Drivetrain - Bikerumor https://bikerumor.com/bike-components/drivetrain/ All the best cycling news, tech, rumors and reviews Sun, 24 May 2026 14:34:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://bikerumor.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/bikerumor-favicon-144-1-120x120.png Drivetrain - Bikerumor https://bikerumor.com/bike-components/drivetrain/ 32 32 190730048 Wheels Mfg Adds 1x Chainrings to Match Singlespeed Cogs (or Your Cassette) https://bikerumor.com/wheels-mfg-1x-chainring/ https://bikerumor.com/wheels-mfg-1x-chainring/#respond Thu, 28 May 2026 13:00:00 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=418566 Lightweight, stiff, and comes in colors to match the rest their bottom bracket, hangers & more.

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blue gravel chainring from wheels manufacturing on a crankset.

Designed with the precision and attention to detail you’d expect from Wheels Manufacturing, their new 1x chainrings are made to fit SRAM’s 8-bolt mounting pattern.

Machined from 7075 aluminum, they’re available in seven anodized colors, which conveniently match the same colors offered on their singlespeed cogs and spacers if that’s your jam:

wheels mfg single chainring on a moots gravel bike.

Prefer gears? The narrow-wide design comes in both SRAM and Shimano compatible tooth profiles with 40, 42, 44, and 46 tooth counts. A 6.5mm inboard offset maintains proper chainline. Here’s all that, with the colors, in bullet point form:

  • SRAM 8-Bolt direct mount gravel chainrings
  • Available in 40T, 42T, 44T, and 46T
  • SRAM and Shimano tooth profile options
  • 6.5mm inboard offset
  • Machined from 7075 aluminum
  • Seven anodized colors: Black, Blue, Teal, Green, Red, Purple, and Orange
  • Designed for gravel riders looking for performance, durability, and style
  • Weights:
    • 40T: 99.5g
    • 42T:102.6g
    • 44T: 108.1g
    • 46T: 113.6g
wheels mfg alloy cnc machined chainrings.

The chainrings will be available in early July, MSRP from $115 to $125, depending on size.

WheelsMfg.com

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Cane Creek Adds Titanium Grey Chainrings for eeWings https://bikerumor.com/cane-creek-titanium-gray-eewing-chainrings/ https://bikerumor.com/cane-creek-titanium-gray-eewing-chainrings/#comments Sat, 09 May 2026 23:50:15 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=417582 They're alloy, but now they look like titanium.

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cane creek titanium gray chainrings for eeWings cranksets.

Originally available with black anodizing, Cane Creek’s CNC’d aluminum chainrings are now available in a Titanium Gray finish to match the look of their actually-made-from-titanium eeWings crankset.

They’re 100% CNC machined from 7075 aluminum and use a near-universal tooth design. Cane Creek says that makes them compatible with SRAM Eagle and FlatTop (12+13 speed) chains and Shimano Linkglide and Hyperglide+ (11+12 speed) chains, making it easier to mix and match…and move the cranks to another bike in the future.

cane creek titanium gray chainrings for eeWings cranksets.

The chainrings come in 0mm and 3mm offsets for mountain bike sizes, and 3mm offset for gravel sizes. Here are all the options and what they fit:

cane creek chainring size and compatibility chart.

The eeWings crankset comes in AR (all-road, gravel) and MTB versions, and you’ll get one free chainring with purchase of the cranks. If you want different sizes, or just need a replacement, chainrings run $99.99 in every size. Available in 30/32 (0mm) and 30/32/38/40/42/44 (3mm) sizes.

CaneCreek.com

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Shimano Gives us Two New GRX Chainring Sizes and Two Shorter Crank Arm Choices https://bikerumor.com/shimano-gives-us-two-new-grx-chainring-sizes-and-two-shorter-crank-arm-choices/ https://bikerumor.com/shimano-gives-us-two-new-grx-chainring-sizes-and-two-shorter-crank-arm-choices/#respond Fri, 08 May 2026 14:52:00 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=417368 Shimano gives us bigger GRX chainrings and smaller GRX crank arms

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(Photos / Shimano)

Shimano recently launched some additions to its GRX gravel component lineup. The additions were two new chainring sizes and two new crank arm length options. The updated 44-tooth and 46-tooth chainrings join the existing 40T and 42T options. Along with that are the new shorter 160mm and 165mm crank arm lengths.

The new rings and crank arms are for the RX810 series. These additions will give gravel riders even more ways to dial in their bike’s fit and gearing.

