Have you ever fancied being able to control the resistance on your road bike in a similar way to a fitness bike in a gym? A new device called the Powerwheel has been developed to do just that.

The Powerwheel replaces the hub of your front wheel and adds minimal extra weight to your bike. Once fitted you can then change the resistance it provides allowing you to slow your bike, making cycling more challenging.

There are no special settings or complex features, but enables your bicycle wheel to act as a training tool to increase the level of pedalling resistance. Powerwheel explains the technology behind their hub.

"The science behind it involves a mechanical device capable of detecting your speed so that resistance is controlled to match various cycling training situations in order to avoid excess heat production and maximize comfort.”

I know I find long bike rides hard enough anyway, but if you are the athletic type and feel a little more resistance would help you gain a little more from your workouts and training then the is new Powerwheel could be the perfect gadget to add to your bike if you have a spare $1200.

Source: Powerwheel : Gizmag