Garmin launched their Rally Power Pedals in late March of this year, replacing their Vector 3 model. The Rally intrigued me because Garmin touted how easy it is to swap from bike to bike and swap pedals to accommodate different cleats by moving the spindle from one set of pedals to the next. I like the premise of going from the SPD-SL 3-bold cleat (RS200) on my road bike to an SPD 2-bolt cleat (XC200) on my gravel ride.
With the high consumer demand for these pedals and supply chain issues, I received the RS200 (SPD-SL version) pedals a few months ago. I just got word that the XC conversion kit (for SPD cleats) was shipped today, and I’ll share my review on swapping pedals and my thoughts on the XC kit at a later date.
Initial Installation Is Quick and Easy
Installation of the RS200 was pretty straightforward, basically like any other pedal. Note that you can’t use an Allen key, but instead, a 15 mm pedal wrench is required. Also, per the instructions, you must check for chain clearance because the spindle protrudes out the back of the crank. If there isn’t clearance, you need to add spacers included in the box (55mm Q-factor washers). For my setup, there was clearance requiring no additional washers.
The Rally pedals work with Bluetooth and ANT+, which means they are compatible with most indoor riding apps, including the Tacx Training app, Zwift, and TrainerRoad. For those riders still using a ‘dumb’ trainer, the power pedals are a great way to enhance your indoor riding experience.
Cycling Dynamics Provides More Than Just Power Numbers
There are two versions of the Rally, 100 and 200 models. The 100 designates only one pedal (left) reads power, while the 200 provides data for both left and right. I’m testing the 200 model, which I connected to my Garmin Edge 1030 Plus computer.
You connect it like any other sensor. On the Edge cycling computer, select the sensor to add—calibration and crank length are needed to complete the setup.
For the RS200, I installed them on my trainer bike since I could compare the power measurement from my KICKR smart trainer to the power from my pedals. I ran the KICKR through Zwift and the pedals through my Garmin Edge. The power read within 5 watts of each other, but the Rally pedals showed more sensitivity to power fluctuation.
On the trainer, it was also easier to consistently view the power data screen. The cycling dynamics of the RS200 helps to understand your strength and weaknesses around power and will help you focus drills or strength exercises on mitigating those weaknesses.
- 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.
Power dynamics display on the Garmin Edge
All the power data for the ride is also available in Garmin Connect, and those of you who are data junkies can geek out on the graphs.
Pricing for the pedals are:
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
I’ll be back with a more in-depth review when the XC Conversion Kit arrives, and I swap the pedals onto my gravel bike. But for a first look, I like how the RS200 performs, and the power dynamics are very inciteful.
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.
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