Bigger Chainrings

Shimano New Chainrings and Crank Arms 46T
Shimano GRX 46t

The larger 44t and 46t chainrings are for the riders who spend time on flatter terrain or take part in race-focused gravel events where maintaining higher speeds matters. Additionally, as Shimano often points out, a larger chainring results in less chain friction.

Shimano New Chainrings and Crank Arms 44T
Shimano GRX 44t

The new chainrings work with existing GRX cranksets in both 1x and 2x configurations across the 600- and 800-series groups. That means current GRX users can upgrade without replacing their entire drivetrain. That’s nice.

Shorter Crank Arms

There’s been a “shorter is better” movement going on in the crank arm world for some time now. A shorter crank arm can benefit riders by allowing a smaller, more efficient pedal stroke.

Shimano New Chainrings and Crank Arms white shoes

Shorter cranks can also support higher pedaling cadences and reduce stress on joints during long rides. With the addition of new crank arm lengths, the RX810 lineup now offers crank lengths ranging from 160mm to 175mm in 2.5mm increments.

Hit the link below for more details on these new offerings.

Ride.Shimano.com

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Campy Record Expands Italian Wireless 13sp Gruppo Platform at 37% Lower Price than SR! https://bikerumor.com/campagnolo-record-13-wireless-road-and-gravel-groupset/ https://bikerumor.com/campagnolo-record-13-wireless-road-and-gravel-groupset/#comments Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=416040 Campagnolo is back with a new wireless Record 13 groupset family for your road, all-road & gravel bikes at 37% less than Super Record!

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Campagnolo Record 2x crank

Enter Campagnolo Record 13 wireless.

After two separate Super Record launches last year, Campagnolo is back for 2026 with a whole suite of 1x and 2x 13-speed Record wireless groupsets that are a lot more affordable. With five different road, all-road, and gravel gruppo configurations available, the new wireless Campagnolo Record 13 platform costs 37% less than Super Record, saving buyers 1200-1600€ with just a couple hundred grams of added weight to show for it. You get much of the same classy angular carbon good looks, the super-fast wireless electronic shifting, mix-and-match wireless 13-speed compatibility with or without a clutched rear derailleur, excellent proven braking, and those same made-in-Italy vibes.

Just now, it’ll cost you a lot less.

Campagnolo Record 13 wireless road and gravel groupset

Campagnolo Record 2x crank

Everything you loved about Super Record, but now at the Record level for 5/8 of the price.

It’s still not quite as cheap as Force XPLR or Ultegra. But Record is now a lot more affordable than either Red XPLR or Dura-Ace, again splitting the difference of its two big dropbar competitors. Besides being made-in-Europe which a lot of traditionalists love, the new wireless Record 13 platform offers a lot of value in its ability to be adapted specifically to how you ride – whether that’s pure road, various mixed surface all-road and gravel mentalities, or a dedicated off-road gravel style.

Everything you loved from Super Record 13 wireless, but still couldn’t afford…

All the key features of Campagnolo’s top-tier wireless 13-speed groupset trickle down to Record 13.

You get the same made in-house in Italy ethos. The same fast-shifting electronics inside, and the same removable, rechargeable 750km-range batteries that are different front & rear to not anger SRAM’s AXS patents.

Plus, this latest generation of battery has direct USB-C ports on them, which make charging much easier to manage!

Campagnolo Record rear derailleur

The Record 13 derailleurs still get the mix of carbon-reinforced polyamide upper & lower knuckles and outer pulley cage, connected with alloy links. But now with a stamped inner steel cage delivers “exceptional lightness, strength, and reliability.”

Plus, the 14-tooth narrow-wide pulleys now feature durable sealed stainless steel bearings which help lower costs.

Campagnolo Record rear derailleur gravel

Both the all-road and gravel derailleurs feature the same Nano Clutch for chain retention.

Campagnolo Record Rear Derailleur gravel 1x

And the gravel 1x-specific Record X gravel derailleur adds the longer cage and 12T & 16T pulley configuration to work with cassettes up to 48 teeth, again with a carbon outer and steel inner cage.

Campagnolo Record cassette

Cassette-wide, Record 13 cassette continues the tightly-spaced 13-speed gearing steps from Super Record.

For Record 13 you can pick from 10-33T, 11-36T, and 10-48T options depending on the rear derailleur you select. The new cassettes feature the same low-friction Black Chrome finish as SR on the smaller cogs, and then a new darker Satin Black finish to the upper cogs that is said to “enhance resistance to wear“.

