New XTR features the Hollowtech II® crankset that integrates the bottom bracket and crankset into a single unit. This design reduces the number of parts, significantly cuts down weight, and increases rigidity. The crank is 80-grams lighter than the M950 series crank and bottom bracket combination. The new Hollowtech II® design allows the bottom bracket bearings to be spaced more widely.
Submitted by
cjk133
a Cross Country Rider
from state college, PA Date Reviewed: July 21, 2009
Favorite Trail:
shingletown
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
light, pretty, easy in and out for maintenance.
Weaknesses:
lasted less than 2000 miles
Bike Setup:
Oswald 26" XC with 2003 XTR grouppo
Bottom Line:
After an estimated 500 hours and 2 BB bearing replacements, the crank spindle exploded while pedaling hard. I weigh 170 lbs and I do not have a remarkable history of component breakage. Coupled with the extreme price of chainrings available for these things, these cranks should not be considered as an option: Fortunately they are now discontinued. These cranks are part of one of the worst grouppos shimano has released.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
navid
a Cross Country Rider
from Saopaulo Brazil Date Reviewed: January 3, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Trilha navegante
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Cambriabikes
Strengths:
Light and strong and look good too. I can't even imagine how those guys at shimano can hollowcast this beautifuly. No a sign of CNC mill anywhere except the screw holes. Is this art?!
Weaknesses:
The replacement chain rings are expensive and I am not sure for how long they will keep manufacturing them just for those few of us who do not want to replace their old XTRs for new ones.
Similar Products Used:
Race Face Deus, Evolve, and an old, beat up LX.
Bike Setup:
XTR crank with SRAM chain and sprokets. X9 rear and Xt front.
Bottom Line:
Has a good and positive shift feel with a SRAM chain (990), however not as smooth as that of Shimano I used before. Had the chain rings replaced twice already (at the cost of an arm and a leg). Each time I was tempted to just forget about the rings and buy a XT or a Raceface Evolve or something. But these are the best cranks I have used and are just light enough for you not to regret buying them.
I also think with the SRAM chain, the rings seem to wear a bit faster, But not sure yet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zachariah
a Cross Country Rider
from Palm Desert, California USA Date Reviewed: October 23, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Hurkey Creek Park(24Hrs/Adrenalin Course)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Light, looks very bling, easy to install, high resale value.
Weaknesses:
Finish scratches too easy.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Deore M542 Hollowtech II, Race Face Diabolus.
Bike Setup:
19-pound Cannondale XC hardtail
Bottom Line:
The XTR M960 crankset is almost too easy, to install. They are very stiff, and you will notice that on the very first turn of the cranks.
I got these because I was not able to use Cannondales' uber-light(620 gram + BB) Hollowgram Si BB30 crankset(need BB30-compatible frameset for that = $2,500+!!!). They work absolutely beautiful for light XC trail riding. Once you come across highly-technical obstacles and steep jumps- you will have problems. The all aluminum chainrings are NOT designed for being bashed around at all. The hollow BB spindle will warp, if you huck around 5 foot drops. If you can simply remember that lightweight bike parts are INCOMPATIBLE for Freeride/Dirt Jump/Downhill.....you will never be dissappointed.
I got mine second-hand, and still paid a premium for them! But they are well worth it, if you ride XC and light All-Mountain. You can mash the cranks all you want uphills, and the chainrings will still deliver. Until SRAM comes out with a better competing MTB crankset......I'm afraid Shimano XTR is still the king!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
smmcpherron
a Cross Country Rider
from Sandy, utah, USA Date Reviewed: June 26, 2008
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
Light, Strong, Durable. I weigh 205 lbs and I bought this in 2003 when they 1st came out. I have done quite a bit of riding, and they have worked great with no issues. I just had them installed in a new bike, and the bearings are still good, but, I did finally buy a new middle and small chain ring.
Weaknesses:
they are beautiful when new, but, scratch up pretty good.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager
Bike Setup:
Ventana El Saltmontes, and now an IBIS MOJO
Bottom Line:
Strong and light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
P
a Cross Country Rider
from Atl Date Reviewed: February 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Pinhotti
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
works real good, easy to install
Weaknesses:
rings are weak and shimano replacements are way too high
Similar Products Used:
several
Bike Setup:
XTR 960 on two bikes
Bottom Line:
The rings wear quickly, at least the middle rings. Other than that, such a nice crankset. I roached two Shimano center rings fairly fast (3 months) on both my cranksets. Been using some Blackspire Super Pro for about 3 months and they seem to be holding up alot better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Evans
a
from Anybiketown, USA Date Reviewed: October 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
The nonwork trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$260.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Look great, lightweight, functions perfectly
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Race Face Dues (Junk), Shimano XTR M952, Shimano XT, Truvativ
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Epiphany, Mavic Crossmax SL, SRAM
Bottom Line:
Hands down the best cranks on the market. Worth the extra money (if any). Stiff, look good, lightweight. Function as a $250+ pair of cranks should. You can buy the M960 (older version) for the same price as most of the competitors top of the line models. Do yourself a big favor and do not stray from Shimano or you will be asking for trouble. I replaced a shoddy pair of Race Face Dues cranks with the M960 XTR and could not be happier. The Race Face never worked properly from day one and the Shimano XTR's have worked perfectly from the very beginning.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Racer
from Boulder, CO USA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Not Telling
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Part of new bike
Strengths:
Weight Minimal Tinkering Required
Weaknesses:
Outboard Bearings Chainrings wear quickly
Similar Products Used:
Old XT, XTR, Truvativ
Bottom Line:
I've had my bike for 14 months, including a brutal winter that saw my bike shelved for several months, and i'm on the third set of chainrings. Those things are not inexpensive to replace.
My outboard bearings were completely shot, too, and had to be replaced.
I really do like this crankset's performance when everything is functioning, but it's turning into a money pit.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phantomtracer
a Cross Country Rider
from Philly, PA Date Reviewed: June 21, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$279.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bicycles
Strengths:
Weight, Shifting, Design, High Quality
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Race Face Next LF
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer, 100mm travel
Bottom Line:
I have put sever hundred miles on this crankset and have not had to adjust it once. It spins as smooth as the first day I put it on. I can't say the same for the Race Face that I used for a few seasons. I'm not sure why these have such a low score. Compared to the Race Face this crankset is AWESOME. I guess they are stiff, I really cannot tell. No complaints, just smiles. 5 chilis for value at the great price I bought them for.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
p
a Cross Country Rider
from ATL Date Reviewed: May 17, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
light, strong, durable and I think it is much easier to service the external bearing style cranks than the old style.
Weaknesses:
I would complain about the weak finish but its a Mt Bike drive chain part. Your a nut if you expect it to stay perfect.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager crap, Deor, XT, XTR 950
Bike Setup:
07 El Saltamontes, size XL. Pushed Talas and Float R, X9 shifters and rDr
Bottom Line:
I was really concerned about installing this crankset, considering what the rest of the folks here had to say. I'm a 6-4, 200lb, agressive trail rider and have trashed many lesser cranks. After thinking it through, I decided to take a chace on the 960 as the 2007 models were too high. So far, so good! I'm careful to clean my bike well, especially the drivechain, after every ride. I will completely tear down the drive chain after muddy rides or every couple of weeks. I never wash my bike with a hose but use multiple sized brushes and damp shop rags instead. I was very mindful of the chain line when setting it up. The combination of these things has allowed almost no sign of visible wear (other than the pewter colored finish of the arm) after 6 months of hard bashing. The BB is still smooth as the 1st day it was installed. For me, propper instillation, regular maintenance and smart cleaning techniques have proven this to be a 1st class crankset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david
a Cross Country Rider
from Texas Date Reviewed: May 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
sikeworld-alamoheights
Strengths:
rigid, lightweight, flashy
Weaknesses:
pricey
Similar Products Used:
xtr, xt
Bike Setup:
custom litespeed with a bunch of pricey parts hanging off it
Bottom Line:
bought these when they first cam out have had zero problems with them, the finish is fine, nothing has ever broken
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Knoxville, TN Date Reviewed: January 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
single track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
This is one light crankset that looks sharp on the bike. Performance is great very stiff and spins like butter. If you have high end XC or All Mtn setup you can get a pretty good deal on these now.
Weaknesses:
Chain rings are made out of tin or something not quite as hard. Mine looked lke they had been through a shredder after about 6 months of mostly singletrack riding. I noticed that the drive train would ghost shift when climbing in a lowere gear. Now granted I am no lightweight but my last bike had XT and zero issues with the chain rings. I also lube my chain at least every other ride and change it twice a year. I also use a park chain cleaner whenever the drive train starts to get dirty... SO bottom line it aint a maintenance issue
Similar Products Used:
XT, FSA Carbon, Dura Ace, Ultegra, 105, Etc
Bike Setup:
Ellsworth Epiphany, Rockshock Pike 454 dual, Fox RP23, Mavic Crossmax UST, SRAM XO w/Twist Grip Shifters, SRAM 990 Cassett w/991 chain, Formula Puro DIsk (200 MM front - 180 rear), Kore IBeam Seat Post/Seat, Maxis UST Tires
Bottom Line:
Well.... After you trash the stock chain rings which won't take long order you a set of Blackspire chain rings and you will be set. The difference in quality between the Blackspire and stock XTR rings is night and day and the Blackspires are about half the price...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver Date Reviewed: December 31, 2006
Full XTR drive train and brakes on 4.5" dual sus mtn bike
Bottom Line:
This is an update from my August 2004 review.
I've since moved to Denver. The rides have gotten longer and more technical. I have demanded more of my bike and the XTR setup then ever. I'm happy to report that everything still performs admirably. There have been no problems whatsoever with this 2004 XTR setup. The shifts are still smooth and crisp. The crank arms still feel solid and flex-free. XTR has really lived up the hype for me. Solid cranks through and through.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris O
a Weekend Warrior
from Brookline Date Reviewed: December 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
South Cottonwood Canyon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
stiff, light and pretty
Weaknesses:
none yet, and so far no chainsuck
Similar Products Used:
XTR 952, Cook Bros.
Bottom Line:
These are very sharp looking cranks with a really cool design. Oh, yeah, they work great, too; they're very stiff and very responsive. But if you’re trying to decide between these and XT, save your money. My old 952’s were totally worth the premium because they had the bigger chain rings I prefer; I always thought that the micro drive rings spec'ed in the past on everything up to XT were cheesy. Now that XT and XTR have the same gearing and bottom bracket design, the performance difference, whatever it is, probably isn’t worth the price increase. But I love these and have had no problems with them after one season. If you're going to drop the kind of cash these babies require, be sure to get them installed right.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Adelaide, Australia Date Reviewed: November 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The Chambers Gully/ Wine Shanty Track/ Horsenell Gully Loop
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Stiff, and of course... **BLING!**
Weaknesses:
chainrings wear out quickly
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
Heckler, 36's, X.0 (gripshift is back!)
