Best Crankset For Mountain Bike (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best crankset for your mountain bike, there are a few factors to consider before making your purchase. The crankset connects the pedals to the chain, and it's an essential component of your bike. So, you want to make sure you choose the right one for your needs.
First, you must consider the number of chainrings you'll need, as this will impact the range of gears available to you. Another factor to consider is the type of riding you'll be doing, as different cranksets are designed for different terrains and riding styles. You'll also want to pay attention to the material of the crankset, as this can affect its durability and weight.
Are you wondering where to start your search? What are some highly rated options? How can you best determine what type of crankset is right for you? These are all important questions that any mountain biker looking for the best crankset should be asking. Keep reading to learn more about what to look for and some of the best options on the market.
10 Best Crankset For Mountain Bike
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This product is ideal for mountain bikes, road bikes, fixed gear bicycles or any bike with a square taper bottom bracket.
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It is ideal for mountain bicycles, providing a strong and efficient crank set with multiple gear options.
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The product is ideal for mountain bikes with a single crank set that requires easy modification to fit specific gear ratios.
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Ideal for single speed mountain bikes and road bikes, offering options between 30T to 38T for customizable gear ratios.
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The product is ideal for use in bicycles, specifically as a crankset with a square tapered design.
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Ideal for high-performance mountain biking and cycling with its hollow one-piece design and compatibility with multiple speed options.
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The product is ideal for use in bicycles with 3 x 8-speed drivetrains needing a square taper crankset.
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8
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This product is ideal for mountain bikes with 1x, 2x, or 3x speed and requires a BSA bottom bracket.
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9
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It is ideal for bike enthusiasts in need of high-quality, standard bike parts.
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10
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This product is ideal for bicycles with 7 or 8-speed drivetrains, featuring a square taper bottom bracket interface.
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1. Speedmaster Single Crankset – 44t Black
Introducing a burly and lightweight forged crankset designed for ultimate strength and reliability, perfect for single speed Mountain Road Bike Fixed Gear Bicycle enthusiasts. Made of high-quality Aluminium 6061-T6, this crankset is built to last.
With a BCD of 110mm and pedal crankarms measuring 170mm, this crankset is compatible with 9/16 inch pedals and 1/2"*1/8" chain that work seamlessly with this product. The black crankset comes with a 44T sprocket and a square taper to ensure optimal performance.
Measuring approximately 180*125mm / 7*4.9in (crankset) and 205*33mm / 8*1.3in (crank), this crankset is designed to fit most bikes. Its net weight of 772g makes it easy to install and handle.
This complete set includes the left crankarm, right crankarm, and chainring, making it convenient for users to install.
2. Shimano Tourney Mountain Bicycle Crank Set – Fc-Ty501 (Black – 175mm, 48x38x28t W/cg)
Introducing a high-quality triple chainring with a plastic chainguard that is designed to provide a smooth and reliable riding experience. This chainring features a bottom bracket interface type of Square Taper JIS, which ensures that it is compatible with a wide range of bikes.
The triple chainring design ensures that you have access to a wide range of gears, making it easier to climb steep hills and tackle challenging terrain. The plastic chainguard is a fantastic addition to the chainring, providing extra protection for your chain and ensuring that it stays in place during your ride.
The bottom bracket interface type of Square Taper JIS is a reliable and popular choice in the cycling world, providing a strong and secure connection between the chainring and the bike's frame. This ensures that the chainring stays securely in place, even during the most challenging rides.
3. Mountain Master 9-Speed Chainset
The bike enthusiasts out there will love this high-quality bike crankset, made from sturdy Alloy 6061 for the crank and high-intensity Steel for the chainring. The crank arm measures 170mm, and the BCD is 104mm for the 44T and 32T chainrings, and 64mm for the 22T chainring. The chainring is removable, which makes it easy to modify the single-speed crankset to your liking.
This versatile crankset is compatible with a range of speeds, including 7S, 8S, and 9S, and it comes with a square-tapered BB spindle measuring between 113mm and 116mm (BB not included). The pedal size is 9/16", which is a standard size that fits most bikes.