Plus, new Campagnolo Record 13 is fully compatible with the original Super Record 13 cassettes, and those extra premium Ultra 13 ones, too.

New Record Ergopowers, same classic Campy control

Campagnolo Record 13 wireless ergopower levers

The new Record 13 Ergopower shift brake controls are functionally the same as Super Record, keeping the classic Campy thumb button that got a huge functional boost with Super Record.

You still get easy reach adjust, and the latest simple, hollowed out shift paddles.

Campagnolo Record shifter

Inside, in addition to the inner thumb shift lever, there’s also the same customizable Smart Button at the top of the hood, plus the inner Mode button & LED indicator.

The hydraulic brake system inside remains unchanged from Super Record, and pairs with the same excellent disc brake power and modulation, as before.

Again, the only difference is in the same matte/gloss finish like you’ll find on the new Record brake levers.

What’s new & different?

Campagnolo Record wide range cassette gravel

The key differences are almost entirely in more careful and more affordable material choices and simpler finishes. Think: less use of titanium and more steel or aluminum. And less extensive machining away of excess material like in the new Record cassette.

The end result being an extra 208-342g of material, depending on which Record 13 configuration you choose over Super Record 13. But always the same performance.

Campagnolo Record – Options, pricing & weight comparisons, and availability

Campagnolo Record crank arm

As a baseline setup, this new Campagnolo Record groupset sells for 2700€ in a traditional road 2×13 build, without a powermeter. That’s 1600€ less (<37%) than Super Record. The Record 2×13 configuration has a claimed weight of 2783g (vs. 2441g for SR).

For a gravel comparison, the new Campagnolo Record X groupset sells for 2130€ in a 1×13 build, with a Nano Clutched rear derailleur and also without a powermeter. That’s 1245€ less (again <37%) than Super Record X. The Record X 1×13 configuration has a claimed weight of 2777g (vs. 2569g for SR).

The road/all-road, clutched 1x with a smaller road cassette is the lightest of the new platform, with a claimed weight of 2656g and a price tag of 2335€. The road/all-road, clutched 2x again with the small cassette weighs a claimed weight of 2806g and a price of 2765€. And lastly, the road/all-road, clutched Record X 1x with the wide range cassette has a claimed weight of 2820g and the same 2129€ price as the gravel-specific version.

Campagnolo Record 13 wireless, simple 1x crankset

Even though that Record X crank we got a look at (above) kind of seems like it, that is not the powermeter crankset, but rather the 1x-specific Record X crankset used for 1x gravel, road & even TT builds.

new carbon Campagnolo Record 13 wireless 1x & 2x power meter cranksets

Campagnolo uses the same modular right-side direct-mount Record crank arm for both this 1x spider and their spider-based powermeter. Interestingly, the new Record-level PWN power meter now sells for just 600€ extra over a conventional setup. That’s a huge 567€ savings (a 49% reduction) vs. the SR HPPM, made possible with “simplified electronics” that maintain +/-2% accuracy claims.

The Record 2×13 Road, Record X 1×13 Gravel, and Record X 1×13 Road builds are all available starting today. As are the power meters. The Road/All-Road 1x & 2x versions with the Nano Clutch derailleur, designed to be used with conventional smaller cassettes, will be available in July 2026.

Campaganolo.com

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OChain Updates Its Products For Easier Service, Upgrades & Adjustment https://bikerumor.com/ochain-updates-its-products-for-2026-and-beyond/ https://bikerumor.com/ochain-updates-its-products-for-2026-and-beyond/#respond Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=416117 OChain may not be releasing a new product, but they are updating their lineup to meet SRAM's standards and be a bit easier to use

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OChain updates

Pedal kickback and chain feedback devices were big talk last year. Solutions came in the form of a hub device, the hub itself, or a chainring device

Obviously, OChain falls into the final category, with several chainring devices with multiple settings. As popularity around these devices grew, so did OChain, with SRAM acquiring the brand mid-last year.

While OChain isn’t currently releasing any new products, they are announcing an update to its current lineup.

OChain Updates

As they settle in under the SRAM banner, OChain has made a few updates to both their base (N and E) and premium (R and S) models. First, OChain redesigned all the models to meet SRAM’s quality standards.

The latest OChains have a more robust construction that meets ISO and SRAM’s fatigue test standards. They also improved chain-device contamination (or lack thereof) through new gasket material and double-lip silicone seals. This keeps lubrication in and water out, prolonging the life of the OChain and keeping it running smoothly.

