may show low confidence when important inputs are missing or unreliable.

An incorrect rider weight, noisy GPS elevation, old wind data, coasting, braking, rough ground, drafting, tire pressure, and riding position can all make the estimate differ from your actual effort. Descents and stop-and-go riding are particularly difficult to estimate well.

Use it appropriately

Estimated power is useful for keeping a broad effort target in Riding Zone. Use a calibrated power meter for training tests, pacing that depends on precise watts, or comparisons with laboratory-quality data. Measured power always takes priority.