Cycling is not just a healthy and environmentally friendly alternative to driving, but it is also super fun. Being an avid cycler for so many years now, I can proudly say that I have become a sort of an expert in the subject of cycles and cycling.
Many different parts make up a cycle, and the crankset is like its heart. Its what gets the wheels of the cycle turning. So, to make sure that my cycling trips are always comfortable and fun, I like to equip my cycle with the best single speed crankset I can find.
When you have the right cycle, there is nothing more relaxing than cycling around on a sunny day with the fresh wind running through your hair. To help you make the most of your cycling experience, we have researched and compiled a list of the best single speed cranksets available in the market today.
Best Single Speed Crankset:
- Origin8 Pro Pulsion Single Speed Crankset
- SRAM S300 Courier Single Speed Crankset
- State Bicycle Co. crankset
- CDHPOWER Single Speed Crankset
- Vuelta Pista Track Fixed Gear Crankset
- Single Speed Crankset by Litepro
- Retrospec Single Speed Crankset
Origin8 Pro Pulsion Single Speed Crankset - Best Overall
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The Origin8 Track/SS Crankset is a perfect choice for a replacement and the best fixed gear crankset upgrade for your bike. It is offered in three different size selections of 165mm, 170mm, and 175mm, respectively.
They use the 6062-T6 alloy for the crankarms and also include a 46T alloy 1/8” chainring. The Origin8 Crankset is exceptionally lightweight and weighs a remarkable 1.6 pounds (approx) only. This product also comes in black, white, silver, and blue color variants.
Pros
- The design and aesthetics are very attractive and beautiful.
- It is easy and convenient to install the product.
- The quality of the product is very good.
- The product is sturdy and extremely durable.
Cons
SRAM S300 Courier Crankset - Best Premium Fixed Gear Crankset
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The SRAM S300 Courier Crankset is a high-end product in the single speed crankset market. It has a modern and edgy design that can enhance the overall aesthetic of your bike. Not only is it remarkably good-looking, but the SRAM S300 Courier Crankset is also impressive when it comes to quality and performance.
SRAM' S300 single speed crankset is a top-runner when it comes to its quality; for this product, they use the reputed 6061 T6 alloys to guarantee the strength and durability of the product. It comes with TSM Power Glide chainrings and also includes the bottom bracket.
It measures 170 mm and weighs approximately 2.7 pounds.
Pros
Cons
State Bicycle Co. Single Speed crankset - Best All-Rounder
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State Bicycle Co. single speed cranksets always gets it right when it comes to matching product quality with product design and style. The brand produces a highly reputable range of products that the cycling community holds in a high position.
This particular fixed gear crankset model comes in four different color options from which you can choose. The colors available are black, gold, polished aluminum, and white. With this many options we have to give them kudos in staying true to offering diversity in their products.
This product is a three-piece set with a good crank arm length that is forged from 6061 aluminum alloy. Like other cranksets from the company, the State Bicycle Co. crankset comes with five bolts and requires a square taper as the bottom bracket does not come with the product.
It has a 1/8 inch chaining, which can accommodate 46 tooth count. The weight of this product is roughly 2 pounds. This weight puts it in the lightweight category.
Pros
- It is an excellent quality crankset.
- This product is very sturdy and highly durable too.
- This crankset offers maximum stability and smoothness.
CDHPOWER Single Speed Crankset
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The CDHPOWER Single Speed Crankset is a very reliable product and garners a lot of good reviews from satisfied customers. It has a simple but sturdy design that is perfect for delivering excellent results. This product has alloy crankarms with a solid carbon steel chainring, measuring 132 mm in diameter.
It is compatible with 9/16 inch pedals. The weight of this product is approximately .57 kg or 1.257 pounds. As you can see, it is incredibly lightweight and convenient for the user. Also, the CDHPOWER Single Speed Crankset comes with 12 months warranty period.
There is also a square taper interface. This product is less expensive, easier to remove or put on, and very durable.
Pros
Cons
Vuelta Pista Track Fixed Gear Crankset
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When it comes to different size options and color options, the Vuelta Pista Single Speed Track Crankset will not disappoint. You can get it in silver, black, or white, according to your bike’s aesthetics. This product is especially compatible with a 108 mm BB spindle in most applications. The material of the crank arm is cold-forged alloy and comes with crank bolts.
