Skip to main content

SRAM X01 crankset


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$
Labels

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'.

READ MORE >>

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.

READ MORE >>

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.

READ MORE >>

Gusset Magnum stem

SO GOOD Gusset’s 50mm stem is nicely CNC machined from 7075 alloy and the faceplate and internal steerer clamp are available in a range of five anodised colours to complement the black body. The hidden steerer clamp keeps sharp edges to a minimum and removes stress from the body of the stem. Out on the bike, the stem proved flex free and bombproof.

READ MORE >>

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.

READ MORE >>