Kona Blast 2009 - New Crankset and Chainring recommendations

Wacky Racer

Hi all,

Looking for a bit of help.

I bought a 2009 Kona Blast last October, done plenty of miles on it, I use it mainly for training and lighter off-road through wood trails and local bridle paths where a full-suss isn't necessary. I do alot of climbing, it's very hilly where I live.

I always planned to upgrade a few components once the wear set in. The first to go were the nasty cheap pedals and grips, and the rest to be changed as it wears out. I fully expected to be changing the Dart 2 Shocks first, they aren't the best but the damn things are still going strong, so will leave them until they die. The first signs of wear are on the chainrings, the metal is a bit on the soft side, and some teeth have had some abuse, it has been ridden pretty hard.

The crank arms are FSA Alpha Drive.
The Chain ring is 42/32/22.
Bottom bracket is FSA Powerdrive.

I really haven't got a strict budget in mind, but bearing in mind this is a £500 bike it is pointless spending ridiculous fortunes, but the frame is a cracker and deserves better. I want something which will take plenty of abuse and won't wear out like the factory fit. Can anyone recommend something which is a straight fit, and also advise whether I would be best to change out the BB while I am at it.

Thanks in advance of any replies.

supersonic

Have a look at the Deore M532 with external bottom bracket for about 60 quid. Though I'd wait until the bottom bracket dies. Is a relatively tough and stiff crankset.

supersonic

Have a look at the Deore M532 with external bottom bracket for about 60 quid. Though I'd wait until the bottom bracket dies. Is a relatively tough and stiff crankset.

Wacky Racer

Thanks Supersonic. Just a thought while I am doing this, the crankarms I have at the mo are a tad longer than is ideal for me, and I have on the odd occasion ground out on cut tree trunks, does the Deore you recommend come in a slightly shorter arm? If so how short would you go without affecting my pedal power?

supersonic

You can't get them any lower than 170 anyway (deore). The leverage does change slightly, but for many is unnoticable. Lower profile pedals are an option too.

Wacky Racer

Thanks, I have just had a quick google and see they come in 170 and 175, so it looks as though 170 is my best option. Will shop around online tomorrow and place an order. Low profile pedals are maybe something for me to consider later on, mores the pity because I changed out the crummy fitted ones for Sandersons flats fixed bearings, which are fantastic pedals for me, but a little bit fat. I'll get some wear from them before I change again, but will see what difference the 170's make first.

Again, cheers for the good advice.