The length of this crankset is 12.1 inches long, with a width of 9.2 inches. As for the height, it measures 2 inches. The product weighs around 1.95 pounds. You will need a square tapered bottom bracket. The design of the Pista Track Crankset is such that it can deliver high performance and promising durability.
Pros
Cons
Single Speed Crankset Litepro
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Since there are many features about the single speed cranksets from Litepro that we like, listing out the specifications seems like a better idea. This crankset comes with 48 teeth and a 170 mm crank arm length. The pedal size you should go for is 9/16 inches. It will work on square taper bottom brackets.
Some cranksets come with only the crank arms or the drive side, but with the fixed gear crankset from Litepro, you get both of them in the package. There is no overlap of the crank arm and the chainring bolt. The material they used to make this crankset is aluminum alloy. And like the products mentioned before, it is sturdy and durable.
Pros
Cons
Retrospec Single Speed Crankset
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This product from Retrospec is one of the best cranksets out there. We can use the Retrospec Crankset on a wide range of cycle types, be it road, mountain, fixed gear, BMX, track, or single speed bikes, which is what makes it a highly versatile and reliable crankset.
The Retrospec Crankset is lightweight and convenient at just approximately 2.1 pounds. It comes as a three-piece crankset, designed to deliver strength and durability. The arm length measures 170mm and also sports an all-new crank arm design, to meet the demands of more aggressive riding and take on faster speeds.
The Retrospec Single Speed Crankset comes in different colors, including red and white.
Pros
- The pricing of the product is very reasonable.
- The bright color of the crankset is attractive and helps the cycle to stand out in the crowd.
- It is very easy to install and put together.
- Having different size options helps with attaining a perfect fit.
Cons
- The pedal threads of the crankset are weak.
- There is excessive paint on the product.
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How to Choose the Best Single Speed Crankset for Your Single Speed Bike
Here are some key factors to consider when shopping for a single speed crankset.
Material
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a single speed crankset is the material that it is made of. The two most common materials used in cranksets are aluminum and steel. Aluminum cranksets are typically lighter and more corrosion-resistant than steel cranksets, but they may not be as strong or durable. On the other hand, steel cranksets are generally more durable and stronger, but they are also heavier and may rust over time.
Chainring
Another key factor to consider when choosing a single speed crankset is the type of chainring that it comes with. A steel chainring is typically more durable and resistant to wear and tear than an aluminum chainring but is also heavier. On the other hand, an aluminum chainring is lighter and may provide slightly smoother performance, but it may not be as durable as a steel chainring.
Type
There are a few different types of single speed cranksets available on the market, including square taper cranksets, integrated cranksets, and track cranksets.
Square taper cranksets are the most common and are known for their simplicity and ease of installation and maintenance.
Integrated cranksets are more sophisticated in appearance and are often lighter and more durable due to their larger external bearings.
Finally, track cranksets are designed for use on track bikes and offer superior speed and performance.
Crank Arms
The length of the crank arms on a single speed crankset can also impact the performance of the bike. Longer crank arms can provide a longer pedal stroke and allow the rider to go faster with less effort, but they may also require a longer pedal stroke and may not be as responsive as shorter crank arms.
On the other hand, shorter crank arms can provide a faster cadence and may be more responsive, but may also reduce the rider's power compared to longer crank arms. Shorter crank arms may also be recommended for riders who experience knee pain, as the wrong length of the crank arm can cause recurring knee pain.
Tooth Count
The tooth count is the number of teeth on a single speed crankset's chainring. A higher tooth count can make the bike go faster on flat surfaces, but it may be harder to pedal when going uphill. A lower tooth count can make it easier to pedal when going uphill, but the bike may go slower on flat surfaces. Generally, the most popular combination is 16-17 teeth on the back cog and 42-44 teeth up front in the chainring.
Compatibility
It is also important to consider the compatibility of the single speed crankset with your bike. For example, some cranksets may be specifically designed for use on track bikes or fixed gear bikes, while others may be more suitable for general use on single speed bikes. Choosing a crankset that is compatible with your bike is important to ensure that it performs well and fits properly.
Smooth Performance
A good single speed crankset should provide smooth and efficient performance with minimal friction and resistance. This can help improve the bike's speed and responsiveness and make the ride more comfortable and enjoyable.