One of the best features of this bike crankset is its easy-to-modify design. With the removable chainring, you can customize the crankset to your specific needs, whether you want to go faster or climb hills more easily. The compatibility with a range of speeds and BB spindle sizes also makes it a versatile choice for any bike.
4. Mountain Road Bike Crankset With 5 Options
The Alu 6061 MTB Bike Crank is a high-quality and durable product that is designed to provide a smooth riding experience. The design of the stiffener ensures that the crank is strong and reliable, while the lightweight construction makes it easy to handle and maneuver.
This crank comes with a 7075 Alloy Aluminum Single Speed 30 Tooth Narrow wide Chainring that is plated with a rainbow finish for added durability and style. The chainring bolts are also plated, adding to the overall aesthetic of the product.
The 30T chain ring has a round shape and weighs only 28g (0.06 lbs), making it an excellent choice for riders looking to reduce the weight of their bike. It is compatible with 9 Speed, 10 Speed, and 11 Speed Mountain Bike crank sets, as well as easy to refit Singlespeed MTB, Road Bike BMX Crankset, and other similar models.
The BCD of the Alu 6061 MTB Bike Crank is 104 mm for the outer circle, and the crank arm length is 170mm. The matte black color gives it a sleek and professional look that will match any bike style.
This crank is compatible with 9/16 inch pedals, and a 1/2"*1/8" chain works well on this crankset. The bottom bracket is designed with cups that are 1.37*24T/68mm~73mm (English Standard) and is compatible with Shimano, FSA, Gaint ATX770 ATX770-D XTC 750.
5. Shimano Altus Fc-M311 Bicycle Crankset – 170 X 42-32-22 Square Tapered
Introducing the Hyperdrive SG-X chainrings – the perfect addition to your bike's drivetrain. These chainrings have been designed with the utmost care and precision to ensure optimal performance and durability.
One of the standout features of these chainrings is their chainguard integrated design. This means that the chainring is equipped with a sturdy and reliable chainguard, providing protection for your chain and reducing the risk of it coming off during your ride. With this innovative design, you can ride with peace of mind knowing that your chain is safe and secure.
The Hyperdrive SG-X chainrings are available in a chainguard model, further enhancing the level of protection for your chain. This model is specifically designed to work with the chainguard, providing an even more secure setup for your bike's drivetrain.
These chainrings are manufactured with high-quality materials and designed to meet strict specifications, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable product. With their precision engineering, the Hyperdrive SG-X chainrings provide smooth shifting and efficient power transfer, giving you a seamless and enjoyable riding experience.
In terms of parameters and specifications, the Hyperdrive SG-X chainrings are available in various sizes to fit different bikes and riding styles. They are compatible with 9-speed drivetrains and are made with durable aluminum construction.
6. Meroca One-Piece Mountain Bike Crankset – Speedy!
This high-strength aluminum alloy MTB crankset is a durable and impact-resistant option for avid riders. Its all-aluminum alloy material is strong and features a surface anodization that effectively protects the body from wear and tear. With a number of teeth options of either 36 or 38t, this crankset is suitable for 11/12 speed and has a diameter of 160mm when equipped with a 38t option.
Constructed with precision milling by CNC technology, this crankset boasts a high level of precision, strength, and uniform force for a smooth riding experience. The positive and negative tooth design features alternating thick and thin tips to more fully engage the chain, preventing it from falling off during intense riding.
This bike crankset also features a GXP direct-mounted structure, which effectively improves strength while reducing weight. The design includes 10 teeth that are embedded in the tooth slot and 3 T25 special deer screws that lock the teeth in place, preventing them from falling out.
Customers can rest easy knowing that this MTB crankset comes with excellent after-sale service. If there are any questions or concerns with the product, the manufacturer can be contacted and will provide assistance within 24 hours. Overall, this durable and well-built crankset is an excellent choice for riders seeking a reliable and high-performing option for their mountain bike.
