Riding the rolling roads outside Austin, Texas, I often wondered if a single-sensing power meter could keep up with my training goals. The Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100 question came down to accuracy on climbs and intervals versus staying within budget.
I’ve tested both pedals on group rides and hill repeats, and in this review, I’ll share what really matters when choosing between them so you can make the right call.
Is Garmin Rally RS200 Good?
Yes, the Garmin Rally RS200 is good. For riders who want detailed data, it’s more than good—it’s excellent. When I first clipped into these pedals, they paired with my Edge cycling computer in seconds. Right away, I was tracking balance between my left and right legs. That’s something single-sensing meters can’t do.
In my rides, the RS200 gave me a clear view of my pedaling form. On long climbs, I saw my right leg doing more work. On flat roads, my symmetry evened out. This cycling dynamics analysis wasn’t just numbers—it was feedback I could use to improve.
The pedals work with Shimano SPD-SL cleats. I didn’t need new shoes. With protective cleat covers, walking was easier and the cleats stayed in good shape. Battery life is also strong. I got around 120 hours before swapping coin cells. Moving the pedals to another bike was simple. An 8 mm Allen key, a few turns, and they were on my gravel bike.
What I Like
- Dual-sensing accuracy – The RS200 measures power from both pedals. In my testing, this gave me a true view of my effort.
- Cycling dynamics data – I liked seeing seated vs. standing time, power phase, and platform offset in Garmin Connect and Strava. It kept my training focused.
- Easy transferability – I’ve moved them between my road bike and a travel bike in the US. No fuss, no wasted time—just install and ride.
- Cleat compatibility – They work with Shimano SPD-SL cleats. I didn’t need adapters or new shoes. That saved me money.
- Upgradeability – Garmin built the Rally system to grow with me. If I want XC or Look Keo later, I can swap the pedal bodies.
What Could Be Better
- Price point – The RS200 is expensive. Some crank-based meters cost less, which may limit who can buy it.
- Coin cell batteries – 120 hours is great, but I sometimes wish for USB charging. Favero Assioma has that. Carrying spares works, but a quick charge would be easier.
- Pedal feel – They’re SPD-SL compatible, but the clip-in feel isn’t as sharp as my Dura-Ace pedals. Not a big issue, but I noticed it.
Recommendation
If you want detailed performance analysis, the Garmin Rally RS200 is the right choice. You’ll get dual-sensing data, advanced cycling dynamics, and smooth sync with Garmin Connect, Strava, and Edge computers.
For competitive riders in the USA, these pedals make sense. Training plans here often focus on power and balance. With left/right data, it’s easier to track form and make gains indoors or outdoors.
If you’re new to power meters and only need basic numbers, the RS100 or a crank-based option may be enough. But if you want a full system that can grow with you—with upgradability, easy transfer, and SPD-SL compatibility—the RS200 is a smart long-term pick.
Bottom line: The Garmin Rally RS200 is accurate, flexible, and built for serious riders. It costs more, but the insights and future-proof design make it worth it.
Is Garmin Rally RS100 Good?
Yes, the Garmin Rally RS100 is good. It’s a solid entry-level power meter pedal. When I tested it, setup was quick and simple. The pedals paired right away with my Garmin Edge and started recording power and cadence.
Unlike the RS200, the RS100 measures power only on the left pedal. It then doubles that number to show total output. In practice, the readings felt consistent. On long US rides, I tracked progress on climbs and flat roads without worrying about accuracy drops.
Cleat compatibility was another plus. The RS100 works with Shimano SPD-SL cleats, so I didn’t need new shoes. I used protective cleat covers for walking, which helped reduce wear. At 328 grams per pair, the pedals felt solid but not too heavy.
Battery life was strong too. I got about 120 hours before swapping coin cells. Transfer between bikes was easy. With an Allen key, I moved them from my road bike to my gravel bike in minutes. No calibration issues—just ride.
What I Like
- Affordable entry into power meters – The RS100 costs less than the RS200 but still gives reliable data. For training and everyday rides, accuracy was solid.
- Upgrade path – I liked knowing I could start with single-sensing and later add the right pedal to make it an RS200. That’s a future-proof option.
- Shimano SPD-SL cleat compatibility – I use Shimano shoes, so this was seamless. Clip-in felt natural from the first ride.
- Easy bike transfer – Moving the pedals between bikes was quick and stress-free. For me, that flexibility matters.
