In theory, shorter cranks on a bike can improve power transfer by reducing the distance that the pedals are from the bottom bracket. This reduces the leverage that the rider has over the pedals, which can make it easier to apply power to the pedals throughout the entire pedal stroke. Additionally, shorter cranks can also reduce the amount of flex in the pedal and crank system, which can also help to improve power transfer. This is because less flex in the system means that more of the rider's energy is going into propelling the bike forward, rather than being absorbed by the flex in the cranks.
The length of the cranks can affect the rider's ability to maintain a steady cadence, particularly when climbing. Longer cranks generally provide more leverage, making it easier to turn the pedals at a lower cadence, which can be beneficial for riders who prefer to climb at a lower cadence. However, shorter cranks can be beneficial for riders who prefer to spin at a higher cadence as they reduce the leverage and make it easier to turn the pedals quickly.
Longer cranks = grinders
Shorter cranks = spinners
I pedal at a really low cadence and noticed that going from 175 to 170 that it was harder to maintain the pace in the same gear.
Jan. 20, 2023, 8:33 a.m. - Jerry Willows
In theory, shorter cranks on a bike can improve power transfer by reducing the distance that the pedals are from the bottom bracket. This reduces the leverage that the rider has over the pedals, which can make it easier to apply power to the pedals throughout the entire pedal stroke. Additionally, shorter cranks can also reduce the amount of flex in the pedal and crank system, which can also help to improve power transfer. This is because less flex in the system means that more of the rider's energy is going into propelling the bike forward, rather than being absorbed by the flex in the cranks. The length of the cranks can affect the rider's ability to maintain a steady cadence, particularly when climbing. Longer cranks generally provide more leverage, making it easier to turn the pedals at a lower cadence, which can be beneficial for riders who prefer to climb at a lower cadence. However, shorter cranks can be beneficial for riders who prefer to spin at a higher cadence as they reduce the leverage and make it easier to turn the pedals quickly. Longer cranks = grinders Shorter cranks = spinners I pedal at a really low cadence and noticed that going from 175 to 170 that it was harder to maintain the pace in the same gear.