While the CycleOps PowerBeam Pro may be two years old, it’s one of the very few trainers on the market that allows specific wattage resistance control. Meaning, you can set it for a given wattage – i.e. 200w, and it’ll hold it. As such, it puts itself in the same class of units as the CompuTrainer and TACX platforms. And from a price standpoint, the unit is in the same range as those as well – about half-way in between the CompuTrainer and the Tacx Bushido. But what about features and functionality? And perhaps even more importantly considering the ‘history’ of most of the competitors in this class: How stable is the hardware and software?
Well, I set out to find out. Back in November the folks at CycleOps sent me out a unit to try out. However, there was a bit of a twist. This unit would actually serve two reviews and test cycles. The first is as you can buy it today – a trainer and a head unit to control resistance. The second though, is for testing and trying out their up and coming software suite, due to release later this fall. Ultimately, the unit will go back – like virtually everything else I test.
Speaking of which, like all my reviews, they tend to be pretty in depth (perhaps overly so) – but that’s just my trademark DC Rainmaker way of doing things. Think of them more like reference guides than quick and easy summaries. I try and cover every conceivable thing you might do with the device and then poke at it a bit more. My goal is to leave no stone unturned – both the good and the bad.
Lastly, at the end of the day keep in mind I’m just like any other regular athlete out there. I write these reviews because I’m inherently a curious person with a technology background, and thus I try and be as complete as I can. But, if I’ve missed something or if you spot something that doesn’t quite jive – just let me know and I’ll be happy to get it all sorted out. Also, because the technology world constantly changes, I try and go back and update these reviews as new features and functionality are added – or if bugs are fixed.
So – with that intro, let’s get into things.
Unboxing:
I’ve unboxed a lot of trainers lately, and without question – the PowerBeam Pro was the cleanest and easiest when it comes to unboxing and setup. Here’s where you start:
Inside the main box you’ll find the trainer itself, along with a smaller black box. This smaller black box contains the Joule 3.0 head unit and some mounts. Here’s the main parts though coming straight out of the bigger box:
There’s a DVD in there – though, it’s not interactive in nature. It’s more along the lines of a simple movie:
Inside that black box actually contains another box – this one being the Joule itself, as well as the power cable for the trainer.
Moving down into the smallest box (the Joule box), you’ve got the following assortment of goods. You’ll find mounts for the Joule, an ANT+ cadence sensor, a standard mini-USB cable, a heart rate strap, and the manual.
Oh, and of course the Joule itself.
Looking at the Joule, here’s a handy reference with respect to size. I’ve got the Joule 2.0 (common for outdoor riding), the Garmin Edge 800, and the Joule 3.0:
And finally – with all the presents unwrapped, here’s the fully meal deal:
With everything unboxed, let’s get it all setup.
Setup of physical trainer
Setup of the physical trainer itself is pretty straight forward. Sure, it’s plausible that one could mess this part up…but would be really difficult. Take earlier said power cable…and plug in said power cable.
Ok, you’re done.
Well, ok…because we’re not a bunch of sloppy cyclists, we’ll take the able and wrap it under the mat to make it look pretty:
Ok, now were done. For realz this time.
Now let’s the head unit all setup.
Setup and Overview of Joule 3.0 Head unit:
There’s no question in my mind that the Joule 3.0 head unit is probably the most elegant head unit on the market today for a trainer. Aside from the Tacx unit, it’s the only completely wireless one. But unlike the Tacx unit, this one is full color – and incredibly bright and crisp.
First though, we need to get it configured to talk to the trainer. You could start with the manual:
But let’s be honest, nobody reads the manual. And with the Joule 3.0 – there’s very little need to. Instead, we’ll start with getting it mounted. There’s a number of mounts that come in the box – ones for road bikes to place on the stem (the thing that connects your handlebars to the rest of your bike), or ones to place on your handlebars:
I selected neither. Instead, I went with building my own stand for $30:
Alternatively, if you have a triathlon bike, you can place the Joule mount on your aerobars. The Joule mount system rotates 90*, so you can mount it in either orientation:
Like most ANT+ head units, the Joule works with the concept of ‘pairing’, which is like tethering. In this case, our first order of business is to pair the head unit with the trainer itself. While this is done via ANT+, it’s actually not open ANT+, so not every head unit can pair with the trainer (but, as I’ll discuss later, any head unit can get power information from the trainer).
To do this initial trainer pairing we head into the pairing menu and select to add a Resistant Unit Trainer (RU Sensor):
By adding this, we’ll get power and speed – as well as the ability to control the resistance unit.
Once we’re done, we’ll want to add in that cadence sensor. In my case, my bike already had an ANT+ speed/cadence sensor on it, so I just paired with that.
Of note is that if you wanted, you can use the Joule 3.0 head unit without the PowerBeam Pro, and just pair it to any other power meter or speed/cadence sensor. You can add paired sensors but not activate them too – just having them hanging out for switching bikes.
And finally, last but not least I paired it with my ANT+ enabled heart rate strap. If you’ve already got a strap that you love from a Garmin device or similar, you can use that as long as it has ANT+ on the back. The strap included in the box is a bit old-school, plastic based versus some of the newer soft straps.
With that, you’re pretty much ready to start riding. Of course, first you’ll want to mount your bike to the trainer:
Note that you’ll lock in place the resistance unit using that yellow arm on the back of the resistance wheel. It simply folds down when you want to easily remove your bike. Speaking of adding/removing the bike, it’s pretty easy via this large plastic knob, which makes it a snap to loosen the trainer in about three twists:
Also of note is that the bottom of the stand has a little yellow wheel if the trainer (or your floor) is slightly off kilter. I have no fix if you yourself are slightly off-kilter.
Once you start riding the Joule automatically starts recording. This is done by monitoring wheel-speed. Once that rises above zero, it triggers starting. And once it stops, the unit pauses. While you can sorta change which parameter the unit uses – I always wished there was simply a start/stop button on it (same with the other Joule, Joule 2.0).
