FTP test outdoors.

[Binky]

Bike I've got on order comes with a power meter so I'd like to do a FTP test to give me some better idea of riding with it. I don't have a smart trainer(I do have a dumb one) so I was wondering how effective/easy it is to do a FTP test outdoors.
I have a Wahoo Bolt v1 so that's the head unit I'll be using so I'm wondering how best to go about it. There is a 20 minute FTP workout plan on it so use that? Hill wise, I don't really have a 20minute climb near me, most are short and steep.

Or am I better off just using dumb trainer indoors?

 

[ivegotabike]

I would start with a test on the trainer and then try one outdoors as well. It doesn't need to be uphill all the time. Ideally it will be a route where you don't need to stop (no level crossings for instance). When you have the power number from the indoor test, try riding at that power on various roads that you know. That may help you find a route. Also, don't expect your indoor and outdoor FTP to be exactly the same.

 

[Mr.B-Campag]

A ten mile (or a 25 depending on how quick you are) time trial will give you the basis for a pretty good estimate...A 20 minute climb works nicely, but will likely give you a higher estimate that what you can maintain on the flat due to muscle activation being slightly higher iirc (and possibly also a psychological component).

 

[Ming the Merciless]

What is the longest hill you have? You could do the 2 x 8 min test. Alternately something flattish but without any junctions or lights to interrupt and quiet can work. Indoors often underestimates because of lack of cooling. But the FTP test should match where you intend to train, indoors or outdoors.