Another update OChain made was to unify some internal components across all models. This makes service at home or at your local shop easier, as replacement and maintenance parts should be more readily available and a bit less proprietary. 

Lastly, the new models have an easier upgrade path. The new External-Adjust Upgrade Kit brings the OChain N or E (base models) up to the R and S level (premium models). Before the update, changing the travel on the base models likely needed to be done at home or at a shop. The upgrade kit adds a dial-adjust faceplate with 3°, 6°, 9°, and 12° settings, along with a lockout, all of which can be easily changed trailside.

Now, it isn’t clearly specified, but it seems that the upgrade kit only works with the latest N and E models. If you already have one of these, you may be out of luck if you’re considering the External-Adjust Upgrade Kit. 

OChain notes a difference between the “legacy” and updated products. They say to check the model code on the back of the device, noting that updated models are marked “B1.”

ochain.bike

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White Industries & Moots Have Some New, Very Beautiful (and Expensive) Titanium Cranks https://bikerumor.com/white-industries-moots-have-some-new-very-beautiful-and-expensive-titanium-cranks/ https://bikerumor.com/white-industries-moots-have-some-new-very-beautiful-and-expensive-titanium-cranks/#comments Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:10:58 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=413800 Okay, first, let’s make sure we mention all the players on this project. White Industries and Moots have their names on the cranks, but so…

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White Industries and Moots team up for new titanium cranks

Okay, first, let’s make sure we mention all the players on this project. White Industries and Moots have their names on the cranks, but so does another manufacturer involved in the process: Brunk Industries. 

Brunk specializes in precision metal stamping and forming for more than 60 years, working on projects in the medical field to aerospace. But, they needed masters of metal in the cycling world, so Brunk looked no further than White Industries and Moots.

White Industries essentially set the standard for crank design and drivetrain integration. They are known for meticulous precision machining and component engineering. Moots brings a wealth of knowledge regarding titanium welding and fabrication. They know how the metal behaves and reacts from the factory to the trails, making them an obvious partner for the project.

So, the team was assembled, each bringing their specialty to the table. White Industries brought their precision machining, Brunk Industries with their forming and stamping, and Moots brought their titanium welding. 

Together, they would fabricate a simply stunning set of cranks. The Titanium Crank was engineered and crafted with durability, refined ride quality, and raw beauty in mind. Machined with extremely tight tolerances, the cranks reflect the ethos of all three companies: durability, precision, and longevity.

The Titanium Crank also reminds us that damn good products can be manufactured here in the States. Between White Industries, Moots, and Brunk Industries, the manufacturing process was spread across Wisconsin, California, and Colorado.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, yes, the cranks are expensive. Both White Industries and Moots sell them for a number that can have a comma, which will surely make some complain. But you certainly pay more for American-made products built to last.

Titanium Crank Details

White Industries and Moots each offer the Titanium Cranks through their respective websites. They’ve also dubbed the cranks with a different name to fit their brand, but the crankarms themselves are the same regardless of where you click “buy.”

The price is also the same. And, as I said, it is steep: $1,349. However, depending on your setup, you might be steered toward White Industries or Moots.

White Industries

  • Name: T30
  • Chainring Interface: MR30 or 8-bolt
  • Spindle Diameter: 29mm or 30mm (for both interfaces)
  • BB Shell Width: 68/86.5 or 73/91.5
  • Crank Length: 165, 170, 175mm

Moots

  • Name: Ti Cranks
  • Chainring Interface: 8-bolt
  • Spindle Diameter: 29mm 
  • BB Shell Width: 68/86.5 or 73/91.5
  • Crank Length: 165, 170, 175mm

In addition to offering multiple interfaces and spindle diameters, White Industries offers extractor caps in eight colors. Extractor caps can be pink, gold, black, blue, red, bronze, purple, or silver. The cranks weigh 420g (165mm) and are compatible with road, gravel, and mountain bike applications. 

See the cranks at whiteind.com or moots.com.

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Easton Says its New EC90 ALX All-Road and Gravel Crankset is its Lightest and Strongest Ever https://bikerumor.com/eastons-new-ec90-alx-cransket-is-brands-lightest-and-strongest-ever-with-five-lengths-for-all-road-and-gravel/ https://bikerumor.com/eastons-new-ec90-alx-cransket-is-brands-lightest-and-strongest-ever-with-five-lengths-for-all-road-and-gravel/#comments Tue, 07 Apr 2026 16:00:00 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=412964 Easton claims its new EC90 ALX carbon cranks are the “strongest on the market” while being the lightest they’ve ever made.

