[rubrduk]

sooooo....i'm looking at some new cranks - what benefit if any would i get from a 180 or 185 arm length on my 26" 33x16 setup or should i stick with my 175 (i have shortish legs if that makes any difference...30" inseam)

i know 5-10mm is not much when looking at a ruler, but how does it affect the crank leverage


also...are the cranks/bb considered to be rotational weight or not - i just don't want this bike to become a pig so i'm keeping it on a healthy diet

 

[Changleen]

I have similar legs to you, got some 180mm cranks (I've always run 175mms), frankly hardly noticed the difference. Maybe can drag my heel a bit easier now. Supposedly there is more leverage, hence more power, but I think it's nothing you'd notice short of being in Le Tour or ****...

 

[DirtEveryDay]

I've noticed(or invented it in my head) that 175s and longer cranks arms REALLY suck fuzzy sac when you have too easy of a gear! So you gotta look more at your gear ratio when choosing length than leg length, IMO.
Maybe hit up a 14t rear and your 180mms...

 

[rubrduk]

I've noticed(or invented it in my head) that 175s and longer cranks arms REALLY suck fuzzy sac when you have too easy of a gear! So you gotta look more at your gear ratio when choosing length than leg length, IMO.
Maybe hit up a 14t rear and your 180mms...

 

[DirtEveryDay]

Hey man, that's the best I can do for "wisdom" at 5:30 in the AM!

 

[ServeEm]

I run 180s on all my bikes cept my DH rig. I think leverage gain is there when running 180s opposed to shorter. Also plays a part in balance as well.

Also think about your riding style, clearance can be an issue too. Run a search on this board I know there's past talks about crank lengths.

 

[rubrduk]

Hey man, that's the best I can do for "wisdom" at 5:30 in the AM!

i was more in shock over the 14t remark...that's pretty stiff but if the long make up for it....hmmm

i did just think about it and i do like to ride up stairs alot which means some pedaling...so maybe i should stay on the short side