CycleOps PowerTap User manual

PowerTap SL2.4
OWNER’S MANUAL

CCooppyyrriigghhtt
Copyright 2005.All rights reserved.No part of this publication may be copied,
photographed,reproduced,translated,transmitted electronically or placed on digital media
without the prior written consent of Saris Cycling Group,Inc.
TTrraaddeemmaarrkkss
Saris Cycling Group,Inc ,PowerTap and the PowerTap logo,are all registered
trademarks of Saris Cycling Group,Inc.All other product,brand,or trade names
used in this manual may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective owners.
MMooddiiffiiccaattiioonnss
Saris Cycling Group,Inc reserves the right to make improvements and/or updates to the prod-
ucts described herein at any time without notice.
FFCCCCSSttaatteemmeennttooffCCoommpplliiaannccee::
Statement of Compliance for FCC and Industry Canada:
"This device complies with Industry Canada and Part 15 of the FCC Rules.Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:(1)This device may not cause harmful interference,and (2) this
device must accept any interference received,including interference that may cause undesired
operation."
The term "IC:" before the radio certification number only signifies that Industry Canada technical
specifications were met.
Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance with FCC regulations (the manufacturer) could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a normal installation.This equipment generates,uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and,if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications.However,there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation
Saris Cycling Group,Inc.
Model #:PowerTap SL2.4
IC:6459A-SL2P401
FCC ID:T8P-SL2P401

3
AboutThis Manual
Thank you for your purchase of the CycleOps PowerTap SL2.4. PowerTap technology is the
ultimate measure of performance by providing real-time feedback on your training intensity.
No other equipment will give you greater performance return on your investment.
This manual describes the proper use and maintenance of the PowerTap SL2.4. EEvveerryyperson,
independent of skill level,should read at least PRECAUSTION:IMPORTANTprior to use of the
PowerTap.
DDEEFFIINNIITTIIOONNSS
BBoollddLetters - Bring special attention to important points and that should be read and under-
stood prior to using the PowerTap.
ItalicizedLetters- Indicate reference to another section of the manual where further explana-
tions are found.
This manual describes the functions of the PowerTap SL2.4 and the information provided may
not apply to all PowerTap models. For the most current owners manual available please consult
www.cycleops.com.

Table of Contents
About this Manual
Precautions:Important.....5
System Overview.....7
The PowerTap System.....7
Preparing for Installation.....7
Compatibility.....8
Wheel Building.....8
System Installation.....9
General Computer Operation.....12
Display Levels.....12
Display Modes.....12
Finding Sensors
Clearing Data
Buttons.....12
Power Conservation.....13
Computer Navigation.....14
Power Function.....14
Torque Function.....15
ZeroTorque.....15
Speed Function.....16
Multi-Function.....17
Cycle Computer Mode.....18
Heart Rate Monitor Mode.....20
Interval Mode.....21
Interval Memory Mode.....22
4
Computer Setup.....23
Computer Setup Main Menu.....23
Computer Setup 1.....24
Computer Setup 2.....27
Computer Setup 3.....28
Computer Setup 4.....29
Computer Setup 5.....
Maintenance & Specifications.....31
Bearings.....31
Freehub.....31
Freehub Replacement.....31
Computer Batteries.....33
Technical Specifications.....33
Range of Measurement.....33
Hub Batteries.....34
Battery Replacement.....34
Test Mode.....35
Trouble Shooting.....37
Glossary.....39

