The RIKEN R is the first power crank from Quarq featuring carbon crank arms. Unlike the ELSA R, these arms are solid rather than being hollow which, while adding a little weight, goes quite a way to reducing the cost of the unit. In addition, the RIKEN R is available in only 3 lengths: 170, 172.5 and 175mm - again to reduce cost. Despite this, the RIKEN R is one of the most advanced Power meters at the price, offering as it does, all the functionality of the top of the range models in terms of power measurement and metrics. After all, it is only the cranks to which the powermeter is mounted that change. While the reduced number of crank lengths may reduce it's appeal slightly, Quarq are likely aiming the RIKEN at those riders who perhaps have older groupsets or who may wish to use power on an additional training or winter bike.
The RIKEN R is basically a heavier version of the ELSA R - compatibility remains the same in terms of chain-ring mounting and the cranks will accept the likes of SRAM, Shimano (10 speed only), Rotor (130BCD Only) and any number of aftermarket 5 bolt chainrings such as Specialities TA and Praxis. By swapping chainrings and assuming a suitable bottom bracket, it is possible to move the chainset from bike to bike and to maintain your powermeter across disciplines; from Road to TT, Triathlon and Cyclocross.
Quarq was established in 2006 by Jim Meyer, a maths obsessed man with a penchant for tinkering. After 5 years developing and manufacturing Quarq powermeters and after early collaborations with the company, SRAM acquired Quarq. At this point, Jim revealed a secret Powermeter prototype that was a far cry from previous designs and by drawing on SRAM’s engineering experience helped deliver the SRAM Red powermeter.
Quarq are one of the best value powermeter solutions on the market today. They measure force power from both legs at the precise point of muscle energy transmission to the cranks – the spider – which are machined to exacting standards in-house.
Quarq’s power meters are accurate and importantly, consistently so. As a result of rigorous testing they are able to offer repeatable data to within +/-1.5%. Quarq believe that they have the best balance when it comes to data presentation offering riders useful metrics that deliver the right amount of information needed to improve but without swamping the user with data that is extraneous. For example they provide dual leg data because studies have demonstrated that variance in asymmetry between left and right leg power delivery can be as much as 48% (depending on output) and that the asymmetry varies with intensity. Consequently, while one-legged power meters are useful for gauging overall training load, in order to improve you need the output of both legs.
Similarly, Quarq do not muddy the water with Force Vector data (the direction of power application), stating that studies have shown the natural pedalling technique of a rider is most likely the most efficient and trying to modify pedalling technique to create more ‘pull’ on the upstroke can have a negative effect on gross efficiency. Ergo, not necessary! So then, regardless of crank choice, all the Quarq cranks offer an accurate, precise and measured approach to power metering and data delivery in order to provide the rider with the optimum information for them to improve.
Quarq employ a bucket load of tech to ensure hassle free reliable and repeatable data. Features like 10K and OmniCal allow for variances in temperature and the ability to change chainrings without needing to recalibrate the meter each time. Quarq's own Qalvin app allows for firmware updates and diagnostics while an IPX7 waterproof rating means you can ride in a meter of water for half an hour with no problems - if you want.
The Quarq RIKEN R power meter is adaptable, lightweight and strong, and with the latest Quarq technology, RIKEN R packs a multi-faceted punch to elevate both bike and rider performance. The lightweight aluminium spider houses integrated electronics, a CR2032 battery, LED indicator and visible ANT+™ ID. Quarq's Power Balance captures left and right drive strokes for optimal technique development. OmniCal™ gives you a choice of chainrings with no compromise on accuracy. Carbon crank arms reduce weight and maximize speed. With lengths of 170-175mm, RIKEN R can take your cycling to the next level.
The Quarq RIKEN R cranks are available in both Standard 130 and Compact 110 bolt circle diameter variants. Chainrings are sold separately but the choice is yours from SRAM, Shimano (10 Speed) Rotor (for 130BCD Only), Praxis and many more. The 3 most common crank lengths are available to suit most riders and disciplines and 2 axle options; GXP and BB30, ensure a wide range of compatibilities when used with the correct bottom bracket - which is also supplied separately - ultimately this makes the Quarq RIKEN R an excellent choice for the rider looking to step up to power from an existing set-up and also makes moving power between bikes relatively painless and futureproof.
Though heavier than the ELSA R, the weight for the cranks is only 659g for a standard 130BCD, 172.5mm GXP crank.
If you are using an 11 speed Shimano system then the ELSA RS should be your crank of choice