In order to record laps, you’ll simply press the interval button. When you do this, it’ll trigger a new interval at the top of the page, and depending on which data fields you have displayed, it’ll either reset them (if lap/interval based), or keep on ticking (if ride based).
The Joule has a number of different pages (aka views) that display information in a standardized manner. Perhaps my favorite view/page is actually the interval page though. For most of my trainer sets, I’m usually doing specific items for a specific period of time. So I like the ability to see the ‘top-line’ metrics for each of those sets quickly and easily.
This is also helpful when you manage to lose track of which set you were on 90+ minutes later – making it easy to quickly count them up based on your ride plan for that session.
At the same time, along with time you’ll see the current resistance applied – which is nice because that means I’m able to just hang out in this view for many of my sets. And you’ll also see Watts and Watts/Kilogram up top. And along the bottom you have your heart rate, total time, total mileage, and total kilojoules.
In many ways, the Joule acts both as a head unit during a ride, but also as a bit of a historical computer. Most head units these days focus on gathering data, whereas the heavy analysis is done afterwards on the computer. And while the Joule can definitely do this as well, it also features the most comprehensive on-unit analysis and display of your ride history.
In the above case, I can switch through a slew of metrics (i.e. Normalized Power), but I can also cross reference that against different timeframes – be it weeks, months or longer. This allows me to quickly compare and contrast how my training might be coming along.
However, I found that these historical metrics weren’t always accurate. Often times it seemed to have ‘forgotten’ about rides. Rides that were saved, shown in history, and even still downloadable to the PowerAgent software. For example, in the below photo from Sunday, it seems to have forgotten that I rode multiple times in the previous two weeks on it, with most of those rides averaging about 200w…far from the 100w it claims as my five-minute maximum.
But, I suspect that most athletes are indeed doing analysis online or in software, so this particular occasionally out of sync history didn’t bother me as much. Though, it is something that I’ve also seen with the Joule 2.0 as well.
The Joule unit is fairly customizable from a data field perspective. For each field you see below on the left side, when you highlight it, it’ll allow you to see associated/extended metrics related to that field on the right side. In this case, you see I’ve highlighted Watts on the left side (in blue), and then on the right side you’ll see Av Watts and Max Watts (also in blue). Along the right corner you have the current resistance being applied (50 watts – hey, it was a cool-down!)
You can hold down the center button to modify some of these fields, though, you don’t quite have complete and total flexibility. I often wish I had the same ability to mix/match fields in the same manner as an Edge 800 – allowing me to choose any fields I want in plop them in any place I want.
To change a given field you hold down the center button and then press up/down. It’s a bit clumsy, but you can get the hang of it. Also, you can rotate between the three highlighted blue fields by simply pressing the center button.
Additionally, you can also modify the quantity of fields displayed, reducing the total number shown to three main metrics on the left side (one big one up top, and two lower), plus the two side metrics along the right side.
In summary, I guess the biggest thing I want you to takeaway from this section of the Joule 3.0 portion of the trainer package is just how much more advanced it is that the two competitive offerings (CompuTrainer and Tacx head units). In the case of the CompuTrainer, it simply controls start/stop and increase/decrease in wattage. That’s it. In the case of the Tacx unit – it does do a bit more in terms of control, recording and ability to go completely solo. However, it’s nowhere near as clear of a display as the Joule 3.0. If you made me pick just one head unit, I’d say Joule 3.0 wins over the Tacx head unit – with the CompuTrainer controller a distant third.
Roll-down/Calibration:
Like any other power meter, you’ll want to be able to ensure the calibration values are correct. Correct calibration means that each session you do has accurate and consistent values. Otherwise, in the world of power meters it’s very easy to have a 10-15% differential between days based on everything from air pressure to temperature. Far too many folks just start a ride with their power meter and never calibrate it. This means the data is likely pretty suspect.
Calibration of the PowerBeam Pro is pretty quick and straightforward. Within the head unit you’ll go into the sensor settings section. This is because the resistance unit is technically considered a ‘sensor’. Within that, you’ll select the resistance unit, and then select calibration.
Calibration works by doing what’s known as a ‘Roll-down test’, which effectively measures the rate at which the trainer goes from a known speed, to zero, if you stop pedaling. In the case of the PowerBeam Pro, the unit has you by default hold for 120-seconds at a speed between 18 and 22MPH. At the completion of your two minutes (wattage is unimportant), you’ll simply stop pedaling and the unit will measure that rate. Following which, it adjusts the calibration factor.
Overall it’s pretty simple and straight forward.
PowerAgent Analysis Software:
Included within the package is the CycleOps PowerAgent software suite. This software package is the primary conduit between the Joule head unit and your computer. It also acts as a gateway for uploading workouts to other services/applications. To use the suite, you’ll simply plug in the Joule via mini-USB to your computer, and then start the PowerAgent software.
Once it’s plugged in, you’ll go ahead and select to download the workouts. The download process isn’t exactly the most Comcasticly fast experience on earth, but it does get the job done.
You’ll note above that you can automatically transmit the files to a variety of online services via a simple checkbox. Or, you can export out the files and upload them manually later on (see 3rd party support in the next section).
Once you’ve got the files imported, you’ll see the different workouts listed in the lower left hand pane, with the detail for each workout in the right portion of the window:
You’ll note that the right side really has two areas of focus. The first is the summary view, which should really be labeled “The mother of all summary detail”, and then there’s the detailed view, which could be labeled “A heck of a lot more detail”.
Here’s an overview of the summary page, which is divided into four chunks. The first (upper left) being the ride data, which is mostly duplicated within the detail page. Then we’ve got three charts that related to power distribution, peak power, and heart rate distribution.
Looking at that first quadrant, you can change the various tabs to see detailed information, again, somewhat duplicate in nature with the details tab.
So let’s move over to the details tab instead, which then changes the screen to look like below:
Up top we have the graph. The graph can be viewed ‘as-is’, or you can click and drag to select certain sections. This allows analysis into that specific section. In this case, I clicked and dragged and created a 20-minute chunk.
When I did that, it created a new virtual interval, and then updated the bottom page as well:
Alternatively, you can use any of the intervals that you recorded. From there you can select any of the interval data fields to display that particular interval.
