Hi,

Been a long time disconnected from the road cycling world (more than 15 years), six months ago I bought a cheap road bike to retake my teen passion and also to begin commuting to work. Most of its components are black (crankset, brifters, seatpost, wheels, handlebar, stem, headset). I thought it was a matter of style because my old bike (Orbea from early 80's) had all those components in silver steel or aluminium. Now I'm looking for a possible replacement crankset (a compact crankset to upgrade the triple that came with the bike) and I want it not to be painted (or anodized) because my current chainrings are peeling where they contact with the chain. I am surprised to see that most chainrings I find are black. What is the reason for this? Is it because of aesthetics or is there a functional reason?

Regards,
Pedro