Best Mountain Bike Cranksets Review with Buying Guide

Most avid mountain bikers are interested in doing their maintenance work. Even if you are an amateur leaving your bike to be professionally maintained by an expert, you still need to understand the different components of your MTB and how they work. This will give you an idea of what to do in case something goes wrong and how to find the best pieces to repair the broken parts.

Finding the Best Mountain Bike Cranksets can help you build a new bike from the components of an old one which is a great option if you are tight on cash. It could be also your chance to upgrade your current MTB at your convenience.  Here’s the quick list of the 10 best mountain bike cranksets;

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The crankset drives the motion of the rider’s legs as they pedal to the chain which then moves the rear wheel, thus allowing your bike or MTB to move forward. Cranksets come in different sizes to suit different riders, bikes, and styles of riding. Some of the products can also be adjusted to suit different lengths. If you are not a bike shop owner, then you probably don’t understand a lot about cranksets and how to pick the best one. This is why we wanted to help you by writing this guide which will help you pick the most suitable crankset for your MTB.

Mountain Bike Crankset and Gear

Reviews of the Best Mountain Bike Cranksets

Don’t get overwhelmed by the number of products available on the market. In this section, you will find all the details that will help you find the perfect crankset for your mountain bike. Check out our mountain bike crankset reviews for more information.

1. Shimano FC-M780 XT Crankset

This crankset is perfect for power transfer. Like all the spare parts that are made by Shimano, it will never disappoint you. It transfers the motion from the pedals to the chain and then to the wheels as you go on your bike. The crankset is made of forged aluminum which very lightweight. It is also very durable and sturdy. This means that you know that your crankset will last for a long time.

The middle ring is carbon enhanced to provide more stability and durability. It features high-quality chainrings that will provide smooth and flawless shifting. This is a high-quality crankset for ultra-smooth shifts and maximum power transfer. Thanks to the small jumps between the teeth of the chainrings, you will enjoy the best front shifting on your bike. It also comes in 2 finishes to suit every MTB.

This crankset can be easily installed even if you have never done any repair work on your own. There are different sizes available so you can pick the one that suits your bike. It is very well made and you will immediately feel the improvement.

Pros

  • Durable aluminum crankset.
  • Lightweight design.
  • Smooth and precise shifting.
  • Maximum power transfer.
  • Easily installed.

Cons

  • This crankset is rather expensive.

2. Race Face Atlas Mountain Bike Crankset

They say that quality comes with a price. This crankset is a bit pricey but it is designed to help you maintain a steady speed on any trail with smooth and effortless shifting. It comes in 4 different colors to suit every bike and is made of OPTIM-AL which is 20% stronger than the normal aluminum alloy.

The crankset is very easy to install and you will immediately sense the performance transformation in your bike as it features one key hex release puller cap. It is strong and compatible with all 45mm tab offset bashes thanks to the fat tab technology.

The granny ring is lightweight and removable for maximum convenience. It also reduces the gear grind. The deeper arms are designed for seriously stiff and abuse-proof performance.

The chain line is adjustable to ensure chain line compatibility. There are also several sizes available to suit any MTB you have. This is a reliable crankset that will withstand the test of time because it is made to last. This is a solid choice for the avid mountain biker.

Pros

  • Lightweight durable crankset.
  • Deeper arms for abuse-proof performance.
  • Made of Optim-Al which is stronger than aluminum alloy.
  • Lightweight and removable granny ring.
  • Adjustablechainring.

Cons

  • It is expensive compared to other products on the market.

3. SRAM Omnium Track Bicycle Crankset w/GXP Cups

This external bearing crankset is the best for street and track performance and is the first of its kind. It is made of strong and durable 7050 alloys. Most riders report that this is one of the stiffest cranksets that they have ever used.

The performance of this SRAM crankset is to die for. Riders who install it immediately fall in love with the smooth power shifting. The crankset is absolutely worth the price because it is very good value for the money. If you are looking for a reliable upgrade then you definitely need to check this out.

Adding this crankset to your bike will add to its durability. You can now ride faster and more aggressively because you know that your will crankset will not disappoint you.

Pros

  • Durable construction.
  • Strong 7050 alloy body.
  • Fast and flawless shifting.
  • Comes with the chainrings included.

Cons

  • It takes quite some time to be installed.

4. Single Speed Crankset Set 48T 170mm Crankarms 130 BCD CYSKY Fixie Crankset for Single Speed Bike

Are you looking for an excellent replacement for an old or stripped crank? This is one product that you shouldn’t miss. It feels solid while riding by providing smooth and flawless shifting on different trails. It is true to size and looks much better in person. You can go faster regardless of the nature of the terrain as this will help you shift smoothly and effortlessly. It is great value for the money and will last for long.

