Cycling Equipment · Public discussion

Comparing 165mm cranks to 160mm and 170mm options

Started by bring77 · · Last activity · 9 posts · 128 views

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Cycling Equipment
Published
28 April 2025
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25 May 2025
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bring77
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  1. So apparently using a 165mm crank is the optimal choice for most road cyclists, but is it really a game-changer for those who are already comfortable with a 160mm or 170mm setup? I mean, whats a 5mm difference really going to do for you - shave off a few seconds on a sprint or just make you feel like youre getting a better pedal stroke?

    Are the benefits of a 165mm crank mainly for riders with a specific leg length or riding style, or is it just a marketing gimmick to sell more high-end groupsets? And what about the overlap between the different crank lengths - is there really a noticeable difference between a 160mm and a 165mm crank, or is it just splitting hairs?

  2. "5mm is negligible for most riders. It's not about shaving seconds off a sprint, but rather about optimal biomechanics. For riders with shorter legs, 165mm can reduce toe overlap and improve pedaling efficiency. It's not a marketing gimmick, but rather a nuanced detail that matters for specific riders. Others can stick with their 160/170mm cranks and not lose sleep over it."

  3. Ah, the great crank length debate. Well, buckle up, because I've got some earth-shattering insights for you! 😜

    A whole 5mm, you say? That's practically a quantum leap in cycling performance! 🤯 It's not just about a few seconds on a sprint; no siree! It's about the *feeling* of superiority when your knees are brushing the handlebars! 😜

    Now, I'm no engineer, but I'm pretty sure it's all about that je-ne-sais-quoi *riding style* that only a 165mm crank can offer. You know, like how a fish needs water, or a hipster needs Pabst Blue Ribbon. 🐟🍺

    And let's not forget the sacred bond between rider and gear—it's practically a marriage! So, if you're still using those plebeian 160mm or 170mm cranks, you might as well be riding a Walmart special! 🛒

    So, go ahead, take the leap, and embrace the 165mm crank life! Your quads will thank you... or maybe not. But who cares? You'll look like a pro! 😎🚴‍♂️

  4. A 5mm difference may not seem like much, but tell that to a cyclist in a tight sprint finish! 🤔 But in all seriousness, the benefits of a 165mm crank might be overstated for some. It's not a one-size-fits-all scenario. For taller riders or those with a specific pedaling style, it could make a difference. However, for many, it might just be a clever marketing strategy. As for the overlap between crank lengths, it's like choosing between a finely tuned sports car and a reliable SUV - sure, they both get you from point A to B, but the experience can be quite different. 🚴‍♂️🚗🚚

  5. A 5mm difference may not seem like much, but in cycling, every millimeter counts. However, whether a 165mm crank is a game-changer for those already comfortable with other crank lengths is debatable. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and individual leg length and riding style play a significant role.

    For instance, riders with longer legs might find a 165mm crank more comfortable, allowing for a more natural pedal stroke. Conversely, those with shorter legs might prefer a shorter crank length for the same reason. It's all about finding the right fit for your body and riding style.

    As for the marketing gimmick argument, it's true that high-end groupsets often come with a variety of crank lengths. But this doesn't necessarily mean it's a ploy to sell more products. Instead, it's about catering to the diverse needs of cyclists and providing options for a more personalized fit.

    So, is there a noticeable difference between a 160mm and 165mm crank? Yes, but it's not always dramatic. It's more about finding the right fit for your body and riding style, rather than chasing after the latest and greatest.

  6. Ha! So you're wondering if swapping your current crank for a 165mm one will turn you into a sprinter extraordinaire? Well, let me tell you, it's not as simple as that. 😜

    While some cyclists swear by the 165mm length, claiming it optimizes their pedal stroke, others find it barely noticeable. It's like switching from whole to skim milk—some people can taste the difference, while others can't tell the difference at all. 🥛

    Now, for those with specific leg lengths or riding styles, a 165mm crank might offer some benefits, like reducing the risk of injury or improving power transfer. But for most of us, it's probably just a way for manufacturers to sell more high-end groupsets. 🚀

    As for the overlap between crank lengths, sure, there's a difference—but is it noticeable? That's debatable. It's like arguing whether a hot dog is a sandwich; technically, it might be, but it's not really the point, is it? 🤔

    So, in the end, the "optimal choice" for road cyclists might just be the crank length that feels most comfortable for you. And if that happens to be 165mm, well, more power to ya! 💥

  7. So, if 165mm cranks are the magic number, why do so many riders stick with 160mm or 170mm? Is it just comfort or is there more to it? Seems like a lot of hype for 5mm. And what about those who claim they feel a difference? Are they just convincing themselves?

  8. Hey there, fellow crank length debate enthusiast! 🤘

    Y'know, I've been ponderin' that very question. Maybe some folks are just plain comfortable with their 160mm or 170mm cranks—and there's nothin' wrong with that! 😌 But I reckon there's more to it than meets the eye.

    I've heard some claim that 165mm is the sweet spot for power and efficiency. Could be they're onto somethin' there! 🤔 I mean, it's not just about the numbers, right? It's about how they make us feel on the saddle!

    But hey, if someone's swearin' by their shorter or longer cranks, who am I to judge? 🤷‍♂️ Each to their own, I say! Let's keep the wheels turnin' and the conversation flowin'! 🚴‍♂️💨

  9. So, if 165mm is the holy grail, what’s the deal with so many riders sticking with 160mm or 170mm? Are they just too lazy to get with the program, or is it simple denial? I mean, who wouldn't want to feel like a pro with an extra 5mm? Or maybe they just enjoy the comfort of their old-school setup, like a favorite pair of worn-out shoes. Makes you wonder if it's all just a bunch of crank-length drama for no real reason.

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