7. Sram S600 Crankset – 3 X 8-Speed, 175mm X 42-32-22t, Square Taper, Black
The Sram S600 triple chainsets are a must-have for any cycling enthusiast looking for a high-quality and durable component to enhance their riding experience. These chainsets boast an impressive 42-32-22 teeth configuration, coupled with 175mm cranks, which make them perfect for a variety of terrains and riding styles.
Crafted from forged alloy, these chainsets are built to last, and their robust construction ensures that they can withstand the rigours of even the toughest trails. Available in a sleek pitch black colour, they are sure to complement any bike's aesthetics.
These chainsets are designed with a square taper, making them compatible with a wide range of bikes, and they are optimized for use with 8-speed drivetrains. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist looking to upgrade your ride or a beginner looking for a reliable and high-performing component, the Sram S600 triple chainsets are an excellent choice.
8. Djc Mountain Bike Crankset: Black Oilslick Edition
The 104BCD and 4 Arms crankset is a versatile and affordable option that can fit most MTB frames. With a 104mm BCD, it is a popular choice for many riders and comes at a relatively low price point. It offers a high level of rigidness when riding due to the inclusion of a spindle.
This crankset can be used for multi-speed riding, whether it be 1x, 2x, or 3x speed. While most riders prefer to use it as a 1x, it comes with a 104bcd narrow wide chainring in the package that works for 7-12s chain. The crankset hole for the pedal is 9/16 inch(14mm).
The Thread BSA BB is included with this crankset, and it features a strong aluminum side cap inside. This makes it compatible with 99% of MTB frames. The crankset spindle diameter is 24mm.
The 104BCD and 4 Arms crankset is constructed using forged aluminum and CNC processing. It is 3D forged and made of aluminum 6061, with hollow tech applied for lightweight. A pair of cranksets weighs only 680g.
In the package, you will receive a pair of cranksets, 1pcs 104BCD narrow wide chainring, 4 sets of steel bolts, 1pcs BSA bottom bracket, aluminum side cap, and a wrench for the side cap.
9. Shimano Unisex's Fcm311e222l Bike Parts, Standard, One
The Shimano FC-M311 Altus chain set is a high-quality gear component designed for bike enthusiasts who demand superior performance and durability. With its 42/32/22T configuration and square taper design, this chain set delivers excellent power transfer and smooth shifting, making it ideal for a variety of riding styles and terrain.
At 175mm in length, the FC-M311 Altus chain set is compatible with a wide range of bikes and offers ample clearance for off-road riding. It comes without a chain guard, making it a great choice for riders who prefer a minimalist look and feel.
Constructed from high-quality materials, this chain set is built to withstand the rigors of heavy use and extreme conditions. The square taper design ensures maximum stiffness and power transfer, while the 42/32/22T chain ring configuration offers a wide range of gearing options to suit any riding style.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual rider, the Shimano FC-M311 Altus chain set is an excellent choice for anyone who demands the highest level of performance and durability from their bike's gear components. So why wait? Upgrade your ride today and experience the difference for yourself!
10. Shimano Tourney A073 7/8-Speed 170mm 30/39/50t Square Crankset Black
This high-quality chainring is designed for 7/8-speed compatibility, ensuring smooth and efficient gear shifting. Made from durable SG-X steel, it offers superior strength and longevity, ensuring it can handle even the toughest rides. The square taper JIS design ensures a secure and reliable fit, providing peace of mind during intense rides. Please note that fixing bolts are not included, so be sure to purchase them separately for optimal performance. With its excellent performance and reliable design, this chainring is the perfect choice for any serious cyclist looking for a top-quality upgrade for their bike.
Best Crankset For Mountain Bike FAQs
Are carbon fiber cranksets worth the investment for mountain biking?
Carbon fiber cranksets are a popular choice for mountain bikers due to their lightweight and stiffness. However, whether or not they are worth the investment depends on various factors such as personal preferences, riding style, and budget.
Carbon fiber cranksets are significantly lighter than their aluminum counterparts, which can make a noticeable difference in the overall weight of the bike. This weight reduction can improve acceleration, climbing, and handling. Additionally, the stiffness of carbon fiber can provide better power transfer, resulting in a more efficient ride.