Also note that you can change both the smoothing and sampling factor. This helps to smooth out data and make it easier for a human to read. It doesn’t however change the underlying data that was recorded, as the fidelity there remains the same.
In addition to analyzing historical information, you can also create basic workouts. The workout creator allows you to add segments, with each segment having a specific goal. These goals in turn are controlled by the resistance unit. The duration can be specified as either time or distance.
Once done, these workouts are downloaded to the Joule unit and then can be played back.
The challenge I had here was that the control type is fairly limited, and purely focused on power metrics. Often times I have workouts that focus on other metrics – such as cadence or heart rate. I’d prefer a bit more flexibility in the workout creator.
Finally, you can store multiple users in PowerAgent, and within each user you can set a number of user-specific parameters, allowing you to more easily analyze a given workout against a specific user. This includes power and heart rate zones, as well as just interesting metrics such as peak-power records. Note however that this will only include power records that were imported into the suite. Meaning that if you record the data on a non-CycleOps device, you’d need to import that data in manually (activity).
Overall, the PowerAgent is a good software suite for most users. Some power users (no pun intended) will likely use software suites with focus on some of the additional power work metrics (TSS/IF and similar), and thus may trend towards TrainingPeaks, Race Day, or the free Golden Cheetah. But, for many others – Power Agent will work just fine.
Compatibility with 3rd party products:
In my mind, the more a given product works to make their product(s) compatible and accessible to other products in the market, the more in tune that product is with what consumers want – which is to have their data on the device and platform of their choice. With this in mind, the PowerBeam Pro is pretty good and offers a fair bit of interoperability – both in terms of hardware and software. Let’s spend a second to work through these.
Hardware Interoperability:
On the hardware front, the key piece of functionality that the PowerBeam Pro does is to transmit the ANT+ power meter data stream back out as standard ANT+ data. This is an area that differentiates itself from competitor LeMond Fitness with their trainer, which requires you to utilize their head unit to access the ANT+ data stream.
With the PowerBeam Pro though, you can directly pair any ANT+ head unit that supports the standard ANT+ power meter profile. The most common ones are the Edge 500/Edge 705/Edge 800, the Garmin FR310XT/FR910XT and the Timex Global Trainer. Soon, also the Magellan Switch. There are of course a gazillion Apps that support it as well, via both Android and iPhone.
For fun, I went ahead and paired up the Garmin Edge 800 directly with the PowerBeam pro. In this case, I created a new bike profile called PowerBeam Pro:
From there I scanned and searched for the ANT+ Power Meter (note, I removed the battery from my Quarq power meter so it wouldn’t show up). If you’re in a place where you pickup multiple ANT+ power meters, you can simply enter in the ANT+ ID number instead manually. Once you’re done pairing, you’ll see the unit listed as connected:
From there, it’ll work just like any other power meter would. This is ideal for folks that already have a ‘workflow’ with respect to other rides going to their Garmin device (or any other device).
Note however that it will not transmit either speed or cadence via ANT+, so you’ll need a normal ANT+ speed/cadence sensor for that. Here’s more information on those.
Software Interoperability:
As noted a bit above, the Joule 3.0’s primary path to partners is via the PowerAgent software suite. Though, that doesn’t mean you have to use that software. The unit itself acts like a USB mass-storage device, and as such, does enumerate workout files that an application can pickup. The only challenge to these files is that very few applications can understand the particular file type that CycleOps selected to utilize. Training Peaks is one, but there aren’t many others that I’m aware of.
Now, that’s not a huge concern because the PowerAgent software pretty much covers export to a wide variety of services (.CSV, Garmin .TCX, and TrainingPeaks .PWX formats). And these formats (in particular .TCX and .CSV) can be ingested by just about every training application known to man.
Fall 2012 Software Preview – CycleOps Virtual Training Suite:
(Please Note: This next section discusses a feature which is still in development and scheduled to arrive in Fall of 2012, as such, it may change significantly between now and then – both for the good, or the bad. Thus, do keep that in mind with respect to any purchasing decisions. Finally, this section demonstrates features that are still ‘beta’, and as such will likely differ from the final design. CycleOps gave me the OK to talk about them though anyway…which is pretty cool of them.)
I wanted to briefly give an overview of what’s coming down the line with the Virtual Training suite. Consider this just a quick walk-through.
The first thing you’ll need to know is that everything is tied into a backend web service. This service stores your information and training log, which is handy since it means everything is effectively backed up elsewhere. Thus, when you log in, you’ll select which user you are. You can store multiple users here as well:
Across the top you have the core areas of the application. The first (aside from users) is the Local Routes section. This section is for routes that you’ve imported or downloaded. Think of it as a local cache of items you use frequently.
Since we have local routes, you’re probably asking yourself where you get those from, right? Well, they come from the next tab over – ‘Internet Routes’. This is where you can go into a massive database of routes and download them to your computer. You can sort these by whether or not they include video or are just ergometer (meaning, control resistance).
The list of routes in the database already is downright impressive. Just tons and tons of videos and routes. You can click on any given route to get more detail about it, including the integration with Google Earth – which enables enumeration of the route:
Once you’re ready to download the road, you just go ahead and click the ‘Download from Internet’ button. Which triggers the following series of screenshots:
Finally, it’ll come time to ride the video/route you just downloaded. The software will pair up via ANT+ (an ANT+ USB stick) to your trainer and your ANT+ accessories. It’ll both record the data, and control the resistance of the trainer.
Once the video is started, you’ll find that it’ll add resistance as you go up hills. At the same time, it’ll be displaying synchronized recorded video from the route, alongside a smaller Google Earth map of the route and your location via satellite. You can swap what’s shown in that little map though, as well as swap the big screen for the little screen.
There’s more features that will are being incorporated into the software suite, so things are a bit far away still. But this should give you a bit of an idea of what’s coming down the line – hopefully allowing you to make purchasing decisions based on what you see.
