Affordable, convenient power has been great… in theory. Anybody waiting around for Garmin or LOOK’s pedal based system or tried to set up an iBike knows what we’re talking about. And don’t even think about affordable power for your mountain bike. Stages Cycling, with their soon to be released meter, Stages Power, are aiming to change this.

Introduced only months ago at 2012 Interbike, Stages Cycling has now announced they are on target to release their meter this January. Stages Power is a single unit that attaches to the left side crank arm and weighs only 20grams. Both Bluetooth Smart and ANT+ compatible the unit does away with magnets or external hardware, even calculating cadence internally. Using both protocols also ensure compatibility with Garmin, iPhone, smart phones and just about any future device currently being dreamed up. Accuracy is reported to be +/- 2%, inline with crank, hub and pedal based systems.

Stages Power is designed to work exclusively with aluminum cranks. They make meters for the entire Shimano line from Dura Ace on the Road to Saint in the dirt, SRAM X9 and Rival cranks are compatible as are Cannondale’s Hollowgram cranks. Carbon from SRAM, Campagnolo and other manufacturers is not compatible. It’s also important to note that the unit is not available for customer installation. The tight tolerances accuracy demands require factory installation. Customers will purchase a left side crank arm with meter attached, which they then install on their existing BB and drive-side arm.

With the official launch coming soon stay tuned for much more detailed information and first ride reports. A Stages Power meter starts at $700, which includes meter and left side crank arm. Shimano 105, SRAM Rival and SRAM X9 hit this entry-level price, while Dura Ace 9000 and XTR hit a price point of $900.

http://www.stagescycling.com