Precautions:Important
• Before beginning any exercise program,consult your physician.
• Keep your eyes on the road.DDoonnoottbecome overly engaged with the PowerTap display.
We recommend familiarizing yourself with computer functions while stationary.
• The computer,receiver,and hub are water resistant,nnoottwater proof. Avoid sustained water
contact and do not deliberately place the PowerTap or its components in water or under high-
pressure sprays. Therefore caution should be used when riding in rain. Following such rides,
special precautions should be taken including removing the PowerTap plastic twist cap and
allowing the hub to air dry.
• Wash off dirt with a cloth soaked in a weak mixture of neutral detergent and water and wipe
excess water off with a dry cloth Avoid spraying the unit directly with solvent mixture. Do not
use thinner or other solvents to clean parts as they may dissolve the plastic console casings.
• If you are not familiar with bike maintenance please contact a professional bicycle mechanic
before servicing. The power measuring components of the PowerTap are highly complex and
should only be serviced by Saris Cycling Group.
• The plastic cover on the hub should be removed only when replacing batteries or when
allowing the unit to dry after submersion in water.Repeated disassembly may compromise the
effectiveness of the O-ring seals.O-rings should be inspected and replaced if necessary when
ever the battery cover is removed. Use a light coating of grease when reinstalling the battery
cap on the O-rings.
• During the course of repair ddoonnoottremove the torque tube. There are no serviceable parts
inside. Special tools are required for reassembly and calibration. If problems are suspected
contact Saris Cycling Group directly at 800-783-7257 (001 608 274 6550).
5

Precautions:Important,cont.
• The PowerTap wheel does not include a quick release skewer.CycleOps recommends using a
steel skewer.
• BBootthhssiiddeessoofftthheePPoowweerrTTaappsshhoouullddbbeebbuuiillttuussiinnggaa33xxssppookkeellaacciinnggppaatttteerrnn.Because of the
design of the PowerTap,torque is transmitted through the hub to the non-drive side. For
additional questions please consult WHEELBUILDING.
• Failure to adhere to these precautions may cause premature failure or incorrect operation of
the unit and may void the warranty.Please register your PowerTap at www.cycleops.com.
6

System Overview
TTHHEEPPOOWWEERRTTAAPPSSYYSSTTEEMM
The PowerTap system includes a power-measuring hub which measures torque and wheel
speed.This information is transmitted to a computer mounted on the handlebar or stem.Heart
rate data is transferred via A coded telemetry signal from the chest strap monitor. The data is
then integrated to display current,average,and maximum biometric information.
PPRREEPPAARRIINNGGFFOORRIINNSSTTAALLLLAATTIIOONN
The PowerTap SL2.4 hub comes either alone or in a pre-built wheel.If purchased alone,the hub
must be built into a complete wheel prior to use.Other items necessary for installation and not
provided include a cassette,spoke protector,reflectors,skewer,rim strip,tire,and tube (clincher
rim) or glue and tubular tire (tubular rim).See TABLE 1 to verify package contents.
TABLE 1
7
1 PowerTap hub (or built wheel)
1 PowerTap computer
1 Chest strap
4 Foam mounting tapes
12 Cable ties
1 Training With Power guide
1 PowerTuned Agent CD
1 Link USB Cable
1 Extra CPU Battery
Qty Item
PPaacckkaaggeeCCoonntteennttss

System Overview cont.
CCOOMMPPAATTAABBIILLIITTYY
The PowerTap SL2.4 hub is compatible with Shimano 8,9,and 10 speed systems or Campagnolo
8,9,and 10 speed systems.Freehub bodies may be interchanged. Reference FREEHUB
REPLACEMENT for further instructions.
The PowerTap is available in 130mm and 135mm axle lengths. Only insert the correctly spaced
PowerTap hub into your frame. For example,only use a 130mm-spaced hub in a 130mm road
frame.Do not force the hub into any frame.Doing so may cause failure of the frame,hub,or both,
and will void the warranty.Contact your dealer or Saris Cycling Group to address any special
compatibility concerns.
WWHHEEEELLBBUUIILLDDIINNGG
Contact a wheel building professional or dealer for assistance in building the PowerTap SL2.4
wheel if not purchased as a complete wheel.BBootthhssiiddeessoofftthheePPoowweerrTTaappsshhoouullddbbeebbuuiillttuussiinngg
oonnllyyaa33xxssppo
okkeellaacciinnggppaatttteerrnn..Due to the design of the hub,the load pattern is not the same as
a conventional hub.Slotting the hub flanges to accommodate bladed spokes is not recommend-
ed and will void the warranty. Complete wheel building hub dimensions are listed in TABLE 2.
RReeffeerreenncceeaassppookkee--lleennggtthhccaallccuullaattoorrttooddeetteerrmmiinneepprrooppeerrssppookkeelleennggtthh..
TABLE 2 -Wheel Building Dimensions
8
Measurements
Drive
Non-Drive
Hub Center To
Flange
17.4mm
31.7mm
Flange Diameter
70mm
70mm
Spoke Hole Diameter: 2.5