Trainer Market Comparison:
You can utilize the below comparison table that’s dynamically updated over time (so as features change via firmware) to compare the different trainers that I’ve reviewed. Note the key part being ‘I’ve reviewed’. There are no doubt many other great trainers on the market, it’s just that if I haven’t reviewed it, I don’t feel right including it based on some marketing fluff.
Also, as you’ll probably notice, these are higher end trainers. If you’re looking for lower-end options, see my general trainer recommendations post.
| Function/Feature | CycleOps PowerBeam Pro | Wahoo Fitness KICKR | Tacx Genius | Racermate CompuTrainer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copyright www.DCRainmaker.com - Updated March 5th, 2013 @ 8:58 amNew Window Expand table for more results | ||||
| Price for trainer | $1,170 | $1,099.00 | $1,340 | $1,629 |
| Is Software Bundled for free? | Depends | Yes | Depends | Partial |
| Cost of software if not bundled | $315 | N/A | $185 | Base included, optional extras |
| Available today (for sale) | Available today | Arrives March 5th, 2013 | Available today | Available today |
| Availability regions | Global | US/Canada | Global | Global |
| Connects to computer | Yes | 3rd Party Required | Yes | Yes |
| Uses mouse/keyboard as control unit | Yes | 3rd Party Required | Yes | Yes |
| Has standalone control unit (handlebar) | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Uses phone as control unit (handlebar) | No | Yes | No | No |
| Can use tablet as control unit | No | Yes | iPad - Q2 CY2013 | No |
Remember to click the ‘Expand Results’ button as it’ll show a gazillion more rows than the quick preview above.
Summary:
There’s no question that the PowerBeam Pro is a solid performer and a great trainer for the serious cyclist. With the addition of an integrated software suite this fall, it’ll become a solid contender in the interactive trainer market. But even ahead of that release, I don’t think you can go wrong with this trainer.
As always, I’ve included a handy pros and cons chart for your viewing pleasure. But if you’re looking to drop $1,200 on a trainer, I’d definitely encourage you to understand much of what I’ve written to date, since the pictures and text above tend to do a better job at covering scenarios which may be relevant to you.
Pros:
- Very clean wireless setup between head unit and trainer
- Only a single power cable required to trainer itself (not head unit)
- ‘Just works’
- Will pair with existing ANT+ heart rate, cadence, speed, power accessories
- Will output ANT+ power meter stream to other ANT+ head units
- Fairly good power analysis software (PowerAgent), included free
- Software suite coming looks pretty cool (Beta)
- Joule 3.0 is very clear, clean and easy to read
Cons:
- Workout creation a bit limited
- Sometimes the Joule historical information doesn’t seem to load
- Software suite that’s coming is still months away, may change (Beta)
- A bit more expensive than Tacx unit
As you can see, most of the cons are limited to very specific scenarios that may or may not be critical path for your particular use case. So keep that in mind when comparing to other trainers. By the same token, the unit does indeed lack a fully integrated software solution for controlling the trainer in real-time, compared with both CompuTrainer and Tacx – which are available today.
If I were to choose one trainer (with wattage control) right now out of the three, I’d honestly have a hard time choosing. I can say though that it would likely be between the Tacx and the PowerBeam. The CompuTrainer loses on technical merits (not wireless, kinda a pain if you remove your bike constantly). Between the Tacx and the PowerBeam, the PowerBeam is more stable as a platform, but Tacx has infinitely more software integration aspects today, and probably will for a while. For me though, day to day, I’m doing written workouts – so I tend to just want a trainer that simply lets me control wattage and is easy to setup/use. But, that’s just my two cents.
As always, if you have questions on the unit – feel free to drop them below, I’m happy to help try and answer them. And thanks for reading!
Side note: If you’re looking for information about the Joule 2.0 and/or the PowerTap, see my review on them here.
Found this review useful? Here’s how you can help support future reviews with just a single click! Read on…
Hopefully you found this review useful. At the end of the day, I’m an athlete just like you looking for the most detail possible on a new purchase – so my review is written from the standpoint of how I used the device. The reviews generally take a lot of hours to put together, so it’s a fair bit of work (and labor of love). As you probably noticed by looking below, I also take time to answer all the questions posted in the comments – and there’s quite a bit of detail in there as well.
I’ve partnered with Clever Training to offer all DC Rainmaker readers an exclusive 10% discount across the board on all products (except clearance items). You can pickup the PowerBeam Pro (and software) below. Then receive 10% off of everything in your cart by adding code DCR10XBK at checkout. By doing so, you not only support the site (and all the work I do here) – but you also get a sweet discount. And, since this item is more than $75, you get free US shipping as well.
- Virtual Training Software (standalone)
- PowerBeam Pro Trainer with Virtual Training software
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And as always, feel free to post comments or questions in the comments section below, I’ll be happy to try and answer them as quickly as possible. And lastly, if you felt this review was useful – I always appreciate feedback in the comments below. Thanks! Finally, I’ve written up a ton of helpful guides around using most of the major fitness devices, which you may find useful in getting started with the devices. These guides are all listed on this page here.
Thanks for the preview of the CycleOps VTS.
Do you know if the routes will be free to download or will you have to purchase them – especially the ones with video?
1. Based on the way you use a trainer (coach/training plan custom workouts). If you owned a computrainer, Tracx Bushido, and Powerbeam Pro. Which would you have setup and be training on???
2. Will any of the 3 I mentioned work with my garmin speed/cadence sensor???
3. Do you think it wise to waiting till computrainers new software and the new powerbeam software can be compared???
After having used a Computrainer for 10 years and a Bushido for 3 months, this sounds very promising. The computrainer is so dated, even with the new software coming out. Once you have it set up, you don’t want to move it. The Bushido is really slick being wireless but they have been having some issues with the TTS 3 software updates that cause some significant problems such as sometimes being unable to continue a ride if you pause mid way and no way to restart where you left off short of creating a new course. I have also head communication lost between the head unit and the brake that totally prevented me from continuing for a day. Not sure if it was wireless interference or what but I couldn’t get the head unit to reconnect no matter what I tried during that session. That said, when the Bushido does work (which is most of the time) it is great. Tacx did just come out with the TTS 4 software but I am going to wait to see if others have many problems before upgrading as it is a completely new suite.
