Cycling Power-to-Weight (W/kg) Calculator
Calculate FTP power-to-weight ratio and find your cyclist classification (recreational to world-class).
What this calculates
W/kg — watts produced per kilogram of bodyweight — is the single best predictor of climbing performance. A 200W cyclist at 60 kg outclimbs a 250W cyclist at 85 kg. This calculator uses functional threshold power (FTP) divided by bodyweight, with classifications from Coggan's tiers.
Formula & how it works
W/kg = FTP (watts) ÷ bodyweight (kg). Coggan male tiers (1-hour power): <2.5 untrained, 2.5-3.0 fair, 3.0-3.7 moderate, 3.7-4.4 good, 4.4-5.1 very good, 5.1-5.8 excellent, 5.8+ world class. Subtract ~0.5 for women's tiers.
Worked example
FTP 280 W, weight 72 kg → 3.89 W/kg — 'good' category 4 racer level.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my FTP?
20-min all-out test × 0.95 is the classic. Modern smart trainers (Zwift, TrainerRoad) estimate it from ramp tests.
Does W/kg matter on flats?
Less — pure watts and aerodynamics dominate. W/kg rules on climbs above 5% gradient.
Quick gains?
Lose fat without losing power is the fastest W/kg lever. 3 kg off a 75 kg rider raises W/kg by ~4%.