Favero Assioma DUO-Shi In-Depth Review: The Best Power Meter Solution for Shimano Cleats

Favero Assioma DUO-Shi In-Depth Review

For a long time, Shimano SPD-SL cleat users have had limited choices when it comes to pedal-based power meters. Favero’s launch of the Assioma DUO-Shi officially solves this pain point — integrating the well-regarded Assioma power measurement technology with a Shimano cleat interface.

Product Positioning and Background

Favero is an Italian sports technology company, and the Assioma series has been known for high precision at a reasonable price since its launch. The original Assioma DUO used the Look Keo cleat system, which kept many Shimano users away. With the release of the DUO-Shi, riders in the Shimano camp can finally enjoy the advantages of Assioma.

Full Specifications

Differences from the Original Assioma DUO

The roughly NT$4,000 price difference mainly reflects Shimano licensing fees and the different structural design costs of the pedal.

Unboxing and Installation

Box Contents

• Assioma DUO-Shi pedals × 2 (left/right)
• Magnetic charging dock × 1
• USB-C charging cable × 1
• Cleats (Shimano SM-SH12, blue 2° float) × 1 set
• Installation manual
• Pedal spacers × 2 (optional)

Installation Steps

1. Remove the old pedals: Use a 15mm open-end wrench or an 8mm hex key
2. Clean the threads: Wipe the crank arm threads with a dry cloth to remove old grease
3. Apply grease: Apply a thin layer to the pedal spindle threads
4. Identify left and right: The left pedal has reverse threading (tighten counterclockwise), the right pedal has standard threading
5. Thread by hand: Turn the pedal in by hand a few turns first to confirm the threads are engaging correctly
6. Tighten to torque: Tighten with a wrench to 35-40 Nm
7. First charge: It is recommended to fully charge before first use

Note: The installation process is exactly the same as with regular pedals — no special tools or extra setup are required.

App Setup and Calibration

Favero Assioma App

1. Download the Favero Assioma App (iOS/Android)
2. Turn on Bluetooth and rotate the crank to wake the pedals
3. The app will automatically detect and pair
4. Perform a static calibration: position the crank at the 6 o’clock position, making sure there is no load on the pedal
5. Set personal parameters: crank length, body weight

Pairing with Bike Computers

• Garmin: Sensors → Add Sensor → Power → Auto Search
• Wahoo: Sensors → + → Power Meter → Auto Search
• Hammerhead Karoo: Settings → Sensors → Add → Power Meter

Simultaneous ANT+ and Bluetooth connections are supported, so data can be sent to a bike computer and a phone app at the same time.

Real-World Ride Test Data

Test Conditions

• Route: Fenghuang Zui (toward Yangjin Highway), approximately 9.5 km with about 480m of climbing
• Control: Quarq DZero crank-based power meter
• Temperature: 22-28°C

Data Comparison

The differences are all within 1-2%, fully consistent with the officially claimed ±1% accuracy. Considering that the pedal-based measurement point is upstream of the crankset (before any drivetrain losses occur), the slightly higher readings are entirely reasonable.

Long-Term Usage Impressions (6 Months)

Pros

• Zero calibration drift: With a static calibration before each ride, data consistency has been excellent over six months
• Very convenient charging: The magnetic charging dock only needs to be used about once a month
• Natural pedaling feel: Almost indistinguishable from stock Shimano pedals, with good clip-in/clip-out feel
• Firmware updates: Favero continues to push firmware improvements via the app
• Reliable water resistance: No issues across multiple rides in the rain

Areas for Improvement

• Slightly higher price: NT$4,000 more expensive than the Look Keo version
• Slightly wider Q-Factor: At 54mm, about 1mm wider than stock Shimano pedals — most people won’t notice the difference
• Charging dock is easy to misplace: The small magnetic charging dock is easy to lose — it’s a good idea to keep it in a dedicated spot in your toolbox

Comparison with the Garmin Rally RS200

The two are priced the same, but the Assioma has a slight edge in weight and charging convenience, while Garmin has the advantage in ecosystem integration.

Buying Recommendation

The Favero Assioma DUO-Shi is currently the best pedal-based power meter option for Shimano cleat users. If you’re already used to the Shimano SPD-SL system and don’t want to switch cleat systems just to get a power meter, the DUO-Shi is designed for you. Reliable accuracy, simple installation, and cross-bike compatibility make it an unbeatable value at the NT$32,000 price point.

Related Reading

• In-Depth Analysis of Bicycle Power Meter Pedals: Garmin Rally vs Favero Assioma vs Wahoo Speedplay
• 2024 Power Meter Buying Guide: Which Power Meter Best Fits Your Budget and Needs
• Power Meter Buying Guide: Comparing Pedal, Crank, and Hub-Based Options
• The Complete Guide to Cleats and Pedal Systems: Choosing Between SPD-SL, Look, and Speedplay