That's it! It was his cranks. How could I not think of that.
@tmb1065
2 ай бұрын
Wait! I've seen this one before!----Just like Lance beat Ullrich due to his higher cadence!
@rokker333
2 ай бұрын
@@tmb1065 Exactly! It was right in front of our eyes.
@dlckddyd76
2 ай бұрын
just say you're not able to comprehend the video without saying you're just dumb
@OferBenShachar
2 ай бұрын
😂
@daisyseptimus561
2 ай бұрын
😂😂😂😂
@arthurd6495
2 ай бұрын
randomly got recommended this. I switched from 172.5 to 165. my knees and hips feel much better.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
My hips are SO much more comfortable now.
@Daniel-kb3mf
2 ай бұрын
What is your height?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@Daniel-kb3mf all presented in the video
@daveoram7249
Ай бұрын
@@Daniel-kb3mf It is not really height that matters. It will be Inseam more. A tall person with short legs is not going to need long cranks. Height will influence Reach
@WildernessMusic_GentleSerene
2 ай бұрын
I am a full time cyclist, no car, ride 5000K a year. Over the last 56 years of serious cycling, I discovered my body recovers and does better riding different positions on the bike from day to day. I now have 5 road bikes all set up with different seat heights, saddle tilt, handlebar height, handlebar width, seat fore/aft changes too. And ride different shorts manufacturers and saddles also to keep skin wear in check. So now I get to feel fresh from day to day and choose a bike for the condition of my body for the day. All these changes are just a few millimeters in change, but some are more drastic like seat fore/aft which actually changes seat tube angles and reach. I go far forward to all the way back and in between, for all my bikes have aero-bars for a major position change option and the aero-bar position tends to demand steep seat tube angles, or, the max forward position. Bicycles are very limiting to our body, too confined, which makes out-of-saddle riding very important, and so I can remain out of saddle for long periods and alternating between seated and standing every few minutes if desired. All of this is to give the body recovery while on the bike.
@marcdaniels9079
2 ай бұрын
The seat tube angle on a frame is fixed. It doesn’t matter where you mount the saddle fore/aft. Riding out of the saddle is the least efficient position because your core has to react the pedalling forces where a seated these forces are reacted by the saddle via your bum.
@Rievax17
2 ай бұрын
@@marcdaniels9079and training the core for everyday functional strength is a bad thing? OP is not looking to squeeze out every marginal gain and efficiency, they’re looking for comfort and longevity
@2003wrx64
2 ай бұрын
@@marcdaniels9079effective seat tube angle changes with seat moving fore and aft.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Nice! You are essentially cross training within the one sporting discipline.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I'm not sure that "It doesn’t matter where you mount the saddle fore/aft", however I agree that riding out of the saddle burns much more energy. However then you see guys like Contador who climb for 10 -20 mins out of the saddle. They must be quite well adapted to it
@jayziac
2 ай бұрын
Thank you for pointing this out about Pogachar. I switched to 152mm (I'm 172cm tall), for relieving knee pain on longer rides, I'm not going back either. Hope the bike industry takes notice, it's also less weight.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Less weight for the weight weenies out there is also a bonus
@l.d.t.6327
2 ай бұрын
Pog also won in clothes size small and shoes size 42. I will cut a part of my toes and squeeze my feet in those same shoes. Clothes are stretch so no problem.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
ok sure. Let me know how you go with that
@l.d.t.6327
2 ай бұрын
@@RazorBlade86 I'm just saying, that crank length is rider-specific. There is a tendency for shorter cranks but like in all trends, it is a trend and any application of the trend on your person can turn out positive or negative.
@paxundpeace9970
2 ай бұрын
Many riders are less then 6 feet tall and can profit a lot from shorter cranks. Many bikes are still delivered with cranks that tend to be to long . Going down from 175 to 172.5 or 170mm is already helping a lot
@l.d.t.6327
2 ай бұрын
@@paxundpeace9970 I agree the default should at least be 25 or 50mm shorter, as a start. Just like handlebars on road bikes should be default at 40cm, and anything higher than 42cm is just stuff for freaks. Aero bikes are still sold with standard 44cm wide bars, in the XL configuration. Go figure. Aero bikes with parachute bars.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@paxundpeace9970 Hopefully the bike industry will start making more options available for riders so they can choose their crank length at time of purchase
@daviduranie964
2 ай бұрын
Mate thanks for this fantastic video! Well edited, well researched, and informative. I recently went from 175mm on my old triathlon bike to 165mm on a new one. Cadence increased naturally, and there seemed to be no learning curve. The less realised advantages are having no pedals hitting the ground in sharp corners, and a more relaxed transition to the run thanks to higher cadence. Makes a huge difference.
