CycleOps launches ultra-intuitive Joule computer range
CycleOps' new Joule computers aren't revolutionary in terms of the information they collect or the accuracy of their power-measuring systems but rather the context in which that information is delivered and presented to the end user. Unlike some current power training methods that require detailed post-ride analysis and evaluation on a desktop computer, Joule delivers the information in an easy-to-understand format right on the head unit.
'Dashboard' mode (CycleOps' answer to the question, 'What am I doing?') essentially provides the same data as on its current computer but with a larger and clearer display that presents more information at a glance without having to scroll through multiple screens. Just as before, current, average and maximum values for metrics such as speed, power, and cadence can be selected at will but a new joystick eases navigation.
After your ride is completed, though, Joule can then pull up eight different 'Reports' ('What have I done?') for an instant snapshot at your workout all without having to download your data first. Along with the usual bits of information like average wattage, ride distance, time, total elevation gain, etc., Joule can display very handy figures like training stress score, kilojoules expended, time spent in various power zones, and how much time was spent above a certain effort level i.e., how many 'matches' you burned.
Even better, each one of those report figures can be compared to past performances up to a full year prior ('Am I improving?') again, without having to dig up numbers on your computer first.
However, CycleOps would certainly rather have you use its proprietary (and included) PowerAgent desktop software, particularly as it also allows Joule users to upload preset workout plans right to the head unit. From there, prompts on the screen direct you as to how long intervals should be, how much rest you should take in between efforts, and exactly how hard those efforts should be in terms of power output ('What should I do?').
Prerecorded complete rides (even those done by other users) can even be uploaded to the Joule computer head so other routes can be replicated in the real world in terms of power requirements.
CycleOps will offer the Joule in both a compact, outdoor-specific 2.0 version (US$499/399) with a backlit black-and-white LCD screen along with an indoor-specific 3.0 (US$549/499) with a larger and finer color display and additional controls for use with one of CycleOps' electronically controlled indoor trainers.
Both will be available around the end of the year and the standard ANT+ wireless protocol will also make Joule compatible with later PowerTap hubs or other power meters such as SRM or Quarq.
CycleOps' new Joule computers aren't revolutionary in terms of the information they collect or the accuracy of their power-measuring systems but rather the context in which that information is delivered and presented to the end user. Unlike some current power training methods that require detailed post-ride analysis and evaluation on a desktop computer, Joule delivers the information in an easy-to-understand format right on the head unit.
'Dashboard' mode (CycleOps' answer to the question, 'What am I doing?') essentially provides the same data as on its current computer but with a larger and clearer display that presents more information at a glance without having to scroll through multiple screens. Just as before, current, average and maximum values for metrics such as speed, power, and cadence can be selected at will but a new joystick eases navigation.
After your ride is completed, though, Joule can then pull up eight different 'Reports' ('What have I done?') for an instant snapshot at your workout all without having to download your data first. Along with the usual bits of information like average wattage, ride distance, time, total elevation gain, etc., Joule can display very handy figures like training stress score, kilojoules expended, time spent in various power zones, and how much time was spent above a certain effort level i.e., how many 'matches' you burned.
Even better, each one of those report figures can be compared to past performances up to a full year prior ('Am I improving?') again, without having to dig up numbers on your computer first.
However, CycleOps would certainly rather have you use its proprietary (and included) PowerAgent desktop software, particularly as it also allows Joule users to upload preset workout plans right to the head unit. From there, prompts on the screen direct you as to how long intervals should be, how much rest you should take in between efforts, and exactly how hard those efforts should be in terms of power output ('What should I do?').
Prerecorded complete rides (even those done by other users) can even be uploaded to the Joule computer head so other routes can be replicated in the real world in terms of power requirements.
CycleOps will offer the Joule in both a compact, outdoor-specific 2.0 version (US$499/399) with a backlit black-and-white LCD screen along with an indoor-specific 3.0 (US$549/499) with a larger and finer color display and additional controls for use with one of CycleOps' electronically controlled indoor trainers.
Both will be available around the end of the year and the standard ANT+ wireless protocol will also make Joule compatible with later PowerTap hubs or other power meters such as SRM or Quarq.
