If you’re a serious cyclist, you’re likely always looking for ways to improve your performance. One area that you might be considering upgrading is your crankset. And if you’re thinking about making the switch to carbon cranks, you may be wondering if they’re really worth the investment. After all, carbon cranks can be significantly more expensive than their aluminum counterparts.
So, do carbon cranks make a difference? The answer is, it depends. Carbon cranks are generally lighter and stiffer than aluminum cranks, which can help you to transfer power more efficiently from your legs to your bike. This can result in a more responsive ride, faster acceleration, and improved overall performance.
However, the benefits of carbon cranks may not be noticeable for all riders, especially those who are not competitive or who do not ride long distances.
What are Carbon Cranks?
If you’re a cyclist, you’ve probably heard about carbon cranks. Carbon cranks are a type of bicycle crank that is made from carbon fiber reinforced polymer. They are a popular choice among professional cyclists and enthusiasts alike due to their lightweight and stiff construction.
Carbon cranks are designed to be lighter than traditional cranks made from materials such as aluminum, steel, or alloy. This is because carbon fiber is a composite material that is made up of carbon fibers and a resin matrix. The combination of these materials creates a strong and lightweight structure that is ideal for use in bicycle components.
Carbon cranks are also known for their stiffness. This stiffness is due to the nature of carbon fiber, which is a very stiff and strong material. When used in a crank, carbon fiber can help to transfer power from the pedals to the rear wheel more efficiently than other materials.
It’s important to note that carbon cranks are not without their drawbacks. They are generally more expensive than traditional cranks made from materials like aluminum or steel.
Additionally, carbon cranks can be more prone to failure than other types of cranks. This is because carbon fiber is more susceptible to damage from impacts or overloading than other materials.
Overall, carbon cranks are a popular choice among cyclists who are looking for a lightweight and stiff crankset. While they may be more expensive and require more frequent inspections than other types of cranks, the benefits of carbon cranks are often worth the investment for serious cyclists.
Benefits of Carbon Cranks
Carbon cranks have become increasingly popular in recent years and for good reason. They offer a number of benefits over traditional aluminum cranks. Here are some of the key benefits of carbon cranks:
Weight Savings
One of the most significant benefits of carbon cranks is their weight savings. Carbon is a much lighter material than aluminum, which means that carbon cranks can be significantly lighter than their aluminum counterparts.
These weight savings can make a big difference in your overall bike weight, which can lead to improved performance on the road or trail. For example, a study found that carbon cranks can be up to 27% lighter than aluminum MTB cranks.
Stiffness
Carbon cranks are also known for their stiffness. Carbon is a very stiff material, which means that carbon cranks can provide more efficient power transfer from your legs to the pedals.
This can lead to improved performance and a more responsive feel when riding. Additionally, carbon cranks can help to reduce flex and improve your bike’s overall handling.
Performance Improvement
Carbon cranks can also lead to performance improvements in other areas. For example, the stiffness of carbon cranks can help to improve your bike’s acceleration and climbing ability.
Additionally, the weight savings of carbon cranks can help to improve your bike’s overall speed and agility.
Aesthetics
Finally, carbon cranks can also offer aesthetic benefits. Many cyclists prefer the sleek, modern look of carbon cranks over the more traditional look of aluminum cranks.
Additionally, carbon cranks can be more durable and resistant to scratches and other damage, which can help to keep your bike looking great for longer.
Downsides of Carbon Cranks
Durability
While carbon cranks are lightweight and provide excellent power transfer, they are not as durable as aluminum cranks. Carbon is a strong material, but its strength is fragile.
Carbon components offer sufficient resilience when used as intended but cannot handle external and unexpected stress very well. Once the upper layer is damaged, the entire carbon component becomes compromised. Protective sleeves can be used to reduce the risk of damage, but they add weight and may not fully protect the cranks from impact.
Carbon cranks are more likely to be damaged in crashes, and the damage may not be visible. A small crack or scratch can weaken the carbon and lead to failure.
In contrast, aluminum cranks are more forgiving and can often survive minor impacts without damage.
Cost
Carbon cranks are significantly more expensive than aluminum cranks. The cost of carbon cranks can be several times higher than the cost of aluminum cranks. While carbon cranks offer benefits such as weight savings and stiffness, the cost may not be justified for many riders.
Additionally, replacing damaged carbon cranks can be more expensive than replacing damaged aluminum cranks. Carbon cranks cannot be repaired, and any damage requires replacement of the entire crankset.
In contrast, aluminum cranks can often be repaired or replaced individually, reducing the cost of repairs.
Carbon vs Aluminum Cranks
When it comes to bike components, the choice between carbon and aluminum cranks can be a difficult one. Both materials have their pros and cons, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and riding style.
Carbon cranks are known for being lightweight, which can make a significant difference in performance for competitive riders. However, the weight savings may not be substantial for recreational riders.
Additionally, carbon cranks are more expensive than aluminum models, which may not be worth the investment for some riders.
On the other hand, aluminum cranks are generally more durable than carbon cranks and are less likely to fail unexpectedly. They are also less expensive, making them a more budget-friendly option. However, aluminum cranks are heavier than carbon cranks, which can impact performance for competitive riders.
When it comes to stiffness, both carbon and aluminum cranks can be designed to be stiff. Some people believe that carbon fiber equals flex and vibration damping, but this is only true if the carbon is designed that way.
Carbon fiber is attractive because it is very light and very stiff, which makes it a popular choice for competitive riders.
It’s worth noting that steel cranks are also an option, but they are generally heavier and less stiff than carbon and aluminum cranks. They are also more durable, but this durability comes at the cost of weight and performance.
In summary, the choice between carbon and aluminum cranks comes down to personal preference and riding style. If weight and performance are a top priority, carbon cranks may be the better choice.
However, if durability and cost are more important, aluminum cranks are a solid option. Steel cranks are also available, but they may not be the best choice for competitive riders.
Testing Carbon Cranks
Shimano Test
If you’re wondering whether carbon cranks make a difference, the answer is yes. In a test conducted by Shimano, they found that carbon cranks are stiffer and lighter than aluminum cranks. The Shimano test compared their XTR M9000 carbon cranks to their XTR M9020 aluminum cranks.
The carbon cranks were found to be 20 grams lighter and 20% stiffer than the aluminum cranks. This means that you’ll be able to transfer more power to your pedals with carbon cranks, which can make a difference in races or on tough mountain bike trails.
SRAM Test
SRAM also conducted a test on carbon cranks and found that they are more durable than aluminum cranks. The SRAM test compared their XX1 carbon cranks to their X01 aluminum cranks.
The carbon cranks were found to have a longer fatigue life than the aluminum cranks. This means that they can handle more stress and last longer, which can save you money in the long run.
Overall, carbon cranks are a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to improve their performance on the bike. They are stiffer, lighter, and more durable than aluminum cranks, which can make a difference in races or on tough mountain bike trails.
