As a competitive cyclist, I’m always looking for ways to better understand and measure performance—particularly through accurate power and cadence data. After purchasing a crankset without an integrated power meter and discovering no aftermarket options existed, I began exploring what a DIY solution might look like.
I came across Sensitivus, a company offering PCB kits and strain gauges for building custom power meters. Their documentation suggests drilling a hole in the crank arm to simplify strain gauge installation, but I wasn’t comfortable modifying a crankset used for high-wattage track cycling.
Instead, I designed a custom tool to install the strain gauges internally—maintaining structural integrity while still achieving proper placement. With the gauges mounted, I developed a compact housing for the PCB and battery, complete with connectors for clean wiring and future adjustability.
The final assembly is fully integrated into the crank spindle and now reliably records both power and cadence data. It’s a discreet and accurate system that gives me full visibility into my training—without compromising my drivetrain.