Sponsored by Favero
Favero Assioma PRO RL: A Deeper Look at the Lightest Adjustable LOOK®-Compatible Power Meter
A Closer Look at Favero's Assioma PRO RL Power Meter Pedals
Power meters have become a cornerstone of modern road cycling, but pedal-based systems remain the most versatile solution for riders who value flexibility, accurate data and easy bike swaps. With the launch of the Assioma PRO RL, Favero completes its lineup in the PRO series with its first PRO LOOK®-compatible power meter pedal.
Designed for performance-focused riders, coaches and data-driven amateurs alike, Assioma PRO RL combines Favero’s proven measurement technology with a refined pedal body, IAV Power System and Cycling Dynamics (read on to find out more on these), all within the lightest adjustable LOOK®-compatible design currently available.
The Lightest Adjustable LOOK®-Compatible Power Meter
At just 130g per pedal (260g a pair), the Assioma PRO RL is the lightest adjustable LOOK®-compatible power meter on the market. The term adjustable is key here: unlike blade-spring systems, Assioma PRO RL features a wide, adjustable release-tension range, giving riders precise control over clipping in and out.
This makes it equally suited to elite racers chasing marginal gains and riders who want a more forgiving, confidence-inspiring pedal feel without compromising security under load.
PCO Explained: Why Platform Center Offset Matters
PCO (Platform Center Offset) shows where force is applied across the pedal platform, not just how much power you produce.
Using strain gauges housed inside the patented stainless-steel spindle, the Assioma PRO RL measures how your force is distributed relative to the centre of the pedal. This reveals whether pressure is applied centrally or biased toward the inside or outside edge.
Why does this matter?
- Improve efficiency: Off-centre force application can reduce effective power transfer
- Optimise cleat position: PCO highlights misalignment that may be corrected through cleat adjustment
- Reduce injury risk: Persistent edge-loading may increase stress on joints and soft tissue
Unlike basic power metrics, PCO turns data into action, helping riders and coaches refine setup, improve pedalling technique and make informed fit decisions.
Widest Contact Surface for Stability and Power Transfer
A power meter is only as good as the interface between rider and bike. That’s why Favero has equipped the Assioma PRO RL with the widest contact surface among pedal-based power meters, measuring 755 mm².
The result is exceptional stability, reduced pressure points and optimal power transfer through every phase of the pedal stroke. Combined with a reduced stack height of just 10.5 mm and a 53 mm Q-factor, the pedal integrates seamlessly into modern road setups while promoting efficient biomechanics.
The pedal body itself is constructed from carbon fibre-reinforced technopolymer, which is highly resistant to impact, deformation and long-term wear, ideal for high-mileage training and racing.
A Patented Spindle That Protects What Matters Most
At the heart of the Assioma PRO RL lies Favero’s patented stainless-steel spindle the defining feature shared with the Assioma PRO MX and Assioma PRO RS.
Unlike many pedal power meters that position strain gauges externally and connect them to internal electronics via cables, Favero integrates all sensitive components directly inside the spindle. This includes:
- Strain gauges (force sensors)
- Rechargeable battery
- Electronic components (for example 3-axis gyroscope)
This fully sealed design provides IP67-rated protection, shielding the system from water, dust and mud while preventing power dropouts in real-world riding conditions.
Why does this matter? Power is calculated from force multiplied by instant angular velocity. Force is measured by strain gauges, which detect microscopic deformation of the spindle under load. By housing these sensors inside a hermetic, stainless-steel spindle, Favero ensures consistent, accurate power measurement.
An added benefit: because the electronics live entirely within the spindle, the pedal body is electronics-free and fully replaceable. Refreshing the look or replacing a worn body requires no proprietary tools, keeping maintenance simple and cost-effective.
Interchangeability and Class-Leading Battery Life
The spindle used in Assioma PRO RL is identical to those found in Favero’s PRO MX (off-road) and PRO RS (Shimano®-compatible road) pedals. This means interchangeability across platforms, offering long-term flexibility within the Favero ecosystem.
Battery performance is equally impressive. The Assioma PRO RL delivers up to 160 hours of riding on a single charge (currently the longest battery life among power meter pedals). Riders receive an alert when 8 hours of battery remain, and fast charging means just 15 minutes of charging provides up to 15 hours of use.
Charging is via USB-C, using any standard power bank or smartphone charger.
Advanced Metrics with a Focus on PCO
Like all PRO-series Favero power meters, the Assioma PRO RL uses the IAV Power System, which measures Instant Angular Velocity through a 3-axis gyroscope housed inside the spindle. This ensures ±1% accuracy, even during high-cadence efforts, sprints or variable terrain.
Beyond raw power, Assioma PRO RL unlocks IAV Cycling Dynamics, with PCO (Platform Center Offset) as a standout metric.
PCO reveals how force is distributed across the pedal platform, highlighting whether power is being applied centrally or biased toward the inside or outside of the pedal. This insight can expose:
• Inefficient pedalling patterns
• Poor cleat positioning
More than just numbers, PCO helps riders refine cleat setup, improve technique and potentially reduce injury risk making it a powerful tool for both athletes and coaches.
Additional advanced metrics include:
• Power Phase (PP): Identifies where positive torque is produced in the pedal stroke
• Rider Position (RP): Distinguishes between seated and standing efforts
• Pedal Smoothness and Torque Effectiveness: Provide a holistic view of pedalling efficiency
Together, these metrics deliver actionable insights that go far beyond average wattage.
Cleats, Compatibility and Real-World Usability
The Assioma PRO RL ships with LOOK®-compatible Favero cleats, offering 30% more grip than comparable options on the market. Multiple float options ensure compatibility with a wide range of rider preferences and fit requirements.
With its combination of LOOK® compatibility, adjustable release tension, advanced metrics and robust construction, the Assioma PRO RL is designed to integrate effortlessly into existing road setups, while elevating the quality of performance data available.
Pricing
• Assioma PRO RL-2 (dual-sided): £649
• Assioma PRO RL-1 (single-sided): £399
• Assioma PRO RL-UP (upgrade pedal): £389
For full specifications and product details, visit the Favero home page here
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