Bottom Line:
Nice cranks. The most expensive, coolest and by far the tightest/snappiest I've tried yet. Light too. Pity the chainrings are made of cheese. If I remember correctly, I think the 'dudes' at my LBS said Blackspire make a superior aftermarket replacement, so I'll be looking out for them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glen
a Weekend Warrior
from Lower Hutt, New Zealand Date Reviewed: May 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Pylon 29, Cheviet road
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Avanti Plus, Lower Hutt
Strengths:
Look superb! Super stiff, shift perfectly everytime! Super light
Weaknesses:
The finish tends to scratch easy, but hey, who cares?
Similar Products Used:
XT hollowtech II, raceface, saint, fsa, truvativ
Bike Setup:
Avanti Aggressor, full XTR inc wheels, fox vanilla RLC
Bottom Line:
Basicly all the people who have had problems, most likley, haven't spent the time to set these cranks up properly. First of all you NEED to get your bb shell faced! Also the chain line needs to set up correctly. The bolts need to be tightened to the specified torqe, i tend go a little bit tighter, but only slightly. I'm a big guy, on the wrong side of 100kgs, and i ride agresivly, and i've had no problems. yes, the chain rings are expensive, but what do expect when buying XTR?
To sum up, these cranks are brillant. If you can afford them, buy them. But make sure you get a decent mechanic to install them and get the BB faced!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Blacky Bokich
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles, CA USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Sullivan Canyon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with used frame
Strengths:
Stiff. Pretty.
Weaknesses:
None now. (See review below)
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager.
Bike Setup:
2003 Fisher Team. Front: Marzocchi Bomber. Rear: Cane Creek Cloud 9. XTR cranks, shifters, levers, deraileurs. Avid Black Ops Ultimate V-brakes. Easton Monkeybar riseers. Thompson stem and post. Eggbeaters. Terry saddle. Cane Creek WAM wheels. Kenda Nevagal 2.3's with Stan's. Incredibell.
Bottom Line:
I bought my bike on EBay about a year ago as a project bike. It was two years old, and came from Minnesota, which, of course, meant it got wet, which, of course meant the crank bearings were already noisy and rough. Plus the two inner rings showed replaceable wear. I started my research here, saw all the horror stories about bearings lasting three months and exclusive rings lasting seven months, and initially decided to replace the crank. I’m glad I did a little more research, because both problems are relatively easily solved, and it’s really a nice crankset, stiff, light and beautiful, and trouble-free when properly set up.
1. The problem with the Shimano bearings is inadequate seals, and their placement—at the very outside of the bottom bracket, totally exposed. If they get wet, they will probably fail. The solution is to send the bearing cups to Phil Wood (philwood.com). He’ll install a set of his bearings for about $46, less than a replacement set of Shimano bearings. Phil Wood bearing sets not only use vastly superior bearings and lubricant, but the seals are marine grade. In other words, the bearings are submersible. I have one of his bottom brackets on my road bike with over 40,000 miles on it, and it is as tight and smooth as new. And they turned my bearing cups around in one day. I mailed them on a Saturday and had them back on Wednesday. 2. Regarding the rings, both Boone Titanium (http://www.boonerings.com/cr/cr.html), and Cycle Dynamics (http://www.cycle-dynamics.com/) make rings for the XTR 960 crankset. They cost about the same as stock Shimano rings, but should last at least four or five times longer, making them roughly as expensive as regular replacement alloy rings. I have about a thousand miles on a Boone granny and middle, with no visible wear. Two caveats: plan ahead—they’re custom made, I was quoted 6 weeks, but it took 8—and be sure to specify that your rings are cut from 4mm stock to match the thickness of the original Shimano rings. Jenson also sells a steel granny they say will fit the XTR 960.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam Hart
a Racer
from California Date Reviewed: February 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very stiff. They also serve very well as a decoration in the garrage work bench
Weaknesses:
The rings only lasted 5 months, like we have not heard this one before. When you go to buy new ones you have to get a second mortgage on your house.
Similar Products Used:
XT Shimano, Race Face, Truvative
Bike Setup:
2005 Cannondale Scalpel 3000, mostly Sram drivetrain till I can replace all other Shimano parts
Bottom Line:
So, yeah the cranks are really stiff. So freaking what! Where does Shimano get off charging so much to replace a set of rings? I will never buy anything Shimano again. I'm in the process of getting rid of all my Shimano parts on all my bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gerr
a Cross Country Rider
from Atl, Ga + Denver, Co Date Reviewed: October 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Colorado Trail Everywhere
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Light, stiff and purdy.
Weaknesses:
Proprietary BCD 64/102 (No one makes replacements. Middle ring wore out quickly (possibly due to chain line and using a Pc99 chain ?) Anyway. Very dissapointed when trying to find a new middle ring. Also, I wanted to put a 42 big ring on to spend more time there and save the middle. But, no one makes one for XTR 960. So, I'll go with a thru axle crank with outboard bearing next time that is standard 64/104.
Similar Products Used:
Many years of XT, XTR, etc.
Bike Setup:
S.C. Blur http://www.mtbr.com/reviews/xc_full_suspension/product_123141.shtml Search on "Gerr"
Bottom Line:
I have not had any bearing problems. I guess reading these reviews I will pack them regular and have to baby them. Anyway, the biggest Disappointment is the non standard BCD gimick. So you are very limited on what size chainrings you can use. (And you can't use Blackspire, FSA, Raceface etc. cause far as I know they don't make the 102/63 to fit XTR 960 Crankset. Also It states 64 for granny but I tried and standard 64 and there was about a 1/2 millimeter size difference.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Hall
a
from Caledonia Mi Date Reviewed: September 26, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
stiff, looks nice when new, shifts well when chain rings are brand new
Weaknesses:
looks like crap after a season chain rings wear out extremely quickly (4-5 months) bb needs replacement yearly after a season on the norba circut very minimal chainline adjustment
Similar Products Used:
Race Face Dues XC (what i replaced the xtr with)
Bike Setup:
hardtail, sram chain, xtr cassette, sram ders.
Bottom Line:
These were great when i got them on a new bike when they came out, looked flashy and shifted well and were really stiff. Well i rode them for a while and was happy with them, but then 5 months into the race season the middle/big chainring are worn out, these rings are as expensive as hell. thank god i've got a lbs employee discount, holy crap sorry for anyone who has to pay retail. Well, as well after a few dusty races the bbs squeaked like nothing else. Then i raced at snowshoe, wv (lots of rain) and the squeaking would not stop whatso ever and would barely spin, they had let so much mud into them that they needed replacement. Well to make a long story short, it came to 3 ring replacments and two xtr bbs later (even tried a dura ace one, which didnt do anything) and shimano still is making horrible chainrings out of butter and bbs that keep water out as well as bush can run a country (terribly). So fed up, i finaly switched and got a set of Race Face Dues Xc cranks and am loving them for the 3 months i've had em. So stay away from these cranks, the bbs and rings suck and the finish just rubs away worse than a $60 crank. And these things cost way to much to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from Sebastopol, CA Date Reviewed: September 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
McCurty
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light and stiff
Weaknesses:
STRIPPED LEFT CRANKARM, expensive chainrings
Similar Products Used:
XT, RF
Bike Setup:
5-spot, xtr, fox, SRAM
Bottom Line:
I had my left crank strip and it cracked at the pinch bolts. It had only been romoved once to replace the chainrings and I used a torque wrench when I put it back on. Gotta agree with the poster below.....this will eventually strip if you ride hard. Hello...Shimano? Any help here?!?!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Mt Cobb, PA, USA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Merli LSP Propton
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Stiff
Weaknesses:
OK this is weird... A guy I ride with has this crankset also and about two months ago the left crankarm stripped (very fine teeth compaird to other designs). I was worried because I have the same so I checked my bolt torque as I always do. Not a bit loose. Then a few weeks ago mine stripped also (new left crank arm and bearing set while I was at it). Now just this Sunday another rider I ride with stripped his lft crank arm. This is three different riders, three different bike shops, and three different bikes! Why has nobody else had this problem? Oh yeah... I got burned on a new ring set six months ago too.
Similar Products Used:
Race Face
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic
Bottom Line:
All Shimano cranksets with the fine tooth splines will eventually strip.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
not happy
a Weekend Warrior
from Melborne, VIC, Australia Date Reviewed: June 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
beautifull made and quality and functionality
Weaknesses:
chainrings wear out quickly and very expensive to replace. The cost for a set of chainrings you could buy a new XT or another brand crankset.
Similar Products Used:
XT,LX, DEORE, RACEFACE, TRUVATIV etc..
Bike Setup:
standard
Bottom Line:
If your racing and have plenty of money and need light weight and want to look good, go for it, otherwise you dont need it.
Beautifull made and quality and functionality
chainrings wear out quickly and very expensive to replace. The cost for a set of chainrings you could buy a new XT or another brand crankset.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris V
a Cross Country Rider
from Lansing MI USA Date Reviewed: June 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Fort Custer
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$480.00
Purchased At:
River Front Cycle
Strengths:
Light, Looks Great, Very Stiff
Weaknesses:
Chain line is not adjustible, and the with out board bearings the cranks are moved out, creating the WORST chain line EVER (for a Jekyll, cant be better on other frames)
Similar Products Used:
Deore, FSA, Tru-Vativ
Bike Setup:
Jekyll '04 Lefty 25.5 lb X-0 Rear/shifters, x-gen F. El Camino Sram PG-990/PC990 Chris King Rear w/ Mavic XM 819, C-dale Omega F hub Thompson post w/ Rocket V Team Easton Monkey Light riser
Bottom Line:
Very hard to adjust Chain line, i cant even hit the top cog in the middle ring, and the the 2nd cog is sketchy. Very expensive for a set of cranks. I had some extra $ for some cranks and wanted to stay away from carbon, but i am now thinking about selling these and getting some truvativ stylo carbons. I think that shimano should quit trying to be all about trying to give gimmicks and come out with a real improvement, if you can get you chain line right...then great, but for me...didnt happen, i will be happy to have no shimano on my bike...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Larry
a Racer
from Hollywood, FL. USA Date Reviewed: April 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
MarkHam Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$399.00
Purchased At:
Family Bicycle
Strengths:
Super Stiff, Light, kewl looking
Weaknesses:
Bearings & Chainrings are total junk, Price is hefty!
Similar Products Used:
2005 FSA V Drive Crankset
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur, Everything Sram X9, custom Chris King wheelset, Fox FX100 and RP3 suspension.