I have never owned a cycleops product but everything I have heard is that they are solid. This review seems to back that up. CT and Tacx haven’t demonstrated this from my experience.
as always, great review Ray!
As a recent purchaser of a Powertap/Joule 2.0, I can agree about seeing historical data load problems.
Also, this comment really related to me: “Once you start riding the Joule automatically starts recording…While you can sorta change which parameter the unit uses – I always wished there was simply a start/stop button on it (same with the other Joule, Joule 2.0).”
This is the major beef of mine with the Joule, and I really wish I had a start/stop button a la Garmin. How does this start/stop recording work with a Joule when riding outdoors and hitting a traffic light?
You mentioned the workout creator is lacking. Do they allow you to create workouts based on % of FTP? Do you know if any of the others have this feature?
I never used an erg trainer so if it did have a HR setting for the workouts, would the unit increase/decrease resistance until your HR was at the range specified in the workout?
Come fall when CycloOps releases their software and the TTS4, and new computrainer software is out you planning any trainer comparison reviews?
Are you doing an in-depth review of the Lemond trainer (if you did one already, I apologize for the overlook)
Ray, is access to power a must to use this as a regular trainer? It’d want to use this at the race site for warming-up. Thanks for the review.
Pricing on the software side would be great. Any idea if the $1,200 for the unit will include access to the software when released? Also as asked above, will there be separate charges for downloaded content?
What would be really nice to see is the ability for users to upload routes. From a quality standpoint (especially with video) that may be tricky, but could open the door to a huge amount of variety and options!
Hi, great review as usual.
I was wondering if you used your quarq to test the accuracy of the resistance unit in terms of power output? And if so how does it match up?
Great review – Thanks
So today you could create an interval workout (say based on a sufferfest video) and the Joule would control (force) the resistance to what you programmed? Would be a good way to insure I am forced to do the work during a sufferfest video. Synch the video with the programmed workout.
Looks like the future software will allow us to upload courses from my Edge 800 and then ride those courses. The resistance would be changed based on elevation like the 3d or real life videos in the CT. Correct? It would be a good way to ride my regular outside courses indoors.
Hi All-
Thanks for the comments, I appreciate it! Here’s some answers to your questions:
RE: Will videos cost anything
At present, they don’t cost anything, and I don’t see anything in the software indicating that’s coming – though it certainly could. I’ll get clarification. I actually believe though that an AppStore like model for reasonably priced videos could lead to a really interesting cottage industry. Folks like myself, I’d be happy to upload videos that people want to download for free. But maybe someone else wants to charge $4.99 for video (forever) – and you can go ride some crazy place. If it’s reasonable, like normal apps, it could invite lots of interesting videos.
RE: Will new software cost anything in fall
I’ll get clarificaiton on that too.
RE: If I owned all three, which one
I currently OWN (bought) both the Tacx and CompuTrainer. That said, I plan to buy the PowerBeam at some point. I would probably do most of my training on the PowerBeam, it’s got the same ‘it just works’ aspect as the CompuTrainer, but without all the cables.
RE: Garmin Speed/Cadence sensor compat
Both the Tacx and PowerBeam work with the Garmin SPD/CAD sensor. The CompuTrainer will work with it when driven by TrainerRoad. Alternatively, CTANT+ (see search) will allow it to work with CT.
RE: CompuTrainer new software
I don’t see it being competitive. I’ve seen the demo’s, and I’ve seen what it can do in person. Yes, it’s an upgrade, but it’s just not in the same leauge as either CycleOps or Tacx.
That said, I’ll certainly review it (new post) – and update previous reviews as applicable.
RE: Outdoors with Joule at trafficlight
Same concept, it pauses – takes about 3-4 seconds for it to trigger the pause. Then resumes when you resume.
RE: Create workouts on FTP
Sorta. You can’t do it straight on %FTP, but you can do power zones (which are basically mapped to % ranges of FTP), as well as target power (watts) and power range (watts). Also, simply slope (as in incline, like a hill).
RE: LeMond Revolution Trainer
Yup, that’s next. I’ve mostly been operating on a first in, first out method. So now I’ll be switching over to that. In some ways its simpler (less features), so should take less time.
RE: Power requirement
Yes, it’s required.
RE: Testing against Quarq
Yup, actually did a number of rides with both recording, they matched pretty closely. I’ll get some of the charts created this week and put up.
RE: Workout creation to match sufferfest
Yup, absolutely. You could design a workout around the video, and then transfer it over. Alternatively, look for TrainerRoad to help out in this space and with the PowerBeam pro here shortly (they do lots of Sufferfest integration).
RE: Resistance based on elevation
Correct, export from Garmin GPS, import into suite, ride the route with elevation.
Thanks all!
You mention that the Tacx Bushido can use the Garmin Speed/Cadence sensor. It doesn’t pick up the cadence from my SRM power meter and the computed cadence it creates is pretty far off. So are you saying that if I add the Garmin GC-10 cadence sensor to the bike, the Bushido should pick that up? Thanks.
I seem to remember you saying you were using a beta firmware upgrade for the Bushido brake to incorporate alternate power meters. Maybe that is necessary to use third party cadence sensors as well.
Thank you for great review (another one!)
would you mind please sharing if three of those trainers produce similar noise or you can tell the difference between them? thanks! (looking ahead to LeMond review and heard it’s super noisy)
Henrik
Any idea if the CycleOps VTS would have a similar group training option like the MultiRider system with CT? I’m debating creating a group training center and would love to see some alternatives to MultiRider…
Another great review Ray, thanks so much for all your time and work it’s fantastic to be able to read someones in depth experiences of these products before leaping in and spending a lot of hard earned cash.
I was wondering if I bought a powerbeam pro now do you know if the upcoming software suite would then be able to link straight in to the trainer even though it’s slightly older come the fall?
