power-to-weight ratio

Definition

The amount of power you can generate relative to your body mass, typically measured in watts per kilogram. The holy grail metric for cyclists and climbers who understand that physics is unimpressed by absolute strength.

Example Usage

His power-to-weight ratio of 5.2 W/kg explained why he could dance up mountains while larger riders suffered existentially.

Origin

Cycling performance analysis, gained prominence with power meter technology in the 1990s

Fun Fact

Professional Tour de France climbers can sustain power-to-weight ratios above 6 W/kg, which is roughly equivalent to a household toaster running continuously while being carried uphill.

Source: Cycling performance metrics and sports science

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