Bottom Line:
Where do I start... I order these when they first came out. I have gone through 3 sets of bearings and 4 sets of rings. They are like butter!! However, recently I hooked up with Phil Wood out in San Jose. Anybody who rides alot knows who he is. You can get him to replaced the bearing with his and it has made a huge difference. Just wish someone else would make some really nice CNC Chainrings, 200 bucks for a complete set of rings is totally nuts!! I recently bought a 2005 FSA V Drive Crankset, It is very similiar to the XTR and can be picked up for around 175 bucks new. However FSA chainrings and bearings seem to be of a higher quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
A J
a Cross Country Rider
from Princeton, NJ USA Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$429.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Simple installation, very stiff, maintenance free bottom bracket.
Weaknesses:
Finish wears off and scratches easily. Too much money!
Similar Products Used:
XT and previous XTR model
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel
Bottom Line:
I love these cranks, they are so easy to install - great design. I have had no issues with the bearings wearing out - 2,000 plus miles on them and never a problem. Replaced the middle chainring twice - chainrings are a bit expensive as are these cranks. The only real beef I have with these cranks is that the finish wears off and scratches easily, my cranks look like crap after a year of riding. I know its a MTB but for the money I would have expected a finish that is a little more durable. Having said that though, these are the best cranks that I have ever owned - I will buy another set for my new frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim Xc rider
a Racer
from Chester Date Reviewed: March 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
BYC
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
bike factory
Strengths:
Stiffness Longevity of bearings and Chain rings
Weaknesses:
finish scrathes easily
Similar Products Used:
Coda XT
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Scapel Team Rep XTR gruppo
Bottom Line:
Been using this crank for two years now and only replaced the chainrings a few weeks ago. The bearings are still the originals supplied with the cranks. They've been a bit gritty for a months now but don;t seem to be wearing out so I can only conclude that the gritty sounds comes from dirt thats trapped just behind the plastic cover and is not in the bearings themselves.
The chainrings look tatty early on but careful measure showed that they were still usable.
Overall I've done about 5000km on this groupset over the last 2 yrs of ownership and it is still holding up well, especially the cranks. They're scrathed and dented from rocks hitting them but they's still turning and the 2nd set of rings should bring my shifting back to acceptable levels.
still happy :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SCHNAK
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix Date Reviewed: February 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
doesn't matter
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
Worked nicely in the very very beginning
Weaknesses:
The chainrings and bearings are junk. One year in of recreational riding and the rings and bearings are shot. I guess these should be reserved for racers that only need to have the product perform for a ride or two.
Similar Products Used:
'02 XTR - so much has changed in a short amount of time.
Bike Setup:
Kona King Kikapu
Bottom Line:
Did Shimano test these at all before introduction. I hope this is not a sign of thing to come from them, although I am afraid it might be.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JT
a
from Phx Date Reviewed: February 4, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$325.00
Strengths:
They look good. The crank arms are very stiff
Weaknesses:
Very poor quality
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT
Bike Setup:
HH 100X with a mix of SRAM, Shimano, Easton, Thomson, Chris King
Bottom Line:
The chain rings lasted 700 miles before they needed to be replaced - that is unacceptable. It costs approximately $200 to replace the chain rings.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wannabeRacer
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne, VIC, Australia Date Reviewed: December 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
strong, light & looks cool
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
Deore, XT II 2004, Race Face Deus X-type 2004
Bike Setup:
mod to the max
Bottom Line:
Very light, strong and looks cool. I tried other (see my comments similar products used) and you can't compare to this baby. Get it if you can and stop wasting time on cheap stuff co's you'll ended up with more in total at the end.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave T
a Cross Country Rider
from Salinas, Ca. U.S.A Date Reviewed: November 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Bobcat Bicycles
Strengths:
Weight, Shifting, Durability
Weaknesses:
I'd still say price........
Similar Products Used:
Old school XTR, LX, White Ind.
Bike Setup:
Blur & Trek 9.8 - Both have XTR Disc groups
Bottom Line:
Well, Here it is almost Thanksgiving time again (I posted a review further down the page) and I can still say this is one helluva crankset. When setup properly it can't be beat. I've been through about 10 chains and have not replaced ONE ring yet. Still shifts smooth, not as good as when new but 2 years worth of 3 to 4 rides a week from 2 to 8 hours in length and no problems with bearings, rings, nothing! I work p/t at my LBS and don't see nearly the problems as some have reported here fwiw.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MICHAEL LAPKA
a Cross Country Rider
from BEL AIR, MD Date Reviewed: October 20, 2004
Favorite Trail:
ANY AND ALL
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$425.00
Purchased At:
BLACK CAT BICYCLES
Strengths:
STIFF, LIGHT AND SWEET LOOKING
Weaknesses:
CAN BE PRICEY
Similar Products Used:
OLD XTR, RACE FACE, TRUVATIV
Bike Setup:
SANTA CRUZ SUPERLIGHT WITH SRAM XO DRIVETRAIN, XTR WHEELSET,MANITOU MINUTE 3 FORK, SOME OTHER NICE JIZZ.
Bottom Line:
PEOPLE NEED TO "STOP" CRYING, SINCE WHEN DID ANYONE THINK XTR PARTS ARE NOT EXPENSIVE, DUH? ANYWAY, THESE CRANKS HAVE BEEN AWSOME TO RIDE. THE ONLY TIME I SORT OF HAD TO 'MAINTAIN' THEM WAS FOR A SIMPLE CLEANING BEFORE A SEDONA TRIP. NOW I KNOW I'VE ONLY BEEN RIDING FOR 16 YEARS, BUT I DON'T KNOW MANY TRAIL RIDERS THAT 'WEAR OUT' A BIG CHAINRING, COME ON!, MORE LIKELY ITS BECAUSE PEOPLE HAVE BANGED THEM UP. MOST OF MY BUDDIES HAVE BEEN RIDING THESE CRANKS TOO AND WITHOUT ISSUES? GO FIGURE. ONE OF THE MORE IMPORTANT INSTALL POINTS IS TO USE THE CORRECT SPACERS AND GET A GOOD CHAIN LINE WITH THE GEARS YOU USE MOST. THESE ARE DEFINATLEY WORTH THE PRICE IF YOU LOOK AT THE BIG PICTURE, SO SHUT YOUR TRAP AND RIDE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mario Muredda
a Racer
from Kingston Date Reviewed: September 16, 2004
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Stiff, smooth, great to look at
Weaknesses:
Finish wears off easily, rubber spacers/gaskets disintegrate frequently, chainrings are expensive and out of stock
Similar Products Used:
LX Octalink, Bontrager Race Lite
Bike Setup:
'02 Fuel 100
Bottom Line:
Well, I got caught up in all of the hype surrounding these cranks and I have to be honest: I'm disappointed. The crankset has spent almost as much time OFF my bike as it has ON my bike. I'm constantly lubricating the "sealed" bearings and replacing O-rings. Most recently, my 32T chainwheel needed replacing and not one single Canadian distributor, including Shimano Canada, had one in stock that would work with the compact crankset. The solution: I had to swap the 22T chainwheel (which I've barely used) with a brand new 24T, AND I had to buy a brand new 32T. Yep. $200 to replace one chainring. Thanks Shimano. When oh when will SRAM make a complete drivetrain?
Don't fool yourselves...this crankset is NOT the bomb. I'd say it is no better or worse than any other average crankset out there. Buy some NextLP's instead.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
idahdoo
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise,ID Date Reviewed: September 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Too many to list
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$330.00
Purchased At:
e bay
Strengths:
light,stiff, super easy install/service,looks great,shifts great
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
XT,XTR,Stronglight,White Bro's,Cooks Bros
Bike Setup:
IONIC TI HARDTAIL,XTR,WHITE,RINGLE,MARZOCCI SL,SUNSET 517'S
Bottom Line:
68mm bb two spacers drive side ! face the bb ! NO bearing/chain ring problems here. 1500 miles hard riding. Finish ? ajust your cleats before you blow your knees out ! mine still looks great ! Im so glad theres some good mechanics out there that set some of these up properly. What a bunch of dorks. Took me 15 min at the most.So easy and simple to install. quicker to install than to remove my old bb alone. Shifts awsome ! Super stiff. I didn't think Id like the smaller rings ( 22-32-44 ) but it seems like I have alot more torque. IM VERY HAPPY !! GREAT PRODUCT SHIMANO !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gabi
a Racer
from vernon hills Date Reviewed: August 30, 2004
Favorite Trail:
WORS races
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Light weight
Weaknesses:
Weak material. The chainrings wear out very-very fast. They made of very weak material. The bearings don't run smooh just after 3 months of use. New chaninrings are extremly expensive ($70 for middle, $110 for big ring!)
Similar Products Used:
Older XTR, XT, Race Face, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
Trek Elite 9.8 - custom built parts
Bottom Line:
Expensive junk. XTR used to be a great component group. Not any more. It is way overpriced and very weak. It was my stupidity to go for the lightest crankset. Now I have to pay the price, either buy a new crankset (NOT XTR for sure) or spend almost $200 on two(2) chainrings! ... And YES I replace my chain often. At least 4 times a year..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago Date Reviewed: August 23, 2004
After hearing MANY reviews about the shot bearings, I read an article on the poor machining of many bottom bracket *(BB) shells. Cartridge type BB have the bearings located inside the housing. This made them impervious to the quality of the machining of the BB shell. The XTR outboard bearing BB (just like all new outboard BB designs) are much more susceptible to BB shells that are not machined precisely. If one side of the shell is not machined completely parallel with the otherside, you have excess pressure and friction on the outboard bearings. This leads to excessive wear and, ultimately, malfunction of the BB. This may not seem perceptible at first, but definately plays a role in the performance of the crankset.
This is not the wrench's fault, nor is it Shimano's. The BB shell must be machined almost perfectly for this type of BB design to work long term. Another factor is the torque applied to the BB cups. Excessive force used to tighten the cups will also lead to premature wear of the bearings.
That said, I installed my XTR crankset over 15mo ago- believe me, I sweated the details- and they have been running smooth. I ride every weekend from Michigan (Custer & Yankee) to Palos. The bike has been through streams and garden hoses. The bearings are fine- the crankset runs smooth. I have absolutely no complaints about reliability or longevity. The outboard bearings are great and they lasted through winter riding as well.
Shimano still makes the smoothest shifting rings out there. Quality, performance, and reliability- pick three...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Racer
from Charlotte Date Reviewed: July 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$410.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
light & stiff, other than that none.
Weaknesses:
finish wears off after a few rides, bearings wear out fast, o-rings designed to seal bottom bracket bearings poorly designed, chain rings wear fast, shimano prices, not worth it's price tag!
Similar Products Used:
Race Face Turbine (old school), Race Face Turbine LP
Bike Setup:
Blur, sram trigger shifters, fox float, mavic crossmax sl, easton monkey lite, thompson stem, xtr cassette, xtr rear d, xtr front d, time attack peedles, avid disc and avid ti levers. Race Face Turbine LP & Race Face ISIS Signature Bottom Bracket
Bottom Line:
Poorly designed bottom bracket, lously finish that wears off fast, chain rings wear fast, bearings seize up because of poorly designed O-rings, too pricy and definitely a total waste of hard earned cash....keep your money and look somewhere else for a good crank set, because this definitely isn't one.