9
System Overview cont.
SSYYSSTTEEMMIINNSSTTAALLLLAATTIIOONN
11..IInnsseerrttWWhheeeellIInnttooFFrraammee
Insert the PowerTap SL2.4 wheel into the frame. Make sure the
axel is correctly positioned in the dropouts and secure the
wheel in place with a steel skewer.
22..AAttttaacchhCCoommppuutteerrSShhooeettooHHaannddlleebbaarroorrSStteemm
The shoe can be mounted on either the handlebar or stem. Secure the receiver shoe with cable
ties. Slide the receiver shoe in the direction of the arrow as depicted in either FIGURE 2A or 2B
depending on mounting location.
Receiver Shoe
Mounting Base
Arrow
Receiver Shoe
Mounting Base
Arrow
Slide shoe in direction of arrow onto the base.
Slide shoe in direction of arrow onto the base.
22AA..AAttttaacchhRReecceeiivveerrmmoouunnttttooHHaannddlleebbaarr22BB..AAttttaacchhRReecceeiivveerrmmoouunnttttooSStteemm

33..PPllaacceeCCoommppuutteerriinnttooSShhooee
Place the computer into the mounting shoe on the handlebar or stem.
Line up the slots on the base of the computer with the bracket and slide
computer toward the rider (FIGURE 5). NOTE: Ensure the computer is fully
inserted onto the receiver shoe for proper data transmission.
44HHeeaarrttRRaatteeMMoonniittoorrSSttrraapp
Position the heart rate monitor strap on your torso as pictured in FIG-
URE 6. The strap should rest just beneath the pectoralis muscles of
the chest. For best results slightly moisten the electrodes where con-
tact is made with skin. The heart rate strap mmuussttbe worn to enable
the heart rate function. NOTE:The chest strap for the PowerTap SL2.4
uses a coded frequency and is not compatible with other manufactur-
er’s chest straps.
55..VVeerriiffyyIInnssttaallllaattiioonn
Check to make sure all components are properly secured. Spin the
rear wheel and verify that in the upper left hand corner of the com-
puter the transmission icon illuminates (FIGURE 7). This indicates
the hub is properly transmitting a signal to the receiver and com-
puter. If the transmission icon is not illuminated consult Finding
SectionSensors for further instructions.
10
FIGURE 5
FIGURE 6
FIGURE 7

365
25
58.I0
WATTS3
MI
D
2.4
General Computer Operation
DDIISSPPLLAAYYLLEEVVEELLSS
The computer has three (3) main display levels:
Top Power
Middle Speed
Bottom Multi-Function
NOTE:These locations only apply to trip and
interval modes and ddooeessnnoottapply to Cycle Computer
or Heart Rate Monitor Function. See COMPUTERSETUP4
to customize display options.
DDIISSPPLLAAYYMMOODDEESS
The computer has two (2) main modes of operation:
1)Trip
2) Interval
Hold [MODE] to toggle between display modes.
BBUUTTTTOONNSS
There are two (2) buttons on the computer:
1) [Mode]
2) [Select]
NOTE: [BRACKETED] words indicate buttons.
There are five (5) types of button presses:
1) Press [MODE] or [SELECT] - a single press and release of either [MODE] or [SELECT].
Used for entering different modes and functionality.
11
TTRRAANNSS..
IICCOONN
IINNTTEERRVVAALL
DDIISSPPLLAAYY
MMOODDEE((LLEEFFTT))
PPOOWWEERR
DDIISSPPLLAAYY
SSPPEEEEDD
DDIISSPPLLAAYY
MMUULLTTII
DDIISSPPLLAAYY
BBOOTTHHSSEELLEECCTT((RRIIGGHHTT))
Changes active
mode Clear data
Enter setup Select function

