BikeOn has launched a new power meter called CycleClick that easily snaps onto any chain in seconds without the need for tools, relying on a simple ball and socket system that mounts to the front derailleur to hold it in place, providing accurate cadence and power output up to 2000W.
Unlike traditional power meters that rely on strain gauges that are mounted on the pedal axle, crankarms, spider or hub to calculate power, the CycleClick features a “hump” inside the device that makes the chain press upon a sensor to measure power.
“We wanted to avoid the limitation of building the strain gauges into a load-bearing part, which means that the strain gauge has to measure very tiny displacement. Here we got rid of that limitation,” says BikeOn co-founder Aram Novikov.
“The hump makes the rollers press the bottom portion of the sensor. Inside we have the strain gages which measure the deflection of the bottom portion and that gives us the torque, the tension of the chain,” adds Novikov.
How does it attach?
Installation requires that a small plastic part be zip-tied to the front derailleur (BikeOn plans on making a separate housing available for 1x setups without a front derailleur), while as mentioned, the CycleClick itself clips to a retention arm with a simple ball connection.
How accurate is the CycleClick and can it recalculate itself?
“Some people say there are too many variables on a moving chain for these [measurements] to be accurate,” says Aram Novikov. “It depends on how you design it. The device becomes part of the chain. It’s very lightweight, and the forces acting on the device are very small. So no, there are not too many variables. We measure the tension, we measure the speed of the chain, all the movement… It’s all accounted for.”
Does the device create unwanted resistance?
“CycleClick doesn’t add a significant amount of resistance – only about 0.1% – and it’s accurate to +/-1%. Also, the device does introduce some disturbance, but it’s very, very small and does not affect the precision, and does not affect your feel as you pedal,” assures Novikov.
How does it transmit data?
The CycleClick transmits data using Bluetooth protocols, along with BikeOn’s dedicated phone app. Moreover, it pairs with third-party platforms and computers like TrainerRoad, Zwift, Strava, TrainingPeaks, Wahoo and Garmin.
Additionally, measuring 125mm x 40mm x 17mm and weighing just 70 grams, CycleClick is said to be both waterproof and dustproof, along with an IP67 rating that’s designed to operate in temperatures from -10°C to 60°C, while charging is performed using a USB-C.
BikeOn says it plans to launch a crowdfunding campaign for CycleClick. But, meanwhile, buyers can get early access by visiting prelaunch.com to submit a small refundable deposit to reserve “the lowest price ever” of $149.
