SRAM DESERVE A ton of credit for freeing the MTB world from front shifters, mechs and chain guides. Unfortunately their carbon crank arms are off-pace compared to the best in the category.
The 30mm axle option (510$) adds stiffness but there’s still noticeable arm flex when you press the pedals hard. That’s despite the fact they’re significantly heavier than the carbon competition from Race Face and FSA. They’re slightly cheaper though, and SRAM’s X-SYNC chainrings are among the quietest and most secure around. Spiders are interchangeable if you decide to double up on rings, or you can lose weight and tune gearing with their vast range (26-40t) of direct-mount rings. The X0s last well cosmetically too, especially now you get rubber tip protectors as standard.
WEIGHT: 614g
ARMS 170, 175mm
Price 472$