What started years ago with the timeless Widget has now become either a craze or passion. Mountain bikers everywhere are ditching their excess chain rings, shifters and front derailleurs. Reasons to do so abound: lower weight, greater simplicity, lower running costs, wider range cassettes and of course fashion.
It was the launch of
XX1 by SRAM that really got 1x setups over the line for most riders, with a
huge 10-42 range with their massive cassette. The 40 and 42T modifications help
bring this to riders who are happily set on a 10 speed setup. I have even seen
one used on a 2x setup for extra range.
A dedicated 1x chain
ring is essential for success when running a single chain ring. Most manufacturers
have adopted a narrow-wide tooth profile, with teeth that are also taller to hold
the chain.
Absolute Black are new
player in the market, you might have seen their hubs already. Their British designed,
Polish made chain rings (and more of their range) are now available in
Australia via SCV imports.
We tested one of the
spiderless chain ring designs, which they make for SRAM and Cannondale cranks. They
also have rings for 64mm and 104mm bolt circles, and oval options too.
The rings are CNC
machined from heat treated 7075 aluminium, and the teeth have a tall narrowwide
profile for retention. They can be used for a 1x setup on a 9, 10 or 11 speed
drivetrain – although a 10 speed chain needs to be used on a 9 speed setup due
to the tooth shape. Absolute Black back their chain rings up for a year of excellent
chain retention.
The tolerances for
fitting on my Cannondale SI SL cranks was spot on, and the offset shape of the ring
helps make a great chain line, which isn’t always the case when you make a bike
1x. Best of all, it’s light. I fitted a 34t ring which is 73g. I did this while
fitting a new XTR M9000 1x11 drivetrain on my Bianchi Methanol 29 FS. As is
always recommended, I used a new chain. The Shimano 11 speed chain mated
perfectly, and with plenty of hours on the combination already I haven’t had a dropped
chain, or any skipping.
The benefit of the
spiderless design is low weight, stiffness, and less parts to loosen off and
creak. SRAM have also made spiderless XX1 rings now, but if your cranks have a
removable spider, the Absolute Black chain rings might offer a very neat,
light, and efficient way to bring your bike into 2015. And they certainly are
one of the lightest options out there.
GOOD
- Light weight
- Can help improve
chain line
NO GOOD
- Limited range of
28-34t
PRICE About 120$
