Probably not that interesting and maybe not that uncommon. I switched to dual sided power meter pedals somewhat recently. I’d had them years ago so new I had a bit of an imbalance.
After a few rides, I definitely noticed power imbalance average to being as big as 55/45 and usually in the vicinity of 53/47ish or so. A MTB ride showed pretty close to 50/50 which with MTB there’s a lot of standing so that makes more sense. I had a recovery ride which was way out of whack so I wasn’t sure about that.
But yesterday I did an indoor vo2 max ride and a potential pattern arose. Almost 50/50 during the hard intervals but pretty unbalanced during recovery
Whether I can/will/should address this is TBD.
My right side which is the underpowered side has always been my side that gives me more trouble. Stiff ankle and knee from minor childhood injury. Along with a tighter hip flexor and lower back pain if I don’t keep up with mobility and strength work.
I think what you’re describing is pretty common. Higher power intervals usually get closer to 50/50.
I found I have a leg length discrepancy and fixed it with a shim. Power is much closer to 50/50 across all riding now. Mobility and strength work is also a must to keep myself in balance these days.
Very common. Nothing to really worry about unless it causes a physical issue. Faster cadence usually makes the imbalance more equal as you noted. A fitter can make some suggestions that “might” help correct your imbalance.
In 2022 I completely tore the conjoined tendon of my left hamstring with 2 cm of retraction at the tear. In November of 2023 I had a labral tear repaired in my hip, also on my left leg.
Oddly enough, I’ve had both dual sided power meter pedals and a dual sized crank based power meter in two other bikes since then, and they have always shown between 50/50 or 49/51. I credit it to being an avid weightlifter for over 20 years and continuing through as part of rehab and since all the injuries.
If you lift weights, I’d suggest a lot of single leg/isolation type exercises to see where you’re at. Not a big deal, but if it’s something you wanted to address.
At home, I have dumbbells so I do primarily single leg type exercises. I probably need to do more strength work though. But I do notice less strength in my right leg
Yeah. At this point, no real issues. But as with most cyclists, I probably good do with some more mobility work and maybe do some focusing on my right hip flexor and lower back.