However, carbon fiber cranksets are typically more expensive than aluminum ones. Additionally, they may not be as durable as aluminum if subjected to heavy impacts or crashes. Therefore, if you are a frequent and aggressive rider, it may not be worth the investment.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in a carbon fiber crankset should be based on your personal preferences and riding style. If you prioritize weight and efficiency and have the budget to invest in a high-quality carbon fiber crankset, it may be worth the investment. However, if you value durability and are on a tighter budget, an aluminum crankset may be a better option.
How important is weight when choosing a crankset for a mountain bike?
Weight is an important consideration when choosing a crankset for a mountain bike. A lighter crankset can help reduce the overall weight of the bike, making it easier to handle and accelerate. However, it's important to balance weight with durability and stiffness. A crankset that is too light may not be strong enough to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, particularly if you're an aggressive rider who likes to tackle technical terrain. On the other hand, a heavier crankset may be more durable but can add unnecessary weight to the bike, making it more difficult to ride up hills and accelerate. Ultimately, the best crankset for your mountain bike will depend on your riding style, budget, and personal preferences. It's always a good idea to do your research and consult with a knowledgeable bike mechanic or salesperson to help you make an informed decision.
What are the benefits of upgrading to a high-end mountain bike crankset?
Upgrading to a high-end mountain bike crankset can bring a variety of benefits to your cycling experience. Firstly, high-end cranksets are made from lighter and stiffer materials such as carbon fiber or titanium, which can significantly reduce the weight of the bike and improve power transfer from the pedals to the wheels. This can lead to faster acceleration, better climbing ability, and greater overall speed.
Secondly, high-end mountain bike cranksets often come with advanced gearing options, such as multiple chainrings and narrow-wide tooth profiles, which can provide more efficient power transfer and smoother shifting. This can help you maintain a consistent cadence and optimize your pedal stroke, leading to improved performance and reduced fatigue.
Finally, high-end cranksets are often more durable and resistant to wear and tear, which can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
Overall, upgrading to a high-end mountain bike crankset can enhance your cycling experience by improving speed, efficiency, and durability.
What are the top brands for mountain bike cranksets?
When it comes to mountain bike cranksets, there are several top brands that come to mind. One of the most popular is Shimano, which offers a wide range of high-quality cranksets for various types of mountain bikes. Another top brand is SRAM, which is known for its innovative designs and durable materials. Race Face is also a popular brand, offering a range of lightweight and high-performance cranksets for mountain biking enthusiasts. Additionally, FSA (Full Speed Ahead) and Rotor are also highly regarded brands in the mountain biking community, offering a range of cranksets with different features and specifications to suit the needs of different riders. Ultimately, the best brand for a mountain bike crankset will depend on the rider's specific needs and preferences, as well as the type of biking they plan to do.
What is the best budget-friendly crankset for a mountain bike?
When it comes to choosing a budget-friendly crankset for a mountain bike, there are several options available in the market. However, one of the best options is the Shimano Altus FC-M311 crankset. This crankset is designed specifically for mountain bikes and offers excellent performance at an affordable price.
The Shimano Altus FC-M311 crankset features a durable and lightweight construction, making it ideal for off-road riding. It comes with a square taper bottom bracket interface, which ensures easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of bikes. The crankset also features Shimano's Hyperdrive technology, which enhances the shifting performance and provides smooth and precise gear changes.
Additionally, the Shimano Altus FC-M311 crankset is available in different chainring configurations, including 42/32/22T and 48/38/28T, to suit different riding styles and terrains. Overall, this crankset is an excellent choice for riders who want a reliable and affordable upgrade for their mountain bike.
What is the best chainring size for mountain biking?
The best chainring size for mountain biking can vary depending on the individual rider's preferences, the terrain they will be riding on, and the type of bike they are using. Generally, chainring sizes for mountain biking range from 28 to 36 teeth, with some riders opting for larger chainrings up to 42 teeth for more aggressive downhill riding.
