Truvativ Noir XC 3.3 Team crankset review

Truvativ’s Noir has been around for a while and despite regular upgrades it’s off the performance pace. UK distributors Fisher’s recent big price rise doesn’t help either.

The Noir uses a rod-and-wrap carbon structure around a central alloy armature. This ensures correct alignment during construction and creates a usefully tough and stiff arm. The new tungsten anodised rings are proving stiff, tough and durable so far. 

While 818g is relatively light, it’s way too heavy for the price, and the fact you have to buy the compatible bottom bracket (BB) separately is plain cheeky. 

Secure fit is extra grease and torque dependent and the finish wears very quickly in typical UK conditions. The unique floating BB doesn’t last long either. 

The cranks are available in 170mm or 175mm lengths, and the Noir comes with either 44/32/22t chainrings or a 32t with bashring. Singlespeed pimps will love the carbon chainguard-equipped 1.1G version.