James Millard takes on the Wattbike Peak Power Test
Posted by Chris Rowe on Jun 02, 2010
James Millard of Cyclepremier.com / Metaltek takes on the Wattbike Peak Power Test with Cycling TV.
Peak Power Test - Background Information
The Peak Power Test measures short term anaerobic capacity (STAC) and is defined on a Wattbike as the highest peak power in Watts achieved during a maximal 6 second burst. It is usually achieved in the first 3 revolutions (but not always).
STAC is an important component for sprint cyclists, in particular during a flying 200 m when short sprints of 10-15 seconds are required, at the start of a 1000 m time trial, individual and team pursuit and the sprint finish at the end of a road race.
A peak power score needs to be seen in the context of the type of cyclist, an apparent ‘low’ score may be good for an endurance cyclist but ‘poor’ for a sprinter.
Top male sprinters, on a Wattbike can maintain cadences in excess of 150 on resistance level 10 for 200 m - under 10 seconds for the 200 m with average watts close to 1600.
A quick experimentation with the resistance setting and cadence level will indicate the optimum combination.
