Mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor sports in the world. MTB cranksets are a key component of every mountain bike because they transfer power from your body into motion. Chain Reactions Guide to MTB can help you understand mountain biking even more! MTB’s come in all shapes and sizes, so no two pairs of cranksets will be exactly alike. The best bike crank set for you depends on a few things:
1. What type of terrain you’ll be riding
2. How often you ride
3. What kind of style fits your personality best.
Mountain biking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, explore new places and keep fit. They are built for use on rugged terrain with large knobby tires. Tires that can handle rough roads, off-road trails of all types, and obstacles like rocks or logs easily. MTB cranksets are different than other bike crankset types. They’re designed to be used in an environment where they may be exposed to dirt or water.
Here is How to Remove and Install a Crankset!
In this article, we will discuss the 5 best MTB cranks so you can choose one that fits what you need!
Best Mountain Bike Cranks to Buy Now:
1. SRAM GX Eagle Dub Crankset
Crank Arm Length: 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
CHAINRING MATERIAL: Aluminum
Rings: 30T, 32T, 34T
Pros:
• The best option for the weight you’re looking for
• The perfect stiffness
• Strong enough to work with any bike and is affordable
• Comes in a wide range of arm lengths and replacement ring options
Cons:
• The 42t do have a lot of power to get up the steepest rock faces. But if you’re into tackling more technical climbs then the 52t is for you.
• Dub Axel doesn’t fit the 30 mm bottom bracket.
GX Eagle is a good balance between price and performance. It has smooth chain transitions thanks to its X-SYNC 2 “double scoop” chain tooth profile. This crank also offers security when you ride it on rough terrain or overworn down models. Learn more about riding on rough terrains from this guide by Bike Radar. It is easy to install and comes in different sizes (30-34T). You can also buy elliptical aftermarket rings from steel or aluminum which are almost indestructible.
The DUB axle is a good choice for anyone who needs more clearance. The bearings are long-lasting and the finish of this product won’t rub off. It’s not heavy, too, so you get more life with less weight on your bike. If it gets scratched or scuffed over time that won’t affect how well these cranks work in the future, one of the features of being one of the best MTB cranks!
You need to get this because not only does the 165mm crank length have a shorter arm length that is better suited for individuals with short legs or lower bottom brackets, but they’re also rare and affordable!
2. Shimano SLX M7100 Crankset
Weight: 631g
Chain Line: 52mm
Rings: 30T, 32T, 34T
Pros:
• Deep arms and chunky spider makes this crankset solid
• 3D-pocket chainring has a range of 24mm axle which is great for big bearings
• Built with SLX (or XT) double chainrings, 12 speed compatible with the same proven narrow-wide tooth profile as before
• Shorter width Q-Factor than 172mm
Cons:
• Too many spacing standards that confuse the bikers
• No evidence of long time durability data
Shimano made its cheapest option, the SLX groupset, even more, affordable for riders who want to save money. This group set is now 12-speed and has a redesigned chainring. The four-arm spider that holds all the gears is actually part of Shimano’s new system for all three groupsets from Shimano.
This feels solid underfoot because of the chunky spider, deep arms and the 3D chainrings. The 24mm steel axle lets you re-use existing Shimano or compatible bottom brackets. SLX is available in 30-, 34-, 36-, 40,-42 tooth sizes to match your gear choice. But it only comes with double chainrings because of the narrower Q factor of 172 mm. Compared to XT at 175 x 178mm widths between pedals respectively on size medium framesets; both are 12 speed equipped though!
The new Shimano XT crankset is the latest in mountain bike technology, and one of the best mountain bike cranks in the market. It has a shorter width Q-factor than what is normal and more power. The crank can work with SLX or XT double chainrings so that your gearing stays reliable no matter the terrain you are cycling on. It also has deep arm cups and a chunky spider, which means it will be durable over time.
If you’re less about weight and more about experiencing a workhorse transmission from Shimano, get your hands on this crankset now!
