Chainsets & Cranks

Find the most suitable chainset and crank for your bike

The combination of chainrings and cranks on a bicycle allows the drivetrain to be propelled and converts the force exerted by the legs into movement. This combination can consist of one, two or three chainrings attached to the cranks; pedals are fitted at the end of each crank.

To correctly choose a bicycle chainset, you first need to know the type of frame or bottom bracket your bike has. It is also important to check the mounting system, as there are options with a square taper and other fixing systems, as well as different BCD measurements, such as 144 mm, 104 mm, 110 mm, 120 mm, Direct Mount and 90 mm.

Once you know the compatibility, you need to consider the discipline you practise. Each discipline requires a different combination of chainrings and a type of crank to correctly optimise the force applied to it. Depending on the use, you can find options for road, velodrome track and gravel, as well as single chainring configurations for different types of bike and drivetrain.

Chainrings

The bicycle chainring is a component that is fitted into the bottom bracket assembly. There are different chainrings depending on their size, which varies according to the number of teeth they have. We can find chainrings from 42 to 56 teeth. Bicycle chainrings are fitted in relation to the sprockets and chain that the bike has.

The choice of chainrings and the different combinations will depend on the discipline you practise. The number of gears in the drivetrain must also be taken into account, as there are configurations for 1 speed, 7, 8, 9, 11 and 12 gears, as well as different gear ratios depending on how the bike will be used.

Normally, low and mid-range bikes are fitted with one to three chainrings, while high-end bikes have between one and two chainrings. Depending on the drivetrain and use, you can also find compact and single chainring configurations, designed to adapt the gear ratio to the needs of each cyclist.

Cranks

Cranks are the combination of chainrings and crank arms. Chainrings and cranks can be bought together or separately, depending on each product, as both purchase options are available.

To correctly choose the cranks, the same factors as for chainrings must be taken into account: bottom bracket compatibility, the bike frame and the discipline being practised. It is also advisable to check the number of gears, the BCD and the mounting system to ensure compatibility. Among the available brands you can find FSA and Miche.

Crank arms

The crank arm is the bicycle component that attaches to the chainring and is responsible for propulsion. Crank arms are very similar, but they have one very important characteristic that differentiates them: their length.

There are five different crank lengths: 165 mm, 167.5 mm, 170 mm, 172.5 mm and 175 mm. This length will vary according to the needs of each cyclist.

To correctly choose the crank arm length, you need to consider the cyclist's size, the discipline being practised and the type of bike. To measure the length of the crank arm, measure from the centre of the bottom bracket to the centre of the pedal axle.

Buy chainsets and cranks at Santafixie

At Santafixie, we offer a wide variety of chainsets and cranks. You can find different sizes of chainrings and cranks, made by the best brands such as Miche or FSA, and choose the one that best suits your needs and your budget.

Chainsets and cranks are complemented by other drivetrain and pedalling components. You can also browse the categories of Chains, Pedals, Sprockets and Cassettes to find the components you need to complete or maintain your bike's drivetrain.

If you have any questions about chainsets and cranks for your bike, you can contact us by emailing [email protected].