My SS cross bike was supposed to be a gravel bike so it has a pretty low BB. Pedal strike is a constant over roots and curbs. It’s got an EBB and I’ve already adjusted it to the higher position that keeps the chain tight.
I’m thinking of putting 170 cranks on instead of 175. I know it’s only 5mm, but that could make some difference at least.
I’ve always been under the impression that long cranks are needed for SS so you can get power when overgeared. Is that some nonsense? I know shorter cranks make for a better spin and I feel like I could have used that on the flat paved sections last weekend.
What’s y’all’s advice?
Also, anyone want to sell me some old nice 170 cranks? I’ve got some 8s dura ace square taper stuff in there and it’s so nice how smooth and light it is.
I think they help for low RPM honking up long climbs. But for cross with tempos all over the place I think it’s a wash and if you like a shorter crank, run a shorter crank.
Good edit, because if you have to gear to climb then you don’t have to worry about the descents. This is how I won my first sscx race by gearing for the climb. Luckily, not much sustained flats.
they have a magnet for the STEPS speed sensor. I think that’s the only difference - Shimano says you only need to use them on the rear brake with the speed sensor and to use a “normal” non-STEPS brake rotor up front.
I’ve noticed Shimano has been moving a lot of the non-series parts under the STEPS umbrella. Recently, with the 4-pot brakes and the new version of the PD-M530.