MTBreview needs a rotten chilli, that's the only proper chilli this junk deserves.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott
a Cross Country Rider
from NY Date Reviewed: June 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Beacon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Came with new bike
Strengths:
Weight
Weaknesses:
Spider and finish
Similar Products Used:
RaceFace, SweetWings, FSA Carbon, All Shimano, Cooks Brothers, Profile 3 pc., Kooka, AC
Bike Setup:
X10 with Maverick up front
Bottom Line:
At first I was impressed with the weight and ease of set-up. They shifted great and had no apparent weakness. Then I hit a rock hard on the big chainring and one of the spider posts bent. I needed to take it apart to bend it back and has since never shifted right. For the money of XTR, you are better off getting a set of the Race Face Deus cranks. If something happens, they can be exchanged because of the lifetime warranty. Shimano is just a hassle to deal with. Great crank if you decide you will never smack the ring hard.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Racer
from Charlotte, nc Date Reviewed: June 6, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$410.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
stiff, clean shifting, easy to install. I could care less about the looks...it doesn't make the rider.
Weaknesses:
after a year and zero creek crossings - zero wash downs - zero rainy days -zero wet conditions the bearings are shot. I had my local bike shop build my bike for me a year ago. These guys have their act together and I know that it was installed correctly, second I've built enough bikes myself to know the difference between a correctly installed BB and one that has been botched. I noticed a sqeaking noise today coming from the BB, so I pulled the crank and found the the bearings where shot. While pulling the crank I checked to see if there was any loose bolts, cranks and BB cups....all where fine and correct. The bearings are just simply shot.
Similar Products Used:
Race face, Truvative
Bike Setup:
Blur, sram trigger shifters, fox float, mavic crossmax sl, easton monkey lite, thompson stem, xtr cassette, xtr rear d, xtr front d, time attack peedles, avid disc and avid ti levers. xtr crank (not for long)
Bottom Line:
I pulled the crank...it's going in the trash like the other shimano parts I've been pulling off. I've had it with shimano. Best thing I ever did was get rid of my xtr shifters and switch to sram trigger shifters. I'm going to check into a race face crank. As the existing shimano parts I have now wear out, they are being replaced with something other than shimano. Most of the xtr line cost too much, isn't any better than other brands and is not a quality product. But their derailleurs are nice. Still if I can find something else I like as well, their gone too.
And for you died hard shimano fans...have your say, I really could care less... enjoy your ride, as will I.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike R.
a Racer
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: May 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$325.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
looks, strength, function, lightness
Weaknesses:
scratches easily, chain line must be right on, expensive, but I bought it on sale. For some reason, Performance had it on sale for $325. A day later, the price went back up $100. Don't know if it was mismarked or what.
Similar Products Used:
Race Face turbine LP, XTR pre 2000 cranks, XT cranks
Bike Setup:
Blur with Hayes disc brakes, Chris King hubs, Mavic 517 wheels, CK headset, mostly mixture of XT/XTR
Bottom Line:
My feeling is most of you having problems with these cranks are improper setup. If your chain line is too far off, then you'll wear down the chain rings in no time. Properly installed, these cranks should give you no problems. I ride hard and race even harder. I race expert and had these cranks long enough to notice wear patterns. Some minor wear in the chainrings are normal for somebody who puts a lot of torque on the drivetrain. It wears no more than my old Race Face Turbine LPs. I have a friend who has the same crankset on his Specialized. His chain rings wore extremely fast, but his chainline was pretty far off compared to my Blur.
In regards to bearing wear, when you install the bearing, you have to be careful of the plastic seals that hold the bearings. My LBS says most people install the bearings incorrectly and damage the seal, thereby letting in moisture and destroying the bearings. Since they seem to know what they were talking about, I had them install my crankset. About 8 months and well over 2,000 hard miles, the crankset is holding up well. After this summer, I plan to replace the rings. I keep the chain well lubed and clean after each ride/race. I measure carefully chain stretch and replace the chain religiously. That and correct installation seem to key to a long lasting drivetrains.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dr. Dan Batchelor
a Cross Country Rider
from Roswell, Georgia USA Date Reviewed: May 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Blankets
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
light and smooth
Weaknesses:
Chainring wears out extremely fast.
Similar Products Used:
Everything
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 100 stock
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that the chainring wears out very fast. There is no alternative when it comes to the large chainring for the XTR M960. There are alternatives for the small and middle chainring but not the large. Another company needs to give Shimano some competition by making large chainrings that fit the m960 but at a fair price. How are you going to convince your sugar momma that you need to spend a hundred smackers on a new large XTR chainring every 4 months?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
carlos alex
a Racer
from brazil Date Reviewed: May 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any uphill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$330.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
hum...... looks great when new. stiff.
Weaknesses:
looks terrible after one month. not the lightest. expensive. rings and bearings wear out pretty fast.
Similar Products Used:
fsa carbon pros,xtr m950,952,xt,lx.
Bike Setup:
spz seven sola,ck headset and wheelset,fox f80x....
Bottom Line:
if you ride your bike, do yourself a favor and stay away from this crap. the good days when xtr was bullet proof, long lasting cranks are gone. after less than 6 months of dusty trails, the bearings and outer ring are gone. i guess when you pay all this money for a product, you should expect to use if for a long time, but this crap is not designed to be used for non sponsored racers or riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Midwest, USA Date Reviewed: March 23, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any singletrack trail that has dirt
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Stiff feel due to the integrated BB. Easy to assemble and dis-assemble to maintain and clean. Lightweight design. And looks very cool on my bike.
Weaknesses:
Cosmetic wear on crank arms
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT hollowtech
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 100 - full XTR
Bottom Line:
These cranks met my expectations. I waited for a while before I made my initial purchase to make sure that any kinks were worked out from Shimano. Granted these cranks are relatively new to the MTB scene. We were told that these cranks are ultra light (as compared to old style XTR). We were told that these cranks are stiffer due to the fact that the BB bearings are on the outer part of the BB shell. Initial reviews from all MTB magazines have given these cranks high ratings. Granted, they may have been paid to give a good review by Shimano. But, I have seen reviews of other products (ie, from Shimano, Rock Shox, Manitou) go the other way. What I am trying to say is that Shimano has a great product here. There are alot of people that are riding this product. The number of people that made it to this review site are insignificant to the amount of product that is currently out there right now. And I would bet that most, if not all, of the people out there that like or love this product don't care to give their review because they are out riding their bikes. But, as soon as the littlest of things go wrong....than by all means let's post a bad review and tell EVERYONE not to buy this product. Let's be realistic here...
There may be issues with the integrity of the BB bearings not being sealed because they are on the outside of the shell. There may be an issue where the non-drive side crank arm keeps falling off (which, BTW, seems to be the most absurd thing that I have heard about this product thus far). And there may be an issue with chainring wear. I am a XC rider and I try to ride about 3-4 times a week. I ride about 80 miles each week when time allows. Sometime more, sometime less. I have put a lot of miles on my cranks over the last year. I have not had one single problem or issue with my cranks. Granted I had to replace a middle chainring now (which BTW cost me $50 at Cambriabikes.com). All chainrings will wear out eventually. Also, to address a question on the value of chainrings...I have seen Race Face rings at my LBS go for $50-$85. $100 for a 44 tooth ring is not that much more. Now as far as the wear of the XTR rings goes, you need to ask yourself a couple of questions when addressing the chainring issue. What type of rider are you? Do you clean your drivetrain after each and every ride? If you are an agressive rider and are constantly hammering it out on the trail, than fatigue will definately set in merely due to the torque that is being applied to the drivetrain. Also, dirt and grease that gets into the chain will wear out the cassette and chainring prematurely, if it isn't cleaned out properly. Now as far as the BB bearings goes, I can't truly comment on that because I don't have a problem with that. I do, however, try to keep the bike dry and away from water. I don't spray my bike in that area with direct water when cleaning it. I have also found that normal BB's have just as much water penetration in them as anything else. I have pulled out BB's from my bike that have been seriously corroded with rust and junk. Nothing is invincible or impervious to water.
When you deal with any type of product like this, you need to understand that the manufacturer has tolerances and variances that go into the manufacturing process. Some product may be at one end of the spectrum while other's may be in the middle or at the other end. Shimano is working on these issues, if in fact they are issues, I am positive. The first year that a product comes out will always have some sort of issue. Just make sure that you have followed the installation instructions to the letter and follow the torque spec's as well. Improper installation will ultimately lead to a failure in the product somewhere.
Don't be quick to judge this product. If something goes wrong, than so be it...you may be in a pool of people that represents less than 1% of those that use these cranks.
These cranks are great. I like them and will continue to use them. I will recommend them to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hans
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: March 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Corral Canyon OHV
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Strengths:
Clean, effiecient, simple design. Easy to work on and install/remove.
Weaknesses:
The bearings are very, very weak and apparently poorly designed and constructed. After 5 months of riding 3-4 times a week, on cross-country trails, they are shot.
One side froze-up, while the left side inner cup disintegrated. Apparently, they are unsealed bearings and very susceptible to moisture, therefore, if you own or buy and XTR crank, do not wash your bike! The worst part about it, Shimano will not cover these under warranty - so much for standing up for your product. I'm now out $70 to buy replacement bearing cups.
Similar Products Used:
TrueVativ - should've stayed with 'em
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur Med. XTR Dual Control Shifters, V-Brakes, Crank, Mavic 618 w/XTR hubs, etc.
Bottom Line:
Weak bearings; Shimano will apparently not cover failures under warranty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Racer
from ny Date Reviewed: February 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Bottom Line:
The bottom bracket cups should have been thought out a little more. The bearings wear too fast when compared to a sealed botombracket. I have about a years worth of riding, maybe a 900 miles of racing and that is it and the bearings are shot. If shimano doesn't improve these soon they will loose a lot of sales from me at my bike shop. There are many other company's coming out with similiar products that might or might not be better. These are no stiffer than an ISIS setup, plus you have the longevity of ISIS. Bottom line there is a lot of room for improvement.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Runar
a Cross Country Rider
from Reykjavik Date Reviewed: January 14, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
local bike store
Strengths:
Stiffness, cool looks
Weaknesses:
chainring wear
Similar Products Used:
Race Face, Coda, Kooka
Bike Setup:
Scott Team Issue, Sram 9.0SL, Tune, Mavic, XTR
Bottom Line:
The chainrings must be made of butter. Never seen a chainring wear out so fast and never seen one so expensive ($100 for the 44T). The R&D dep. at Shimano must start doing what their paid for before SRAM will rule the world.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Charlie S
a Cross Country Rider
from Corrales Date Reviewed: January 13, 2004
Favorite Trail:
South Boundry
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$425.00
Purchased At:
Fat Tire Cycles
Strengths:
Stiff. Light
Weaknesses:
None Yet.
