Quarq DZero power meter review
Quarq, sister company of SRAM, has updated its the Quarq DZero power meter only aesthetically but it still remains one of the best on the market
Quarq DZero power meter is a solid unit for those seeking easy, reliable and accurate numbers from a power meter.
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It's a great power meter, it offers plenty of fitment options but above all is durable, reliable and great looking, especially after its aesthetics update along with its sibling companies groupset update this year. We’d recommend getting one if you want power readings and that is why we’ve included it in Editor’s Choice.
The Quarq DZero power meter is named after the DZero experiment, according to Quarq. That experiment was one of science's most accurate and innovative projects to detect subatomic particles moving at the speed of light - so Quarq is hoping for great things after such a name check for 2019 it has an aesthetic update but remains the same internally, which is fine by us.
>>> Power meters: everything you need to know
So the same measurement circuit along with the same strain gauge design for the Quarq DZero Power meter still has accuracy to within 1.5%. I tested this against the Wahoo Kickr and found it to be three to four watts above what the Kickr was reading during the same effort.
This would account for drivetrain watt loss and proves that the reading is fairly accurate. I didn't experience any reading drop outs or any spikes during rides, efforts or post analysis either.
You can capture the data via Bluetooth or ANT+, so phone or cycle computer connection is possible. Bluetooth giving you constant readings over ANT+, something in favour of more and more data collection units and power meter companies.
Quarq DZero power meter is compatible with all BBs according to Quarq and it has said it has made it easier to ensure you buy the correct model for your setup. It has done this by simplifying your choices. I particularly like SRAM's own version here, which adopts its new chainset design that I can only think helps improve the power meters accuracy.
A number of BCD's are available, either in aluminium or carbon and you can buy in the DFour setup that suits Shimano chainrings. You can also purchase the spider alone, the price various depending on model.
Quarq DZero is easy to install to when ordered with your preferred bottom bracket standard but you'll need the right removal kit as SRAM and Shimano are different standards.
I've tested this power meter over 2000kms now, the single coin cell battery is still good and I haven't experienced and problems so far. The power meter still shows a green light and connects to my Garmin easily.
To keep the Quarq Dzero power meter functioning as it should you can download the app. This allows to update firmware update, run diagnostics and check battery voltage details another nice touch of the entire system. It'll help if there is an update from Garmin or other units so everything works together as it should.
>>> How to train with a power meter
On top of the great price and performance a two year warranty will give you piece of mind, a great job by Quarq.
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