GARMIN Vector 3

Vector changes how power is measured and how cyclists get power. Vector 3 measures power at the pedal, where force is applied. It’s a direct-measurement power meter that delivers reliable, accurate data. Because the force sensors are housed in each pedal, Vector gives you the unique ability to see right and left leg power independently.

GARMIN VECTOR 3

The Garmin Vector 3 pedals been on my wish list for the last year and half, especially since I used the Vector 1 and 2 for years. Not only for the ease-of-use between bikes but also the ability to see the differences of peddling forces compared right to left. The Garmin pedals are the first pedal system and accurately measures the difference between right and left forces. As a Chiropractor, this sparked my interest not only to see the balance between the body but see the improvements that you can have with the different variations in resistance exercises, chiropractic adjustments and power cranks. With lack of my mechanical ability with the crank power systems, I was excited to see a power meter that all it took was putting on the set of pedals. Instant installation took only a few minutes which included figuring out the washers that were needed and the calibration of the Garmin Edge 1000. As with most comparable comparative power systems the accuracy is ± 1%.The pedals are incredibly responsive to any movement and within three strokes/revolutions readings are taken. The Garmin Vector 3 can only be used with the look Kéo system. This is my general preference, which can also be used with the Excustar pedal too. While they are reasonably priced at $999, they are still the most effective and reliable pedals I’ve seen. This is based on data consistency, simplicity of bike change and also the ability to read left and right power balance.

THE FEATURES

• Lightweight composite body
• Measures power output at the pedal, where force is applied with Left/Right balance
• Allows for easy updates via compatible Edge^® cycling computers, ANT+^® connectivity or Bluetooth^®-enabled fitness devices¹ and Garmin Connect™ Mobile App
• Measures cadence, total power (watts), intensity factor, torque effectiveness and pedal smoothness
• CNC machined, hardened stainless steel spindle and wearplate
• Adjustable tension binding and Q-Factor
• LOOK Kéo-compatible with 6 degrees of float (0 degree also available)
• ANT+ and Bluetooth transmitters and cadence measurement via accelerometers
• User-replaceable battery (LR44/SR44 (x4) up to 120 hours of active cycling operation

THE PROS  

• Compatible with Ant+ and Bluetooth devices
• Incredibly accurate to +/-1%
• Easily transferred between multiple bikes
• Consistent data reading without any loss of information
• Reasonably priced at $999

THE CONS

• Only compatible with Look Kéo/Excustar

THE BOTTOM LINE

While they are reasonably priced at $999, they are still the most effective and reliable pedals I’ve seen. This is based on data consistency, simplicity of bike change and also the ability to read left and right power balance