Similar Products Used:
'02 XTR, XT, RaceFace
Bike Setup:
Maverick ML7 with '03 XTR and Mavic wheels. Titus Racer X with '03 XTR and 29" wheels/geometry.
Bottom Line:
I haven't had a single problem. I ride in the Rocky Mountains, the desert, and my local mountains. I ride about 1500 miles a year- all offroad and through all conditions. I am 195lbs and constantly have my bikes tuned-up. I think that people must be installing them wrong considering what I have read below. Perhaps there was a problem with some of the first cranksets out, who knows? If that was the case I hope shimano is paying attention to this site. Anyway, no issues with mine. Also, would all the little daisy-picking girls out there shut up about the finish wearing out!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Racer
from Ringwood Date Reviewed: January 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Manhole
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Stiffness,
Weaknesses:
Bearing life, and weak finish
Similar Products Used:
Raceface ISIS, and soon the new Raceface Crank and BB
Bike Setup:
Fuel 100 discs 19.5 @ sub 24lbs.
Bottom Line:
I do century mtb races. Did Leadville and many others this year. This is all i use this bike for. Have aturner 5 spot that i use the rest of the time. My only gripe about these cranks is the bearings wear out rather quickly when compared to a sealed BB wether it be Shimano, Raceface or any of the others out there. I feel the BB on these cranks and also the new XT and Saint should have been thouth out a little more for longevity. Save the money and get ISIS, just as stiff as the XTR and the BB will last a lot longer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerry Nilo
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego Date Reviewed: January 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Cuyamaca (before it burt down)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Good looks, Light weight, Smooth shifts.
Weaknesses:
Price, Finish.
Similar Products Used:
Old XTR, XT
Bike Setup:
Trek 9800, 2003 XTR drive line, XTR rapid fire shifters, Chris King headset, Crossmax, Marzocchi Marathon, USE Alien Shockpost, Easton EC90 bar.
Bottom Line:
I'm just a weekend warrior single track rider, but I've put 1000 miles on these cranks so far and I'm very pleased with them. The finish has been scratched since the first ride, but hey, it's a MTB. I've read negative reviews on this website about many of the products I use. Its seems like everyone either loves them or hates them; not much middle ground. After one year of recreational us, I'd highly recommend the M960 XTR crank to anyone wanting to build a light CC bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nitish Nag
a Cross Country Rider
from Fremont, CA Date Reviewed: December 18, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Skeggs Point
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$440.00
Purchased At:
Phat Tire
Strengths:
Great in terms of stiffness and lightness. After break-in smooth as heck. Nice looks. Chain rings are strong.
Weaknesses:
Installation is a pain in the butt, expensive, No kujos of Race Face.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Deore, Shimano XT, Truvativ
Bike Setup:
2003 Blur, 04 XTR, 5th Element Air, Easton Carbon Cockpit.
Bottom Line:
This is an excellent crank for high performance thirsty riders that do XC and light trail riding. The Stiffness is immediately noticable and it is a lot lighter than previous XTR. Dont try to install the BB Cups by your self. They are made of aluminum and so they can marr the BB shell. This cost me 240 dollars in repair to fix. But i should have known better. Overall good job Shimano.
P.S. ( If ya dont got the cash a Truvative Stylo is whats for you.)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Atlas
a Cross Country Rider
from Idaho Date Reviewed: December 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$375.00
Purchased At:
OnlineBS
Strengths:
Incredible stiffness, ease of maintenance, extremely smooth shifting when using XTR derailleur
These cranks work fine - they're stiff and work extremely well when integrated with other XTR 2003 components. I probably wouldn't use this crank if you're planning to drops, free riding, downhill, as the BB housing is outside the frame. However, for CC riding, these can't be beat. You'll notice the stiffness of the crank/bottom bracket the first time you ride them. I rate this product higher than the Shimano XTR-M952.
The integrated bottom bracket is the FUTURE. Race Face and other manufacturers are also planning to introduce this technology. The technology isn't new. I know that Cannondale had the Hollogram CAAD6 integrated crank/bottom bracket back in 1999 or 2000. The new Shimano Saint for downhillers is also an integrated crank/bottom bracket.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a
from Ga Date Reviewed: December 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$340.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Light, smooth bearings, nothing stiffer
Weaknesses:
finish
Similar Products Used:
FSA, shimano lx
Bike Setup:
Superlight,Fox,xtr
Bottom Line:
There are no other cranks as stiff, I have had FSA carbon.The 960's were a pain to get set right, I had some issues getting shifting right. But its all good now, the bottom bracket is fragile looking, but I weigh 180 at the least, and ride 50-60 miles a week on tight tech singletrack and did 24hrs of adrenaline here in Ga, didnt even think of cranks failing. Got them on Ebay for 340.00 so price was near top of line for race face and Fsa. Bottom line, I can see legitamate comlaints below but I love mine>>>Now get out and ride!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Racer
from Saint Charles Date Reviewed: December 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Great Western
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Stong, light, spider.
Weaknesses:
What is supposed to be an advancement ends up a weekness in this product; that is the bottom bracket that rests on the outside of the frame. The unique ring sizes are a pain and shimano can charge over $100 a piece!
Similar Products Used:
Race Face, Bontrager, '02 XTR, '02 XT.
Bike Setup:
Yeti ARC Scandium hardtail with Marzocchi Marathon and XTR, XT mix.
Bottom Line:
These cranks suck! They are a horrible waste of money and are liking buying a Bentley to go off roading. The old XTR is way better because you can use a normal bottom bracket that rests inside the frame. These will go out like BIOPACE! My main complaint is that the bottom bracket causes the cranks to be wider than any I have ever riden. Is this supposed to be race technological advancement?! I don't think so. I hate these so much! My friends right crankarm kept falling off during an epic ride. We used a huge rock to pound it back on. It was the most fun I had with these cranks. I sold mine on ebay and got the '02 XTR. I like the bigger chainrings and the bb. The arms are strong as hell. DH riders still use 'em until the new saint comes out. We'll see.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sammy
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlotte, nc Date Reviewed: November 28, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Shifts great, light weight, Stiff cranks set.
Weaknesses:
finish wears off quickly, water finds it's way into the bike casing for the bottom bracket, too expensive.
Similar Products Used:
race face, truvativ
Bike Setup:
santa cruz blur, fox float 100mm, cross max sl, avid disc, easton monkey lite, avid ti levers, xtr rapid fire pods, xtr deraillurs, time pedals, michelin tubless tires, easton seat post, thompson stem, xtr hollow cranks
Bottom Line:
I like the xtr hollow cranks, they've worked great so far, not crazy about the finish rubbing off so fast, but it is cosmetic and not a big deal. I'm not crazy about the fact that water keeps getting in to the bottom braket casing, they where installed when I had the bike built at my local bike shop...I do believe they where installed correctly and I have alot of faith in my local shop....so it is my belief that this is an issue with the XTR hollow cranks and not the installation. I have lost a lot, if not all faith in Shimano products...this stems from many other reasons not related to the XTR hollow cranks, but to the entire New line of Shimano components as a whole. Since I started feeling this way about Shimano components I have tried various other crank sets, shifters, deraillures, etc... and have found these other manufacture components to work just as good if not better, half or a third the price of Shimano and the customer support to be outstanding, where as Shimano has no customer support what so ever.
Bottom Line: I am neutral about the XTR hollow cranks. But once these wear out or break, I'm going with a different manufacturer. I intend to remove every Shimano component I have, as they need to be replaced. I would recommend seeking out another crank other than the XTR Hollow crank, I believe this crank is totally over priced and not any better than Race Face or Truvativ cranks.
3 chilis...I guess this is as close to neutral as I can get.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Racer
from Lexington, KY Date Reviewed: November 15, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Vultures Knob
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Shimano
Strengths:
Stiff and solid laterally. Easy to take off. sweet shifting.
Weaknesses:
After a 12hr. race in some bad weather the b.b. is making noise and there's no way to get in and clean the sucker out.
Similar Products Used:
rf next LP, turbine
Bike Setup:
Ted Wojcik
Bottom Line:
This is a sweet crank, everything about it kicks ass. BUT, the bottom bracket needs some re-thinking. Mine makes a kinda slushing/grinding noise that makes me wonder how long it will be until I need a new one. Hasn't broken yet?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim XC Rider
a Racer
from UK Date Reviewed: October 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
betws-y-coed
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Bike factory
Strengths:
Stiff Light good looks
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Coda Tarantula CX2 Shimano M750XT
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F3000sl, fULL xtr GROUP
Bottom Line:
This crankhas served me well. The bearing issues that plagued the initial batches has been resolved and Shimano -Europe has been excellent in honouring warranty of those BB which suffered bearing failure. This crank is the stiffest i have yet fitted to a bike. So stiff in fact That I am considering getting the RC7800 road version for my road bike. Apparently the crank scratches easily. Ya well ok, it's an MTB crank and somethoing is going to get scratched at some stage. Considering I obtained this crank at a really good price and the performance is evident.
5 for value 5 for performance
no weaknesses in this product
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al
a
from South Africa Date Reviewed: October 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Stiff,looks good for a month
Weaknesses:
BB,RINGS
Similar Products Used:
old xt,xtr,race face
Bike Setup:
Scalpel xtr,hope,easton,eggbeaters etc
Bottom Line:
What a load of rubbish.After 4 months BB and middle ring are finnished.This is not a isolated incident as I have yet to meet a mtbr with this crank where the BB has lasted more than 5 months.As usual Shimano agent not interested. The worst is I can't find a middle ring anywhere.What was shimano thinking puting the bearings on the outside of the BB shell of a mtb,no wonder they don't last.The new xt crank will have the same problem.STAY AWAY from this product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin Buswell
a
from Denver CO USA Date Reviewed: September 25, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywher in Crested Butte or Ned
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Internet
Strengths:
Stiff. Light. Good looking.
Weaknesses:
Maintenace hogs, Squeaks, have to space them to fit. Stupid little rubber things get wasted and then cannot get replacements from shimano. Bearings wear out.
Similar Products Used:
LAst year XTR, Strang arm, XT, Race Face.
Bike Setup:
Klein Palomino RAce but build all XTR with Fox Talus RLC fork.
