I just had my crank arm off and I noticed 170 scribed on it. Now I'm 6'6", so I think this is a rather short arm. I've noticed that some cranks are available in a 180 size, but I haven't seen any of the cheaper cranks (why would I buy a $500 crank for a bike worth less than that?). Anyone know where I could look? I have a 90s Schwinn Mesa GS MTB with the stock cranks (square taper). Would I have pedal clearance problems on an MTB with cranks this much longer? Would I need to adjust other things (BB width possibly) to compensate for the larger size?

I keep getting email about products for adding length to a crank; Oops wrong subject. Sorry.

this crank device helps lengthen arms

there's a couple on ebay

Can't find any in 180, but nashbar has several in 175 that are less then $80.00.

https://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?c...0Road%20Cranks

If you currently have three rings up front then:

nashbar basic MTB crank

is probably the one for you. Should bolt right up to your current bottom bracket. You probably should check to make sure that the bottom bracket is good at the same time, as it's easier to replace them at the same time, if you need them.

To check: pull the chain off the rings so that the crank can spin freely, and turn the arms. If there's any lateral movement, or a gritty feel as it turns, then a new bottom bracket is in order.

Thanks. I was hoping to upgrade to longer cranks AND trekking ratios (48-36-22, or something along those lines). Is the difference between 170 and 175 significant? Longer cranks will effectively raise my seat height, right? This might better justify the cost to my better half if I don't need to buy another seat post, KWIM? This looks interesting: https://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?c...20ATB%20Cranks but I would prefer 180s if I can get them.

BB needs to be changed - I pulled it last night to see if I could eliminate a clicking noise and it's gritty when I spin it. No wobble though.

Why do you think you need longer arms?
I find I am more comfortable and can spin faster with shorter cranks.
I am 6'2" and my new bike has 165mm cranks and I have been looking to replace the cranks on my recumbent with 165mm or smaller. I say if 170 is working for you why change?

Craig

I would prefer to get a bit more leverage. I'm not a masher, but I'm not a high rpm spinner either. I think it would help.