lifecycle accuracy?

[JBr]

Hey all-
Hope you can help w/ this.

The gym I work out at has some 'life cycle' bike ergometers that I occasionally use for intervals. I was wondering if anyone has any information on

1) how accurate the wattage display on the bike is, and
2) what the variability between bikes is.

Anyone? Thanks!

 

[beerco]

Hey all-
Hope you can help w/ this.

The gym I work out at has some 'life cycle' bike ergometers that I occasionally use for intervals. I was wondering if anyone has any information on

1) how accurate the wattage display on the bike is, and
2) what the variability between bikes is.

Anyone? Thanks!

Sometimes in a pinch I use the bikes at the gym too. With no way to test and judging strictly by perceived exertion, I'd say that for the most part gym bikes tend to over estimate power by at least 10% (a very big deal), possibly more. They are also rather inconsistent from bike to bike....still better than not riding.