This is a slick crankset that will perform as expected. It is made of lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy. It is sturdily forged so it will withstand everyday use without showing any signs of wear. There is no overlap between the chainring bolt and the crank arm.

We love how versatile and easy to install this crankset is. It is the best upgrade to your MTB if you need a reliable product for effortless shifting. The design promotes minimum gear grinding and excellent performance. If you are looking for the most affordable MTB crankset upgrade, then you should consider this one.

Pros

  • Affordable price and good value for the money.
  • Durable forged design.
  • Sturdy aluminum alloy.
  • Lightweight with no overlap between the chainring bolt and crank arm.
  • Minimum gear grinding.

Cons

  • Bottom bracket is not included.

5. Shimano Altus M311 7/8s 42x32x22 175mm Chainset

You don’t always have to go faster on the trail. On a difficult or rocky trail, you will have to pedal slower for a flawless ride and this might not be possible with a bigger piece of gear. You don’t want to pedal faster than what your wheels can go and this small-sized crankset will allow you to do that. This is an affordable and reliable upgrade that will help you shift effortlessly while enjoying your ride.

It is compatible with 7/8 speed bikes for a flawless and amazing ride. It can be installed easily and fast and will not disappoint you. Although it doesn’t come with the bottom bracket, it is still great value for the money. The offset would slightly change the front/rear chain alignment but it could be accommodated and adjusted. The pedal arms are also very strong so they are suitable for heavyweight riders.

The crankset comes with matching nut covers. It is made of strong alloy and is powder-coated so you know that it won’t scratch easily.

Pros

  • Strong alloy with powder coating finish.
  • Small size that will allow you to go slow when you need to.
  • Strong pedal arms to suit heavyweight riders.
  • Matching nut covers.
  • Fast and easy installation.

Cons

  • The facing on the outside is made of plastic and comes off easily.
  • The product specifications are not clear.

6. Shimano Tourney Mountain Bicycle Crank Set – FC-TY501

If you are a casual mountain biker and are currently looking for a reliable crankset, then you will definitely love this. It is very well made and will do exactly what you expect it to do. It is an affordable product by Shimano and is excellent value for the money because it doesn’t show signs of wear with abusive continuous riding.

Once you install this crankset, you will be able to enjoy the flawless performance, fast shifting, and perfect alignment. It can be installed easily. It is made of sturdy aluminum and the arms are made of steel.

Everything is painted to protect your crankset from scratching. It is very lightweight, fits perfectly and will last for long. It is the best crankset for mountain bike if you are tight on cash but want a durable and reliable product.

This crankset is compatible with 6-, 7- and 8-speed drivetrains and is perfect for urban and trail adventures. It comes with the chainring and bolts that you need for easy installation.

Pros

  • Aluminum lightweight body at an affordable price.
  • Steel arms with a painted finish.
  • Flawless shifting.
  • Suitable for casual riders.
  • Versatile and can suit various drivetrains.

Cons

  • Bottom bracket and the bolts that attach to it are not included.

7. SRAM S600 Mountain Bicycle Crankset

This is another excellent product that combines the looks with the wonderful performance and smooth shifting. The forged arms add to the durability of this crankset so you know that it will last for a long time. For the affordable price you pay, you know that you will get miles of effortless and flawless shifting which makes it excellent value for the money.

This crankset is made of a high-quality alloy that will withstand the test of time. It is lightweight and will perform well with minimum grinding. The durable steel chainrings don’t break or slow you down.

They are meant to move smoothly with zero problems. The chainrings are removable which is definitely a plus. You get to customize and adjust your crankset to fit your specific needs.

The square taper cranks allow for easy hassle-free installation. A lot of mountain bikers consider this to be a budget-friendly upgrading crankset since it will last for long.

Pros

  • Lightweight alloy crankset.
  • Affordable price.
  • Forged arms for added stability and durability.
  • Steel chainrings.
  • Removable chainrings.

Cons

  • This crankset is noisy especially when shifting to the large ring.
  • There is no chainring guard.

8. Shimano M361 Hybrid Crankset (Black)

This is another amazing product that won’t break the bank. It features the manufacturer’s patent Hyperdrive system that is designed to provide effortless, quiet and smooth shifting. Thanks to this reliable mountain bike crankset, you will be able to cruise and enjoy your time on any trail no matter how challenging it is.

This crankset comes with 3 chainrings with different sizes. It also comes with the chainguard to ensure that your crankset will last for long.

The size is compatible with different mountain bikes and this makes it suitable for riders who don’t know much about the mechanics of the mountain bike. It is made of sturdy aluminum and durable metal rings. The chainrings are removable so you can easily adjust it to fit your specific needs.

