Upgrading your mountain bike cranks is a great way to improve your bike. Different or better cranks can improve your mountain biking experience, but there are a few things to know before you buy some.

In this article, we'll go through the benefits of upgrading mountain bike cranks and the considerations before you hand your money over.

Upgrading your cranks can lead to tangible improvements in performance. Lighter, stiffer cranks can enhance power transfer, responsiveness, and overall efficiency. Investing in high-performance cranks can make a noticeable difference if you want to keep up with your riding buddies or easily conquer challenging climbs.

Every rider has a unique riding style and preferences. Stock cranks that come with your bike may not fully align with your needs. Whether you prefer aggressive descents, technical climbs, or all-day endurance rides, customising your cranks allows you to tailor your bike to your specific riding style. Adjusting crank length, gear ratios, and materials can optimise comfort, efficiency, and control on the trails.

Regular use can wear down your bike's components, including the cranks. Signs of wear, such as creaking, flexing, or visible damage, indicate it may be time for a replacement. Upgrading to new cranks ensures reliable performance, reduces the risk of mechanical issues, and maintains the integrity of your bike's drivetrain.

High-end mountain bike cranks can provide additional features. A great example of this is a crankset with integrated power meters. Power meters such as the ROTOR 2INpower MTB DM give you accurate data on your pedalling performance. Therefore, you can make the necessary adjustments and improvements to become a better mountain biker.

Before you start researching new mountain bike cranks, you need to know what to look for. Here's everything you should consider when shopping for mountain bike cranks:

Cranksets are the mechanical link between your pedalling power and the bike's drivetrain. They consist of crank arms, chainrings, and a bottom bracket. These components work together to transfer your leg power into forward motion.

Mountain bike cranks are commonly made from aluminium, steel, carbon fibre, or a combination of these materials. Aluminium cranks strike a balance between weight, stiffness, and cost. Carbon fibre cranks are lighter but come with a higher price tag. When selecting materials, consider your budget and riding style.

The length of your cranks affects your pedalling efficiency and comfort. Also, if your bike is fitted with cranks that don't suit your leg length, you can experience pain and injuries over time. 

Most mountain bikes come with crank arms ranging from 165mm to 175mm. Shorter arms offer quicker cadence but may sacrifice leverage, while longer arms provide more power but can feel sluggish. We recommend booking a bike fitting appointment at a good bike shop. They will take crucial measurements to ensure you fit the correct length cranks to your mountain bike.

Ensure your chosen cranks are compatible with your bike's bottom bracket. Common standards include threaded, press-fit, and BB30. It is incredibly frustrating when you buy a new bike component that doesn't fit. Therefore, choosing the correct interface is essential to avoid compatibility issues and ensure smooth pedalling. 

If you're thinking about changing your cranks and chainrings at the same time, consider the number of teeth on your chainrings to match your riding terrain and style. Smaller chainrings provide easier climbing gears, while larger ones offer higher speeds on flats and descents. Opt for a setup that suits your local trails. You may also want to check out oval chainrings to make your pedalling more accessible and efficient.

Pay attention to the spindle interface, which connects the crank arms to the bottom bracket. There are a number of standard interfaces, including square taper, Octalink, and ISIS. Choose a system that matches your bottom bracket for seamless integration.

If you're serious about training and performance analysis, consider cranks compatible with power meters or ones with power meters already built in. These devices measure your power output in real time, helping you optimise training and track progress. Ensure your chosen cranks support your preferred power meter system.

Balancing weight savings with durability is crucial, especially for cross-country riders. Lightweight cranks can enhance climbing and acceleration but may sacrifice longevity, especially under aggressive riding. Opt for a sturdy build if you prioritise durability over weight savings. This is where material choices come in; as mentioned earlier, materials affect price and performance.

Set a budget that aligns with your riding goals and preferences. While high-end cranks offer premium features and materials, budget-friendly options can deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank. Prioritise components that enhance your riding experience within your budget. If you're unsure what mountain bike cranks to buy, setting a budget can narrow your options to make choosing easier.

When in doubt, seek advice from bike shop experts or fellow riders. If possible, test ride different crank setups to gauge comfort, stiffness, and overall feel. Personal experience can often provide valuable insights into which cranks best suit your riding style.

These days, the first place to look for new bike components is online. Many online shops offer upgraded cranksets, so knowing which ones are the best can be tricky. 

Why not check out the cranksets from RotorBike? Here, you'll find high-quality mountain bike cranksets and bottom brackets to avoid compatibility issues. ROTOR cranksets are made from lightweight and durable materials and have integrated power meters. 

Choosing the right mountain bike cranks involves careful consideration of materials, length, compatibility, and budget. Whether chasing personal records or exploring scenic trails, selecting the perfect cranks can improve your riding experience and performance.

Happy Riding #ROTORian