Originally Posted by Ken Cox

Go to 170 or 165 cranks.

I ride with 170 cranks on one fixed gear bike and 175 on the other.

I can ride with the 175 cranks because the fixed Mountain Bike on which I use them has an unusually high bottom bracket.

I feel a big difference between the 175's and 170's, which surprised me; and, all around, I prefer the shorter crank for the ease of spinning faster.

On my next bike, I might try 165's.

When one considers the relevance of crank length, it helps to consider the differences between horsepower and torque.

In simplest terms, torque corresponds to horsepower with the TIME element of the equation removed.

At any given instant in time (meaning no time), a longer crank will feel easier to push (or pull) than a shorter crank, but, over time, that impression might change.

And one length relationship does remain constant: the shorter the crank arm the faster the spin.

In any event, a pedal strike can not only ruin your day, it can alter your life.

Look for some 170 or 165 cranks, try clipless pedals (more clearance in turns), or consider a used track frame, like a Bianchi Pista.