Best Bike Cranksets for Road Bikes of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Bike cranksets for road bikes are an essential component for any cyclist looking to improve their performance on the road. These cranksets are designed to transfer power from the rider's legs to the bike's chain, allowing for efficient and smooth pedaling. They come in a variety of materials, such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and titanium, and can be customized with different chainring sizes to suit the rider's needs. Some popular crankset brands for road bikes include Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo, each offering their own unique features and benefits. Overall, investing in a high-quality crankset can greatly enhance a cyclist's riding experience and help them reach their full potential on the road.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DONSP1986 52T/42T Crankset Cover #TOP 1
DONSP1986 52T/42T Crankset
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SHIMANO FC-A070 Road Bike Crankset Cover #TOP 2
SHIMANO FC-A070 Road Bike Crankset
ftb score rating icon 9.7
CYSKY Single Speed Crankset Set for Fixed Gear Bikes Cover #TOP 3
CYSKY Single Speed Crankset Set for Fixed Gear Bikes
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Bike Cranksets for Road Bikes

#TOP 1

DONSP1986 52T/42T Crankset

jl-a-123
DONSP1986 52T/42T Crankset Cover
DONSP1986 52T/42T x 170mm Crankset for Mountain Road Bike Fixed Gear Bicycle (52T/42T Chainring)

The DONSP1986 52T/42T Crankset is a versatile crankset suitable for both mountain and road bikes. With a BCD of 110, it offers excellent compatibility with various bike models. The crankset features an aluminum alloy leg and a steel chainring, ensuring durability and strength during intense rides. It is also compatible with BB 113mm, providing a seamless connection to your bike's bottom bracket. The approximate outer diameter of the crankset is 52T: 205mm / 8.5in for the larger chainring and 42T: 173mm/6.8in for the smaller chainring. With a crank size of 170mm, this crankset offers optimal power transfer and efficient pedaling. Upgrade your bike with the DONSP1986 Crankset and experience enhanced performance and reliability.

What We Like
Versatile
Durable
Optimal power transfer
#TOP 2

SHIMANO FC-A070 Road Bike Crankset

153316
Black
50-34T/170mm
SHIMANO FC-A070 Road Bike Crankset Cover
Shimano FC-A070 Road Bike Crankset Without Cog, 50-34T/170mm

This 7-speed comfort crankset from SHIMANO features forged alloy crankarms, weighs do not include BB, and does not include BB.

What We Like
Lightweight
Durable forged alloy crankarms
Suitable for 7-speed bikes
#TOP 3

CYSKY Single Speed Crankset Set for Fixed Gear Bikes

CYSKY
60T-Black
CYSKY Single Speed Crankset Set for Fixed Gear Bikes Cover
CYSKY Single Speed Crankset Set 60T 170mm Crankarms 130 BCD Fixie Crankset for Single Speed Bike, Fixed Gear Bicycle, Track Road Bike (Square Taper, Black)

The CYSKY Single Speed Crankset Set features a 60T teeth count, 170mm crank arm length for no overlap of the arm and chainring bolt, and a 130mm BCD. It is made of lightweight forged aluminum alloy 7075-T6 for reliability and strength. The set is compatible with single speed bikes, fixed-gear bikes, and track road bikes. It also fits standard 1/2" X 1/8" chains and 9/16" pedals.

What We Like
Lightweight and strong
No overlap of crank arm and chainring bolt
Compatible with various types of bikes
#TOP 4

D Dymoece Bike Cranksets

D Dymoece Bike Cranksets Cover
D Dymoece Bike Cranksets Bicycle Crank Arm Set with Bottom Bracket Kit and Chainring Bolts for MTB BMX Road Bike Compatible with Shimano Sram FSA

D Dymoece Bike Cranksets, made of Aluminum Alloy, is a high-quality and durable crank arm set with a bottom bracket kit and chainring bolts. With a crank arm length of 170mm/6.69in and a single speed chainring BCD of 104mm/4.09in, it is suitable for most mountain bikes and dirt bicycles. The bottom bracket width is adjustable from 68-73mm/2.67-2.87in. This crankset is compatible with Shimano Sram FSA. The package includes 1 MTB crankset, 1 bottom bracket, 4 single chainring bolts, 1 crank screw, and 1 crankset bolt allen wrench. With its sturdy construction and easy installation, D Dymoece Bike Cranksets provide a smooth and efficient riding experience, making it a great choice for cyclists of all levels.