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The New EC90 ALX cranks are the brands lightest and come in five lengths. (All photos/Easton)

Easton Cycling has added some brand-new cranks to its EC90 ALX lineup. With the EC90 ALX Crankset, Easton aims to set the new benchmark for all-road and gravel drivetrains. These cranks are a completely new design, slotting into the lineup as the brand’s flagship carbon cranks and the “lightest they’ve ever made.” On top of that, Easton claims that they’re the “strongest on the market,” based on the results of in-house testing. 

They come in five lengths, two spindle widths, and 1x and 2x configurations for the ultimate in fitment options and compatibility. They’ve also been designed for the long haul, with a stainless steel wear plate and a lifetime warranty. Easton says the new EC90 ALX is “a crank that’s lighter, stronger, and built to perform wherever the road takes you.”

studio image of the Easton EC90 ALX cranks with a chainring
The EC90 ALX cranks are made from lightweight carbon fiber with a unique look thanks to the stainless steel wear plate.

Easton EC90 ALX Crankset Details

If you weren’t already aware, Easton Cycling and Race Face are part of the same family of brands. This explains why the new EC90 ALX cranks have the same design language as the latest Race Face Era SL and the standard Era cranks. The crank arms themselves are shaped the same, but it’s the stainless steel wear plate that really makes them look like they could be the exact same cranks.

According to Easton, the new EC90 ALX replaces its longstanding EC90 SL as the new flagship carbon crankset. This new model is a complete redesign. “The crank arms, inserts, and spindle were engineered from the ground up to eliminate every possible gram of material, and address rider pain points,” says Easton, “ We maximized power transfer, minimized weight, increased heel clearance, and incorporated unscuffable protection.”

the Easton EC90 ALX cranks on a gravel bike
Easton’s new EC90ALX cranks are claimed to be lightweight and super tough. They look pretty nice, too.

Easton says the new cranks are the “strongest on the market” thanks to a “unique carbon fiber layup, advanced resin system, and proprietary insert bonding process.” This gives them excellent power transfer and durability to meet and exceed the demands of any road or gravel ride or the cyclocross racecourse. Additionally, the stainless steel wear plate was shaped and positioned specifically in the area typically impacted by heel rub to prevent scuffing and wear.

the Easton EC90 ALX cranks on a scale showing a weight of 322 grams
The length is not specified here, but 322 grams is pretty darn light.

Weight

Reshaped crank arms reduce bulk and weight as much as possible, and Easton’s new Lite-Spline (LS) spindles take it even further. Available in both standard and wide, the LS CINCH spindles were designed with shorter splines, aka wave taper interfaces, thereby reducing interface dept, bulk, and protrusion of the outboard crank edge. Easton states this design “achieves 2mm more heel clearance and a 35g weight reduction versus the outgoing EC90 SL.”

Easton says the EC90 ALX crankset in a 170mm length with a 40T Shimano chainring weighs just 419 grams, “making it one of the lightest cranks in its class without sacrificing strength or durability.” According to the spec chart below, the 170mm crankset with the standard LS spindle without a chainring weighs 329 grams. The picture above of the cranks on the scale shows a 322-gram weight, which is perhaps a shorter crank length.

image showing the different lengths offered for the EC90 ALX cranks.
All the options.

Lengths 

Speaking of lengths, the EC90 ALX cranks come in five lengths, which should cover the needs of virtually every rider out there. The options are 160, 165, 170, 172.5, and 175mm. 

Specs

screenshot of the Easton EC90 ALX cranks specs

Compatibility

screenshot of the East EC90 ALX Cranks and Lite Spindle compatibility chart

“Strongest on the Market”

Easton says the new EC90 ALX cranks are the “strongest on the market” based on the results of its in-house strength testing. The chart below has a description of the test, along with the results, if you’re interested in seeing where that strength claim is coming from.

screenshot of the chart Easton supplied backing up its strongest on the market claims

Easton EC90 ALX Crankset: Pricing and Availability

Easton’s new EC90 ALX crankset is sold with the crankarms and spindle separately, so buyers can ensure they get the crankarm length and spindle length that fits their setup. So, when you purchase, we’re told the website prompts the customer through these steps, and the pricing is as follows:

  • Crankarms: $415, choose your length, they’re all the same price
  • LS Spindle: $70, choose between wide and standard
    • Spacer kit: $25, only necessary for T47 or BB36Evo
  • Chainring: Sold separately
  • Bottom bracket: sold separately

The new EC90 ALX cranks are available now. Check them out at the Easton website.

eastoncycling.com

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Muc-Off Expands Lubrication Portfolio with New Dark Energy Chain Wax https://bikerumor.com/muc-off-expands-lubrication-portfolio-with-new-dark-energy-chain-wax/ https://bikerumor.com/muc-off-expands-lubrication-portfolio-with-new-dark-energy-chain-wax/#comments Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:04:38 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=411052 The latest additions to Muc-Off’s line of bike care products are the new Dark Energy Drip-On Chain Wax and Chain Wax Cleaner.

