Shimano XTR Chainset Review - BikeRadar

Our favourite tough-but-light trail cranks, these are seriously tough, top-value kit.

While they’re slightly heavier than the latest carbon or twin-ring options, XTR cranks are still well under the 800g mark. That said, the hollow-forged Duralumin arms are stiff and strong enough for many downhill riders to use.

The polished outer face helps them stay looking good long after carbon cranks have scuffed up.

There are no washers or rubber bump caps to worry about losing, either, making this tough unit our favourite trail crank.

A titanium tooth rack mounted in a composite middle ring adds serious drivetrain longevity and rigidity in the most- used gears. Nickel-plated alloy inner and outer rings are relatively wear- and rock-resistant compared with cheaper Shimano rings, too.

While other manufacturers have almost caught up with Shimano shifting standards, the way the chain glides up and down on the ramps and pins is still gorgeous.

Shimano’s latest-generation bottom brackets are all lasting longer than the original versions, with XTR proving particularly good as long as you adjust the bearing collar correctly. 

The bearing preload, easily mangled plastic thread guard and unique extractor tool mean installing this crank is more faff than the others, though.

However, Shimano is the only manufacturer to produce crank arm lengths from 165mm to 180mm, which will please tall or short riders – and considering the overall quality and toughness, price is excellent.

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