Bottom Line:
Shimano is letting us test their product. This stuff is not ready for market. The comment from the arogant bike shop geek is what you can expect from those who do not ride hard or were lucky enough to get a "good set." SOme are trouble some are not. It sucks that I have to space them just so they clear my stays. I have already warrantied the brake calapers and it looks like I will have to do this XTR BB also. Not overly impressed. I have worked in shops and on bikes for years. I know what I am doing. I have had the problems I have had confrimed by other hard riding shop employees, there are lots of problems with this groupon but there are osme out there that are flawless. Luck of the draw. Shimano test your stuff and at the very least take care of us who pay fo rthe best!!(even if we do not get the best.)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis V
a Cross Country Rider
from prettylittlemouth, CO Date Reviewed: September 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$360.00
Strengths:
Is there any!? look cool, yeah wahooo! great
Weaknesses:
crappy finish, even worse bearings and rings not as durable as 2002
Similar Products Used:
2002 XTR
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer, X-Max, Fox Foat 100, XTR
Bottom Line:
The look cool but that's aboout it. Shimano used to test their products before releasing them. I should have known not to buy the new XTR after not seeing pro's use any of this CRAP last year. Shimano used to do their homework, now they just sling their "new fangled crap" just like everyone else. The bottom line, the brakes suck and so do the cranks/bb.
The bottom line, don't buy anything in it's first year!
Shimano at least admit your f-ed up and honor some sort of warranty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
William Cook
a Weekend Warrior
from Annapolis, MD Date Reviewed: September 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Patapsco/Avalon or Woodhill Forest, Auckland
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$399.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
Light weight, very stiff, cool looks (initially)
Weaknesses:
Only one shell width, so you have to shim a 68mm shell out to 73 and sacrifice chain line. Extreme Cost.
Similar Products Used:
Previous Race Face and Shimano cranksets
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Blur, XTR drivetrain
Bottom Line:
Great shifting and unbelievable stiffness, but I'm giving 'em four chilis because of the chain line. Seriously, why should I shim my bottom bracket shell out to 73mm? The bearings are already outboard, so there's no stiffnes improvement I can think of. All I get is a crappy chain line because Shimano is too cheap to manufacture both versions. These things are expensive enough that there should be a version for people who are not riding a Trek.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: September 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anywhere in Ned
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$325.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my 6/9/2003 review. I had some concerns that the finish was wearing, and that it might lead to structural problems. Well, the finish is still marred, but no problems. And where I ride, it is *very* rocky, these cranks have taken a serious beating, hitting rocks with pedals and bottom of the crank. They've held up, and they work fine. 5 chilies all around.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave T
a Cross Country Rider
from Salinas, Ca. U.S.A Date Reviewed: September 9, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Bobcat Bicycles
Strengths:
Ease of installation, Weight,Shifting, Shimano Quality.
Weaknesses:
Price I guess???
Similar Products Used:
Numerous Shimano offerings
Bike Setup:
Blur Full XTR Disc Group, 5th Air, Marzocchi Marathon SL Trek 9.8 Full XTR Disc Group, Fox Float 80RLT
Bottom Line:
I've used one Group since last Thanksgiving 02' and the other since early April. I haven't had ANY bearing probs., NO maintenance issues, NO excessive wear and NO chainline issues. I'm a part time shop guy and honestly haven't seen any issues with properly installed 03' XTR Crank/BB's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake hardy
a Racer
from CA Date Reviewed: September 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
MidPoint
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Stiffest, lighest, Most maintenance free crank i've ever used
Weaknesses:
You get mad when you scratch it, cuz there purrttyyyy
Similar Products Used:
RF turbine, FSA carbon team. older xtr
Bike Setup:
blur. m960 xtr group. Fox F100.
Bottom Line:
Best crank i've ever used in four years, FSA carbon team was my favorite untill i crashed bad and chipped crank arm. Relly great crank! The FSA rocked, but i feel faster with this crank. Very smooth shifts. Dunno what people are talking about when they complain about bearing life, road around 2.5k and no probs yeat. Also the IG BB is awsome. Use with m960 cassette to get most out of your drivetrain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Canmore, Alberta Date Reviewed: September 5, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Stiffness, weight
Weaknesses:
BEARINGS!!!!
Similar Products Used:
XTR BB, XT BB
Bike Setup:
Blur -
Bottom Line:
This is a good crank - except for the bearings. I haven't had any of the shifting problems that others speak about, and the crank fits the Blur well. The comments from other reviewers about the finish wearing out quickly, etc, is fluff. If you ride a mountain bike, finishes show wear.
However, the crank bearings have already worn out after about 3000 kilometres, which is much too fast considering the cost of the crank. The old XTR BB typically lasted about one season, which isn't very long. (The annoyance with the old XTR BB was that Shimano didn't honour their warranty. I was told by the rep. that I used a pressure washer on the bike, and that this voided the warranty. I didn't use a pressure washer, and Shimano used this as an excuse to avoid responsibility on several occasions.) Now, I've heard from friends that Shimano isn't honouring the warranty on the new XTR bearings. I'll find out soon if this is the case. My XT BB on my old hard tail lasted years under the same riding conditions.
The sales hype about the new XTR crank left out an important consideration for most riders - that is, it's a high maintenance product. It is stiff and light.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Duane
a Racer
from Roswell,GA Date Reviewed: September 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Bull Mtn
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Cycleworks
Strengths:
Nice looking. Shifts good although occassional chain suck.
Weaknesses:
Nice finish wore off. Although finish wore off of 952's also. Middle chain ring wore out in 400 miles. Try to buy one on a short notice! This new group is a step backwards in my opinion. Shifting is not as good as old group. Chain rings wear out faster. After reading reviews and talking with other people waiting for the BB(or maybe just called bearings now) to wear out.
Similar Products Used:
XTR 952
Bike Setup:
Fuel 100
Bottom Line:
Something that costs a lot more than the older model and does not work as good!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Racer
from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: September 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Looks great, very stiff, shifts very well when new
Weaknesses:
The chainline on this thing sucks because of the too wide BB
After three months of very light use (I'm 140lbs.) the crank needed a new middle ring and chain. It would chainsuck on every shift from the middle ring to the granny gear. I attribute this to the aweful chainline, even after I moved the crank all the way over to the left. Come on Shimano, you should know better. Give us a 110mm BB again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Racer
from toronto canada Date Reviewed: August 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
awsomees
Weaknesses:
steve dosent like it
Similar Products Used:
previous xtr
Bottom Line:
funny how steve had to replace a bottom bracket.....that is intergrated into the crankset... well at least roland green likes it! good enough for me!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Racer
from Göteborg, Sweden Date Reviewed: August 20, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Strengths:
Weight, looks?
Weaknesses:
Bearings: worn out in 3 months. Chainrings: worn out in 3 months. cheap metal! Chainline: only one length on bb, great idea? Finish: comes of to easy
Similar Products Used:
Many
Bike Setup:
Sintesi X-Wing, SID World Cup
Bottom Line:
Worst crap I´ve ever bought! In 5 months I´ve had to replace the chainrings twice! Both the large and the middle one! Had to buy a new BB after only 3 months! Finish came of after the first ride... The great wear on the chainrings probably comes from the crappy chainline, even thou I moved the center of the BB to the left, the chainline still sucks! Becuse of the bad chainline I´ve also had to replace both the chain and the cassette, twice! When I bought them I compared them to Race Face Next LP´s, went for Shimano becuse price to weight ratio. Stupid! Now I will go get me a pair of next lp cranks and hope for better luck...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago Date Reviewed: August 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Stiff, smooth, a difference that can be felt immediately; actually lighter than 2001 XTR; awesome BB design; wrench tool and spacers included.
Weaknesses:
Only 44 tooth ring offered- I miss 46! Nitpic: black rings look cheaper than previous machined rings.
Similar Products Used:
2001 XTR, Specialized strong arm
Bike Setup:
Mountain Cycles Moho Slix w/ full XTR
Bottom Line:
Believe the hype- this is a VERY nice, stiff, smooth crankset. It is actually stiffer than 2001 XTR. I've done back-to-back comparo w/ 2001 XTR on my Joker (shock maxed out) and the difference is real. The integrated axle is stronger than the splined BB. The installation and setup was very unenventful as everything lined up just fine. The BB wrench as well as spacers are provided.
The bearings have not shown any signs of foul play. I've been through several stream crossings and have not noticed any degradation in the smoothness or stiffness of the BB. Shimano has put the component industry on alert- these cranksets are the real deal, worth the cost.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dabido
a Cross Country Rider
from Riverton, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: August 9, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Brand New on EBAY
Strengths:
Looks, stiff, easy to assemble, great design.
Weaknesses:
Bearings are in a PLASTIC casing and are not sealed.
Similar Products Used:
Old XTR
Bike Setup:
2003 Intense Spider, Mavic SL, Fox TALAS Float, Chris King, EASTON Bars/Stem
Bottom Line:
My Cranks squeak after six rides! They still make noise after I overhauled them. I can't get to the bearings because they are factory "sealed". They may be sealed from me, but water has gotten into them after only a few rides. While I was installing them I noticed the bearings are encased in Plastic! Not good.
I have broken a chain on them also and think it is because of the line. I've been hardcore Shimano for over ten years. So this is very dissapointing. Check out my set up and you can understand that this totally destroys my dream ride. I think Shimano will eventually fix the problem, so I would definately wait to buy this product. I would appreciate any feedback with those who have experienced the same thing and if Shimano helped them with replacement parts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rick e
a Racer
from wisconsin Date Reviewed: August 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
john mur
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
stiffest crankset ever. very very light.
Weaknesses:
arnt idiot proof. People dont understand how to install properly, thus the bearings wear out.
Similar Products Used:
fsa team carbon, RF turbine.
Bike Setup:
trek 9.8 xtr group.
Bottom Line:
I have used quite a few top end cranksets, and this is the best i have ever used. people complain of bearing problems. the sealed bearings on this crankset are the best i've ever seen. but are easy to mis-install. if any one complains of bearing problems it is because they have mis-installed them. There is a reason why 90% of all XC racers use this crankset. they are suepr stiff, super light weight, and are install and forget. you should not buy these cranks because they look awsome, you should because they work awsome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Boyd
a Racer
from Dallas Date Reviewed: August 1, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
stiff
Weaknesses:
bearings, ring wear, finish
Similar Products Used:
lx xt race face turbine lp.
Bike Setup:
Superlight, Supertrick
Bottom Line:
I ordered a pair of new Race Face ISIS turbine lp's with the Ti BB and the same day they came in the XTR's showed up too. They were a hundred more than I was about to spend and I knew nobody else had a pair yet... I should've stuck with the Race Face. Water flows freely into the bb. The "cool" finish comes off immediately if you look at it crooked. I just replaced a chain and the middle ring seems to need replacing already and the cassette of the same age is still in perfect shape-I've never seen that before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
toniomx2003
a
from Mexico, City Date Reviewed: July 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
single tracks
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
Stiff, strong, so light and so smooth
Weaknesses:
installation manual is not clear for some particular bikes, maybe is better specific diferent sizes of bottom bracket and spindle.