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(All photos/Muc-Off)

Muc-Off has been producing a range of chain lubricants for years, and just last week, the brand added a new option to the mix. Somewhat confusingly named Dark Energy, the new lube is a milky white drip-on chain wax that has been “engineered to hit the sweet spot between efficiency, durability, and low wear.” Muc-Off’s new product joins the growing number of bike chain lube options promising low friction and protection against premature drivetrain wear, with a wax-based formula that’s easy to apply.

Testing, Testing…

According to Muc-Off, Dark Energy was “Developed for road, gravel, and MTB, Dark Energy is the outcome of four years of dedicated research and development both inside the unique Muc-Off R&D Lab and also working closely with pro-team riders and performance staff. Over that period, more than 90 formulations were created and tested through a structured loop of rigorous screening, consisting of over 8,500 hours of dynamometer and tribometer testing and over 100,000km of real-world testing by their in-house test team and professional teams.

It’s clear that Muc-Off spent lots of time testing various formulas in the lab setting before setting out into the real world to validate those findings outside of a controlled environment on the bikes of in-house testers. Additionally, Muc-Off states that the last stage of the development process was working with and getting structured feedback from the performance directors, mechanics, and riders from EF Pro Cycling, Decathlon CMA CGM, Commencal // Muc-Off, and Specialized Factory Racing. 

Performance validated through testing with pro teams and a recent victory at the Tour Down Under.

After four years of development and testing, Muc-Off settled on the Dark Energy formulation, which was raced to victory by Naomi Reüegg at the Tour Down Under in January. And if race wins aren’t validation enough, Muc-Off states that independent third-party testing supports the brand’s own findings.  According to Muc-Off, “Dark Energy’s efficiency and friction performance were assessed by independent tester Robert Khünen in Germany. Independent wear and CoF testing was also completed by ESR Technology – the UK’s national centre of tribology. Both third-party testing houses corroborated the results generated within Muc-Off’s in-house R&D facility.”

Bio-Based

Muc-Off tells us that its Dark Energy Chain Wax is made with a “plant-derived and inherently biodegradable wax“, and the formula is PFAS and PTFE-free. According to the bottle, it is suitable for use in conditions ranging from dry to damp.

Chain Wax Cleaner

One of the most important elements of chain waxing, whether immersive or drip-on, is proper chain preparation. Muc-Off is aware of this and is launching its new Chain Wax Cleaner alongside the new Dark Energy drip-on wax lube. This new chain cleaner was “Developed specifically for wax-based drivetrains, the formula removes factory grease, residual oils and old wax build-up without leaving contaminants that compromise adhesion.” It’s intended for use during initial prep and re-waxing to get the chain super clean for the best penetration and bonding of the wax to the chain surfaces.

Muc-Off Dark Energy Chain Wax and Cleaner: Pricing and Availability

the two sizes of Muc-Off Dark Energy Chain Wax next to each other.
Two sizes available.

The new Dark Energy Chain Wax is available in 50 ml (1.7 oz.) and 120 ml (4.06 oz.). The 50 ml bottle retails for $18 / £15 / €20, and the 120 ml bottle retails for $25 / £23 / €30. The Chain Wax Cleaner comes in a 500ml spray bottle, priced at $25 / £22 / €25. 

Both the Dark Energy Chain Wax and the Chain Wax Cleaner are available now, direct from the brand or at your local Muc-Off dealers or favorite online retailers.

muc-off.com

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Race Face Leans into Downcountry with New Lightweight Era SL Cranks https://bikerumor.com/race-face-leans-into-downcountry-with-new-lightweight-era-sl-cranks/ https://bikerumor.com/race-face-leans-into-downcountry-with-new-lightweight-era-sl-cranks/#comments Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=410452 Race Face claims its new Era SL Cranks are the “lightest XC cranks you can buy,” while being tough enough to take some abuse.

