BMX Crank Buyers Guide
What to look out for when your buying BMX cranks
Buying BMX cranks for your bike is a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. With so many different options on the market buying new cranks be confusing at times, different lengths, spline drive, bolt drive, 1, 2 or 3 pieces and a plethora of companies making cranks in all different colours this guide is aimed to help you make a decision on your next set of cranks.
Step
01.
Crank Length
Just like Riders, cranks come in all different shapes and sizes, the average size of BMX crank is 170mm -175mm, with most complete bikes coming with this size as standard. Shorter cranks 160mm-165mm offer a shorter rotational distance and therefore enable the rider to spin faster, (similar to spinning around on an office chair and pulling your arms in). Shorter cranks also make it easier to hop higher since your feet are closer together on the bike. (try jumping with...
160mm-165mm
Shorter cranks have become more and more popular and companies have answered! Having shorter cranks on your bike can help with bunny hops and spins since your feet are closer (think pulling in your limbs when spinning around on a chair)
170mm-175mm
The middle range cranks have been the standard for complete 20" bikes for years and are what riders will most likely start on.
180mm +
For taller riders that want a little more room to match that big bike. Companies do cater for taller riders with some BMX race cranks getting past 200mm!
Step
02.
Two or Three Piece
Your cranks can come in 1, 2 or 3 pieces however here at LUXBMX unless you really want a one-piece crank we don't stock them. Due to their durability and strength, two and three-piece cranks are far more common in BMX. Installation of 2 and 3 piece cranks is also far more straightforward than a 1 piece crank. Over the years companies have played with different designs but for the most part, cranks are similar in how they work.
2 Piece Cranks
Two-piece cranks are designed so one crank and the spindle will either be welded together or held in place by wedges. This style of crank offers strength durability and a unique look that 3 piece cranks can’t achieve.
2 or 3 piece?
Whether you choose two or three-piece cranks on your next build, the choice is mainly one of brand and aesthetics since it makes no difference to how your bike rides.
3 Piece Cranks
Three-piece cranks have been around for a long time in BMX and most companies will offer a three-piece option. Some companies will even offer single replacement cranks to save you from replacing the whole set if they break.
Step
03.
Material and Warranty
Cranks are predominantly made from 4130 Cromo, however some brands offer alloy cranks which are usually beefier to accommodate for strength. Most Cromo cranks will be heatreated to increase durability and strength with some brands will offer a lifetime warranty against cracking and bending. If this is something you think might happen to you then finding out which brands offer warranties could be useful.
Life time warranty
Some companies will offer a lifetime warranty against their cranks snapping or cracking, however, each brand will have its own version of a "lifetime" warranty so make sure to check the specifications before making your purchase.
Chromoly Cranks
Chromoly cranks are the industry standard when it comes to freestyle cranks. Due to its superior strength and durability it's been hard for companies to steer away from what works.
Titanium and Alloy
Over the years some companies have played with different materials for cranks. Titanium is on everyone's mind when it comes to lightweight cranks however they haven't been overly popular due to price and availability.
Step
04.
Price
When choosing a set of cranks for your BMX bike, the price will most probably be the ultimate factor in what you end up with. If your budget is endless then choosing the best of the best isn't a bad idea since cranks are one of those items that tend to last on your bike. Since most BMX riders prioritise fun over money several BMX companies have accommodated and made some bomb-proof cranks that won't break the bank!
$0-$150
There are a few brands that offer cranks in this price range. The Sunday Sake cranks come with a bottom bracket as well to save you a little more cash!
$150-$260
There are plenty of cranks that fall into this price range, the quality and manufacturing will improve over the cheap cranks and they will offer a larger variety of sizes.
$260 +
When it comes to the top of the line cranks the durability won't increase too much but the weight difference can be substantial. Profile offer titanium spindles and bolts with their cranks to shave some extra grams.
