I’m encountering some difficulties in setting up my PowerPod v5 with my Elliptigo Bike and would greatly appreciate any guidance. Initially, I attempted the setup via Isaac software, inputting the correct wheel circumference as instructed. However, the results seemed inaccurate. At the time, I was on vacation and only had access to a Mac. While I could configure the PowerPod, the ride data wouldn’t download. During my search for a solution in online forums, I inadvertently deleted those rides, only later realizing this is expected behavior on MacOS Ventura.
My next step was to adjust the Cda value from 3.75 to 4 and recalibrate the device. I then took a ride that included a long hill. Subjectively comparing power output to heart rate, the data appeared more reasonable, but the power readings seemed low on flat and gentle uphill sections, especially relative to steep uphill climbs. It’s hard to gauge my actual power output without a known baseline. Thinking rolling resistance might be a factor, given that I use Schwalbe Marathon Plus tires, which I understand have considerable rolling resistance, I decided to increase the Crr setting. I intended to repeat the previous hill ride, but a recent cold hindered my efforts. Instead, I managed a shorter, gently rolling 5-mile ride with the adjusted settings.
Now that I’m back home with my Windows desktop, I can successfully download rides into Isaac. Reviewing the longer hill ride, the software indicates I was braking for the entire downhill section. In reality, aside from a brief stop for roadworks, I’m quite certain I barely used the brakes. It’s a fantastic descent with long, sweeping curves and a generally smooth surface, and I was actively pedaling through parts of it. I suspect that increasing Crr for the second ride might alleviate this braking misinterpretation. However, I also wonder if the Cda value is still too low. [Edit: I experimented with the “Check Calibration” feature, switching to “Touring” tires at 80psi. This changed some of the downhill to coasting, but a significant portion was still registered as braking. Gradually increasing the Cda to 0.65 completely eliminated the braking indication. Is this a valid method for fine-tuning the settings?]
I want to emphasize that I’m already quite pleased with the PowerPod v5’s performance on my Elliptigo bike. However, my desire for precision motivates me to achieve the most accurate results possible. Therefore, any assistance or advice on properly configuring the PowerPod v5 for optimal use with my Elliptigo bike would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance for your help.
