1. What is Watts per Kilogram?

Watts per kilogram (W/kg) is a key performance metric in cycling that measures a rider's power output relative to their body weight. It's particularly important for climbing performance and overall cycling efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( Power \) — Cyclist's power output in watts
• \( Weight \) — Cyclist's body weight in kilograms

Explanation: This ratio shows how much power a cyclist can produce for each kilogram of their body weight, which directly affects climbing speed and acceleration.

3. Importance of W/kg in Cycling

Details: W/kg is crucial because gravity affects all cyclists equally when climbing. Higher W/kg values mean better climbing performance. Professional cyclists typically have W/kg values between 5-7 for sustained efforts.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your power output in watts (from a power meter or cycling computer) and your weight in kilograms. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good W/kg for amateur cyclists?
A: For amateur cyclists, 2-3 W/kg is typical for sustained efforts, while 3-4 W/kg indicates good fitness.

Q2: How does W/kg affect climbing speed?
A: Higher W/kg directly translates to faster climbing speeds, as it represents your power-to-weight ratio against gravity.

Q3: Should I focus on increasing power or decreasing weight?
A: Both strategies improve W/kg, but the most effective approach depends on your current fitness and body composition.

Q4: How long can different W/kg levels be sustained?
A: 2 W/kg can often be sustained for hours, 4 W/kg for about an hour, and 6+ W/kg only for minutes by elite athletes.

Q5: Does W/kg matter on flat terrain?
A: While still relevant, absolute power (watts) becomes more important on flat terrain where aerodynamics dominate.