Originally Posted by
124Spider
I'm confident that I will be able to use the data appropriately, but I have no idea if it really would be useful for someone like me, or merely fun.
That depends. A power meter can be a tool or a toy. If you plan to use it for structured, power-based training, then it is a useful tool to help you reach your goals. If you just want to see the numbers or use it for 'pacing' then it'll be a toy. Both are fine, but one has to be realistic about what it will be used for and budget accordingly. If you don't want to spend $1400 on a toy, there are cheaper options out there, most attractive one (IMO) being the $300 PT hub. I'd take that one over a single sided power meter any day.
Btw, if you do end up getting a power meter, expect the numbers to be considerably different than what the smart trainer tells you. Don't sweat it, just forget about the previous numbers and use your new PM for everything.