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2017 Yearbook
On the current stage, Taiwan cycling industry looks for integration and breakthroughs. The industry
targets on the top of the pyramid with high-priced mid-level bicycle. Based on the advantages of
manufacturing, R&D and business operation modes, the industry incorporates innovative products and
services into lifestyle, culture and cross-industry alliance. In the recent years, the cycling industry has
also entered the application of IOT and integrated wearable tech devices and products into daily life.
The sensors applied in bikes are mainly for measuring speed and distance (GPS and wheel tachometer)
as well as cadence (crank tachometer). The data provided by sensors are recorded and uploaded to the
clouds to gradually form a Big Data. However, there is a lack of riding-techniques data, for instance,
pedaling force and pedaling power. Going with the popular concepts of scientific sports training,
sports science becomes more familiar and welcomed. Dynamometer is the most discussed topic in
the cycling industry and also one of the most representative scientific training equipment. Cycling
dynamometer measures not only pedaling power but also riding techniques. Cycling dynamometer
has been introduced since the early 80s. As it has gained popularity and acceptance over the
years, cycling dynamometer is now an indispensable training tool in cycling science. The common
dynamometers in the market today are chain-wheel type, hub type, crank type, pedal type and some
other types. By attaching to one of the strain gauges on the bike, the dynamometer can detect the
torque force and the power can be derived by multiplying the number of rotations. However, due to
the high price, installation difficulties as well as battery power, it is only seen among the professional
athletes and high-end consumers. Cycling sport is often involved in long bike rides. While riders enjoy
cycling benefits such as more energy consumption and a metabolism boost, they are also easy to
get injured if they don’t have proper riding techniques and good control over the bikes. For example,
improper cadence and pedaling workload can often lead to early fatigue, a common cause of cycling
injuries. The knowledge of pedaling power has now drawn the attention of not only professional
cyclists but also casual riders. How to develop an accurate and convenient dynamometer is indeed a
pressing challenge and urgent breakthrough for the cycling industry.