Also do you know if Saris are planning to just use real life videos on a sort of ride once basis or are they planning to incorporate a facility to race against your own previous rides like the Tacx by way of something like a marker of previous rides (or other people’s) in google earth?
I’d be interested to hear how you found the powerbeam on a GPS based ride in terms of smoothness when it comes to changing gradients based on google earth. There are a few whinges in the Tacx forum of people finding it hard on the knees when they suddenly go from easy spinning on a flat bit of road to suddenly hitting a steep incline with little warning?
Finally do you know if the real life downloadable video rides include some European places, for eg some of the routes of the classics like Flanders or Roubaix. Would the existing Tacx RLV’s for eg be able to play on the Saris?
Sorry for so many questions, I guess I’m super excited by this product as I can see it being a brillaint tool for winter training.
Thanks again for reading and all your time and work.
Quick comments about workouts.
You can use workouts from ErgDB . So you can write your workout once by FTP and update accordingly. Sufferfest videos area already there
. Any workout you create can be used on the CT, Tacx or Powerbeam Pro.
I think the Poweragent software gives you a lot of neat features of writing workouts. You can do it based off target FTP, FTP range, or distance so you can mix them up as you are going.
JB, here are a few answers for you:
The software will be fully backward compatible to any PowerBeam.
With any route, whether its video based or a ‘follow the dot on google earth’, you will have the option to A)Train, or B)Race. Training means you stop and start at will, take your time, speed up, etc. doesn’t matter. You will still be able to collect and download your data.
Racing means that you start the route to a countdown and you race the course. Once you’re finished, your user ID will be tagged with that finishing time, allowing you to compare race times with anyone in the world who has raced that route. As of right now, there is no ‘ghost rider’ or carrot to chase of a previous ride or rider on the course.
The resistance mechanism of the PowerBeam is inherently gentle to change grades and to me feels much more realistic in terms of transitioning from slope to slope.
I’m not sure if Flanders or Roubaix specifically are there, but there are currently thousands of european routes right now with more being added every day.
From what I understand, Tacx routes can be imported and used.
What do you think about mounting a PowerBeam Pro resistance unit to a Kurt Kinetic Rock and Roll frame? I’m a big guy on a Cervelo P4. A buddy at a LBS (another large guy) broke a chain stay while training on a Road Machine with a carbon fiber bike..so I’m hesitant to move forward. Thus my idea of a custom trainer. I like the Rock and Roll because it takes stress of the frame, but want to train with power using the PowerBeam. Do you think there would be significant loss of accuracy if I had the Cycleops mount fitted to the Kinetic? Thanks BW
I purchased the Powerbeam pro about 2 weeks ago and have done a workout everydey with it. I also own a Powertap wheel. There is a pretty consistant 10% error high from the Powerbeam pro compared to the Powertap wheel. I even sent my Powertap wheel back for recalibration because I thought that was the issue. I love the trainer just not happy with the accuracy. Just my 2 cents.
I just wanted to follow up with my post above about accuracy. I found out that you can tweak the powerbeam settings to match another power device that you have mounted on the bike. I have a powertap and went into the Joule sensor settings for the trainer and adjusted the Powerbeams ITU value so its power matches my powertap. Now both the powertap and powerbeam are close enough on power readings.
Hi
I stumbled onto your site and would like to compliment you on your work. i love the in depth nature and independent thought. Its all about whats practical after all.
I am weighing up a few trainers. AM interested in which you find the quietest?
Cyclops powerbeam pro vs bushido vs kurt kinetic (have you ridden on the rock and roll unit?)
Thanks for your help and if youre ever in the opposite hemisphere (Perth Western Australia), give me a holler.
Lorry
Hi! I’m from Spain.
Great job Rainmaker!
I’ve two question about Powerbeam, evidently there’s a difference between powerbeam’s power with powertap’s power, and that’s a problem if you want to test someone to plot his/her training zones, so what I can do?
On the other hand, some coaches have told me another problem, which is, at hihg power values the wheel doesn’t fit property and then skid.
Thanks!
What do you know about Cycleops doing a design change of the Powerbeam and do you think the software will be delayed to release with the new Powerbeam which is hopefully going to be available this winter?
Also, do you know if the upcoming VR software will be compatible with the previous Joule 2.0/3.0?? I want VR software, but I also want to buy a Powerbeam now.
From my understanding the VR software will be compatible with previous versions or at least a Powerbeam with Joule 3.0.
I am curious as to how the Powerbeam Pro feels vs the Tacx Bushido?
Found this:
The Joule was the first cycling computer to feature power-based data. Now, CycleOps is catching up with the times by offering a GPS-enabled version ($269), slimming down its footprint, and making data easier to view – there will be 35 customizable data fields to master. A non-GPS Joule will be available for $169, and both will be available for pre-order in mid-September.
Cyclists who own a CycleOps PowerBeam Pro or indoor cycle can then transfer Joule data from their workouts – including video – and ride the exact same courses indoors on their machine. The software integrates with Google Earth so you can watch the road and the map profile simultaneously, while recorded elevation data will transfer to the load-generators on each indoor device to replicate the outdoor experience. There are no messy wires, as with the CompuTrainer, since the software is ANT+ compatible; as such, workouts recorded from devices such as a Garmin computer watch will work. However, unlike a CompuTrainer, users will not be able to view pedal efficiency data.
Pre-orders for the virtual training software will also open in mid-September for $349. A bundled version of the PowerBeam Pro trainer with the software will be available for $1,299. One bundle that caught my eye was a CycleOps package deal for a Joule GPS, PowerCal heart-rate strap, PowerBeam trainer and virtual training software for $1,599.
When I consider what I spent on my current set-up of disjointed power meter, bike trainer, and GPS-enabled computer watch, I weep just a little. The new CycleOps power suite may help alleviate that pain for others in the future though, shifting pain to the vanquished on the road.
Hi I had a power beam about 18 months ago. In principle it is an excellent trainer but I had problems in that the power was not accurate by this i mean I compared it with my power tap against the power beam and there was 25 watts difference at 300 watts. The joules also would not let save rides (I tried three head setsall were the same). I had to send it back in the end and carry on with my 15 year old tacx grand. I been looking at new model and I am assured it has ironed out the above issues do I will probably be giving it a go when it’s released
Has anybody had the issues I had or was it just a one off?
