Originally Posted by
woodcraft
My point was that since you have speedometer/odometer for non-racing, non-speed maximization uses, you could compare to that- PM is just another measurement.
For me it's useful to measure relative fitness- average watts for rides, max 10 second power, 20 minute FTP test.
Also for pacing for climbs and long (DC) rides. Good for assessing proposed group rides- my (W.A.P.) is high 180s at best, so if I see that folks are showing over 200 watts then I know I will be dropped for
sure. Entertaining to watch the numbers, compare side by side to others, and compare others' numbers post-ride (Strava). Only have PM on road bike so other miles have less or no measurements.
See, now that's an explanation!
Rather than the comparison to speed, though, I think it's more like when I compare the size of the weights I'm lifting and the number of reps. I'm "competing" with myself.