Crank length is one of the most overlooked yet impactful aspects of bike fit and performance. It directly influences your pedaling biomechanics, cadence, leverage, and overall comfort.

Most stock bikes come with 170 mm or 172.5 mm cranks, but for serious riders, custom sizing can yield measurable benefits.

Crank length impacts cadence, comfort, and power. Learn how to choose between 160 mm, 165 mm, 170 mm, and more for your optimal cycling setup.

Shorter cranks (160 mm to 165 mm) are gaining popularity among road and triathlon riders for good reason. They allow for a higher cadence, reduce hip compression at the top of the pedal stroke, and improve aerodynamics by enabling a lower torso position.

This is especially useful for riders with shorter inseams, limited hip mobility, or those focused on time-trial or aero gains.

On the other hand, longer cranks (175 mm or more) can offer more leverage and may benefit riders with long legs or those tackling steep climbs where torque is more valuable than spin. However, they also increase joint stress and may limit cadence range.

At QO, cranksets are available in a wide range of lengths, from 160 mm to 175 mm, across all models including RACE, GRAVA, and ROCKS. This lets riders fine-tune their setup based on discipline and personal preference, without compromising stiffness or style.

Choosing the right crank length means balancing power, comfort, and control. It’s not just about leg length, it’s about how you ride