2) Hold [MODE] or [SELECT] - a single button press and hold of either [MODE] or
[SELECT] for 2 sec. Used for initiating a new Interval.
3) Press [MODE] and [SELECT] - simultaneously press and release of bbootthh[MODE] and
[SELECT].
4) Hold [MODE] and [SELECT] - simultaneously press and hold bbootthh[MODE] and
[SELECT] for 2 sec. NOTE: Continuing to hold longer than 2 sec. and releasing will clear
all data.
5) Extended Hold [MODE] and [SELECT] - simultaneously press and hold of bbootthh
[MODE] and [SELECT] for ggrreeaatteerrtthhaann55sseecc. Used for initiating scrolling menu.
SSCCRROOLLLLIINNGGMMEENNUU::
PPOOWWEERRCCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN
The computer and hub have power saving features to prolong battery life.The computer powers
down the display after four (4) minutes of inactivity.Press either [MODE] or [SELECT] to activate
the display.Similarly,the hub powers down after five (5) minutes of inactivity. The transmission
icon will not be visible when the hub is asleep.To wake the hub spin the wheel and verify the
transmission icon is illuminated. 12
SSCCRROOLLLLIINNGGMMEENNUU::
FFiinndd::
If [MODE] and [SELECT] are released
When “Find” is displayed the computer will find
Search for the PowerTap hub.
ccllrr::
If [MODE] and [SELECT] are released when
clr isdisplayed
AALLLLDDAATTAAWWIILLLLBBEEEERRAASSEEDD
.
SSEEtt::
If [MODE]and[SELECT] arereleased
When SEt is displayed on thetop level of the
Screen, a flashing “E”, d and t on the middle
Level and12345 on the bottomlevel.
E = exit, return to ride mode
d = restore default settings
T = test mode
1 2 3 4 = setup menus

Computer Navigation
PPOOWWEERRFFUUNNCCTTIIOONN
The top level of the main display shows current,max,and average power readings.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the top line of the main display
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the power function options.
For accurate power readings it is important to ffrreeqquueennttllyyzero the torque,see ZERO TORQUE.
CCuurrrreennttPPoowweerr
Power is displayed in watts from 0-1999 in 1 watt increments. Current power
readings are displayed only when the word“WATTS”appears below the top line
(FIGURE 9). NOTE:If“WATTS”ddooeessnnoottappear under the top line the computer is
in the Cycle Computer Function. To return to power readings see CYCLE
COMPUTERMODE.
MMaaxxiimmuummPPoowweerr
Both“WATTS”and“MX”displayed simultaneously indicate the highest recorded
power output since the last time the data was cleared in trip mode or the selected
interval in interval mode.(FIGURE 10)
AAvveerraaggeePPoowweerr
Both“WATTS”and“AVG”displayed simultaneously indicate the average power
output since the last time the data was cleared in trip mode or the selected
interval in interval mode.(FIGURE 11)
13
365
25
58.I0
WATTS3
MI
D
849
25
58.I0
MX WATTS
3
MI
D
I95
25
58.I0
3
MI
D
AV WATTS
FIGURE 9
FIGURE 10
FIGURE 11

