Originally Posted by
Bone Head
one consideration... when pedaling thru a turn and 'leaning into a turn' with the inside pedal @ 6 o'lcock, the longer cranks reduce the amount you can "lean into" the turn. you are more apt to 'catch the pedal' on the road. some may not consider the small increase in length significant, but it is simple geometry... it can make for a nasty spill....
....... did that babble make sense???
No! Depending on a .009 of an inch to make that much of a difference? A smart rider knows when to pedal and when not to pedal! I've smoked too many riders down mtn switchbacks. 30-40 mph switchbacks and descents for 20-30 miles and "Never" do I pedal through a turn! Knowing how to take the turn is way more important than where your pedal is at on the downside.
Also on flat turns (crit race types), you hesitate with the pedals at the lowest point of the turn. You don't risk pedaling hoping .009 will save you!
Ever watch TDF videos of the timetrials? Ever see the riders stop the pedals while taking sharp turns? Yes, then they continue after the sharpest point. Same with driving, you don't accellerate into a turn.
BTW, have you ever read or seen diagrams on the most effective way to take turns? By taking the apex? If you learn how to porperly take turns, you will improve your turn speed and efficiency and NEVER hit the pedals!