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Can confirm, the Race Face Era SL Cranks are very light. (photo/Jeremy Benson)

The term “downcountry” may be falling out of fashion, but the style of bikes and riding it describes certainly isn’t. In fact, in the past few months, it seems like the light trail, downcountry, aggressive XC genre (whatever you want to call it) of mountain biking is as strong as ever. With recently launched bikes like the Ibis Ripley SL and the Allied FITZ, which are specifically targeting lighter weight and trail bike capability, there seems to be a resurgence of interest in the lightweight trail bike category. 

The folks at Race Face seem to recognize this, and actually seem pretty committed to the concept of downcountry. According to Race Face, “Mountain bike community members may argue whether Downcountry is real, relevant, dead, or simply just modern XC. But riders keep choosing bikes and components that help them climb like XC and descend with real Trail confidence. Category blur is a thing.”

This is why, alongside the ERA SL wheels that came out last year, Race Face is launching its new ERA SL cranks, a lightweight set of carbon cranks for XC racing, trail riding, and everything in between. Race Face claims the ERA SL cranks are “the lightest XC crank you can buy, with the strength to hold up to your daily abuse.” Let’s check them out.

The New Race Face Era SL cranks in the wild. (photo/Race Face)

Race Face Era SL Crankset Details

The Era SL cranks look very similar to Race Face’s standard Era cranks, although they’ve been put on a diet to reduce weight significantly. They are made of carbon fiber, of course, with a “layup that reduces bulk in every possible area with no compromise to long-term durability.” Race Face shaved additional grams by bonding/integrating the 30mm-diameter 7000-series aluminum alloy spindle to the non-drive-side crankarm. 

close view of the bonded spindle and the stainless steel wear plate on the era sl cranks
The bonded spindle supposedly helps to save some weight, while the stainless steel wear plate protects against scuffing. (photo/Jeremy Benson)

Like the standard Era cranks, the SL features an integrated, but smaller, stainless steel wear plate to prevent scuffing from repeated shoe contact. The Q-factor is stated at 170mm (including pedal washers), with options for 52mm and 55mm chainlines, using DM and DMW chainrings, respectively. They use Race Face’s Cinch direct-mount chainring interface. They come with crank boots, pedal washers, and spindle washers — chainrings and bottom brackets are sold separately.

the four length options for the new Race Face Era SL cranks.
Four length options, including 160mm. (photo/Race Face)

The new Era SL cranks start as short as 160mm, with 165, 170, and 175mm options available to suit varying needs and preferences. The crank arms are black/carbon-colored with a silver stainless steel wear plate and small ERA SL logos. Those logos are available in three color options: Black, Kashmoney, and Stealth. Race Face means business, and the Era SL cranks are backed by the brand’s impressive Lifetime Warranty, which includes damage from crashes.

How Light are They?

the Race Face Era SL cranks on a scale showing the weight of 422 grams
(photo/Race Face)

Race Face claims a set of 170mm Era SL cranks with a 32T chainring weighs just 422 grams. Perhaps there are some lighter boutique options out there, but the ERA SL is very lightweight.

For comparison, the latest XTR cranks in the same configuration weigh a combined 597 grams, a difference of a whopping 175 grams (6.17 oz.). SRAM’s XX SL cranks (175mm w/ 34T ring) are 53 grams (1.87 oz.) heavier with a claimed weight of 475 grams. Compared to Race Face’s standard, and already pretty lightweight, Era cranks at 499 grams, the Era SL saves you 77 grams (2.72 oz).

These cranks strike me as a sensible upgrade for riders looking to shave some weight off of stock Shimano XT or XTR Di2 builds. That 175-gram difference is quite significant, and with Race Face’s lifetime warranty, it’s not really a roll of the dice, either. 

Key Specs

  • Available Lengths: 160, 165, 170, and 175mm
  • Q-Factor: 170mm (including pedal washers)
  • Available Chainlines: 52mm (DM ring), or 55mm (DMW ring)
  • Spindle Diameter: 30mm
  • Weight: 422 grams (170mm cranks, 32T SHI-12 DMW ring, hardware)
a light xc or downcountry bike with the new Era SL cranks on it.
If you’re looking to lighten up your XC or light trail bike, the ERA SL cranks could be a good way to do it. (photo/Race Face)

Race Face Era SL Crankset: Pricing and Availability

Race Face’s new lightweight ERA SL cranks are available now with a retail price of $577 USD ($650 CAD, £469 GBP). Head to the Race Face website to learn more, purchase them directly from the brand, or find a dealer near you.

