6 Best Single Speed Crankset

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Cycling is both a healthy and environmentally friendly means of transportation, as well as a lot of fun. I can proudly claim to have become somewhat of an expert on the subject of bicycles and riding as a long-time rider. The Crankset is the heart of a cycle, which is made up of various parts. It’s what sets the wheels of the cycle in motion. I aim to fix gear chainring with the best single speed crankset I can find to guarantee that my riding experiences are always comfortable and pleasurable.

When you have the proper bike, nothing beats riding around on a sunny day with the wind in your hair. If you’re a committed cyclist, you know how important it is to have the best single-speed Crankset possible, especially as your skills and experience grow. The chainset, as well as its component pieces like the cranks, fixed gear chainrings, bottom bracket, and single speed chainring, make up the drivetrain of your bike. It has to be strong, light, long-lasting, and, of course, affordable.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll show you all you need to know about bike cranksets. Single-speed cranksets, as well as 3 speed crankset, come in a variety of styles, but these are the finest single-speed cranksets on the market. These cranksets provide exceptional performance and a pleasurable ride. They’re also composed of forged stainless steel and are incredibly long-lasting. Furthermore, the cranksets are inexpensive and compatible with any bike.

Best Overall

Best Bang For Your Buck

Best Budget

Product Comparison Table

Here’s a comparison chart to help you see the big picture:

Product

Crank Arm Length

Weight

Buy Now

SHIMANO M361 Hybrid Crankset (Black)

170mm

2.86 Pounds

BUCKLES MTB 170mm Square Taper Crankset

170mm

1.54 Pounds

SHIMANO Ultegra R8000 Standard Crank Set - 53x39T

165m, 170mm, 172.5mm, 175mm

3 Pounds

JIANKUN Bike Crank Arm Set

170mm

2.23 Pounds

GANOPPER Square Taper Crankset

170mm

1.67 Pounds

GANOPPER 9S 9speed 22 32 44T 170mm Crank Length MTB Mountain Bike Chainset

170mm

1.7 pounds

1. SHIMANO M361 Hybrid Crankset (Black) 

Don’t let the low price mislead you. Shimano’s M361 Crankset is a solid contender for the best Crankset on the market. There are a few characteristics that jumped out to us, despite the fact that it has a lot of them. The Crankset is nicely built for beginners. Just by looking at it, you can tell how much time and work went into its creation. Second, it’s light and easy to assemble.

If you dislike the intricate cranks that come with manuals, this is an excellent solution. Oh, and don’t forget about the incredible value! Chainrings are made of steel; at this price point, don’t anticipate aluminum or additional strength. Steel chainrings are heavier than aluminum chainrings, but they’re also more durable, which is great news for such a low-cost component.

Best Single Speed Crankset

Highlighted Features

  • Crank arm length: 170mm
  • Includes three chainrings (42/32/22).
  • Includes a chainguard
  • Compatible with square bottom brackets
  • Exceptional Fit

They may also be replaced independently if necessary since detaching them just takes an Allen key. Although the arms are not hollow on the inside, they have had their inner surfaces precisely sculpted to reduce extra material and weight. Installation instructions and a step-by-step tutorial are also included with this product.

Pros

  • Lightweight.
  • Easy to install.
  • Reasonable price.
  • Elegant Design

Cons

  • Crank arms are prone to wear

Recent Crankset Review:

  • Purchased to replace a 48/38/28 front chainring set on a vintage GT that I converted from a mountain/offroad climber to a hybrid for city street commuting. I’m going the other direction now that I have a number of contemporary road bikes. Despite being smaller than the original, this crank allows me to climb steep slopes with ease. This is an outstanding item. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on May 25, 2018)
  • When my previous Crankset failed and broke on my Diamondback mountain bike around three years ago, I purchased this. It was fitted on my bike and is still in perfect working order. It’s quite simple to use and install, and it even comes with instructions and a step-by-step tutorial. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on August 9, 2018)

Ratings out of 10:

  • Easy to install 9.5
  • Value for money 9.8
  • Lightweight 9.7

2. BUCKLOS MTB 170mm 26. Square Taper Single Speed Crankset

Are you are looking to replace your Crankset but can’t seem to find one that’s ideal for mountain biking? The single-speed Crankset of the BUCKLES bike is ideal for riding in rough terrain and gives an amazing experience. It, for example, has a lovely appearance, blends in with any bike, and works well, single speed mountain bike cranks are lightweight and intended for mountain bikes, making it easier to handle than others.

