Hot
- Eliminates the need to buy a power meter for multiple bikes
- Pair with Garmin Edge cycling computer for valuable onscreen cycling dynamics data
- Post-ride advanced data available in Garmin Connect
- Provides information to position cleats in the optimum position
- Easy to install and swap complete pedal from bike to bike
- Ideal for indoor or outdoor training
- Durable and stands up to mud and rain
Not
- Swapping out the pedal bodies isn’t something you’d do frequently
- Small screws holding batter cap may strip with frequent removal
- Requires a pedal wrench to install
- Slightly heavier than a non-power pedal
- Not suitable for riders over 230 LB
- Not designed for aggressive enduro MTB style riding
Prices:
Rally RS200 or RK200 – $1,099.99
Rally XC200 – $1,199.99
Rally RS100 or RK100 – $649.99
Rally XC100 – $699.99
Rally RK Conversion Kit – $199.99
Rally XC Conversion Kit – $249.99
Tech Specs for all versions
Battery type: LR44/SR44 (x4)
Battery life: up to 120 hours (with LR44 battery type)
Water resistance: IPX7
Max. rider weight: 231.49lb (105 kg)
Accuracy: +/- 1.0%
Calibration: In Field
Tension: Adjustable release tension
Q-factor: 53 mm (55 mm with provided 2 mm washer)
Measurement location: Spindle
Communication: ANT+ and Bluetooth
Availability: Online and retail
How obtained: Company sample
RBR Advertiser: No
Rally XC 200:
Weight: 448 g
Cleat type: SHIMANO SPD
Q-factor: 53 mm/55 mm with supplied spacing washer
Stack height: 13.5 mm
Rally RS 200:
Weight: 320 g
Cleat type: SPD-SL
Stack height: 12.2 mm
Rally RK 200
Weight: 326 g
Cleat type: KEO
Stack height: 12.2 mm
In my first look article, I finished testing the Rally RS200 on my road bike with SPD-SL 3-bolt cleats and was about to transfer them over to my gravel bike. I use SPD 2-bolt cleats when riding gravel, so I used the XC conversion kit to convert the pedals to XC200. The 200 designates power measurement on both pedals, while the XC100 reads power on only one pedal.
Available in 3 different cleat compatibility for Shimano SPD, Look KEO, and Shimano SPD-SL
What you need to know about the conversion kit
You can buy kits that only include the pedal body, so you don’t need to purchase an additional system (spindle plus pedal body). To move the spindle from one set of Rally pedals to another, you’ll need:
- 4 mm Allen wrench
- P-H-zero-zero Phillips head screwdriver
- ¼” 12mm deep thin wall socket wrench
- Pedal wrench
Garmin prepared a thorough video that walks you through the process step by step. It was pretty easy with all the right tools. However, I worry that the two tiny screws used to secure the battery board (similar to those used with eyeglasses) will not stand up to frequent loosening and tightening, and the heads will probably strip after time.
If you are frequently swapping the complete pedal from bike to bike, there’s nothing to worry about and it’s fast and easy. Also, you’ll be fine if you are changing the pedal bodies once a season. However, if you want to switch the pedal bodies often, I suggest getting a supply of the tiny screws that hold the battery cap in place.
Pedal installation is quick and easy
Installation of the CX200 pedals on my gravel bike was simple and precisely the same steps as when I installed the RS200 on my road bike. Note from my earlier article, you can’t use an Allen key, but instead, a 15 mm pedal wrench is required.
All Rally pedals work with Bluetooth and ANT+, making them compatible with most indoor riding apps, including the Tacx Training app, Zwift, and TrainerRoad. For riders using a ‘dumb’ trainer, these power pedals are a great way to enhance your indoor riding experience.
Test ride
The cycling dynamics provided from the CX200 are the same as the RS200. Refer back to my First Look article for complete details. In summary, the data includes:
- Balance – monitor the power on the left and right legs and see if they are balanced
- Power phase – maintaining power throughout the pedal stroke is essential, and you can now see weak spots.
- Seated vs. Standing – track the amount of time you spend in each position and its effectiveness.
- Platform center offset – This measurement shows where power is applied on the pedal so you can determine proper cleat positioning.
I was happy with the performance of the Rally pedals, not only the data but the durability. Even when riding in some sloppy conditions, there was never an issue. However, the CX200 pedals weigh more than a non-power pedal, but I feel the tradeoff is well worth it. Pricing for the Garmin pedals is in line with other power pedals on the market.
Bottom Line
The Garmin Rally pedals are easy to install and provide valuable data with advanced cycling dynamics. Transfering the spindle from one pedal platform to another is relatively simple, but don’t kid yourself; it’s not something you want to do all the time. I see using the RS200 on my road bike during the summer and swapping the spindle to the XC200 pedal platform for gravel rides in the spring/fall. I’d also move the whole pedal from bike to bike if using the same type of cleat. It sure saves money not buying a power meter for multiple bikes. Also, something to consider, when you go to sell a bike, swap out the Rally pedals for cheaper non-power pedals and keep the Rallys.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
Leave a Reply