FAQs
What is a crankset?
A crankset is a device of a bike, which is attached to the pedals and the chains. It is what helps the wheels to turn when we push down on the pedals. A typical crankset consists of chainrings and crankarms.
The crankset is positioned right at the center of the bike frame, between the wheels of the bike. It is attached to both pedals on each side.
How can I remove a single set crankset?
Like all other disassembling processes, while removing a crankset, the first thing you should do is to start with loosening the top bolts to unscrew them. There is another bolt that runs through the crank-puller. Retract this bolt to remove it also.
After completing these tasks, you will be able to remove the crankset comfortably without much difficulty. The trick here is to unscrew every bolt that appears to be attaching the crankset to the bike.
How do I reattach a new crankset?
To reattach a new crankset, you must first remove the old one. Once this task is over, use a cloth to wipe down the area where the crankset is supposed to go, especially the BB. After cleaning everything, the next step is to place the new crankset in the required position and then tighten the bolts.
Keep in mind to refrain from over-tightening the bolts as this can cause damage to the bottom bracket bearings. Greasing the new crankset is optional.
What is a single speed crankset, and how does it differ from a multi-speed crankset?
A single speed crankset is a component of a bicycle that consists of the pedals, chainring(s), and crankarms. It is specifically designed for use with single speed bikes, which have only one gear ratio. On the other hand, a multi-speed crankset is designed for use with bikes that have multiple gear ratios and includes derailleurs to allow the rider to shift between gears.
What is the importance of crank arm length in a single speed crankset?
The crank arm length of a single speed crankset refers to the length of the arms that connect the pedals to the chainring. A longer crank arm can provide a longer pedal stroke, which can benefit riders who need more leverage or are looking for a smoother performance. On the other hand, shorter crank arms can provide a faster cadence and may be preferred by riders looking for a more responsive and agile ride.
Can single speed cranksets be used on multi-speed bikes?
Using a single speed crankset on a multi-speed bike is generally not recommended. Single-speed cranksets are designed specifically for use with single speed bikes, which have a fixed gear ratio. Therefore, using a single speed crankset on a multi-speed bike may not provide the desired performance and may cause damage to the bike.
What is the best single speed crankset for a fixie or track bike?
The Vuelta Pista Track Fixed Gear Crankset is a popular choice for fixie or track bikes. It is made from forged aluminum alloy and has a square taper bottom bracket, making it strong and durable. The Cysky Single Speed Crankset is another good option, as it is an integrated single speed crankset that provides a smooth and efficient performance.
Can single speed cranksets be used on road bikes?
It is possible to use a single speed crankset on a road bike, but it may not provide the desired performance. Single speed cranksets are typically used on fixie or track bikes, designed for smooth, flat surfaces. On the other hand, road bikes are designed for use on varied terrain and often require multiple gears to perform at their best.
What is the difference between a single speed crankset and a fixed gear crankset?
A single speed crankset is designed for use with single speed bikes, which have only one gear ratio. A fixed gear crankset is similar to a single speed crankset, but it is specifically designed for use with fixed gear bikes, also known as track bikes, which have a fixed gear ratio and do not allow the rider to coast.
Can single speed cranksets be used on mountain bikes?
Using a single speed crankset on a mountain bike is generally not recommended. Single speed cranksets are designed for smooth, flat surfaces and may not provide the desired performance on rough and uneven terrain. Mountain bikes typically require a multi-speed crankset to handle the varied terrain and changes in elevation.
How does the tooth count of a single speed crankset affect the performance of the bike?
The tooth count of a single speed crankset refers to the number of teeth on the chainring. A higher tooth count can provide a faster speed on flat surfaces but may make it more difficult to pedal the bike when going uphill. A lower tooth count can make it easier to pedal the bike uphill but may result in a slower speed on flat surfaces. The most common ratio is 16-17 teeth on the rear cog and 42-44 teeth on the chainring in front.
Conclusion
For a cyclist, the quality of all the different parts of the bike has to meet a certain standard. If even one component seems lacking, it will bring down the joy of the whole riding experience. For this reason, we have listed our favorite single speed cranksets in this article, hoping that it can help you get the perfect one for yourself.
Last Updated on October 14, 2023 by Daniel White