A smaller chainring, such as a 28 or 30 tooth, can provide easier climbing and better power delivery on technical terrain. This can be beneficial for riders who prefer technical climbs and need more torque to get up steep hills. A larger chainring, such as a 36 or 42 tooth, can provide more speed on downhill sections and flatter terrain. This can be beneficial for riders who prefer faster, more flowing descents.
Ultimately, the best chainring size for mountain biking depends on the rider's individual preferences and the type of riding they plan on doing. It's important to consider factors such as terrain, fitness level, and riding style when choosing a chainring size. Consulting with a bike shop or experienced rider can also be helpful in determining the best chainring size for your needs.
What is the best material for a mountain bike crankset?
The material used for a mountain bike crankset can affect its weight, durability, and performance. The most common materials used for cranksets are aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel.
Aluminum is a popular choice for cranksets because it is lightweight and affordable. It is also durable and can withstand the rigors of mountain biking. However, aluminum can be prone to fatigue and wear over time, especially if it is subjected to heavy use.
Carbon fiber is another material used for cranksets. It is extremely lightweight and strong, making it ideal for high-performance mountain bikes. However, carbon fiber can be expensive, and it may not be as durable as aluminum.
Steel is a durable and reliable material for cranksets. It is strong and can handle heavy use, making it a good choice for downhill mountain biking. However, steel is heavier than aluminum and carbon fiber, which can affect the overall weight of the bike.
Ultimately, the best material for a mountain bike crankset depends on the rider's preferences and needs. Riders who prioritize weight and performance may opt for carbon fiber, while those who prioritize durability may choose aluminum or steel.
What is the difference between a single, double, and triple crankset for a mountain bike?
Mountain bikes typically come with either a single, double, or triple crankset, which refers to the number of chainrings on the front of the bike. A single crankset has only one chainring, while a double has two and a triple has three. The main difference between these cranksets is the number of gears they provide and the range of those gears.
A single crankset is popular among riders who prefer a minimalist approach and want fewer gears to shift through. It is also typically lighter and simpler to maintain. However, it offers a limited gear range, which can make it difficult to tackle steep climbs or fast descents.
A double crankset provides a wider range of gears and is ideal for riders who want to tackle more varied terrain. It offers a good balance between climbing ability and speed, making it a popular choice for all-around riding.
A triple crankset offers the widest range of gears, making it ideal for riders who frequently encounter steep climbs or technical terrain. However, it is also the heaviest and most complex of the three options, and can require more maintenance.
Ultimately, the choice between a single, double, or triple crankset comes down to personal preference and the type of terrain you plan to ride.
What is the ideal crank arm length for a mountain bike?
The ideal crank arm length for a mountain bike can vary depending on various factors such as rider height, riding style, and terrain. However, the general rule is that the crank arm length should be proportional to the rider's leg length. A common guideline is to use a crank arm length that is 20% of your inseam length. For example, if your inseam length is 32 inches, your ideal crank arm length would be 6.4 inches or 162 mm.
Another factor to consider is the type of riding you will be doing. If you will be doing more technical, steep terrain, a shorter crank arm length may be more beneficial as it can provide more clearance for obstacles and improve your ability to pedal through tight turns. On the other hand, if you will be doing more endurance or cross-country riding, a longer crank arm length may be more suitable as it can provide more leverage and power output.
Ultimately, it is recommended to consult with a professional bike fitter to determine the ideal crank arm length for your specific needs and body type.
What type of bottom bracket is compatible with a mountain bike crankset?
Mountain bike cranksets can be compatible with various types of bottom brackets depending on the manufacturer and model of the crankset. The most common types of bottom brackets that work with mountain bike cranksets are the threaded type and the press-fit type. Threaded bottom brackets are the most traditional type and are screwed into the bottom bracket shell of the bike frame. They come in different sizes, such as BSA, Italian, and French. Press-fit bottom brackets, on the other hand, are pressed into the frame's bottom bracket shell and are held in place by bearings. They come in various standards, including BB30, PF30, BB92, and BB86. It's essential to check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that the bottom bracket you choose is compatible with your mountain bike crankset. It's also important to choose a bottom bracket that matches the frame's bottom bracket standard to ensure a proper fit.