Michael
Hello Ray,
have you heard something about the price of the virtual training software? And will there be a update version of powerbeam pro this year?
Helge
Hi Helge-
I haven’t heard about any specific pricing – but I suspect it’ll be announced Wednesday at Eurobike – stay tuned on that.
On the new PowerBeam, there isn’t a wholistc new model – but rather updates to the existing model. It’ll look basically the same, with the same functionality, but will contain some fixes to address various little issues. In short, if you find a good deal on one elsewhere – take it. But if you’re buying a new one, hold off a short bit longer. Which, honestly, should be easy since they stopped making them back a month or two ago so the channel is drying up in preparation for the updated model.
Make sense?
Thank you!
So I will wait for the updated version. I hope that I have not to wait too long:-)
Helge
Is the new Power Beam Trainer now available? I see it for sale on the Cycle Ops website
So I bought a Powerbeam Pro in April largely on the contents of this review and with the anticipation of the Virtual Training software coming in the future.
Now, I have discovered that the Virtual Training software is an additional $245? That strikes me as really weak. If I had waited and bought the trainer today, it would have come packaged with the trainer. I feel screwed.
DC, thanks again for another reliably informative review.
I so have a query about the joule unit…is it essential? I already have a garmin 500 that will pick up the ant+ variables, however, I am not sure what else the joule would add. From my current understanding, the Joule unit is required if you want to just get on the trainer and train without booting up a PC. So without a Joule, I would need to rely on the VR software.
Also, I see the new POwerbeam is shipping with Joule 2, which whilst it lets you control resistance, it isnt through a dedicated button as it is with the Joule 3 unit. Is this correct?
Looking forward to yours and others’ thoughts.
Hi there,
Thanks so much for the in depth review. I was wondering if the new joule would work with a trainer unit that was bought a few years ago. so would it work with a trainer bought in 2009?
Thanks!
I’m reasonably confident it needs the Joule unit, since that’s how you control the resistance. I know of no other method to do it.
Though, yes, with using the PC software, you could get away with not using the Joule. Also, you could pickup the new Joule GPS – which is much much much cheaper. And correct on lack of defind button compared to Joule 3.
Hi Anon-
RE: Joule with old trainer
I checked with the CycleOps guys and they didn’t differntiate between them. That said, it might be worth to give them a quick ring (they’re in Madison, WI), just to confim. I’ve found their customer service folks pretty sharp.
is it more silent than the taxc trainer?
Hi, just bought a Powerbeam. I like it, especially the ability to map out routes anywhere in the world and ride them.
However like above posters I find the Powerbeam overestimates power by around 10-25W (compared to Powertap hub)
The Virtual Trainer also overestimates VAM for power/weight
Together this means you get some very unrealistic route times. I just “climbed” Alpe D’Huez in 55 mins at an easy endurance pace. I have done the real thing many times and breaking an hour takes a whole lot more effort.
Martin, I have had the same results as you have had with the power overestimation. What I did was adjust the trainers ITU value through joule 3 to match my Powertap output. Now they are very close to each other.
Current Cyclops website is confusing compared to your review. No control unit is shown on the Cyclops Power Beam Pro trainer and the other option indicates it is paired with a Joule GPS and the instructions that I downloaded indicated same. Does control on current versions only come from the software?
No, current version can be controlled by both the older Joule 3.0 as well as the Joule GPS. I’ve got one sitting here to unbox, probably today, maybe tomorrow.
Unless I missed it, the instruction does not indicate any type of controller(3.0) is included and Joule GPS is optional. Pictures for the two models illustrate no controller on the base model and a Joule GPS is pictured and referenced in the model title description. Either this is correct or the Cyclops website and instructions leave a lot to be desired. I could make no sense of them. To be fair, there are many more TACX models and no tool to compare the features.
Like an above comment, I bought a Powerbeam Pro earlier this year with the idea that the software would be out now. However, I did not anticipate it being $349. Cycleops customer service indicated that they raised the price on the trainer to compensate for the software. Am I incorrect in thinking the trainer was $1199 (with no software) up until very recently, but is now $1299 for the same trainer and the software? If their goal is to attract more and more users to the software to build up a following and customer base, am I the only one that thinks $349 is a little steep when I already have the $1200 trainer?
Ray, any idea if they plan on dropping that price and shrinking the price differential to attract more “old school” users?
Does the powerbeam pro pair up with the Garmin 310XT? I can’t seem to get my power to pair, it reads the cadence but not the power.
I had the same problem and called Saris. You can no longer pair a Garmin to the Powerbeam power meter. They now use a ‘proprietary’ Ant+. You could pair the older trainers to a Garmin (see Ray’s review above), but the ones currently being sold cannot be paired. I expressed my displeasure (politely) to the customer service rep, but doubt it will do any good.
I’ve also found the current Powerbeam Pro offering confusing, so I called support. The $1299.99 version comes with the Virtual Training Software, but no head unit at all. You control it from the PC whereas the $1599.99 adds the Joule GPS. Neither has cadence included. Does anyone know the usability compromises if trying to use the unit without a head unit? Beyond downloaded training routines, does the head unit offer improved UI when it comes to using the Virtual Training Software? For the prior buyers figuring they got scammed a bit because they now have to buy the new software, the reality is they have a head unit which isn’t standard equipment anymore. Does anyone know if the units come with a front wheel stand?
Larry, I use the head unit to control the trainer for my interval training on TrainerRoad and use the PC software for just the virtual ride. I dont use the head unit with the virtual training because it kept sticking in virtual training mode when I wanted to go back to manual mode which was a real pain. I just keep my laptop close by so I can hit the few buttons that are needed to start/stop. IMO the head unit doesnt provide much value if you are using the PC virtual training software.
Any tips on paring the Powerbeam with a Garmin 910XT of Edge 800? Neither Garmin device seems to be able to find the Powerbeam pro.
