PowerTap P2 power meter pedals launched - lighter and longer battery life

PowerTap launched its first P1 power meter pedals back in 2015 and over the weekend at the Kona Ironman world champs, it unveiled its new second-generation P2 pedals.

The new P2 pedals are an evolution rather than a radical redesign, and in the company’s own words “build on the popular features of the P1 pedals to create a pedal-based power meter that is better than ever.”

- How to choose a cycling power meter — a buyer's guide to your power training options

They are a claimed 34g lighter, now coming in at 400g a pair, and the battery life has been extended from 60 to 80 hours, using the same AAA battery setup. And that’s it, that’s all they’ve changed. Otherwise, and aside from the change from black to silver, there are no other significant changes.

There is the same ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart compatibility, dual-sided power reading, Look KEO cleat interface, 2-year global warranty and 14mm stack height.

- Review: PowerTap P1 pedals

When I tested the P1 pedals, I found them to be easy to fit with no installation calibration required with accurate and consistent power measuring. I liked them so much that I’ve continued to use them; they’re great for swapping onto the latest test bikes so I always have power on every bike.

If there’s one thing I’d change about them though it’s to shed a bit of weight, which PowerTap has done, maybe make them a bit sleeker in appearance, and move to a USB rechargeable battery as sourcing lithium ion AAA batteries is not all that easy. It has decided to stick with the same battery setup but at least they now last a bit longer between changes. If you ride every day, as I do, you can get through a fair amount of batteries.

“The P2 pedals are a direct result of listening to our customers,” said Brian Turany, PowerTap’s Product Manager. “From listening to feedback on what is working and what is not, we were able to design, build and test new power training solutions here in Madison, Wisconsin, that fit the needs of our customers. And while we’re excited for this next iteration of pedal-based power, we’re just getting started.”

The new P2 pedals are going to be available in December and cost £799.99. 

More at www.powertap.com and we'll try and get some in for review soon.