This best road bike crankset is compatible with square taper bottoms, whereas other cranksets aren’t. It also features a high rate of acceleration, allowing you to travel rough terrain without getting weary. Furthermore, the Crankset comes with numerous bike components, such as a multi-color plated chainring, so you won’t have to purchase them separately.

BUCKLOS MTB 170mm 26. Square Taper Single Speed Crankset

Highlighted Features

  • Ultralight single speed mountain bike crank (104 BCD)
  • Snail single-speed chainring with thin, broad teeth,
  • Narrow teeth alternate with broad teeth in the chainring.
  • YN Square Taper Crank YN Square Taper Crank YN Square Taper Crank
  • Chainrings 32-42T

This single speed mtb crank is also compatible with single-speed chainring, providing great flexibility as well as low weight and high-strength axle. Both the thin, broad chainring and the CNC machined aluminum alloy chainring hold the chain well, reducing chain drops. It’s built of high-quality materials, so you won’t need to replace it anytime soon. As a consequence, it’s the best single-speed Crankset you can get for a fair price without going bankrupt.

Pros

  • Sturdy Build
  • Phenomenal Performance
  • Lightweight
  • High-strength axle

Cons

  • Lacks Protective Guard

Recent Crankset Review:

  • I’m converting a low-cost bike to a 1x and didn’t want to spend too much money on a test. This solution met all of my expectations, and I would use it again on a more expensive job. It’s been holding up really well so far. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on November 9, 2020)
  • It’s simple to set up and of good quality, as well as adjustable for quick changes. This is a good option for anybody looking for a new single speed crankset mtb with the square fitting. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on August 8, 2021)

Ratings Out of 10:

  • Easy to install 9.1
  • Value for money 9.3
  • Lightweight 8.9

3. SHIMANO Ultegra R8000 Standard Crank Set – 53x39T

Ultegra FC-R8000 from Shimano Not only in appearance but also in terms of technical aspects that make both cranksets light, rigid, and accurate shifters, Crankset is a direct descendent of Shimano’s flagship Dura-Ace group. The new, highly angular lines’ stiffness has been improved, resulting in remarkable power transfer.

Chainrings and bolts were also altered to enable for increased chainstay clearance on shorter rear-end bikes or highest road crankset disc bikes with wider dropout spacing. Shimano Single speed crankset has the technical know-how and manufacturing resources to provide industry-leading shifting and stiffness-to-weight ratios in rings and crank arms. The tooth profiles on this crank have been significantly altered to aid shifting and chain retention at extreme chainlines seen on modern bikes with shorter stays, broader cassette ranges, and wider rear spacing. To shorten the chainline, the inner chainring has been pushed in.

SHIMANO Ultegra R8000 Standard Crank Set

Highlighted Features

  • A lightweight crank arm with a well-designed design ensures high power transfer efficiency.
  • FC has been modified to work with more frames.
  • A larger gear pitch provides more room between the chain and the leading teeth, allowing greater frame compatibility.
  • Weight reduction without sacrificing stiffness
  • The tooth profiles of this crank have been slightly changed to make shifting easier.

Finally, the calipers on the rim brakes have been adjusted. With these, Shimano maintains its tradition of delivering benchmark rim brake calipers with a solid, secure, and smooth lever feel. Despite being heavier and using a few bushings instead of Dura-bearings, the power is comparable to the top-tier offering. Ace’s is a restaurant that serves a variety of (largely due to the same brake pads provided with both).

Pros

  • Superior system to others.
  • Lightweight
  • Quick Shifting
  • Wider rear spacing

Cons

  • Few complaints about metal bent.

Recent Crankset Review:

  • The Ultegra crankset outperforms the competition. My bike’s performance has improved significantly after I changed my FSA crankset with this Ultegra. The adapter system works considerably better with my BB30 single speed bottom bracket, allowing for better tensioning and hence power transmission. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on July 28, 2020)
  • I was hesitant to upgrade from my SI Hollowgram Crankset, but I couldn’t be more pleased with this one. It comes highly recommended!!! (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on July 17, 2021)

Ratings Out of 10:

  • Easy to install 8.7
  • Value for money 9.9
  • Lightweight 8.5

4. JIANKUN Bike Crank Arm Set 170mm 104 BCD with Bottom Bracket Kit and Chainring Bolts for MTB BMX Road Bicycle

For such a cheap price, this crankset is surprisingly high quality and compatible with all Shimano types. High-tensile steel makes up the chainring. Crank arms are light and sturdy at the same time. A road bicycle crankset with a 170mm crank arm is used for 104BCD. In addition, the cranks seem to be sturdy, the bearings spun smoothly, and the smoothness has increased much. Rather of being constructed of plastic, the sealed bearings are made of metal.

