Calculating the distance covered on a stationary bike might seem unusual, but it provides a rough estimate of how far you would have traveled if you were cycling outdoors.

On the BODY BIKE Performance console, the distance is based on your cadence, meaning the faster you pedal, the more distance you cover. On the BODY BIKE Connect console, however, the distance is proportional to your watt output. This means that with the BODY BIKE Performance console, you’re rewarded for speed, while with the BODY BIKE Connect console, you’re rewarded for the overall effort, which includes both cadence and resistance.

KCAL/HR (kilocalories per hour) is displayed on Screen 3 of the BODY BIKE Connect console and Screen 2 of the BODY BIKE Performance console. It shows your current workout intensity and estimates the number of kilocalories you would burn if you maintained that intensity for one hour.

BODY BIKE Connect calculate calories based on your weight and watt measurement, which provides a more accurate result than heart rate alone. This is because heart rate can be influenced by external factors like room temperature and caffeine. Wattage is converted into oxygen consumption, and higher intensity leads to more oxygen use, which results in greater calorie burn. This method is universally applicable, regardless of gender or age, and is validated by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the leading authority in exercise science.

On the BODY BIKE Connect, you can take a watt level test to determine both your watt level and your relative VO2 max.

VO2 max represents the maximum amount of oxygen your body can consume while exercising at full capacity. The higher your VO2 max, the more work you can perform over a longer period of time. However, larger bodies require more oxygen to move, so physical performance needs to be considered in relation to body size.

Relative VO2 max is your VO2 max adjusted for your body weight, providing a more accurate measure of your fitness. You can download a table with average relative VO2 max values for further reference.

At the “sweet spot,” you can exercise for an extended period without burning out. For most people, this sweet spot falls around 62-69% of your maximum watt output. This is because your Functional Threshold Power (FTP) is typically around 73% of your maximum watt level, and the sweet spot is 85-95% of your FTP.

To find your sweet spot, enter your watt level into the BODY BIKE Connect console and monitor Screen 1. The figure at the bottom of the screen will show the percentage of your watt level you are performing. Keep this figure between 62-69% to train in your sweet spot.

For further guidance, download an intensity scale that includes Andrew Coggan’s and Ric Stern’s training zones.

BODY BIKE Connect accurately measures watt output using a direct force system. A floating brake unit applies pressure to a load cell, which functions like a precise scale, measuring the workload as resistance is added. The control box combines this measurement with cadence data from a magnet on the flywheel to calculate and display watt output on the console.

Is there a limit on the watt measurement?

The load cell can measure up to 20 kg of force. If exceeded, an “Over Load” message appears. For example, at a cadence of 100 rpm, this limit is reached at around 1400 watts. Most cyclists can sustain 300-400 watts for extended periods and reach 1000-1400 watts in short bursts.