Greg, the new version of the powerbeam pro does not broadcast its power anymore like the older version(which is the reviewed version). I confirmed this with Saris.
I am double confirming what Kelly and Charles stated. When I purchased my unit, I expected it to be able to broadcast the power data to other Ant+ devices. Per emails from Saris, the older, reviewed unit can, the new Powerbeam Pro cannot. As I told Saris, had I known I would have likely made a different purchasing decision. I did request they make they make their Ant+ power data available to software developers and device manufactures. Perhaps other current owners and prospective buyers can do the same.
Indeed, you are correct. I confirmed it as well today with the engineering teams. Trying to get clarification on WHY they’d do it. Seems incredibly stupid (aside from pushing their own Joule units).
To clarify, incredibly stupid at a time when computerized trainer competition has never been higher.
In addition, Cycleops is advertising the Powerbeam Pro is 3rd party ANT+ compatible. Note the table at the bottom of the page: link to cycleops.com
Yeah, though, that is technically true. It pairs (well, the head unit does) to the ANT+ speed/cadence/HR sensors. Just not re-outputting the data like it used to.
Nonetheless, I’m still e-mailing with them on it…
So regarding the above issue with the joule not outputing power data, would that mean that you could not pair your trainer with TrainerRoad using the actual power from the trainer?
Ps, i’ve been using your site as my go-to for reviews, you are always very thorough and detailed. keep up the good work.
Yes, though only for the older PowerBeam trainers (the one in this review), and not for the newer ones, as the newer ones have cut out that functionality.
Hi, can anyone confirm if you can drive resistance on the Powerbeam Pro from Tacx VR videos?
Unfortunately not. Heck, I have hard enough time getting the Tacx TTS software to pair to the Tacx trainer, let alone the Powerbeam.
In all seriousness, they are both using private-ANT, and their own variants of it, so no cross-platform love.
Any thoughts on how this compares to Elite’s software for the Real Axiom / Real Power?
Also, the PowerBeam Pro can simulate up to what grade of hills? The RealPower and Tacx Fortius I know can simulate up to 20% and use motors to simulate downhill too. Can the PowerBeam do that?
If you are like me and have the NEW Powerbeam pro trainer then you have realized that the power output no longer is broadcasted from the unit. This makes it impossible to record power data or use services like TrainerRoad(until they release it which is coming). So, I decoded the private ANT+ message and rebroadcasted that out as a standard ANT+ message allowing you to finally record your ride data. It only runs under Windows and I have also opened up another channel to read in another power meter just in case you suspect that there is a difference between the two. There is a cal% offset that you can use to make simple offset adjustments if you would like for the rebroadcasted power to align it with a different power meter. You will also need a second ANT+ USB stick if you are using an application like TrainerRoad since applications can’t share those devices.
The software is located here: link to wuala.com
Enjoy!
Very cool stuff btw – and thanks for sharing! I’ll try and remember to link to it again in my PowerBeam Virtual Trainer review.
Kelly. Thanks very much for doing this. I used the 04JAN version when you posted on TrainerRoad FB page. The newer 14JAN version seems to update the power value quicker. Works well in both TrainerRoad and Peripedal. Thanks again. Tom
With the new PowerBeam Pro are you able to adjust watts on the fly. For example I need a trainer for conducting graded LT tests. I’d prefer to manually add wattage every few minutes rather than create a workout. From what I’m gathering, you need the model with the Joule to do this, as there is no way to do this with just the virtual trainer and the USB stick. Is this correct, that you can use the Joule to increase and decrease watts on the fly?
That’s correct from what I’m hearing as well. Which, is a bit of a bummer. Actually, a big bummer.
I’ve got an e-mail to write to the CycleOps folks later on, and these items are amongst them.
The Joule GPS can control the workload on the fly, increasing or decreasing the load in 10W increments. This cannot currently be done using the Virtual Training software.
The Cycleops version of the Univets Virtual Training software does not include interval training: A screenshot is shown here, just below the Cylceops clad rider on the Powerbeam: link to univetsystem.com I have asked Saris if this will be included in future updates, hoping to be able to more easily do intervals without the Joule GPS. Additionally I am hoping the ability to directly control power on the fly using the keyboard would be incorporated with interval training.
I’m considering replacing my Computrainer with the PowerBeam. Currently, I use my CT in standalone or ERG mode and adjust the wattage manually based on my workout prescribed. I use a Powertap hub and Garmin 500 to record my data (even when I do use the 3D or coaching software).
Anyway, the biggest appeal for the PowerBeam is the Virtual Training software for me. However, I’m also very interested in the standalone mode and how that works. I can’t get a read on if my Garmin 500 will work to increase and decrease wattage in standalone mode…or if I need to purchase the PowerBeam bundle with the Joule.
Lastly, it looks like the Joule itself is a different version of the one you received in your box. Perhaps just an updated model?
Hey, I own the powerbeam with Joule. I have had it for about 2 weeks now so its the newest model. To answer your questions (or sort of):
1. Virtual Trainer is pretty awesome. I almost exclusively use that now instead of erg mode.
2. Your garmin 500 will be able to read the power data, but NOT control it. You will need the JOULE unit in order to do that. So whether you buy the JOULE separately or in the combo is your call. If you just want to do the virtual trainer, you can by the powerbeam without the JOULE and it will work fine.
3. The version Ray showed in this in depth is the OLD model. Now it is the JOULE GPS which comes with the Powerbeam.
I love my powerbeam and won’t be back on a computrainer until they get in the 21st century with their software.
Hi Rob,
Can you use the joule to change the power while using Virtual Trainer?
I’m trying to mentally prepare for mine being delivered next week!
Ray, did you ever get any real answer from them on rebroadcasting ANT+ power? I’m *really* bummed that I bought a new PowerBeam Pro with the expectation of being able to use my Edge 800. The Joule GPS just isn’t doing it for me as a head compared to the Garmin.
I suppose I can merge data streams on TrainingPeaks, but having to do so for no good reason is just dumb.
Brian, look at Ray’s new post here for your answer: link to dcrainmaker.com