What We Like
Durable
Easy installation
Compatible with Shimano Sram FSA
#TOP 5

DRIFT MANIAC Bicycle Crankset with 110BCD and 170mm Crank Arm

US2-ROAD Without Chainguard
50/34T crankset
DRIFT MANIAC Bicycle Crankset with 110BCD and 170mm Crank Arm Cover
DRIFT MANIAC Bicycle Crankset 50/34T 52/42T 110BCD Square Taper for Road Treking Bike 170mm Crank Arm

This bicycle crankset by DRIFT MANIAC is made of forged aluminum alloy 6061-T6 and steel chainring, making it strong and durable while remaining lightweight at 680g/1.5lb. It features a BCD of 110mm/4.33in and a double chainring (8s 50/34T) of chain size 1/2"*1/8", compatible with 9/16 inch pedals and 8-speed transmission groupset. The easy-to-install crankset comes with a plastic chainring cover to prevent rubbing and is ideal for daily commuting, providing a comfortable and relaxing ride.

What We Like
Easy to install
Lightweight design
Includes plastic chainring cover
Compatible with 8-speed transmission groupset
#TOP 6

BUCKLOS Mountain Bike Crankset

BUCKLOS Mountain Bike Crankset Cover
BUCKLOS Ebike Mountain Bike Square/Diamond/Hollow Crank Arm -152MM/170MM/175MM MTB Aluminum Bicycle CrankSet for Electric Bike/Road Bike/Commuter Bike/Exercise Bike/Fat Bike

The BUCKLOS Crankset is designed for durability and ease of use, crafted from high-quality aluminum alloy for long-lasting performance. You can choose between square or diamond hole interfaces in two sizes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your bike. Installation is straightforward, requiring minimal tools, which means you can quickly get back on the road or trail. This crankset is versatile, suitable for various bike types, including electric, mountain, and folding bikes, making it a great choice for any cyclist looking to upgrade or repair their bike.

What We Like
Durable aluminum construction
Multiple size options
Easy installation
Versatile for different bike types

BOLANY 170mm Bike Crankset with Bottom Bracket and Chainring

Black
130BCD
BOLANY 170mm Bike Crankset with Bottom Bracket and Chainring Cover
BOLANY 170mm Bike Crankset Hollow Integrated Double Speed Round Chainring 130BCD 8S/9S Fit for Road Bike with Bottom Bracket 39/53T Chainring

The BOLANY 170mm Bike Crankset is made of rugged and durable 7075 T6 Aluminum Alloy, has a smooth shifting precision tooth shape, and features a removable high-strength chainring. It comes with a bottom bracket and crank dust cap to protect the crank, and has a threaded central axis suitable for most road, mountain, hybrid, E-bikes, and more. BOLANY's new release establishes a comprehensive accessories system and offers excellent customer service.

What We Like
Durable and rugged 7075 T6 Aluminum Alloy
Smooth shifting precision tooth shape
Removable high-strength chainring
Suitable for most bike types
BOLANY's new release establishes a comprehensive accessories system and offers excellent customer service
#TOP 8

DONSP1986 Crankset

jl-a-162
DONSP1986 Crankset Cover
DONSP1986 Crankset Single Speed 44T 170mm Crankarms 110 BCD Crankset for Mountain Road Bike Fixed Gear Bicycle(Square Taper, Black) (44T Sprocket)

The DONSP1986 Single Speed Crankset is a burly and lightweight forged crankset designed for ultimate strength and reliability. Made from high-quality Aluminium 6061-T6, this crankset is built to withstand the rigors of mountain biking and fixed gear cycling. With a 110mm BCD and 170mm pedal crankarms, it offers excellent compatibility with various bike models. The 44T sprocket provides smooth and efficient pedaling, while the square taper design ensures easy installation. Weighing only 772g, this crankset is perfect for riders looking for both durability and performance. Whether you're tackling rugged mountain trails or cruising through city streets, the DONSP1986 Single Speed Crankset will enhance your biking experience.

