This comprehensive review details a cost-effective conversion of Favero Assioma road power meter pedals to Shimano SPD compatibility using Xpedo M-Force 8 pedal bodies. This upgrade, initially conceived by "the magic spanner" on the TrainerRoad forums, offers significant advantages over commercially available power meter pedals. We'll explore the conversion process, focusing on swapping from the previously used M-Force 4 bodies to the readily accessible M-Force 8. The review includes a meticulous examination of the conversion's impact on weight, accuracy, and battery life, supported by both static weight tests and real-world performance data gathered during a gravel road ride.Our analysis compares the converted Assioma pedals to a Quark DZero power meter, providing a robust benchmark for evaluating accuracy across varying riding intensities. We'll delve into the specifics of data correlation between the two power meters, highlighting any observed discrepancies and discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of undertaking this modification. Ultimately, this review aims to provide cyclists with a comprehensive understanding of the feasibility, performance, and overall value proposition of this Assioma SPD power meter pedal conversion.
Pros And Cons
- Cheaper than SRM X power meter pedals
- Lighter than SRM X power meter pedals
- More accurate than SRM X power meter pedals
- Almost twice the battery life of SRM X power meter pedals
- Up to 50 hours of use between recharges
- Plus and Bluetooth support
- Easy installation and bike swaps
- Only 327 grams
- ±1% power accuracy
- Provides IAV (instantaneous angular velocity)
- Cycling dynamics
- Full dual-sided power or single-sided power (depending on conversion)
- Proven track record
- Voiding Favero warranty by using unsupported pedal bodies
- May require shoe modification for clearance
- M-Force 8 pedal bodies cost more than M-Force 4
- Not suitable for jumps, hardcore downhill, or aggressive riding
Read more: 5 Best Child Bike Pedals for Smooth Rides
Conversion to SPD-Compatible Pedals
This project focuses on converting Favero Assioma road power meter pedals to Shimano SPD-compatible pedals using Xpedo M-Force 8 pedal bodies. This conversion offers several advantages, including reduced cost, weight, and improved accuracy and battery life compared to similar power meter pedals.
The process involves replacing the original Assioma pedal bodies with the M-Force 8 bodies. This conversion was initially highlighted on the TrainerRoad forums, credit going to Mike aka 'the magic spanner' for the initial idea. My previous video used Xpedo M4 bodies, but these are now harder to find, prompting this updated version utilizing the more readily available M-Force 8.
The conversion process itself is detailed in my original video. This current review focuses on swapping the M-Force 4 bodies on my already-converted pedals for the M-Force 8 bodies. The tools required are fairly standard, including various hex wrenches, a socket, and a torque wrench.
Weight and Static Weight Test
Before the conversion, the weight of the M-Force 8 pedal bodies was verified against the manufacturer's specifications, confirming its accuracy. The weight of the mounting hardware was also accounted for, adding to the overall weight of the converted pedals.
A static weight test was performed using a scale to verify the accuracy of the converted power meter pedals. The weight test involved placing a known weight on the pedal and comparing the reading to the manufacturer’s specifications. The results showed that the power meter readings were within the manufacturer's specified tolerance.
A similar static weight test was also conducted on a Quark DZero power meter installed on the same bike to establish a baseline for comparison and verify its accuracy. This provided a control measurement for evaluating the accuracy of the converted Assioma pedals.
Road Test and Data Analysis
A gravel road test was conducted to evaluate the performance and accuracy of the converted pedals in real-world conditions. The data collected included power output, cadence, and other relevant metrics.
The data from the gravel ride was analyzed and compared to data from the Quark DZero power meter on the same ride. This comparison aimed to identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies between the two power meters. The results indicated a strong correlation between the two sets of data, with minor deviations expected due to the nature of gravel riding.
The analysis focused on identifying any significant differences in peak power, cadence data, and overall power output. Steady-state sections of the ride, as well as sprints and other dynamic segments, were examined to assess the responsiveness and accuracy of the converted pedals.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Assioma SPD power meter pedal conversion proved successful. The converted pedals showed excellent performance and accuracy during both static and dynamic testing. The data comparison with the Quark DZero power meter revealed a strong correlation, with only minor deviations attributable to the variable nature of gravel riding.
Key benefits of this conversion include significant cost savings, reduced weight, enhanced accuracy, and substantially improved battery life compared to similar commercially available power meter pedals. The installation process is relatively straightforward.
However, potential drawbacks include voiding the Favero warranty, the need for possible shoe modifications due to the Assioma pod size, and the conversion’s unsuitability for aggressive riding styles (e.g., downhill mountain biking). Despite these caveats, the improved performance and cost-effectiveness make this conversion a worthwhile endeavor for many cyclists.