Shimano Crankset

garetjax

I need a new crankset on my bike. I currently have Shimano Deore XT (
Shimano M-760 XT Hollow Tech II, 2-piece crank/BB).
My LBS suggests replacing this with Deore (Shimano Deore Hollowtech Crankset (M540) which is alot cheaper.

I don't race, but I do like to push it a bit. I MTB most weekends and do Merida events e.t.c. Do you think downgrading to Deore would be noticeable in terms of performance and robustness? If I can afford it should I stump up the cash and replace XT with XT?

Thanks

skyd0g

Why a whole new crankset? Can't you just replace the rings? :?

supersonic

Probably be more robust, as a bit of extra weight in there!

k2rider

why not go for slx? then again im with skydog why not just replace the worn rings, unless of course the bb is worn as well.

garetjax

There was a very slight noise ( like a slight, mild rumble) when we turned the pedals, and so the option of a whole new crankset was put forward.

I had the bearings in that bottom bracket replaced just 6 months ago. I had wondered if they had done it quite right as I became aware of a slight noise, but it has been working ok.

Maybe I will just ask for the chain rings to be replaced as advised. I don't really like downgrading, beats the point of buying a nice spec bike in the first place.

As an aside is changing a crankset a difficult job to do? I am trying to learn more about bike maintenance myself, but i've not tried changing cranksets as yet.

nicklouse

garetjax
just get another set of bearings if that is all that is worn.

6 months is OK.

warrerj

While your at it find a new LBS !! They shouldn't tell you to buy a new crank if all you need is a new bottom bracket (bearings).

I bought 1 yesterday £34.99. Could have get it cheaper on line but needed in for today.

nferrar

Yeah your LBS doesn't sound like they're giving good advice. I'd def look at the BB first (6 months is fairly long for some BBs to survive, mine lasted about 3 months inc. a couple of Meridas). If you were changing chainsets I'd go for SLX to, stiffer than plain Deore + XT and not far off XT's weight.

supersonic

Are the chainrings worn?

paul.skibum

If the problem is a noise from the BB then dont change the rings and dont buy rings from your LBS - they are expensive from bike shops - best bought from CRC or similar.

BB change over is relatively simple with the right tools - particularly the hollowtech II cranks - you need a tool which costs about 12 quid and it takes maybe 20 mins to remove and replace the BB.

I'd suggest a new BB and the tool bought on line then spend a bit of time learning how to replace it - the shimano instructions are pretty good to follow - can be found on line or come with new BB.