This item also includes multiple spacer rings, making it a great alternative to tor square taper bottom brackets. On the other hand, the chainring size is decided by the kind of bike you have, since certain bikes cannot support bigger chainrings. My belt can go up to a 34T, but most of the time, that isn’t required.

JIANKUN Bike Crank Arm Set 170mm 104 BCD with Bottom Bracket Kit

Highlighted Features

  • Alloy construction with a high-tensile steel chainring
  • One sprocket wheel shaft is hollow.
  • Shimano, FSA, and Gaint ATX770 ATX770-D XTC 750 Compatible
  • Normally, three spacers are included.
  • Compatible with 73mm bottom brackets.

A 32T is more than sufficient and will get you through whatever trip you choose, whether on the trails or the road. There’s no need to be concerned about the overdrive. The bottom bracket or the fixie bottom bracket of the bike will be either 68mm or 73mm (you will need to measure). This kit comes with spacers for any bottom bracket width. This item is also known as the state bicycle crankset.

Pros

  • High-end design
  • Lightweight
  • Simple to set up
  • Chainring is made of high-tensile steel.

Cons

  • There are no instructions included with the item.

Recent Crankset Review:

  • I bought this set to replace my square taper cranks, and it fit well. The quality is rather good; the cranks seem to be strong, and the bearings spin freely. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on April 17, 2020)
  • Everything is in perfect harmony. So far, I’m satisfied with them. Since installing them, I’ve only ridden a few hundred kilometers. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on May 8, 2021)

Ratings out of 10:

  • Easy to install 8.1
  • Value for money 8.6
  • Lightweight 7.8

5. GANOPPER Square Taper Crankset with 30T 32T 34T 36T 38T 40T Narrow Wide Chainring

The GANOPPER Crankset is a superb option for single-speed bikes if durability and performance are your top priorities. Any bike with a square tapered bottom bracket will work with this. It, for example, is built to last, and you won’t need to buy another one very soon. This best crankset for road bike is simple to install and works with a variety of bikes without difficulty.

Furthermore, you may enjoy mountain riding without overworking yourself, making it an excellent purchase thanks to its outstanding performance. It comes with superb cranks that are really reliable and have a wonderful strength that you will seldom encounter in other products. It also enables you to ride the bike over a variety of terrains, including roads and streets.

GANOPPER Square Taper Crankset

Highlighted Features

  • Single, dual, and triple-speed cranksets are simple to alter.
  • The BB is not included.
  • Square Bike Crank is made of Alu 6061 material.
  • Mountain bike and road bike compatible
  • The average tooth is 32T.

Furthermore, the Crankset is inexpensive, so you won’t have to break the bank to purchase one. It also comes with a variety of extra attachments in various sizes, providing you with a wide range of possibilities that you won’t find anywhere else.

Additionally, this will work with whichever cassette you are using. The front wheel will have a single speed, and the number of speeds possible will be controlled by the gears on the back wheel. As a result, it is the greatest single-speed Crankset for a comfortable ride.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Incredible Design
  • Sturdy Build
  • Ideal for Uphill

Cons

  • Average Hub

Recent Crankset Review:

  • The quality was better than I had anticipated. Entry-level equipment on a name-brand bike is equivalent to or better than this. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on December 12, 2020)
  • When we switched my partner’s bike from a 3×7 to a 1×9 drivetrain, I installed one of these. She’s barely 110 pounds, but it’s plenty for her. After 100 kilometers of trails, all of the teeth seem to be in good working order; it engages nicely and continue to spin the wheels. For the money, this is a good buy. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on December 6, 2021)

Ratings out of 10:

  • Easy to install 8.9
  • Value for money 8.7
  • Lightweight 9.7

6. GANOPPER 9S 9speed 22 32 44T 170mm Crank Length MTB Mountain Bike Chainset 104BCD 64BCD Easy to Modify Single Crank Set

The GANOPPER 9speed is an outlier when it comes to single-speed cranksets that are both durable and light. The single-speed Crankset is lightweight well-made, and you won’t need to replace it anytime soon. It is made composed of aluminum alloy arms, for example, which make the product lighter.

It works with 7S/8S/9S speeds, and you can even get a 32T version depending on your requirements. The GANOPPER 9S, on the other hand, is easy to use and needs less effort, making it much more convenient for you.

GANOPPER 9S 9speed 22 32 44T 170mm Crank Length MTB Mountain Bike Chainset

Highlighted Features

  • There isn’t a bottom bracket
  • Chainring made of high-tensile steel
  • Single-speed crankset is simple to adjust.
  • BB with a square taper
  • The crank bolt is MB in size.

