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CurtEgerer CurtEgerer is online now
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Fignon on a Bianchi. It's disturbing

Crank Arm Length: About 2 years ago, I had a revelation when I borrowed one of my brother's bikes and rode it regularly. I couldn't quite figure out why it was the best bike I ever rode in terms of power output, acceleration (or AXceleration if you're Bob Roll), and smooth spinning. Finally traced it down to a 165mm crank! I've since switched all my bikes to 165mm. When I ride a 170mm, it is immediately noticeable. I have about a 29" inseam. There's been lots written and a couple of good methods for determining ideal crank arm length. Mine works out to 163.

As an engineer, it makes no sense to me that the cranks on 95% of all bikes are either 170mm or 175mm (less than 1/4 inch variance), yet inseam lengths can easily vary by 8 inches. It's based simply on production costs and compromise.
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Old 07-26-2014, 06:45 PM
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