Assioma PRO RL1 vs RL2: Which One to Buy?

If you’re thinking about upgrading your cycling setup with a power meter, you’ve probably come across the Assioma PRO series. Favero has built a strong reputation for accuracy and reliability, and these pedals are widely used by both amateur and serious cyclists. But one question comes up again and again: Should you choose RL1 or RL2?

At first, they look very similar. Both are pedal-based power meters, both are easy to install, and both give you accurate data. But the real difference lies in how much detail you get—and how much you actually need. Let’s break it down in a simple, practical way so you can make the right decision.

What Are the RL1 and RL2?

The Favero Assioma PRO RL1 and Favero Assioma PRO RL2 are both pedal-based systems that measure your power output directly from your bike. That means they calculate how much force you apply while pedaling and convert it into watts. This is one of the most accurate ways to track cycling performance.
The key difference is simple:
The RL1 measures power from one leg and estimates your total output.
The RL2 measures both legs independently and combines the data.

That single difference changes how much insight you get from your rides.

Single-Sided vs Dual-Sided: What It Really Means

With the Favero Assioma PRO RL1, the system reads power from one side—usually your left leg—and then doubles it to estimate total power. For many riders, this works perfectly fine. If your pedaling is fairly balanced, the estimate is very close to your actual output. The Favero Assioma PRO RL2 takes things a step further. It measures both legs separately, giving you a more complete picture of how you’re riding. This allows you to see if one leg is working harder than the other, which can be useful for improving efficiency or identifying imbalances.

Accuracy: Does RL2 Make a Big Difference?

Both models are accurate and reliable. Favero is known for consistent performance, and you can trust the data from either option. However, the RL2 has an advantage because it doesn’t rely on estimation. It measures both sides directly, so the data is naturally more precise. That said, the difference is not always noticeable for everyday riders. If your pedaling is balanced, the RL1 can still provide very useful and accurate data. The extra accuracy of RL2 becomes more important when you start focusing on detailed performance analysis.

Training with RL1: Simple and Effective

The Favero Assioma PRO RL1 is often the best starting point for most cyclists. It gives you all the essential data you need to train effectively. You can track your power, follow training zones, and measure progress over time. For riders who want to improve fitness, build endurance, or train consistently, RL1 does the job without adding complexity. It keeps things simple, which is actually a benefit when you’re just getting started with power-based training.

Training with RL2: More Insight, More Control

The Favero Assioma PRO RL2 is designed for riders who want deeper insights into their performance. Because it measures both legs, you can see how balanced your pedaling is. This can help you improve efficiency and avoid over-relying on one side. For competitive cyclists or those following structured training plans, this extra data can be very valuable. It allows you to refine your technique, not just track your effort.

Real-World Difference: Will You Notice It?

This is where many riders get confused. In everyday riding, the difference between RL1 and RL2 is not always dramatic. Both will show your power, help you train, and track your progress. The difference becomes more noticeable when you start analyzing your performance in detail. If you’re not planning to dive into advanced metrics, RL1 will likely feel just as effective. If you enjoy data, tracking, and fine-tuning your performance, RL2 offers more to explore.

Budget: A Practical Consideration

Price is an important factor for most people. The Favero Assioma PRO RL1 is more affordable, making it a great entry point into power-based training. The Favero Assioma PRO RL2 costs more because it includes additional sensors and provides more detailed data. The key question is whether you will actually use that extra data. If not, RL1 gives you better value for money.

Ease of Use: Both Are Beginner-Friendly

One of the best things about Assioma pedals is how easy they are to use. Installation is simple—you just replace your existing pedals. There’s no complicated setup or special tools required. Both RL1 and RL2 connect easily to cycling computers and apps. Once paired, they start working immediately. This makes them suitable even for riders who are new to power meters.

Upgrade Option: Start Small, Grow Later

One advantage of choosing RL1 is that you’re not locked in. You can start with the Favero Assioma PRO RL1 and upgrade later by adding the second pedal to convert it into a dual-sided system. This makes RL1 a flexible choice. You can begin with a lower investment and expand when you feel the need.

Which One Should You Choose?

The decision really depends on your goals. If you want a straightforward way to track power, improve your riding, and train more effectively, RL1 is more than enough. If you’re more serious about performance, enjoy analyzing data, or want to refine your technique, RL2 gives you additional insights that can help. Both are excellent products. The difference is not about quality—it’s about how much detail you want.

Final Thoughts

The Favero Assioma PRO RL1 and Favero Assioma PRO RL2 are among the best pedal-based power meters available in 2026. They are accurate, reliable, and easy to use. Choosing between them is not about right or wrong—it’s about what fits your needs. If you prefer simplicity and value, RL1 is a smart choice. If you want deeper insights and long-term performance analysis, RL2 is worth the extra investment. Either way, you’re upgrading your training in a meaningful way.