3. FSA Afterburner CK Modular Crankset
Weight: 794g
Crank Arm Length: 175mm
Rings: 30T, 32T, 34T
Pros:
• 50% lighter than the FSA SL-K
• Incredible durability with hollow aluminum crankarms
• 20-tooth godet for lower gearing to conquer difficult terrain easier
• Integrated sealed cartridge bearings and angular contact bearing design result in a more reliable, smoother ride.
Cons:
- Relatively heavy than other cranksets
- Initially, the rings can be gummed / sticky
I like the Afterburner. It is an FSA bike and it has been around for a long time. The price was too high before, but now it is available in 12-speed versions, which people want. The latest version of this bike has arms made out of 6061 alloy with a Chromoly steel spindle. It will make the bike last a long time and stay lightweight so it can handle anything you need on your next ride.
New cyclists often find themselves confused when trying to choose a chainring size. Luckily, there are many sizes and compatibility options to choose from. FSA MegaExo bottom brackets offer riders peace of mind because they last well and fit on all frame types – from mountain bikes with 29-inch wheels up through road bicycles that use 700c size rims!
With prices reduced, the only potential issue is weight. If you can deal with its heft for improved longevity, it’s for you and it’s worth buying!
4. SRAM Eagle XX1 DUB SL Crankset
Weight: 434g
Arms: 165, 170, 175 (mm)
Rings: 30T – 38T
Pros:
• Get more power, better wear, and a smoother feel
• A perfect mix of speed and strength
• Won’t need to buy a new chainring anytime soon
• Less noise, less drag
Cons:
- Heavier than SRAM X01
- Will deliver what it promises, but at the top cost
SRAM XX1 DUB Chainset is a product that has improved a lot. SRAM’s past versions were more flexible than other brands. But now, they have new arms and also the bottom bracket design. This means that even if you are stomping off of the start-line, these cranks will feel solid underfoot, perks of one of the best mountain bike cranks!
SRAM’s new X-SYNC 2 tooth profile on the direct mount rings is very smooth and efficient. We have been using it long enough to start believing that this will reduce chain wear. There are only 30-38T options for direct mounts available from Race Face now, but they are good for most people with power users all the way down to spinners.
The XX1 X01 cranks are available for riders who want to choose their bike’s bottom bracket. The 165mm arm length is designed specifically for shorter leg people and the DUB Bottom Brackets can fit any type of bicycle. If you like rough terrain, these might be a better choice!
5. SRAM XX BB30 Crankset
WEIGHT: 694g
CRANK LENGTH: 175mm
RINGS: 26T / 39T
Pros:
- Customizable crankarm sizes to fit any bike
- Pedal stance width options of 156mm, 164mm, and 166mm – Weight as low as 694g for the BB30 version and 754g for GXP
Cons:
- It Will cost you a decent amount of money for the features it offers
The new SRAM bottom brackets have an outer shell that is unidirectional and made out of aluminum. It is stable, stiff, and durable. It contains a foam core that isolates vibration to make the ride smoother for longer trips on your bike. All three models come with hybrid ceramic bearings as standard equipment- this helps to eliminate noise from getting into the bearings during long rides or races!
SRAM’s latest invention is, the XXX BB30 crankset has been made for bike riders who need light equipment and want chain control. It has been designed to give maximum control over the chain and to be lightweight as well, with alternating thickness between inner links and outer links, made out of carbon arms connected to the forged aluminum spider. This part includes a weight-saving construction that reduces rotating mass without sacrificing pedaling performance or durability – perfect for gravity-style bike riders!
The SRAM XX BB30 is one of the best mountain bike cranks for trail riders and racers with a lightweight double. The new technology ensures that you can both climb up hills fast, as well as maintain your max speed on the flats. If you are a rider who prefers a less heavy crankset and doesn’t have a problem with the budget, then The SRAM XX BB30 is for you!
