Cranks Size Issues
07-18-07, 07:30 AM
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Cranks Size Issues
Looking at replacing cranks, and different people have told me different things. Is a smaller crank (with a slightly smaller chain) going to make the bike slower? Or behave/feel differently at all? Is this a bad idea (fit with the bike or is larger just better)? Looking to get a little more educated on this before I buy after-market parts to do this. Thanks so much in advance (newbie here)!
07-18-07, 08:56 AM
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Size is not that important. When changing components compatibility and adjustments are important.
Most road bikes and many hybrid bikes have chainrings that are sized for professional racers and too big for most recreational riders. What the pros use sells better.
Al
Most road bikes and many hybrid bikes have chainrings that are sized for professional racers and too big for most recreational riders. What the pros use sells better.
Al
Last edited by Al1943; 07-18-07 at 12:38 PM.
07-18-07, 10:53 AM
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Originally Posted by runner511
Looking at replacing cranks... Is a smaller crank .. going to make the bike .. behave/feel differently
And what do you mean "smaller"? Different chain wheel sizes? Yes, changing the gearing is something you will notice.
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07-18-07, 11:27 AM
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Thanks!
07-18-07, 11:42 AM
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Yes it will perform differently.
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07-18-07, 11:56 AM
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"...Is a smaller crank (with a slightly smaller chain)...
It depends on just what you mean by smaller crank.
Smaller rings are going gear you down just like if you put larger cogs in the back. If you are already "spinning out" in high gear, a smaller ring will exacerbate the problem.
Smaller (shorter) crank ARMS will give you a different effect, which may or may not be good, depending on how well your legs match your current cranks.
With shorter arms, you lose "torque", but tend to be able to spin at a faster cadence.
If you have arthritic knees, shorter may be better since you don't have as large of a range of motion (less bending) of the knees. If you have very long legs, possibly a longer arm is better for you.
It depends on just what you mean by smaller crank.
Smaller rings are going gear you down just like if you put larger cogs in the back. If you are already "spinning out" in high gear, a smaller ring will exacerbate the problem.
Smaller (shorter) crank ARMS will give you a different effect, which may or may not be good, depending on how well your legs match your current cranks.
With shorter arms, you lose "torque", but tend to be able to spin at a faster cadence.
If you have arthritic knees, shorter may be better since you don't have as large of a range of motion (less bending) of the knees. If you have very long legs, possibly a longer arm is better for you.
07-18-07, 05:53 PM
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If you put smaller front chainrings or 650c wheels onto a bicycle, unless the rider is so powerful that they are constantly spinning out in the fastest gear combination, the speed won't be affected.
07-18-07, 06:35 PM
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