Are shorter crank arms better for MTB?

Macdermid found that riders reached their peak power nearly 1 second quicker on 170mm cranks than they did on 175mm cranks. That means shorter cranks give riders better acceleration, which can make a difference when passing other riders or trying to clean an obstacle.

Should I get 165mm cranks?

Trying to decide between a 165 and 170mm crank is a waste of time as there is too small of a difference to matter. An athlete should pick the length that allows them to most comfortably apply force to the pedals without restriction.

What is the best crank length for MTB?

Trail/Enduro – 170mm crank arm length is the most commonly used size and is recommended to keep a good leverage ratio and have a bit more ground clearance due to having more travel.

Why are shorter cranks better?

Less pressure/discomfort on the knee at the start of the down stroke. More space at the top of the pedal stroke between upper leg and torso. this is not only because the crank is shorter but also because there is more space for the foot to dorsiflex on the up-stroke. Easier to pedal in the saddle going up hill.

Why do MTB have longer cranks?

Back in the day it was thought that longer cranks were better, because they increased the pedalling leverage, thus enabling you to create more power. However, several studies have shown that even dramatic crank length differences have only a small effect on how much power you can produce.

Does MTB crank length matter?

Well basically in short: yes! This is how lessening your crank length will impact on how you ride your MTB.

What is the difference between 165mm and 170mm crank?

165mm’s make you spin faster, but with less power because of reduced leverage, 170mm’s slower but more power. This is mostly effective in road racing. But for DH racing/riding where higher cadence isn’t crucial, it mostly comes down to what feels nice for you, and what will give you the most ground clearance.

Who makes 165mm?

Shimano and other major component manufacturers, such as SRAM and Campagnolo, do offer cranks as short as 165mm at most groupset levels, and up to 180mm in some cases. Additionally, specialist manufacturers like Rotor make cranks as short as 150mm.

Does crank arm length really matter?

‘With a shorter crank you need a higher cadence, but that’s a small adaptation that happens very naturally for most. ‘As far as maximal sprint power and metabolic cost are concerned, crank length can be anywhere from 145mm to 195mm and it really doesn’t matter. ‘A longer crank is basically a lower gear ratio.

Are longer cranks better?

‘The research evidence is clear: crank length makes no difference to power on the road – track is slightly different – unless you go as short as 80mm or as long as 320mm. And as a bike fitter and physiotherapist, I’ve never had a reason to go bigger.

Is long bike crank better?

A short crank reduces the circumference that the foot must travel to make a complete pedal stroke. Those who prefer a pedal stroke of strength, at rather low cadences, could be better with a long crank; those who always travel at high cadences will have a more natural ride with a short crank.