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Legs or power meter broken - which is it?

 I have an Ironman next sunday and I'm starting to get things in order..

Today I went out and did the FTP test (late, I know)... and got a number that was significantly different from what I did last time.

I use an Ergomo (bought second hand).. My last FTP test was very high, and I have always thought that that was wrong but always figured that it didn't matter if the calibration is off..as long as it is off consistently...

But since just before my last Ironman (in July - last time I calibrated it) I have not been able to hit the numbers I'm supposed to..I mostly figured that I was losing fitness - which I probably also have (as the training hasn't been optimal this summer)

Still I was surprised to see that the FTP test revealed that I have lost approx 100 Watt since May.    

It does, however, explain why I have been absolutely killing myself on rides lately  

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I know that I should manually calibrate it before every ride....and I very often dont ... but losing 100W seems extreme

Any powermeter/Ergomo experts out there that can tell me if this is simply due to the latest calibration going wrong, or if I should start looking at investing in a  new Quarq or Garmin power?

FWIW: I have had my power tested in a lab for many years (except this year) ..and it always seem to stay around the same - (approx 290W)

As for the race next sunday... Considering that I now have a new FTP #, I guess the save bet is not to touch anything and just recalculate my zones based on that?  

Any thoughts?

Looking at the weather forecast, it looks like I will race in similar conditions (although it may be slightly colder with some of rain)

 

 

Comments

  • You DID use the same test protocol as before, right?

    Scores can vary in these shorter fitness tests as the test itself is actually heavily influenced by strategy..but, I agree that 100w is a lot.
  • Same setup, same road, etc.
  • that's exactly why I started looking into a Quarq, was becaue my Ergomo started showing incredibly hard numbers (much harder effort to get the same numbers as before).

    I had it for almost three years (one bottom bracket each on road and tri bike, one computer/head unit) before it started doing it.

    I'd suggest it's time to invest in something new. Sorry, I'm sure it's NOT what you want to hear.

    BUT, for your race next week, I'd suggest adjusting your zones - at least it's consistently off/non-calibrated.
  • Bo, this is a time when RPE comes in quite handy. I'm guessing that your RPE was similar to other tests (ie. Pretty darn hard). I'm also guessing that your speed on routes that you know is similar to what you'd expect to see. So, if the PM says 195 or 395 doesn't matter all that much. Just work with what you've got, and address the 'do I need a new PM' question after your race next week. You're going to do great.
  • I'd check out this thing called a "stomp" test. It should tell you if your ergomo is in or out of wack...

    Here is how to do it...details matter with this. http://www.cyclepowermeters.com/powertap-garmin-calibration-check-76-c.asp

    I've done it...it's a pain, but it does work.
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