- Integration with Garmin Connect and Strava – Power and cadence data synced smoothly. Tracking progress across platforms was clear and helpful.
What Could Be Better
- Limited data metrics – Because it’s single-sensing, you don’t get left/right balance or cycling dynamics. I missed that compared to the RS200.
- Price vs. features – It’s cheaper than the RS200, but still not “cheap.” Some crank-based options offer more data for similar money.
- Cleat engagement feel – Clip-in was fine, but not as sharp as my Dura-Ace pedals. Not a deal breaker, but I noticed.
Recommendation
The Garmin Rally RS100 is a smart pick for riders who want to start power training without the cost of dual-sensing pedals. If you just need total power and cadence, it delivers both with accuracy and ease.
For riders in the USA building structured training plans, it’s a good entry tool. It works smoothly with Garmin Connect, Strava, and Edge computers, so tracking progress is simple.
If you need full cycling dynamics and left/right balance, the RS200 is better. But if you’re budget-focused and like the upgrade option, the RS100 is flexible and reliable.
Bottom line: The Garmin Rally RS100 is easy to use, upgradable, and accurate. It’s not the most advanced, but it’s a solid first step into power-based training.
Detailed Comparison: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
I’ve had the chance to ride with both the Garmin Rally RS200 and the RS100. At first glance, they look almost the same, but once you ride with them, the differences show. Let me break them down for you in a way that makes sense if you’re trying to pick between them.
Power Measurement: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
The RS200 measures power on both pedals, while the RS100 only measures on the left and doubles the value. On my climbs, the RS200 gave me more precise data, especially when my left leg was a bit tired. The RS100 still gave me steady numbers, but I noticed slight differences when I compared ride files.
My experience: If you’re new to power, the RS100 feels good enough. But once I used the RS200, I could see why dual-sensing matters. Balance data helped me spot weak points.
- RS200: 9/10
- RS100: 7/10
Accuracy: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
Accuracy was tight on both. The RS200 was spot-on across sprints and steady rides. The RS100 was fine for endurance rides but sometimes felt a little “averaged out.”
My experience: I didn’t stress much on the RS100 during long US training rides, but for interval work, I trusted the RS200 more.
- RS200: 9.5/10
- RS100: 8/10
Cleat Compatibility: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
Both use Shimano SPD-SL cleats. That was a win for me since I didn’t need new shoes. Engagement felt secure, though not as crisp as my Shimano Dura-Ace pedals.
My experience: I swapped between both and honestly, cleat feel was identical. Easy to clip in and out.
- RS200: 8.5/10
- RS100: 8.5/10
Battery Life: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
Both pedals gave me about 120 hours with a coin cell battery. Changing them was quick and tool-free.
My experience: No difference here. Both lasted long enough that I forgot about battery swaps.
- RS200: 9/10
- RS100: 9/10
Bike Transferability: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
Both are super easy to move between bikes. An Allen key, a quick tighten, and you’re done.
My experience: I loved this for switching between my road bike and gravel bike. No extra stress, no calibration headaches.
- RS200: 9/10
- RS100: 9/10
Data Features: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
This is where the RS200 shines. It gives left/right balance and cycling dynamics. The RS100 only gives total power and cadence.
My experience: On the RS200, I enjoyed checking my pedal smoothness and balance. The RS100 was simpler but felt limited once I knew what I was missing.
- RS200: 9.5/10
- RS100: 7/10
Performance: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
Both delivered stable power tracking. The RS200 edges out with richer data for structured training.
My experience: RS100 worked fine for casual training, but the RS200 helped me grow as a rider.
- RS200: 9/10
- RS100: 8/10
Ease of Use: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
Setup is quick on both. They pair fast with Garmin Edge units and apps.
My experience: Both worked smoothly, but I found myself checking more settings with the RS200. RS100 felt “plug and play.”
- RS200: 8.5/10
- RS100: 9/10
Value for Money: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
The RS100 is cheaper, making it attractive as a starter power meter. The RS200 costs more but offers full data.
My experience: If budget is tight, RS100 is the smart buy. But if you know you want cycling dynamics, RS200 is worth it.
- RS200: 8/10
- RS100: 9/10
Overall: Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
Both are reliable, accurate, and easy to use. The RS200 is for data lovers who want every metric. The RS100 is for riders who just want solid total power numbers without breaking the bank.