It is also reasonably priced and represents the best value-for-money product you will not be dissatisfied with due to its superior performance. The single-speed Crankset is also ideal for mountain riding thanks to its superb design. It became the best road bike crankset 2020 on the market for smooth and level terrain, allowing you to enjoy your trip.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Incredibly Design
  • Simple Installment
  • Good Price Point
  • Smoother Experience

Cons

  • Few complaints about the chainring.

Recent Crankset Review:

  • Everything is going OK thus far. I’m a 250-pound rider who goes quickly downhill and slowly upward. For my Diamondback Atroz, I converted it to a single-speed setup. I’ve been riding it for the whole summer! (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on September 2, 2019)
  • Extremely light in weight. Excellent quality. The hue is appealing. It has a smooth ride. The typography bothers me, but that’s just me. For the last 500 miles, I’ve been abusing them. There are no issues to report. (Reviewed on Amazon in the United States on September 16, 2019)

Ratings Out of 10:

  • Easy to install 8.2
  • Value for money 8.8
  • Lightweight 9.9

Factors To Keep In Mind While Getting Your Best Single Speed Crankset

The best fixie crankset is the heart and soul of a single-speed. It’s similar to a car’s engine.

You’ve come to the correct spot if you want to construct a single-speed bike and have all of the parts except the crank and arms.

1. Single-Speed Bike Crankset Types

There are two options when it comes to crank kinds. The first is known as Square Taper, while the second is known as Integrated.

2. Square Taper 

A square taper crankset is a most useful and technically basic Crankset. It’s the most prevalent model, with a square taper crankset and a cartridge bottom on practically every crank for fixie. The fact that they are simple to install and maintain is one of the reasons for their popularity. If you like aesthetics, integrated cranksets may be the way to go. Square tapers aren’t very attractive. However, look is a personal choice. So, before you make your pick, make sure you look at some of the well-known brands available.

3. Integrated

Choose an integrated crank if you truly want to improve the overall aesthetic of your bike.

The major advantage of this taper over a square taper is that it is lighter. Integrated cranks are more durable, lighter, and cooler. Yes, it is correct. Because the exterior bearings are bigger, they are more durable. Cartridge BBs have smaller sealed bearings, and as they wear out, you’ll hear a rattling noise.

4. Track Bike Crankset: What You Need to Know

Some SS cranksets aren’t compatible on your fixie. Some of them are made specifically for track motorcycles. Do you have no idea what the best track crankset are? They are the epitome of single-speed riding, with components that are all about speed and performance.

Owners of track bikes are unconcerned about their appearance. Their main purpose is to travel as quickly as possible. Riding a fixie, on the other hand, is all about simplicity. Don’t you want to appear nice while commuting?

5. Tooth Count & Gear Ratio

Understanding the gear ratio on a crankset fixie is quite straightforward. You only have one gear to comprehend, after all. The tooth count is the sole feature that distinguishes these cranksets from others. I’m sure you’ve picked up on it by now. The Crankset’s gear ratio is represented by the tooth count. You’ll see things like 32T, 36T, 44T, and so on. The higher that number is, the more difficult it will be to pedal the bike.

You will, however, develop speed far more quickly. If you travel on a regular basis, a modest tooth count will make paddling much simpler. If you reside in mountainous terrain, the usual guideline is to go with a lower gear ratio. You’ll need a higher gear ratio if you want to go fast.

6. Crank Arm Length

The length of the crank arm varies depending on the crank. This one is very significant for two reasons. One is tied to speed, while the other is related to knee discomfort. First, let’s discuss about speed. You will be able to paddle faster and with less effort if you use a longer crank arm. Gearing will be a lot simpler as a result of this. If you’re riding a fixie, though, keep an eye on the pedal stroke. The shorter length allows you to ride at a quicker cadence while also lowering your chances of pedal strike.

However, compared to longer crank arms, you will have less power. Shorter crankarms should always be used if you have knee problems. The right bike fit is the second factor. If you don’t choose the correct length for your crank arm, you’ll end up with knee discomfort. There are other causes as well, but this one has been demonstrated to be the most serious.

Maintenance Guide

1. Maintaining an Appropriate Chain Tension

Chain tension is important for keeping the chain steady, preventing slippage, and lowering chain wear. A chain with little slack may cause the chain, front chainring, and freewheel to wear down more quickly. Under stress, a slack chain may cause the gear to move and the chain to fall off the cog, which affects the best fixed gear crank or best fixed gear crankset. A half-centimeter of up/down movement in the chain is recommended for optimal tension. On a fixie, chain tension should be a little looser than on a single speed with a freewheel.

