I'm going to be building up a new (used) bike soon and I'm looking for some crank suggestions. I'd like to keep it under a $100 and go with something used or not super expensive new. Would like something that would go with either an older lugged steel frame or a keirin frame if I happen to score one. Just looking for decent stiff cranks with a clean design and dont' really know one from another. I know the Sugino 75's are sorta the standard not super expensive option but they seem a little square to me and a little pricey besides. Are there any cheaper cranks that are comparable or used cranks that would have a slightly more rounded look to them? The Sugino XDs and RDs are acutally a little nicer looking to me than the 75s but aren't as stiff, correct? Is this noticeable? Looking for 165s probably.

When I switched from RD to XD I noticed a difference in stiffness.
Even more pronounced when I upgraded to 75s.

Look at Stronglight or IRO cranks.
More contoured and not as expensive at 75s.

miche primato, might be findable at that price or a little more

I can't speak for stiffness, but I know that you can get the RDs for a pretty good price here:

https://aebike.com/page.cfm?PageID=30...ils&sku=CR1016

They have several lengths including 165.

Wow, you guys rock. How are the IROs stiffness wise?