My experience: I’d pick the RS200 if training progress is my main goal. But for most riders, the RS100 offers plenty.
- RS200: 9/10
- RS100: 8.5/10
Bottom line: If you want the most insight into your riding, go for the Garmin Rally RS200. But if you’re budget-conscious and just starting with power meters, the RS100 gives you reliable data and room to upgrade later.
How I test: garmin rally rs200 vs rs100
I test to find what works in real life. I ride both pedals. I log the data. I share what I learn.
Goals & selection criteria
I set clear goals before I start. I want to know if the RS200’s left/right data is real and repeatable. I also check raw power, sprints, cadence, battery, ease of use, and value. I pick tests that matter to racers, coaches, and riders who train with power.
Test rig & equipment
I use two road bikes with Shimano SPD-SL cleats to keep things fair. My reference is a calibrated smart trainer (direct drive) and a trusted crank meter. I run a Garmin Edge, phone with Garmin Connect, and apps like Strava and TrainingPeaks to log and back up files.
Pre-test preparation
I update firmware and note version numbers. I install pedals to torque specs and time the install. I pair on ANT+ and Bluetooth. I warm up on the trainer to stabilize sensor temps.
Static / bench checks
I check idle connectivity for a few hours. I record a short 10-minute test ride and inspect the FIT file. I time a battery swap and note tools needed. These quick checks catch basic faults early.
Field test protocols
I repeat each ride type three times on different days. I do a 20-minute FTP test, VO2 and sweet spot intervals, and 10s sprints. I run a long climb session and cadence extremes. I also do a 2–3 hour mixed ride to see real use behavior.
Cycling dynamics & dual-sensing specific tests
For the RS200 I log left/right balance, power phase, and torque maps. I do symmetric cadence ramps and watch for drift. I check whether dynamics are clean or noisy in Garmin Connect. That tells me if the extra data is useful.
Durability & environmental stress testing
I test wet rides and spray to check seals and corrosion. I do hot and cold day rides inside Garmin’s range. I add up miles for a long wear test (500+ miles) to see real wear on spindles and bodies.
Battery & maintenance evaluation
I log total ride hours until low-battery warnings and compare to Garmin’s ~120-hour claim. I time battery swaps and check water tightness after swap. I note cost and US availability of replacement cells.
Connectivity, firmware & ecosystem testing
I pair pedals to Edge + phone + trainer at once to check drops. I run firmware updates via Garmin Connect Mobile and time them. I upload FIT files to Strava and TrainingPeaks and check which fields survive export.
Data analysis & statistical methods
I compare mean bias, % error, RMSE, and repeatability across rides. I check sprint peaks (1s, 3s, 5s) and transient lag. I make time-series and scatter checks to show how close each pedal is to the reference.
UX, installation & real-world usability checklist
I time box→ride and note any clearance issues. I test cleat protectors on concrete for walk feel. I film clipping, walk tests, and install steps for clear how-to notes. Ease matters when you swap bikes on the fly.
Value & buying guidance
I rank needs by goal: want left/right and deep data → RS200. Want reliable total power and a low entry cost → RS100. I weigh upgrade cost, dealer support, and long term value for US buyers. That helps riders pick the right path.
US-specific notes
I use °F and PSI in my logs and show metric values too. I check US dealer stock and warranty steps. I note how well these pedals fit common US training chains (Garmin Connect, Strava, TrainingPeaks). I add tips for US riders on where to check prices and service.
FAQs for Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100
What are the main differences between Garmin Rally RS200 and RS100?
The RS200 measures power from both legs, while the RS100 tracks only one. This makes the RS200 more accurate but also more expensive.
Is the Garmin Rally RS200 worth the extra cost over the RS100?
Yes, if you want precise left-right balance data. The RS100 is better for riders on a budget who only need total power and cadence tracking.
Can you upgrade the Garmin Rally RS100 to the RS200?
Yes. Garmin allows you to upgrade the RS100 to dual-sensing later by adding a right pedal, making it flexible for future needs.
Which is better for indoor and outdoor training, RS200 or RS100?
Both work indoors and outdoors. The RS200 is best for detailed analysis, while the RS100 offers solid power tracking at a lower price.
How long does the battery last on Garmin Rally RS200 vs RS100?
Both use the same battery system and last about 120 hours per charge. This makes them reliable for long rides and consistent training.
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