Similar Products Used:
truvativ
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F600 with XTR Group
Bottom Line:
This is an improve that you can realy feel, it feels like theres no wastes of energy in your pedaling. I'm not notice any weird in my pedaling as others said. The bike accelerates as a demon. I ask direct to Cannondale about the compatibility with my bike because some bad reviews about the chainline, but they no answer me, so I decided to proof and the test is very good. ¡¡¡I don't know why is so important the scratches, this is mountaing biking!!! and the quick wear that some guys reports I think is because a bad installation.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
B SPEE
a Weekend Warrior
from NYC Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Pisgah NF
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Strong, Light, Looks good when new
Weaknesses:
Look bad after first ride
Similar Products Used:
Oder XTR, Race Face Carbon
Bike Setup:
Ibis Silk-Ti, Full 2003 XTR, Fox F80 Forx, Mavic rims w/ King Hubs-
Bottom Line:
These cranks look very nice when new and they are stiff and do the job as needed. But as we all know we upgrade to make the bike look better- Unless your a 250 pound rider, the parts will always do its job- These cranks (like the shifters) were not tested long enough. After just a few weeks of riding they look like they have been to hell and back. I've been on smooth trails and still scratch the sides- after 6 months of weekend riding they look like I've had these for years- GO WITH THE RACE FACE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joachim Parbo
a Racer
from Denmark Date Reviewed: July 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Tornby Plantage
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Stiff, crisp !!!
Weaknesses:
Wore out the granny ring in 4 weeks - crappy metal !!! Chain line moved outwards 3mm compared to 2002 - causing more wear.
Similar Products Used:
XT 2002, XTR 2002, Race Face, Middleburn
Bike Setup:
www.CUBE-bikes.de Elite SC full XTR 2003
Bottom Line:
What is shimano doin ? taking a nap ?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Torrance, CA Date Reviewed: June 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Strengths:
Stiff and light. Beautiful to look at.
Weaknesses:
Beware, bearing life is very short. Finish is very fragile.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Race Face
Bike Setup:
Blur, Fox RLC, '03 XTR
Bottom Line:
Shimano has done limited testing with the entire XTR group. The bearings are poorly sealed and failed after one wet ride -- seriously. The crankset is stiff and offers a good strength:weight ratio. It's easy (and quick) to install. Product doesn't have a reasonable service life at any price, let alone $450.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Lenexa, KS Date Reviewed: June 24, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
BikeSource
Strengths:
Very stiff. Lighter than previous XTR cranks. Looks very sweet on my bike.
Weaknesses:
None, except maybe for finish wear.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT Hollowtech's
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Sugar with some nice stuff.
Bottom Line:
I was only hesistant about one thing with this crankset and that was shelling out the $ for them. Once I overcame that hurdle and made the plunge. I have not looked back like many others that are out there and are using these cranks. The set-up for these cranks is great. I can tear down the cranks in less than 2 minutes to clean them out. These cranks are light and stiff and have performed very well for me thus far. I have logged a lot of hours on this set over the last 3 months. I haven't had any problems or issues with them. If you have the means, buy these cranks. I don't think that you will be disappointed. For those of you that are having chainline problems...were you aware that the cranks do come with a spacer set to make sure that the BB is spaced properly? Just a thought as to why you may be having problems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yves gagnon
a Racer
from victoria, bc Date Reviewed: June 9, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with kona bike full xtr
Strengths:
Very stiff
Weaknesses:
bad chain line, poor bearing quality
Bike Setup:
kona king with full xtr/fox
Bottom Line:
Three months and the bb is gone but they will replace for free and they should. It feels like a 1985 Shimano bb. The bb is too wide and I have some shifting problems probably b/c if this extrem the chain line . I would not spend $700 Canadian for this.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO, USA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2003
A little worried about long term durability, see below...
Similar Products Used:
FSA Carbon Pro cranks, XT BB.
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mtn Instinct with SRAM XO, egg beaters, SID fork, King hubs and headset, Avid mech disc brakes.
Bottom Line:
Awesome cranks. The best I've had. Feels like I have a new bike, they're that stiff. Definately get them if you like to push big gears, and climb when standing a lot. One other review said it changed their chainline and Q-factor. After removing my FSA Carbon Pro cranks, I only had to adjust my front derailleur screws 1/2 turn for H & L. That's probably 1mm.
After a long 7 hour ride, the finish on both crankarms is worn away by my shoes. Not sure if this is because of the curve in the arms, or what... but now they look awful and what's worse, I can feel where they've been worn down. That scares me. Since I'm a little worried about long term durability, they only get 4 chilis.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Oliver Engelbrecht
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: June 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
leith Hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
They look good, Very stiff and ride great
Weaknesses:
BB Bearings are worn after 1200km of riding
Similar Products Used:
XT cranks are still going strong on my second bike Specialized Stumpjumper XC and that is after 2 years of riding
Bike Setup:
Specialized Epic marathon. XTR everything.
Bottom Line:
I love the new XTR parts but the fact that i have got to replace my BB bearing after 1200km is just not good enough considering How much they cost. These cranks where installed by my local bike (Evans) shop and when they told me there is no warranty on wear and tear i could not believe these bearing would only last this long. I hope i am the only one with the problem. I dont want to get rid of the cranks so I have ordered new bearing but i am still waiting for the parts to arrive in the UK. Not sure how long i will have to wait.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
A.J. Curtis
a Weekend Warrior
from Pleasanton, CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
the Ridge
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Real Bicycles
Strengths:
SUPER STRONG! SUPER STIFF! Looks better then any crank set I have ever seen!
Weaknesses:
It is a little price, but well worth the money!
Similar Products Used:
Race Face next lp
Bike Setup:
03 Gary Fisher Tassahara, 03 XTR crankset and bb, 03 XTR derailiers front and rear, 03 XTR 11-24 casset, Mavic CrossRoc ust wheelset, Xt shifter brake combo, and titec riser dh bar
Bottom Line:
You better start beliving the hype on these bad boys! You notice how stiff and strong they are after your first rotation! I do think they are a little expen$ive though. But if you think about it, they don't cost that much more then a race face set up with a good BB
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jojo
a
from mt. olympus Date Reviewed: May 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
kgb
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Strong and light. The spider.
Weaknesses:
Q-factor like a horse, chainline, and price..$450!?!? Made for dumb rich people.
Similar Products Used:
XT, Race Face
Bike Setup:
Yeti ARC, XT and XTR mix, SID, Mavic
Bottom Line:
I replaced my XT crankset with the new XTR a few months ago because I beleived the hype. It is stiff and cool looking but only comes in one bottom bracket size. For $450 you'd think Shimano would make it perfect. But this universal bb causes the Q-factor(distance beteen your feet) to be wider than what is most effecient. My XT setup with a 113mm bb is over an inch narrower! Plus the chainline is at such an angle you can't spin backwards without the chain hoping gears. These are gross errors on Shimano's part and this crankset should not be considered until they offer it different sizes. For the dough they're asking for this is obvious. I sold it and am happier with my XT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas
a
from ithaca Date Reviewed: May 7, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
You think a crankset is a crankset? Well, I had an old shimno LX crankset before I did the upgrade and said - why the heck not do it. So, I splurged, went on ebay, and bought it. This thing is unbelievable - no flex - it just feels so much stiffer
Weaknesses:
none, really - the paint finish is a little weird - but I got used to it
Similar Products Used:
shimano lx
Bike Setup:
trek y OCLV carbon
Bottom Line:
This is not a placebo that makes me THINK I am getting a stiffer ride - this is truth - this really does improve your drivetrain. It makes a huge difference and is worth 350 dollars or more. I don't pay retail for my bicycle parts. LBS = ripoff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john chang
a Cross Country Rider
from singapore Date Reviewed: May 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any trail i can find!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
300
Strengths:
Super smooth No flex Excellent front shifting
Weaknesses:
Scratches easily
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager race lite
Bike Setup:
Fuel 98 upgraded to full xtr
Bottom Line:
I took a week before I decided to get it, but after reading the reviews here i took the plunge. I have not looked back since...execpt maybe at my riding buddies struggling behind me. Three Cs gets you the best crankset in the market. Get it. And get the feeling of pure, unadulterated power transmitting directly from your quads to your wheels...those 'anatomic' ads of Shimano XTR are not hype. They are in fact the closest discription of the XTR experience. To quote another tagline: Dont leave home without it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Emmons
a Racer
from Castle Rock, Colorado Date Reviewed: April 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything that Bumps
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
They work perfectly. Oh So Smooth!
Weaknesses:
None yet. Oh, I did scratch them, so i am mad they are not totally impervious to rocks
Similar Products Used:
XT, kooka, Race Face ISIS
Bike Setup:
Matt Chester Dogbox, 29er, full 2003 XTR
Bottom Line:
In the history of cranks, these are the best. Stiff, lite, cool, Very easy to set up, almost too easy. I thought i was doing something wrong. I have not had a problem with Q factor, and the chain line is a little quirky. I can only use the XTR chain and can no longer use my nice Rohloff chain as it is a bit too wide. The Sram chain is even wider. Oh Well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Johnny
a Racer
from Stateline, NV USA Date Reviewed: April 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Somewhere in Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Some dude in Utah
Strengths:
Looks, Stiff, weight, come on, it's XTR!
Weaknesses:
Some of the rookie riders reviewing this product.
Similar Products Used:
02 XTR, Next LP
Bike Setup:
SC Blur, Z1 Bombers FR, 03 XTR Cranks, mavic 3.1/Chris King ISO, 03 Hayes HFX-Mag Plus, Monkey Lite bars, Thompson stem/post, Vert 2.3,
Bottom Line:
I can't understand why people are complaining about price! I found a brandnew 03 XTR Crankset/BB for $300, that is cheaper than most 03 cranks.
Best crank ever made! End of discussion.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Pelham Date Reviewed: March 19, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mt.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Stiff,Weight,Looks,Smooth.
Weaknesses:
Finish Wears (who cares it gives your bike character). Price but well worth it!
This is a follow up review from my first, I have abot 300 mi. on these cranks now & couldnt be more happy, they have worked flawlessly. All I can say is these are some of, if not the best cranks available today! If you dont know what your doing dont take chances trying to install them youself(they are expensive and the bike your installing them on probably is as well), secondly if your a moron who rides around the parking lot of the LBS and thinks he or she should give a review on ANY component or bike, do us all a favor...DON'T. Again if you want the best XC cranks and can afford them BUY THESE CRANKS!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred B
a Racer
from Peterborough, NH, USA Date Reviewed: March 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Any one
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$495.00
Purchased At:
Eclectic Bicycle
Strengths:
Light, Stiff, nice looks, high tech design
Weaknesses:
The space in between the crank arm and the bearing seals doesent make me happy, looks like dirt can get in there and mess things up
Similar Products Used:
Xt, sugino mighty 900, bontrager superstock
Bike Setup:
Carbon Fiber pinarello prototype 2004 mountain bike, with aluminum head tube, seat tube, bb, and dropouts, cane creek zs-6 internal headset, merlin ti bars, full xtr except for shifter which are xt, m959 pedals, irc serac tires, mavic 517 rims on tripple butted wtb spokes and xtr hubs, selle san marco saddle, cane creek ergo bar ends(best in the world buy them)
Bottom Line:
This is by far the best crankset/bb combo i have ever tried, working at a bike shop i have seen the whackiest setups and designs and this is the best out of all of them. To all ignorant reviwers, a word of advice, RIDE THE DAMN PARTS BEFORE POSTING CRAP AND WHINES. Price is high because of development and advertising so dont complain if its "tooooo expensive" you want it you buy it. thats how it works, also it is the stiffest thing on my bike and on anyone elses. if you got the money go out an buy it. best xc crankset ever to be made. GO SHIMANO
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derek Mattice
a Racer
from Michigan Date Reviewed: March 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$430.00
Purchased At:
American Cycle
Strengths:
Great looking, SMOOTH bearings, super stiff, shifts excellently (see weakness).
