Cranks

If you've ever ridden a full-suspension bike without a chain, you likely noticed an improvement in its suspension performance. After watching some incredible chainless downhill runs on the UCI World Cup circuit, this Italian brand dreamt up a way to provide the benefits of riding without a chain, with a chain. On many bikes, chainstay growth during suspension compression causes the crankset to rotate counter-clockwise. This is also known as pedal kickback. By allowing some spring-loaded rotational movement within a reimagined chainring spider, the Ochain device is claimed to automatically...

W hen Miranda set out to make the XMOD MTB carbon crankset, they wanted them to be lightweight, durable, and compatible with multiple mountain bike disciplines. With over six months of testing on our end, we feel we’ve come to a verdict on how well they did in covering these objectives. Strengths Weaknesses Modular design where the crank arms, spindles, and spider/chainring are completely interchangeable Very lightweight Titanium spindle for size and weight Spectacular chain retention Great looking gloss finish Quick chainring/spider changes The chain may grind with less-than-perfect chain...

I f you are looking for cranks that feel solid under your feet and connect you to the bike and drivetrain seamlessly, the Praxis Girder is an option worth considering. Praxis Cycles, based in Santa Cruz, California, is known for its diverse line-up of carbon and alloy drivetrain components. They keep their products accessible with the Girder carbon mountain bike cranks intended for XC, trail and enduro use. Strengths Stiffness Aesthetics Durability Ease of install Chainring included Weaknesses Chain retention Praxis Girder Carbon Highlights Carbon arm construction 170 and 175mm crank lengths...