We Tested 4 Different Crank Lengths (& the winner is...) скачать в хорошем качестве

We Tested 4 Different Crank Lengths (& the winner is...)

Online Bike Fit Program with Neill: https://roadcyclingacademy.com/bike-f... Cranks: https://elilee.com.au/x-novanta-full-... Neill Stanbury has completed detailed power testing across multiple crank lengths — 155mm, 160mm, 165mm, and 172.5mm. The big takeaway? Changing crank length is never an isolated swap. It forces position adjustments across saddle height, setback, reach, and hip angle, and can dramatically alter your cadence, power output, and aerodynamic position  What the testing revealed Neill ran a strict protocol in his clinic, repeating sprint and endurance efforts across each crank length. The results showed a clear trend: Peak sprint power increased with longer cranks, with around an 8–10% gain between 155mm and 172.5mm lengths. That’s a difference of nearly 70 watts in max output — a meaningful jump if you race crits or rely on short, explosive efforts Longer cranks also improved performance in 30-second max efforts, favouring riders who need raw torque and neuromuscular power. Shorter cranks, on the other hand, allowed Neill to ride more comfortably in an aero position, holding 1–1.5 km/h higher speeds at the same power on the road. This suggests that for time trialists and triathletes, the aerodynamic benefit may outweigh the small loss in max power. Zone 2 efficiency? Largely unchanged across crank lengths when measured by heart rate, but aerodynamics again became the deciding factor outdoors. The trade-offs riders need to consider Crank length isn’t about “short vs. long is better.” It’s about matching your body mechanics and event demands: Short cranks (155–160mm): Better for riders with limited hip mobility, shorter legs, or those chasing aerodynamic gains in time trials and triathlon. Require higher cadence and reduce burst acceleration in bunch rides. Mid-range cranks (165mm): A balance between cadence efficiency and torque, suitable for most road cyclists who want versatility. Long cranks (172.5mm): Stronger for sprinting, climbing at lower cadences, and maintaining bunch speed. Less aero and can increase pelvic rocking or discomfort for some riders . Neill’s verdict: there’s no one-size-fits-all crank length. Your goals (crit racing, Ironman, road racing), your body mechanics (hip mobility, leg length, cadence capacity), and your preferred riding style all determine which length works best. And stay tuned! A follow-up test with sprinter Craig Wiggins, who produces double Neill’s sprint power, will compare how different body types respond to crank length changes . #cycling #roadcycling #cyclingsetup #cranklength #bikefit #bikefitting #cyclingperformance #cyclingcomfort #cadence #poweroutput #cyclingposition #cyclingbiomechanics #saddleheight #cyclingtraining #cyclinggear #cyclingfit #aerodynamics #cyclinginjuries #roadbike #cyclingtips