The choice of a MTB crankset depends mainly on your practice, your budget and the desired characteristics, such as lightness, rigidity and ease of maintenance. Here is a comparison of the types of cranksets available and some recommendations to help you find the cranksets best suited to your needs.
1. Comparison of materials
- Aluminum: Strong, rigid, and affordable, aluminum is the most common choice for mountain bike cranksets. Aluminum cranksets are often heavier than carbon ones, but they are durable and resist shock well.
- Carbon: Light and rigid, carbon is particularly appreciated for sports or competition where every gram counts. Although it is more expensive and more fragile in the event of an impact, it offers maximum performance and excellent power transfer.
- Titanium: Rare for MTB cranksets, titanium offers a combination of lightness and durability. This type of MTB crankset is robust, but also expensive and less common on the market.
The choice of a MTB crankset depends mainly on your practice, your budget and the desired characteristics, such as lightness, rigidity and ease of maintenance. Here is a comparison of the types of cranksets available and some recommendations to help you find the cranksets best suited to your needs.
2. Comparison of board configurations
- Single chainring: Having become very popular in mountain biking, the single chainring crankset simplifies gear shifting and reduces the risk of derailment. It is perfect for technical terrain and competitions.
- Double-chainring: This type of crankset offers a wider gear range, which is useful for varied terrain with steep climbs and descents. It is a good choice for long-distance or cross-country riders.
- Triple chainring: Rarer on new models, the triple chainring is especially interesting for leisure cyclists who want to maximize versatility, although heavier and more complex to maintain.
3. Comparison of popular brands and models
- Shimano Deore, SLX, XT, and XTR: these ranges cover all levels, from mid-range to high-end. Shimano is renowned for the reliability and durability of its cranksets, with good power transmission.
Recommendation: For good value for money, the Shimano XT is an excellent choice for regular riders; the XTR is lighter, ideal for competitors.
- SRAM NX Eagle, GX Eagle, X01 Eagle, and XX1 Eagle: Designed for single-chainring drivetrains, these models are very popular due to their simplicity and lightness.
Recommendation: The GX Eagle is often cited as a good compromise for performance and price, while the XX1 Eagle is aimed at demanding mountain bikers looking for weight savings.
- Race Face: The Aeffect, Atlas, and Next (carbon) cranksets offer a wide choice for all types of practice, from hiking to downhill. They stand out for their robustness and design.
Recommendation: The Race Face Aeffect is an affordable and reliable model for single track enthusiasts, while the carbon Next is perfect for competitions.
- FSA (Full Speed Ahead): Known for its aluminum and carbon models, FSA offers a range of high-performance and lightweight cranksets, particularly for cross-country and endurance enthusiasts.
Recommendation: SL-K carbon models are popular for their value for money and weight.
4. Maintenance of a MTB crankset:
Regular maintenance of a MTB crankset is essential to guarantee smooth pedaling, prevent premature wear and extend the life of the transmission system. Here are the key steps to properly maintain your crankset. Proper maintenance does not require dismantling MTB crankset.
Maintenance frequency:
- After each muddy or rainy outing: Quick cleaning to avoid dirt accumulation.
- Every 2 to 3 months: Lubrication of bearings and inspection.
- Every 6 months or after an intense mountain biking season: Complete dismantling and thorough cleaning.
Tools needed:
- Clean cloth
- Soft brush or old toothbrush Allen key (usually 8mm)
- Bearing grease Chain degreaser or bike cleaner Torque wrench (to respect the tightening torque)
Maintenance steps:
1. Cleaning the crankset:
Use a damp cloth or soft brush to remove accumulated dirt and dust. If the crankset is very dirty, apply a chain degreaser and leave for a few minutes before scrubbing hard-to-reach areas, such as the chainring teeth. Rinse well with clean water (avoid high pressure jets, which can damage the bearings).
2. Checking the trays:
Inspect the chainring teeth: they must be intact and without excessive wear. Worn or rounded teeth can cause derailments. If any teeth are damaged or worn, consider replacing the affected chainring for proper chain operation.
3. Checking the cranks and bottom bracket:
- Cranks: Make sure there is no side play in the cranks. Tighten the screws with a torque wrench if necessary, following the recommended torque.
- Bottom Bracket: If you feel play or hear cracking, this may indicate worn bearings. Disassembly and lubrication, or even replacement, may be necessary.
4. Lubrication of bearings:
If the crankset is suitable for disassembly, remove the cranks and clean the bottom bracket bearings. Apply a thin layer of specific bearing grease, then reinstall the cranks, tightening them correctly.
5. Reassembly and tightening check:
- Reassemble the crankset, respecting the recommended tightening torques, especially if the crankset is made of carbon.
- Also check that the pedals are tight to avoid play or squealing.
6. Test after interview
- After completing the service, rotate the crankset and shift gears to check that everything is working properly.
- A clean, well-lubricated and play-free crankset guarantees better pedaling efficiency and prevents premature wear of the chain and cassette.
Additional Tips
- Use suitable products: Avoid greases that are too thick or non-specific, as they can attract more dust and mud.
- Protect from the elements: If you often ride in wet conditions, consider lightly greasing the bearings and contact areas more often.
- Store correctly: A mountain bike stored away from humidity will better preserve its crankset and the entire transmission.
5. Selection advice according to practice:
General recommendations
1. For good value for money:
Opt for the Shimano Deore XT or SRAM GX Eagle.
2. For competitors:
The SRAM XX1 Eagle or Shimano XTR are some of the best options.
3. For lovers of lightness:
Carbon models from SRAM and Race Face (like the Race Face Next) are excellent, although more expensive.
By choosing the right crankset suited to your riding and level, you can optimize your pedaling experience and get the most out of your mountain bike.