2. Keep Your Chain Lubricated and Clean On a Regular Basis

If your oil and clean your chain on a regular basis, it will last longer and will be protected from the elements. To clean the chain, spray it thoroughly with gt85 and use an old cloth to rub away the grit and old lubricant. Your chain will be susceptible if you use gt85 or WD40 as a lubricant. Use dry lubrication in dry summer conditions and more wet lubricant in rainy weather and winter conditions in Scotland. We recommend washing your bike once or twice a month if you travel by bike on a regular basis.

3. Maintain a Steady Air Pressure In The Tires

Tires lose air over time, especially if they are parked for a long time. Maintaining optimum tire pressure (as shown on the side of each tire) ensures that you get the most out of your pedal strokes while avoiding pinch flats.

4. Make Sure Your Single Speed Is In Good Working Order

Many people ride their bikes as their major source of transportation, but after a hard day at work and a harrowing journey home in the rain, this important maintenance is often ignored. Why not spend a half-hour on a Saturday washing your pride and joy with an old cloth and a bottle of much-off or gt85 to remove the week’s grime and dirt? Avoid using chemicals on your brake pads and braking surfaces (other than professional brake cleaners), and clean the hard-to-reach locations with an old toothbrush. Remember to lubricate the chain after cleaning to avoid corrosion.

5. Check Bolt Tension

Check the bolt tightness on your stem, crank bolts, handlebars, and brakes on a regular basis to verify nothing has come loose. Once a month, we suggest doing a comprehensive check. A decent multi-tool and an Allen key size 8 should suffice.

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Some FAQs about Single Speed Crankset

This is an intriguing issue, and there is a huge amount of contradicting evidence concerning the influence of the crank arm on the cycling economy and performance. I have yet to see any convincing evidence from studies that there is an optimal crank arm length. Or that the additional leverage of longer crank arms increases speed. In the end, it's up to both of you and your physical attributes. If you're happy with your present setup, take a quick measurement of what you're using right now. To give you a sense of scale, the "normal" crank arm length is 170mm, and I wouldn't overthink it. Your choice of gearing ratio will have a greater influence on your speed and reliability. However, for this certain field, you can go through the above retrospec reviews, that is a detailed review of retrospec Crankset.
If you want to alter your gearing, you'll almost probably have to modify your chain length. When replacing your eighth inch crankset or rear cassette/freewheel/ eighth inch cranks, it's usually a good idea to get a new chain. Running an old chain that has grown somewhat worn may shorten the life of your new gear and prevent you from getting the most out of your new crankset!
This is a critical purchase choice. For the single-speed cranksets listed above that do not include a bottom bracket, you should add in the cost of one. They may be costly, so if you can obtain an all-in-one set, consider it a bonus. Although you do not need to change your bottom bracket single speed when installing a new crankset, you should double-check that it will fit your current setup (standard threaded bottom brackets accommodate a 24mm diameter axle).
You should first remove the existing Crankset before reattaching the new one. After you've completed this process, wipe clean the place where the Crankset is meant to go, particularly the BB, with a towel. After cleaning everything, it's time to install the new Crankset and tighten the bolts. It's important not to overtighten the nuts since this might harm the bottom bracket bearings. It is not necessary to grease the new Crankset.
When removing a crankset, start by releasing the top bolts and unscrewing them, just as you would with any other dismantling operation. The crank-puller has another bolt that passes through it. To remove this bolt as well, retract it. You should be capable of removing the Crankset without too much trouble after performing these steps. The secret is to loosen all of the bolts that seem to connect the Crankset to the bike to get it on the single speed crankset road as well as the bike crankset single speed road.

Conclusion

For a biker, the quality of all the numerous components of the bike must meet a certain standard. It will distract from the overall pleasure of the riding experience if even one component seems to be lacking. The bulk of the single-speed cranksets on this list is designed for beginners. Nonetheless, they are much better than the standard Crankset that is the sram single speed crankset seen on entry-level to mid-level bikes.

The color, tooth count, and bottom bracket design will decide which one you pick since they all do the same task. As a consequence, this page includes a selection of our favorite single-speed cranksets as well as amazon single speed bike.

Hopefully, this information has assisted you in deciding the best single speed crankset or the best single speed road bike. Because there are so many options, such as origin8 single speed crankset, it may be tough to choose the best single speed crankset. Rather than focusing on weight reduction, the ordinary rider should focus on the gearing and durability of a new crankset.

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