TTOORRQQUUEEFFUUNNCCTTIIOONN
Shows the torque placed on the hub in inch-pounds. To display torque
in trip mode:
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the top line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] until the current power function is displayed.
3) Hold [SELECT] until the word‘WATTS”begins to flash. A blinking“WATTS”display indicates
the torque function is currently displayed.
4) Press [SELECT] to return to the current power function.(FIGURE 12).
3
MI
D
000
25
58.I0
IMPORTANT: ZERO TORQUE
Frequently the torque must be zeroed to ensure the most accurate power
information is displayed. If the current power display is positive or
negative while coasting the torque must be zeroed. This operations must
be done while coasting with no tension on the chain, no tension placed on
the pedals, and the transmission icon must be illuminated. To zero torque:
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the top line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] until current power function is displayed.
3) Hold [SELECT] until the word “WATTS” begins to flash to enter the
torque function.
4) Hold [SELECT] again until “0” is shown.
5) Press [SELECT] to return to current power. The current power function
will now read zero while coasting.
14
FIGURE 12

SSPPEEEEDDFFUUNNCCTTIIOONN
The middle level of the main display shows current,max,and average speed readings.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the middle line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the speed function options.
CCuurrrreennttSSppeeeedd
Speed is displayed in either miles per hour (MI) or kilometers per hour (KM) up to
99.9 mi/hr or km/hr in 0.1 mi/hr or km/hr increments. Current speed readings are
displayed when only“MI”or“KM”appears below the middle line.(FIGURE 13)
MMaaxxiimmuummSSppeeeedd
Either“MI”or“KM”and“MX”displayed simultaneously indicate the highest record-
ed speed since the last time data was cleared in trip mode or the selected interval
in interval mode.(FIGURE 14)
AAvveerraaggeePPoowweerr
Either“MI”or“KM”and“AVG”displayed simultaneously indicate the average
recorded speed since the last time data was cleared in trip mode or the selected
interval in interval mode.(FIGURE 15)
15
365
25
58.I0
WATTS3
MI
D
365
33
58.I0
WATTS
7
MX MI
D
365
20
58.I0
3
AV MI
D
WATTS
FIGURE 13
FIGURE 14
FIGURE 15

MMUULLTTII--FFUUNNCCTTIIOONNDDIISSPPLLAAYY
DDiissttaannccee((DD))
Total trip or the selected interval distance in interval mode is displayed in miles or
kilometers from 0.00 to 999.99 (FIGURE 16).
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the“D”icon is displayed.
NOTE:Distance is displayed in the same units as speed.
TTrriippTTiimmeeaannddTTiimmeeooffDDaayy((TT))
Total trip time,interval time,and time of day is displayed to 9:59:59 (FIGURE 17).
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the“T”icon is
displayed.
3)While in trip time hold [SLECET] to access the real time clock.
4) Hold [SELECT] to return to trip or interval time.
NOTE:Auto start and stop with rotation of the wheel is the default setting.To customize auto
start and stop see COMPUTERSTETUP4.
365
25
58.I0
WATTS3
MI
365
25
2.5 I.43
WATTS
3
MI
T
D
FIGURE 16
FIGURE 17

CCaaddeennccee((CC))
Cadence is measured at the hub by analyzing the way a rider applies torque
through the pedal stroke since there are natural power differences in the pedal
stroke. The rate of pedaling is shown from 20 to 240 RPM.
NOTE:An optional wireless cadence sensor is available to measure cadence at
the crank.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the "C" icon is displayed.
(FIGURE 18)
17
365
25
89
WATTS3
MI
C
FIGURE 18
CCYYCCLLEECCOOMMPPUUTTEERRMMOODDEE
Access to the Cycle Computer Mode is also gained in the cadence function.This fun-
tion allows the PowerTap SL2.4 computer to function as a cycle computer in the
absence of the PowerTap hub.This function is useful when the PowerTap SL2.4 hub is
not present such as in racing situations where lighter racing wheels are used.NOTE:In
Cycle Computer Mode heart rate is displayed in the top line of the main display and
power data is no longer displayed.To enter Cycle Computer Mode:
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the mult-function displays until the“C”icon is dis-
played.
3) Hold [SELECT] and the word“WATTS”will disappear from below the top line.Place
magnet or rear wheel so it passes the receiver at the line or the sensor.
4)To return to current power function hold [SELECT] until the word“WATTS”is dis-
played under the top line of the main display.