Factors to Take into Account: Crank Length, Chainrings, and Bottom Brackets
The selection of crank length, chainrings, and bottom brackets bears profound significance when it comes to shaping your mountain biking escapades. The dimension of the crank length directly influences the delivery of power, and seasoned riders often opt for shorter crank arms, such as the renowned 170mm size, to optimize the transfer of power. Chainrings, existing in a plethora of sizes, demand careful consideration, as the appropriate gear ratio plays a pivotal role in harmonizing with your riding style and the specific terrain you frequently traverse.
As for the bottom brackets, they play a momentous role in uniting the crankset to the frame, ensuring a seamless rotation and the transfer of power. Your choice of bottom bracket standards, encompassing the likes of BB30, GXP, or DUB, hinges on the compatibility with your bike frame and your individual inclinations. Prioritizing premium-grade bottom brackets will safeguard against untimely wear and tear, preserving peak performance levels.
Materials and Crank Boots: Striking a Balance Between Weight and Durability
Mountain bike cranks encompass a diverse array of materials, each characterized by its distinctive attributes. Noteworthy among them are aluminum cranks, which deftly balance weight reduction and cost-effectiveness, making them an enticing prospect for many riders. Conversely, carbon fiber cranks, exemplified by the SRAM X01 Eagle DUB Carbon, proffer matchless weight diminishment without conceding an inch on durability.
In an endeavor to protect your valuable investment, it is prudent to contemplate the inclusion of crank boots to your crankset. These unpretentious yet highly effective accessories function as formidable shields against rock strikes and impacts, preserving the structural integrity of your cranks and protracting their service life.
Ground Clearance and Stiffness: Critical Considerations
When tackling formidable terrains, the matter of ground clearance assumes paramount importance in mitigating strikes on rugged trails. Among mountain biking aficionados, the 170mm crank length stands out as a favored choice, meticulously striking a harmonious balance between ground clearance and pedal stroke efficiency.
Furthermore, the matter of stiffness demands discerning attention, particularly for riders who ardently seek to maximize power delivery. However, striking a suitable equilibrium is imperative, for excessive stiffness may lead to an uncompromising and discomforting ride, especially when traversing on hardtail mountain bikes. Discerning the appropriate level of stiffness, tailored to complement your unique riding style, emerges as a momentous factor in achieving the ideal equilibrium between power transfer and comfort.
Leading Brands in the Realm of Aftermarket Crankset Upgrades
The expanse of the aftermarket mountain bike components market brims with alluring offerings from esteemed brands, each vying to captivate riders with their superior performance and cutting-edge designs. Noteworthy among these preeminent manufacturers are Shimano, SRAM, Race Face, E*Thirteen, Hope, and Cane Creek. Perusing the panoply of choices presented by these reputable brands during your crankset upgrade endeavor is bound to elevate your riding experience to unprecedented heights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you mix Shimano components with each other?
Ans: You’ll always want to double-check with the components that you’re working with but Shimano is pretty good at making their componentry interchangeable. But, there’s a catch: what you need to look for are parts that share the same gear configuration. Granted this was true then it would be safe enough to mix some different product sets together; like if your favorite brand happens to be Shimano and they have all of these slick products lined up in one place. Source
Q: What to look for when buying a mountain bike crank?
Ans: The quality and smoothness and pedaling is very important for a bike crankset. The more a crank can incorporate chainrings and gears, the smooth the crank will be. The chain and the crank itself mostly controls the pedaling. The quality of a crank will determine how smooth the pedaling is which will result in more speed effortlessly.
Cost is another important factor while buying a crankset. Is it worth the price it’s asking for? Can it perform up to the mark? Ask yourself these questions before buying yourself a crankset. You should also remember that the lower budget cranks will perform accordingly. If you want to know more, check this guide out.
Q: Will I need a new bottom bracket?
Ans: This is an important purchasing decision. The costs of the above single-speed cranks that do not come with one should be considered. If you can get an all-in-one set it will be positive.
You don’t need to replace your bottom brackets when you install a new crankset, but you should double-check to make sure it fits. There are threaded bottom brackets for a 24mm diameter axle. Source
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