newbie crank question

5pudgun
5pudgun Posts: 402
edited August 2010 in Road beginners
Hi,I see cranks come in various sizes from 170 to 177, maybe others too. Can anyone explain what difference a few mm makes to your cranks.What are the benefits of different lengths :?

Comments

  • cougie
    cougie Posts: 22,512
    In my experience - they dont really make a difference and most of us couldnt spot the difference anyway.

    If your legs are longer than average - maybe go higher than 170.

    If you are a short arse - go lower.

    If you're stuck on a bike that may not have the right length - I wouldnt worry. Wear thicker or thinner socks.

    :-)
  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    As a very general guide, height in cm = crank length in mm. Most bikes come equipped with 170s or 175s. Track riders generally ride 165mm cranks to allow then to spin easier and prevent grounding on the banked tracks. Likewise, you'll find some TT riders using 180s. A lot depends on your own pedalling style and strength. I have a combination of 165s and 170s across my bikes - I mainly notice the difference when riding a fixed gear - I can ride faster downhill on shorter cranks because it's easier to spin.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • datpat64
    datpat64 Posts: 85
    I've changed from 175 which came with my bike to much shorter 170 on an FSA upgrade. I really prefer the feel of the shorter cranlks and although I'm certain it's only mind over matter, think they're slightly easier on hills too

    They somehow seem tighter and there's adefinate feel of easier spinning

    Having said that 5 mm will have virtually no difference in your bike set up so it might just be a mind thing........who knows !

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