What We Like
Durable
Lightweight
Easy to install
#TOP 9

MLIKYRGK Road Bike Crankset

MLIKYRGK
MLIKYRGK001
50-34t
165mm
MLIKYRGK Road Bike Crankset Cover
MLIKYRGK 165/170/172.5/175mm Road Bike Crankset with Double Speed 50-34T/52-36T/53-39T Chainring Cranksets with BSA BB Hollow Integrated Crank Arm Set GXP Mount 7-12Speed Black(50-34T,165mm)

The MLIKYRGK Crankset offers four size options for the crank arms, ranging from 165mm to 175mm, allowing you to choose the best fit for your riding style. Each crank arm is designed for lightweight performance, ensuring that you can ride longer without unnecessary fatigue. The double-speed chainring options provide versatility, enabling smooth gear transitions, which is essential for tackling varied terrains. Additionally, the crankset is made from durable aluminum alloy, ensuring it withstands the rigors of regular use while maintaining its shape and performance. With this crankset, you can enjoy a reliable and efficient biking experience.

What We Like
Multiple crank arm sizes
Lightweight design
Versatile gear options
Durable aluminum construction

DONSP1986 Triple Speed Aluminum Alloy Square Crankset

DONSP1986-003
Black
42-32-22 Teeth
DONSP1986 Triple Speed Aluminum Alloy Square Crankset Cover
DONSP1986 Triple Speed Aluminum Alloy Square Crankset 170mm 104/64bcd 42/32/22T with Chainring Crankarms, Crank Set Chainset for Mountain Road Bike Fixed Gear Bicycle

The DONSP1986 Triple Speed Aluminum Alloy Square Crankset is made of lightweight and stylish aluminum alloy, with a high axial strength and compatibility. The crank is 170mm in length and is compatible with axis lengths between 110mm-113mm. It features a 104/64mm crank fit for single/double/triple chainring, with crank arm length 170mm and crank related holes distance 74m, fit 8-12S chains. The package includes 1 x 170mm square crank, 1 x 42/32/22T chainring set and 4 x chainring bolts.

What We Like
Lightweight and stylish aluminum alloy
High axial strength and compatibility
Compatible with single/double/triple chainring
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do all cranksets fit all bikes?

No, not all cranksets will fit all bikes. Different cranksets may have different numbers of arms or direct-mount interfaces, and they may be positioned differently. It's important to ensure crankset compatibility before replacing or upgrading chainrings.

2. How do I know what size crankset I need for my road bike?

The size of the crankset for your road bike will depend on the size of the frame. Generally, small bikes come with 170mm cranks, medium bikes with 172.5mm, and large bikes with 175mm. The crank length affects the pedal stroke and can impact your riding comfort and efficiency.

3. Are carbon cranks worth it on a road bike?

Carbon cranks can be worth it on a road bike if you're looking to reduce the overall weight of your bike. Carbon fiber is lighter than aluminum, and using carbon cranks can help shave off some grams. Additionally, carbon fiber is stiffer than aluminum, which can enhance power transfer and improve performance.

4. Which is better 1X or 2X crankset?

A 2X crankset generally offers a wider gear range, making climbing easier and providing more options for descending. On the other hand, a 1X crankset sacrifices a bit of end-range gear capability but offers simplicity and reduced weight. The choice between 1X and 2X depends on your riding preferences and terrain.

5. Why not to buy a carbon bike?

There are a few reasons why someone might choose not to buy a carbon bike. Carbon frames tend to be heavier than aluminum frames and may not offer significant benefits unless you're looking to reduce weight. Additionally, carbon bikes can be more expensive, so budget constraints may also be a consideration.

6. What is the life expectancy of a carbon road bike?

The life expectancy of a carbon road bike can vary, but with regular maintenance, it can last for about 10 years. However, carbon frames are generally considered to have a shorter lifespan compared to aluminum frames due to their lower durability. Proper care and maintenance can help prolong the life of a carbon road bike.

Editor's Notes

During our bike crankset for road bikes research, we found 24 bike crankset for road bikes products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,726 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bike cranksets for road bikes list. We found that most customers choose bike cranksets for road bikes with an average price of $34.03.

The bike cranksets for road bikes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bike cranksets for road bikes, including DONSP1986, SHIMANO, CYSKY, D Dymoece, DRIFT MANIAC. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 61 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.