I answer frequently asked questions about the Cykelstrom Bicycle Power Meter App and power meters in general.
How accurate are your power meter estimates?
We are always improving the accuracy and implementing new technologies in the Cykelstrom Bicycle Power Meter App. Accuracy depends on many factors, of which some are not within our control. Our current data shows that the average power is +/-10% over the course of a whole ride when compared to a crank based power meter when riding on smooth surfaces like a road or bike path. The accuracy of the average power for mountain biking is somewhat different and is typically +/- 25% depending on the trail conditions.
For a discussion of typical performance using Cykelstrom with external sensors and no sensors, please click on the following article:
Power Distribution Comparison: Cykelstrom Bicycle Power Meter App vs. Crank Power Meter
For an additional discussion of performance while riding on a full suspension mountain bike, please click on the following article:
Mountain Biking Hartman Creek State Park – Waupaca, WI – May 17th, 2022
This is one area where you can help. If you have an external power meter and would like to participate in our test rider program please contact us in support, email: support@cykelstrom.com
What are the field label definitions and units of measurement used in the .csv or spreadsheet format?
The units of measurement are metric and use meters, meters per second and kilograms.
The field labels, definitions and units of measurement are in this document which you can view or download.
Can I use external sensors from different brands on Cykelstrom?
Absolutely, one of the advantages of the Cykelstrom Bicycle Power Meter App is that you can use any BluetoothSmart® or BluetoothBLE® compliant sensors. You can mix and match different brands. Typically the apps provided by specific manufacturers will not use other competitors sensors. Cykelstrom does not differentiate branded sensors and you can use any sensor which is compliant with the Bluetooth® protocol.
Why can I not see my Bluetooth® Sensors in Cykelstrom?
Android version 13 API 31 is now requiring explicit permission to access “Nearby Bluetooth Sensors” and “Body Sensors.” This may affect users who have newer Android smartphones. We are currently working on an update to take care of this issue, but in the meantime you can give Cykelstrom permission to access your “Nearby Sensors” and “Body Sensors” manually by following the instructions provided by Google.
Here is a link to help you set permissions for Cykelstrom:
https://support.google.com/android/answer/9431959?hl=en#zippy=%2Ctypes-of-permissions
Can I share Cykelstrom with other family members on their smartphones?
Yes, you can share the Cykelstrom Bicycle Power Meter App with up to five family members by using the Google Play Family Library. Here is the link for your convenience: Google Play Family Library
Are there any In-App purchases or advertising in the Cykelstrom Bicycle Power Meter App?
None, and there never will be.
Are there any subscription or upgrade fees?
None, your one time purchase ensures that you will always have the latest version of Cykelstrom.
Do you have a questions about a bicycle power meter or Cykelstrom?
Please submit your questions about a bicycle power meter to support@cykelstrom.com.