SHIMANO’S NEWXT crankset is even more mechanically durable than its legendary forebears but it looks scruffy faster than ever.
The hollow-forged arms and fixed spider are impressively stiff for powerful torque transmission and precise trail feedback. Separately bought chainrings allow ratio choice and the steel teeth set in a carbon composite sandwich are super-durable even in UK conditions. The low-scooped DCE tooth profile is amazingly secure too. Installation onto the steel axle is simple and secure, with Boost axle versions now available but still no 30mm options. Double or single-ring mount holes add weight over the direct-fit competition too. The black finish needs protective taping to stop it looking six months old after only a couple of hours.
WEIGHT: 669g
ARMS: 165, 170, 175, 180mm
Price 225$