Truvativ X9 10-speed double crankset review

SRAM bought Truvativ a few years back but some of their cranksets, notably the heavier duty ones, still bear the Truvativ tag. This is essentially SRAM’s X9 unit made compatible with 2×10 drivetrains but with a tough aluminium bash guard (£34) instead of an outer chainring to deflect log and rock hopping damage.

As with most 2×10-ready cranksets, it’ll work with nine-speed chains too. It’s a lightweight option compared to most bash guard setups, which makes it more suitable for those who ride with finesse but still prefer a precautionary guard rather than having the bigger gear ratios of an outer ring. 

It’s not built for heavy landings from jumps, but the 22-tooth inner ring will be welcome on the sort of long steep climbs where a lot of riders on 2×10 will be cursing. The cranks are hollow forged, very light and very stiff. Ring options include 38/24t, 39/26t and various larger setups without a bash guard. Colour and BB30 options are available too.

This article was originally published in What Mountain Bike magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.