raceface.com

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Atherton 3D-Prints £1K A.GR.TI Titanium Gravity MTB Crankset in Huge 11 Size Range https://bikerumor.com/atherton-a-gr-ti-3d-printed-titanium-gravity-mountain-bike-crankset/ https://bikerumor.com/atherton-a-gr-ti-3d-printed-titanium-gravity-mountain-bike-crankset/#comments Thu, 05 Mar 2026 19:41:50 +0000 https://bikerumor.com/?p=410110 These new 3D-printed from titanium in Wales Atherton A.Gr.Ti cranks are trail light, gravity tough, and built for a lifetime of MTB riding.

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Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike cranks up close

Atherton Bikes turns their same fit-focused 3D-printed titanium mountain bike expertise to cranksets, creating a unique set of modular A.Gr.Ti mountain bike cranks. They’re as light as trail cranks, strong as the toughest DH cranks, backed by a lifetime guarantee, and come in more sizes than pretty much any other option out there. The Atherton A.Gr.Ti is built to last decades of even the roughest gravity mountain biking. Which is good, cause they certainly don’t come cheap…

Atherton A.GR.TI 3D-printed titanium mountain bike crankset

Designed, engineered, 3D-printed, and tested in Dyfi, the new Atherton A.Gr.Ti cranks look simple on the outside, but that’s the beauty of additively manufacturing.

Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike cranks, inside

Inside, a complex series of internal channels, ribs, and braces allows them to dial in maximum strength, while still building a crankset that weighs around 500g, depending on size.

Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike crankset on the table
(Photos by Dean Smith/Atherton)

Atherton started with fit for their first foray into 3D-printing cranks. Much like their ti and aluminum bikes, they are leveraging adaptable manufacturing tech to make sure every mountain biker can get their perfect fit dialed. “This level of choice lets riders optimise hip angle, ground clearance and suit their size, setup and preferred riding style. From tall riders to compact riders, high-cadence spinners to big-gear grinders, we’ve got them covered.” They even say they’ll expand the 11-size range or make eMTB cranks available, if there is real demand.

Tech details

Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike cranks in the dark
  • hollow 3D-printed aerospace-grade 23 titanium crankarms
  • low-profile crank tips promise 5-6mm extra ground clearance than conventional cranks
  • 11 arm lengths available, in close 2.5mm increments from 150-175mm
  • 150, 152.5, 155, 157.5, 160, 162.5, 165, 167.5, 170, 172.5, & 175mm
  • 3 chainlines available: 52mm Trail, 55mm Trail Wide & 56.5mm DH
  • 8-bolt SRAM standard direct mount chainring interface
  • UK-made 7075-T6 Works Components chainring available as an extra with crank purchase
Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike cranks, exploded view
  • modular 7075 aluminum axle, available in 28.99mm DUB or 30mm
  • 7075 alloy hardware, including self-extractor & bearing preloader
  • EFBE & ISO Category 5 rated for the toughest gravity riding
  • 506g claimed (165mm crankset with 52mm chainline, including axle & hardware)
  • DH-rated and backed by a lifetime warranty for the original owner
  • made in Machynlleth, Wales in the UK

Atherton Ti cranks – Pricing, options & availability

Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike crankset finish options
raw, burnished, or tumbled (top down)

The new Atherton A.GR.TI cranks are available now, starting at £845 / $922 / 803€ with a raw shot-peened titanium surface, £30 more for a darker burnished look or £50 extra for a shinier tumbled finish.

The modular ti cranks are offered in possibly the widest fit range you’ll find on any mountain bike crankset. As short as 150mm, as long as 175mm, and everything in between in 2.5mm long steps.

Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike cranks, raw with silver Works chainring

Pick your desired chainline, and you can even add a UK-made Works Components chainring for an extra 40 bucks (in any of 11 colors and sizes 28-34T) if you buy a set of cranks. Then, just choose either a DUB or classic 30mm diameter alloy spindle to fit your preferred bottom bracket, which you can always swap down the road if you change bikes. You can also get an optional Enduro Maxhit bottom bracket that also comes with a lifetime warranty for just 100 bucks more.

Atherton A.Gr.Ti 3D-printed titanium gravity mountain bike cranks on a bike

Yes, it’s gonna cost you more than 1K to put a complete 3D-printed titanium Atherton crankset on your bike.

But remember, this is a crankset that will most likely last longer than any mountain bike in your garage.

AthertonBikes.com

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