Collection: Cross-Country, Downhill, and Freeride Mountain Bike Cranksets

What is the concept of a mountain bike crankset? Basically, a crankset is the component that projects the power from pedal to chain that sends you up/down a trail. There are a number of different choices in cranks, and like most mtb parts, and selcting the right one boils down to your type of bike, bottom bracket, and riding style.

For DH or freeride mountain bikes, the cranksets will be heavier to take more abuse, given the inherent speed, jumps, and drops. XC cranks will be lighter and stiffer since weight is a factor in XC racing. It's a matter of striking a balance between strength and weight.

Cranks are installed through your mtb bottom bracket. Many modern cranksets, like some we offer at monkamoo.com, are designed for two-piece bottom brackets (spindle attaches to one of the arms). In this case, you need an external bottom bracket, such as one offered by Hope Technology, or something similar.

As with most components, cranksets come in various lengths. The most common lengths for mountain bikes are 165, 170, or 175mm. Choosing a length depends on a number of factors - riding style and your height. In general, the taller you are, the longer the length and vice versa.

When selecting a crank, the most important factor is the style of riding. The next factor is your type of bottom bracket. Also, with the rise of Ebikes, there are cranksets designed specifically for that type of bike.

At monkamoo.com, we are always ready to help. Please contact us with any questions.