AAvveerraaggeeCCaaddeennccee((CC&&AAVVGG))
The average cadence displays data since the last time data was cleared in trip
mode or the selected interval in interval mode. Average cadence is displayed in
RPM.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the“C” and
“AVG”is displayed.(FIGURE 19)
EEnneerrggyyEExxppeennddiittuurree((EE))
The total work done over the course of the trip or interval is shown in kilojoules.
This value is a measure of the total energy expended over the course of your ride.
This is roughly equivalent to dietary calories expended.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the“E”is dis-
played.(FIGURE 20)
OOddoommeetteerr((OO))
Total accumulated distance traveled since the last system reset is displayed in
miles or kilometers. To manually input the your odometer reading see COMPUTER
SETUP1.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the“O”
is displayed.(FIGURE 21)
18
365
25
76
WATTS
3
MI
C AV
365
25
2009
WATTS
3
MI
E
365
25
2584
WATTS3
MI
O
FIGURE 19
FIGURE 20
FIGURE 21

HHeeaarrttRRaattee(())
Current heart rate is shown up to 255 beats per minute (BMP). You must wear the
heart rate chest strap to enable the heart rate measurement function. NOTE:The
PowerTap SL2.4 uses a coded chest strap.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the“ ”is
displayed.(FIGURE 22)
19
365
25
I72
WATTS
3
MI
HEART RATE MONITOR MODE
Access to the Heart Rate Monitor Mode is also gained in the current heart
rate mode. This function allows the PowerTap computer to function as a
heart rate monitor in the absence of the PowerTap hub. NOTE: In Heart
Rate Monitor Mode heart rate is displayed on the top line of the main
display and power data is no longer displayed.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the
() icon is displayed.
3) Hold [SELECT] and the words “watts” disappears from below the top
line.
4)To return normal PowerTap functions hold [SELECT] until the word
“WATTS” is displayed under the top line of the main display.
FIGURE 22

AAvveerraaggeeHHeeaarrttRRaattee((AAVV))
This value is a running average of the heart rate in BPM. If there is no heart rate
information this will display as 0.
1) Press [MODE] to scroll the cursor to the bottom line of the main display.
2) Press [SELECT] to toggle through the multi-function displays until the“ AAVV”is
displayed.(FIGURE 23)
IINNTTEERRVVAALLMMOODDEE
The computer has two display modes. The trip mode shows total trip met-
rics,and the interval mode displays interval specific information.The inter-
val mode functions as a lap marker and is essentially always on.
To begin the first interval,or advance to the next interval:
Press and release [MODE] and [SELECT] simultaneously. NNOOTTEE::DDoonnootthhoolldd
bbootthhbbuuttttoonnssddoowwnnaassyyoouuwwiillllcclleeaarraallllddaattaaffrroommtthheeccoommppuutteerr..
In trip mode “INT” and the new interval number will appear and disappear
(FIGURE 24). The computer can mark an unlimited number of intervals
although after nine (9) the marker will begin to count back at one (1). For
example, interval ten (10) is displayed following interval (9) as one (1).
To view interval specific data (power, speed, and multi-function display) from any location on the
display:
1) Hold [MODE] until“INT”appears on the left hand side of the display. The“INT”and interval
number will remain illumined as a forth line in the main display (FIGURE 24). The data displayed
is that of the current interval number shown.
2)To exit back out of interval mode hold [MODE] until“INT”disappears. 20
365
25
152
WATTS
3
MI
AV
watts
speed
int
multi
FIGURE 23
FIGURE 24