Comments on: Bicycle Carbon Cranks; Which Should I Buy?

By: Peter

Peter — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:41:07 +0000

I was told by Lightning that the crankset cost does not include chainrings, which leads me to two questions:1. I’d like to know whether DA 10 chainrings are compatible with it, and2. I’d appreciate an independent technical review of the crankset including bottom bracket. Please compare it to other Compacts, with specs including 110BCD, 170mm arms, 50-34 teeth, weight and stiffness, and general compatibility with DuraAce components.

By: Mike

Mike — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:47:31 +0000

For me, I’d choose Stronglight Fission Carbon with titanium axle. Its actually the crankset for everyone. The length is adjustable from 170, 172.5 or 175. I have been biking for 2 decades now. I have tried all of these measurements and even a 165 length. They all have different purpose. If you cranks heavy, but slow, try the 175. But if you spin like speed gonzales, go lower. This Crankset will give you a chance to try them all just by changing the length.Hope this helps!Good luck!

By: Optico

Optico — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:36:18 +0000

Hi,to answer the first question. Under the assumption that Lightning crancks are the same as Specialized S-work cranks, yes they are DA compatible. I have pictures for those interested. The summary I think is rather subjective. The article starts so interresting. Why doesn’t Shima go for carbon? The answer is simple, they feel they can build a crank with simular spec’s out of Alu. Alu is their cup of tea, so why take the risk. If you read some tests where they measured stiffness of the cranks you’ll see DA is not the stiffest but it’s not far off. Another interresting one, I believe, is hollowtech Cannondale. They have been on the market for years and pulled it off to build a new standard (BB30). I’d like to see the numbers to help me choose where I spend my money. Looks is personal but important. Nice overview but needs an factual update,Regards,