Skip to main content

Rotor REX 2.1 QX1 crankset


THE REX 2.1S are impressively stiff, lightweight and multi frame compatible, even if you don’t buy into Rotor’s asymmetric chainring concept.

They’re made from 7075 alloy rather than the 7055 used on the pricier REX 1.1s, which adds 42g. But they’re still relatively light, and the internally triple-drilled arms are just as stiff under power. The cunning reverse crank-cap makes them easy to get on and off, and the oversize axle syncs with a selection of BBs to fit all frames. Check spacing and clearances though – the straight arms don’t give much chainstay space. The oval QX1 rings have to be bought separately and can be moved between three positions to alter their unique, dead spot minimising feel. If you’re not convinced, SRAM spiders are also available.

WEIGHT: 600g
ARMS: 170, 172.5, 175mm

Price 402$

Popular posts from this blog

ENVE M50 29" Wheels

Utah based company ENVE have been making drool-worthy carbon components for some years now. Despite the fact that carbon rims are becoming more and more common on mountain bikes these days, you can guarantee that ENVE wheels will be a talking point when someone is eyeing off a steed. Instantly, the big bold logos on each rim scream "fast", "light" and to some extent, "expensive" The kids call this 'bling'.

KONA SHRED

With a reputation for no-nonsense ruggedness and a background in the always progressive and punishing riding of Canada, Kona have been building hardcore hardtails for longer than almost anyone else. The Shred is the most expensive bike on test but it’s a proper trail tank.

GT Zaskar Evolution

While some bike models last just a couple of years, others change with the times to stay at the top of riders’ wishlists. In the second part of this series looking at the evolution of bikes that enjoy enduring popularity with UK riders, we turn to the GT Zaskar – a bike that was at the forefront of our sport for a long time and still has plenty of appeal today.

COMMENCAL EL CAMINO 3

Commencal are going from strength to strength at the moment and they’ve taken their tough trail hardtail bang up to date with 650b wheels. With its skinny rims, crankset and fork, the El Camino certainly isn’t perfect and it’s the least hardcore bike here. The handling, smoothness, speed and all-round agility of the basic bike still make it a real blast for technical trail riding though, and it’s a great base for upgrading over time.

iXS Asper BC shorts

THEY AREN’T CHEAP, but these well made and feature packed shorts are the epitome of classic mountainbike-specific functionality, and on the bike they don’t disappoint.