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.

 

[MotivationSeeker]

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.

I've been reading up on FTP testing and your point about matching the test to where you intend to train really stood out. Is the cooling difference indoors the main reason the numbers usually come out lower, or do the interruptions outdoors matter just as much?

 

[Norry1]

I've been reading up on FTP testing and your point about matching the test to where you intend to train really stood out. Is the cooling difference indoors the main reason the numbers usually come out lower, or do the interruptions outdoors matter just as much?

There are many differing opinions on this one. Some say cooling, some say motivation, some say different mechanics (inertia etc.). When I had a coach, he would get me to do a 30 minute test and then edge that down a couple of watts - to give me an estimated FTP.

My indoor FTP is between 10 and 20 watts lower. I think mechanics is the difference for me, but who knows?

I can also put out more power uphills, and especially standing so I'd suggest seated only and no big hills.

 

[Pblakeney]

I've been reading up on FTP testing and your point about matching the test to where you intend to train really stood out. Is the cooling difference indoors the main reason the numbers usually come out lower, or do the interruptions outdoors matter just as much?

I'd say outdoors interruptions matter more. That said FTP is really only useful for training programs otherwise it is just a target to try and raise.
Indoor training is easier to control as there is no wind, traffic, or junctions. FWIW, I train indoors and ride recreationally for pleasure outdoors.
Unless you are racing that is the whole point IMO.