Whether you are using 7, 8 or 9-speed cassette, you will find that this crankset is perfect for the job. It can be installed easily, although it doesn’t come with a bottom bracket. All you need is a torque wrench for installing the bolts and your bike will be good to go.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly crankset.
  • Aluminum crankset with metal rings.
  • Removable chainrings.
  • Compatible with various bikes.
  • Easy to install.

Cons

  • Bottom bracket is not included.
  • Heavier than other cranksets on the market.

9. Vuelta MTB Pro 44S/32S/22S SQ 104-64/BCD Crank Set

If you need a crankset that will look good and perform well, then you definitely need to consider this one. The cold-forged alloy crank arms make it super sturdy while the steel chainrings are designed for rough performance. This crankset is perfect for easy commuting and challenging trail rides as it provides smooth and effortless shifting.

Thanks to the lightweight and perfect design of this crankset, you will be able to go fast with no problems whatsoever. It also looks super elegant with the black finish that will protect the body from showing any signs of wear. This is a durable crankset that can be installed using the regular tools that every mountain biker owns. You will be able to upgrade your MTB in no time so it can be ready for your next adventure.

The rings are removable. You can easily adjust your crankset to suit your needs. It doesn’t come with a bottom bracket, but you can easily buy one to get your bike ready. Since this crankset is so affordable, that shouldn’t be a problem.

Pros

  • Cheap price.
  • Forged arms.
  • Steel removable rings.
  • Easy to install.

Cons

  • No bottom bracket.
  • There is no information available about the weight of the product.

10. Sugino XD600 Triple Cranksets 175mm 26-36-46 74-110 7-8-Speed

A great product that looks extremely elegant and will not slow you down. This silver crankset features silver arms with alloy ramped SuperShift alloy rings for a flawless performance with every gear.

This crankset is good to go right out of the box. It comes with all the inner bolts that you need for easy and straightforward installation. The tooth profiles are designed to minimize the possibility of having your chain stuck.

This crankset is very lightweight and comes in an elegant silver finish. It is a great addition to your mountain bike and will not disappoint you.

The best thing about this crankset is that it has a great range. It is perfect for a flawless upgrade that will take your mountain biking game to a whole new level.

Pros

  • Lightweight crankset.
  • Teeth are designed for less chain suck.
  • It comes with inner bolts.
  • Elegant silver finish.
  • Easy and fast installation.

Cons

  • It is expensive.

How to Choose the Best Mountain Bike Cranksets?

Understanding every bit of your mountain bike is not an easy task. Nevertheless, you can still find enough information about picking the right products that will allow you to do your own maintenance. In this section, you will find enough information about the features that you have to consider when you are picking a new crankset.

i. Durability

Like all the mountain bike spare parts, you need to make sure that you are picking a durable product. Remember that mountain biking involves a lot of movement which puts pressure on the parts that make up your MTB. Unless your crankset is sturdy enough, you might have yours broken which will prevent you from going on the trail.

Durable products don’t have to cost a fortune. There are a lot of affordable options that are good enough to provide flawless shifting. Make sure that the arms are perfectly forged to ensure that your crankset will last for long. You should also pay attention to the finish or the coating that covers the different parts of your crankset as this will maintain its condition.

ii. Weight

The weight of your crankset is another important factor to think about as it affects your speed. The weight will depend on the material your crankset is made of. Aluminum is one of the most popular materials used because it is durable yet very lightweight.

Steel is another material and it is extremely sturdy, but it will make your crankset heavier. Some products combine both materials to guarantee that they offer the user of a crankset that will last for long.

iii. Size

Different mountain bike crankset sizes are available to suit every MTB on the market. Make sure that you pick the size that suits your bike. Otherwise, you won’t be benefiting from installing your new crankset.

There are some products that can be adjusted to fit your particular MTB. This is definitely a big plus, especially if you are not that experienced with maintaining your bike and the products that will work for it.

iv. Complete Set

When it comes to replacing your crankset, there are 2 options available. The first is a complete set that contains the bolts, the bottom bracket, the screws, and everything else you need to complete your mission. These products are suitable for people who are looking for a comprehensive upgrade and they generally cost more.

The other option is when you buy the crank arms and the teeth without buying the bottom bracket. This is an affordable option for people who are not looking for an extreme makeover.

Conclusion

A good crankset will allow you to shift gears with no problems whatsoever regardless of the nature of the trail. Whether you are going up or down, you will be able to enjoy the flawless shifting with no gears getting stuck as you go slower or faster. The Best Mountain Bike Cranksets come in all shapes and sizes. Make sure that you do your homework to guarantee a smooth ride.

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