Bike Forums - Cyclocross Cranks

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Cyclocross Cranks

Anyone out there using one of the cross specific cranksets? Specifically looking for input on the FSA Gossamer Cross, Truvativ Elita Cross and Ritchey Cross V. Impressions and opinions appreciated!

I'm no expert on this topic but have done a little bit of research and here's what I've learned:

o cross cranks seems to come in two varieties: 110 and 130 (or 135) BCD . BCD stands for "bolt circle diameter". With 130 or 135 BCD cranks you can use a 38 tooth as the smallest ring. A popular setup seems to be 38/48.

o With 110 BCD crankarms you can use a 34 tooth as your smallest chain ring. 34/46 ring combinations seem to be common.

o 110 BCD cranks are rare: TA Zephyr, FSA carbon compact, and older Ritchey Logics are some of the choices. However they are expensive (~ $200 - $300).

o The FSA Gossamer Cross, Truvativ Elita Cross, and Ritchey Cross V have nothing unique about them as cross cranks other than the chainrings. They generally have smaller than typical sized road rings (i.e. 38/48 vs 39/53). So you can easily convert a standard road crank to cross by swapping the rings if you're okay with a 38 tooth ring as your smallest. Otherwise opt for a 110 BCD crank.

BTW, Ritchey will have a new 110V (110 BCD) crankset out in early 2004. It should be less expensive than the gorgeous TA Zephyr or FSA carbon. IMHO those two are just too expensive to thrash in cross racing.

I have the FSA Gossamer Cross and it's a great crankset. Nothing terribly special about it other then it comes set up 38/48 but it works well and is stiff and reasonably light. I have that and a FSA Platinum Pro BB that I got with it, both have performed flawlessly.

MY ritchey pro v cross cranks are lighter than my Campy Chorus cranks.

I have the Truvativ elita cross cranks with a truvativ isis bottom bracket on my cross bike and I have no complaints after two seasons of racing on them. They are quite stiff and are reasonably light weight. They have a new crank that it lighter called the Roleur. Great cranks for the money.

-Ryan