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Need quick answer for crankset sizing!!

ghankinsghankins
in General Training Discussions

I sold my crankset yesterday and have decide to go power but I want to make sure I do it right.  I have had a few conversations with teammates and Coach R about what I should be at and we have narrowed it down to between 165 and 170mm.  I was using 175 but have learned that I may make some gains by going shorter and using compact.

As for the famous question that all crankset calculator ask what is your inseam. I have a 32 inch inseam and I stand 5'9".  So I am right around the average person. 

So the question is, Has anyone take that large of change, going from 175mm to 165mm or similar drastic changes?

 

Thanks

Greg

Comments

  • John WithrowJohn Withrow
    If you're gonna go with the Riken, the smallest it comes in is a 170mm anyways. And you're unlikely to find an older model on eBay smaller than a 170 either... I also have a 32" inseam and am quite happy with my 170mm cranks and they are certainly better than the 175's you had (as per our previous conversations). Most 5'-9" people I would suggest going with the 165 but with your longer legs, you'll be totally fine with either. If I was forced to make the decision for you, I'd tell you to get a Compact Riken in 170mm to save a little bit of $$.
  • ghankinsghankins

    Good point John.  I completely forgot that Riken's smallest size is 170.  Coach R asked me about a few things and wanted me to ask around a little more before ordering.  But I think you just answered the question with a giant period because of the limitations of size.

     

    John Thank You once again for knowledge.

    Cheers,

  • William JenksWilliam Jenks
    Greg, I am about your same size. I raced with 172.5s for years andd was happy. I intentionally switched to 165s to use short cranks for the help that it gave me with my fit and breathing. I think that the fact is that you can use cranks that are shorter than someone's formulaic "perfect" very easily. I'd be concerned about using ones that are notably longer than the formulaic answer....

    ...but I think you have your answer, as you say.
  • Scott AlexanderScott Alexander
    I'm 6'1" and also have a 32" inseam (I'm mostly torso), and run 172.5s. They're just fine for me, as I switch my quarq between my road and TT/Tri bike.
  • cgres123cgres123
    I'm 5' 10" and just went to compact last week and I stayed the same @ 172.5 FWIW.
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