Typically, we refer to crank lengths that are relatively shorter; for instance, common adult bicycle cranks mostly range between 165mm and 175mm. When we specifically talk about "short cranks," we usually mean 165mm or even shorter, such as 150mm to 160mm, which are lengths designed for specific needs or body types.
They are not just about comfort or fit; they can also bring unexpected performance benefits. So, are shorter cranks better overall? The answer isn't absolute, but they certainly open up new possibilities for many riders, offering unique advantages that traditional crank lengths may not provide.
Curious how different crank lengths affect your ride?
Once you’ve considered your body dimensions, riding style, and bike setup, you may find that shorter cranks meet your needs more than expected. They often deliver clear performance benefits:
Improved Aerodynamics
First, shorter cranks make it easier for cyclists to hold a lower, more compact position on the bike.
When your knees stay lower at the top of the pedal stroke, your body naturally presents a smaller frontal area to the wind, which translates into better aerodynamics without added strain. This is particularly crucial for time trialists and triathletes, allowing them to maintain aerodynamic positions longer without sacrificing breathing room or smooth power output.
Enhanced Breathing Efficiency
Additionally, shorter cranks can improve your breathing. Less knee rise during each pedal stroke creates more space around your chest. This seemingly small change can make a big difference when you're riding hard and your lungs are working at full capacity. Increased chest space allows your ribcage to expand more fully, improves diaphragm function, and supports stronger, more sustainable efforts during high-intensity riding.
Reduced Joint Stress
Simultaneously, shorter cranks are kinder to your joints, especially your knees and hips. They limit the maximum bend in your knees, reducing cumulative strain with every pedal rotation; less hip flexion also means greater comfort, particularly in compressed aerodynamic positions. This offers a training advantage, allowing you to train longer and harder without pushing your joints past their natural comfort zone, and often leads to quicker recovery times and less lingering stiffness.
Smoother Pedaling and Climbing
Are shorter cranks easier to pedal? Due to their smaller range of motion, some riders indeed feel that pedaling is smoother or more efficient. As for are shorter cranks better for climbing? While conventional wisdom might lean towards longer cranks for climbing, the advantages of shorter cranks in maintaining high cadence and consistent power output could offer unique benefits in certain climbing scenarios.
However, shorter cranks are not for everyone
There might be an initial adaptation period, as your muscles and movement patterns need time to adjust. Additionally, changing crank length often means you'll need to adjust your saddle height and other bike settings to optimize your overall riding position. For instance, when cranks get shorter, your saddle usually needs to be raised slightly to maintain the same leg extension.
Overall, shorter cranks can improve your pedal clearance and boost your confidence. They slightly raise your pedals relative to the ground, which can make a real impact when navigating technical terrain (like mountain biking to reduce pedal strikes on rocks and roots) or leaning deep into corners (like criterium racing or track cycling to avoid pedal contact). This means safer, smoother lines and higher cadences without hesitation during accelerations.
Ultimately, the choice of crank length is highly personal. It's about finding a setup that best matches your body type, riding style, and how it feels.
Croder encourage riders to experiment based on their needs, rather than blindly following trends or assuming one length is a universal solution. Because the best crank length for you is the one that lets you ride stronger, longer, and happier.
