Hey, I’m Marco
I ride year-round in northern Minnesota — including the long, dark winters when my basement turns into a pain cave and Zwift becomes my social life. CafeWatts is where I write about the cycling tech I actually use, test, and obsess over.
Why CafeWatts?
The name is simple: “café” for the post-ride coffee culture that keeps cyclists talking, and “watts” for the number that drives every training decision. I started this site because I was tired of reviews that just repeat spec sheets. I wanted to write the kind of honest, real-world takes I wish I’d found when I was researching my own gear.
What I Cover
I focus on three areas of cycling tech: smart trainers (direct drive, wheel-on, and everything in between), power meters (pedal-based, crank, and hub options), and cycling computers (GPS head units from Garmin, Wahoo, and others). These are the tools that have made the biggest difference in my own riding, and they’re where I can offer genuine, experience-based insight.
I test gear in my actual training — 5 AM sessions on the trainer before work, weekend gravel rides, and long base-building blocks through a Minnesota winter. Every review reflects real miles and real opinions, not borrowed talking points.
My Approach
I believe in being straight with you. If a product is great, I’ll tell you why. If it’s overpriced or overhyped, I’ll tell you that too. I compare gear against what else is available at similar price points, and I always try to answer the question that actually matters: is this worth your money?
I use AI tools to help with research and drafting, but every recommendation is mine. I only suggest products I’d ride with myself.
Affiliate Disclosure
CafeWatts participates in the Amazon Associates program and other affiliate partnerships. When you buy through my links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This keeps the site running and the content free. You can read the full details on my Affiliate Disclosure page.
Get in Touch
Got a question about a product? Want to suggest something I should review? I’d love to hear from you — drop me a line at hello@cafewatts.com or visit the Contact page.
Thanks for reading. Clip in, power up, and ride smart.