Apparatus and methods for use in measurement of applied load at a chainring assemblage of a pedal powered device are provided. The apparatus includes a link adapted for interposition between a chainring attachment site located on a conventional chainring mount, or spider, and a corresponding chainring attachment locale at a conventional chainring. The link has a geometry and/or material composition selected to accommodate measurement of load exhibited between the attachment site and the corresponding chainring attachment locale. Means for measuring the load exhibited thereby is associated with the link.