Weaknesses:
Shifts excellently ONLY if your bike is a 50mm chainline setup. My Cannondale is not, currently having to run the crank offset 5mm to the left (non-drive side) to make up for Shimano's stupid attempt to save on manufacturing, inventory, etc.
Similar Products Used:
CODA 900M, 952 XTR, Coda Tarantula
Bike Setup:
Cannondale w/ all XTR, UST Crossmax, and Magura Marta discs
Bottom Line:
If you have a bike with a 50mm chainline, there is not a better crankset. If you don't, good luck getting it to shift off of the big ring to the middle (68mm shell w/ two spacers on drive side as Shimano recommends). I put one spacer on the drive and two on non-drive to achieve a 47.5mm chainline (this is how Cannondale is shipping their '03 bikes that are spec'd with this crank)and it shifts great but you definitely notice the odd spacing. I can't believe nobody has complained in their reviews of the F3000SL or the Scalpel 3000 on this site. It makes pedaling feel very odd. I currently have my crank up for sale on this site if anybody is interested. Thanks Shimano.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Braveheart
a Cross Country Rider
from Kent, UK Date Reviewed: February 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Coed y Brenin
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Larkfield Cycles
Strengths:
Stiff, lightweight, wide bearing placement.
Weaknesses:
Some say price, but a good quality ISIS crankset added to the cost of a decent ISIS bottom bracket costs about this sort of price (GB£300).
Service instructions non existant. My LBS think that Shimano intends these to be fitted by authorised dealers. My LBS mechanic was kind enough to let me have a look at their manual. A quick sketch of the layout was all I needed.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano LX.
Bottom Line:
My old LX crankset was suffering from big time chain suck even when clean, and the square taper was sitting slightly off-square. I considered going for an ISIS setup, better design than Shimano Octalink, but ISIS stuff isn't that common in the UK yet, and a decent chainset and BB is expensive. The mechanic at my LBS recommended the 2003 XTR set, at £300 I thought holy sh!t, but that's with an integrated BB, so it's not too bad, really. The integrated design gives the widest possible bearing placement (bearings are actually outside the BB shell), which improves stiffness, and allows a larger hollow axle to be used giving a significant weight reduction. It also fits 68mm or 73mm shells. A 68mm shell needs two 2.5mm spacers on the drive side, and one on the left. (Logic would dictate that only one would be needed on the drive side for a 73mm shell). The whole thing fits together very easily and very quickly. Shimano even give you the tool to install the bearing cups. The most time consuming bit is tightening the bolts on the LH crank arm. Both bolts have to be tightened evenly and equally (torque wrench needed), for obvious reasons.
The bearings are silky smooth, and shifting is extremely slick. I can't comment on long term durability yet, but I'll do a follow up post later.
All in, a revolutionary new design, which seems to have taken the best bits of all the technology around and improved on them some more.
If you want the best there is, you know what to do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from USA Date Reviewed: February 17, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Stiff light shifts great less filling
Weaknesses:
Pricey No instructions
Similar Products Used:
XT
Bike Setup:
'03 XTR crankset, '02 XTR everything else
Bottom Line:
It does what it's supposed to do. Shifting is perfect and I can't detect a HINT of flex.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Connor
a Cross Country Rider
from Sussex England Date Reviewed: February 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
South Downs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
chainreactioncycles.co.uk
Strengths:
Stiff and light weight
Weaknesses:
Expensive Poor Instructions
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Specialized Strongarm
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper XTR
Bottom Line:
Ok for starters this chainset is way lighter than any I have previously owned. But once off the scales I tried to fit it to my bike. Included were several spacers. I studied the instructions carefully for any reference to where these spacers should go. No mention in the text but I thought I could make them out on the diagram. As luck would have it I was right. However, the first time I tried to tighten them up I obviously hadn't alligned the plastic internal sleeve correctly so it buckled inside the BB and meant that when I turned the cranks everything was stiff. Ok this is sorted out now but if I can do it so can somebody else and it is not what you want when you have just shelled out £300.
However, once on the bike the cranks were noticably stiffer than anything I had previously ridden. This provided me with plenty on incentive to stomp on the pedal up every hill.
Also the shifting is always crisp and perfect even under load.
Yes, these cranks are expensive but there is nothing better in terms of performance and maintenance is simple. They also look pretty slick too!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Cross Country Rider
from Mesa, AZ Date Reviewed: February 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Schultz Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great looks, shifting, strong.
Weaknesses:
Simplicity, no choice.
Similar Products Used:
02 XTR, LP Turbines
Bike Setup:
OCLV Fuel 100, SID, XTR, King hubs, Easton carbon stuff
Bottom Line:
I was very much anticipating using these cranks. Shifting is usual Shimano excellence. I personally thought chainline is poor. However, because there is no choice for overall BB spindle length choice, if you want to adjust cranks for chainline all you can do is shift everything off center to the left. I would prefer a setup that can be tweeked even a little to accomodate different frames. Going back to 02 XTR, excellent product, less expensive, various BB's able to be used to get dialed in.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Windkid
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: January 30, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Wilder ranch St Cruz
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Bike shop in St Cruz
Strengths:
Stiffer than old XTR and the same gear retio as XT.
Weaknesses:
Only the pricing - I think it is expensive.
Similar Products Used:
Old Shimano XTR, Raceface Turbine LP
Bike Setup:
Cannondale V800 with Ti DLR Lefty shock, 6 botls lefty hub, FR/RR XTR derailleurs , XTR shifters, XTR Ti cog, Cane Creek Cloud-9 airshock, Grimeca sys-12 Fr disk, Shimano Rr disk, C-king disco hub, Whipperman Chain, Raceface HDL bar and Mavic D321 FR/RR rim, Thompson elite post and WTB Laser V/SST 98.
Bottom Line:
Stiffer than old XTR crank yet the same gear retio as XT. I have both cranks and now I can consolidate to one. Excellent product and beautiful to look at. It is hard to imagine it is a hollow crank.
Extra carefull for installation by yourself. I was told a lot of people make a BBL and spacer installation mistake. You may crash plastic inner tube by chosing wrong spacers and may damage the bearings.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nando
a Cross Country Rider
from Barcelona, Date Reviewed: January 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere, Anytime!!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Slick shifting + motion when combined with other XTR components. Uniqueness for the time being. Weight. The envy of your buddies.
Weaknesses:
Price obviously. Big corporation stigma. Your wallet nagging you as you abuse them with reckless abandon over those rocks. Having to buy your better half something equally expensive.
Similar Products Used:
Race Face Next LP, Old XTR, XT
Bike Setup:
03 Rocky Mountain Element TSC, Kris King No Thread, All 03 XTR, XTR Hydraulic disc, Spinergy Rims/Spokes, Thompson stem, Hutchinson Scorpions, Easton carbon seatpost, Manitou Skareb Elite w/lockout, Answer ProTaper XC carbon handlebars, Selle Italia Custom SLR saddle.
Bottom Line:
Are these perfect? No. Mountain biking isn't a perfect science. Why else would nutters like us buy bikes and/or components costing thousands of dollars and then abuse them with nary a thought. Could BB could be better? Yes. Are they the slickest looking crankset? Yes. Do they work better than the Race Face Next LPs IMO? Yes. Are they overpriced IMO? Yes. Do you have to buy these? Hell no. However they work as well for me and that's all I could ask for. IMO you should buy what makes you happy because you'll ride better as a result.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paulo lobao
a Weekend Warrior
from Porto, Portugal Date Reviewed: January 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
bikezone
Strengths:
stifness and precision
Weaknesses:
ano and ... the ballbearings cartridges are a joke
Similar Products Used:
older XTR crankset
Bike Setup:
MountainCycle ShockWave, Z1 FR QR20Pro, M4 brakes, all XTR, Mavic CrossMax XL, 5th element, Chris King headset,...
Bottom Line:
the cartdriges and the plastic, yes plastic, things that interface between the axle and the cartdriges sucks. Myne came with almost no grease inside and the plastic start to fade after 1 month or so. I changed to SKF ball bearings cartdriges yestarday ! The system is poorly designed and I think Shimano need to do something or... I give 1 chili until they fix the problem with the "axle/ball bearings/plastic thing".
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Auckland Date Reviewed: January 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The star of the new XTR groupset. Extremely direct power transfer. Superb integration with bb Improved gearing ratio from old XTR They look stunning
Weaknesses:
Wider Q factor. Despite reviews to the contrary, I ride toe in/heel out and have never scuffed my heels on cranks before, but I do on these.
Similar Products Used:
2002 XTR, XT, Race Face, CODA (just don't go there!)
Bike Setup:
Seven Sola, Full 2003 XTR
Bottom Line:
Great cranks. They spin freely, are stiff, look great and shift great. Couldn't ask for more. Shimano have beaten the competition BIG TIME with these. Several aftermarket cranks offered distinct advantages over the old XTR crank/bb combination but nothing coes close to the new ones. Sorry Race Face, better concentrate on the bars and stems, your cranks have met their match!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
scott russell
a Cross Country Rider
from Pelham, AL Date Reviewed: January 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mt.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$360.00
Purchased At:
E-Bay
Strengths:
Light,Stiff, Smooth, B/B included, Very easy on the eyes!
Weaknesses:
Price, Polished finish wears quickly.
Similar Products Used:
02 XTR, Specialized Strongarm II, XT.
Bike Setup:
03 Epic FSR, Full XTR Drive & Brakes, 959 Pedals, Monkey light carbon bars, Thomson post & stem, Selle Italia Flite Gel, Mavic Crossmax XL's.
Bottom Line:
THESE CRANKS ROCK!! Best upgrade I have made, Shifts very smooth, stiffer & lighter than the old XTR Cranks, Easy to install, Looks awsome (if you are into looks). I love the fact that they incorporated the bottom bracket. Bottom line is if you want the best XC crankset out there & you dont mind spending the $$ by all means BUY THESE CRANKS!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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