@mydearriley
2 ай бұрын
I'm no triathaloner and only bike and run for hobby and really would have thought that my running cadence would've actually been SLOWER than my cycling cadence I was wrong. I checked my Strava.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks David. Really appreciate that! I think triathlon and time trial are the very obvious disciplines where shorter cranks are a must. It would be interesting to see research on how riding shorter cranks directly benefits transition to running. I have not looked into that as yet.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@mydearriley I believe that most people would have a faster running cadence than cycling cadence
@mydearriley
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 I think that's correct! It's just intuitively it seems backwards - even though I have been cycling and running my entire life!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@mydearriley Keep cycling and running so you can have a longer and better life!
@na1dx
2 ай бұрын
I changed to smaller cranks two decades ago. Shorter crank and using an oval chainring for my triathlon bike allowed me to get more watts out at lower RPMs which helped with all the issues noted in this video. It also helped with friction. The RPMs were closer to that of my run pace, too.
@RB-xv4si
2 ай бұрын
It has already been proven that using oval chainrings plays tricks on the strain gauges of power meters, causing them to register higher power than the rider is actually producing. Chris Froome fell for this same phenomenon. Do a little research.
@na1dx
2 ай бұрын
Well that’s how I trained so I used same measurements training and racing. Statistically the same measurement system. Worked out fine.
@skullleaderx4986
2 ай бұрын
@@RB-xv4sislightly lower heart rate more noticable during climbs using ovals and 165mm cranks. Less knee pain and faster run times in a triathlon
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I havent tried oval rings. Interesting concept. How did they feel in terms of pedalling dynamics? Did you notice any difference?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@skullleaderx4986 Brilliant!
@carlosflanders518
2 ай бұрын
Some good stuff here. My fitter, who is a big fan of short cranks, said that I have long femurs and am not really sensitive to crank length - so he didn't recommend going to shorter. Was having some breathing problems in my position a few years later and went from 175 to 165 mm and it certainly helped the lungs and power was normal. I felt that I was missing a bit on the hills - couple of 1-2 min steep hills on our regular TT course and I was always a few seconds slower than I expected on these segments. I'm a rouleur on the heavier side who does better than average when climbing - think the long femurs help. Went to 170s to get back some punchy climbing power. Will experiment with shorter cranks on a couple of local crits coming up to help with accelerating out of corners.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I think relative leg length is only part of the equation. A big factor for me is I have NO FAST TWITCH. Me trying to sprint with long cranks over 100 RPM just isnt possible.
@carlosflanders518
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 I hear ya. I can only hit 1000W maybe once per season and it's all about how fast I can spin in a lower gear.
@timgroves7916
2 ай бұрын
I just installed 100mm cranks on my bike. I’m sure I’ll win the Tour next year.
@luiscolon921
2 ай бұрын
@@timgroves7916 and snag at least 12 stages in the process.
@ronetele13
2 ай бұрын
Ha ha, good one! Or is it?
@benjaminurzua8100
2 ай бұрын
Go for 145 instead 6:51 and win the 3 GT :D
@BufordDuckworth
2 ай бұрын
I'm going with no pedals. If shorter is better, then none is best right?
@陈伟-s5x
2 ай бұрын
@@BufordDuckworth then install a motor on bike
@dlckddyd76
2 ай бұрын
Ppl are so naive. It's not about what is best crank size. But rather what crank size is for you. It's determine by leg strength, leg length, type of riding you like to do and what rotation size feels the best. It's not 1 thing or another but overall. Someone who is 183cm+ with long legs on 165 crank is probably not good fit. Just like someone who is 170cm short leg probably shouldn't be using 175crank
@tylerbruce5731
2 ай бұрын
yup. and overwhelmingly roadies have probably been on cranks that are too long. Im predominately and mountain biker and I am so so glad mtbing has final started to resolve is roadie-itis it has had since the 80s. Bike geo largley based/influenced by road bikes, stems that were 100+mm, ppl running 170+ cranks.
@YannickOkpara-d5l
2 ай бұрын
I’m 178cm tall but my inseam corresponds to an above average 190cm individual. 160s are great for me.
@CPSolutionsLLC
2 ай бұрын
Podium Physio is right on the money and no, it is not about what rotation feels the best, it is about the science.
@dlckddyd76
2 ай бұрын
@@CPSolutionsLLC you do know your body can calculate by how it feels? like feels too long or too short. your body also knows how much power you are able to dish out on those rotations or not. if you have no leg strength for it? you cant go short because it takes much more torque vs longer cranks. like i said.. it all depends on person and how they are and their physics.
@marcdaniels9079
2 ай бұрын
@@tylerbruce5731 Silly comment about “roadies” - more cyclists polarisation and this generalisation substantiated with zero facts. 😂
@mahabkhatib9377
2 ай бұрын
I hope shorter cranks become more optional from bike manufacturers. I’ve been using Rotor 155 mm crank on my SWorks Aethos for years. This is the future of cycling. Thanks for explaining the importance of using shorter crank.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
You are welcome. Love my new Aethos too. Made a few videos on that also - they are on my channel
@noelbrown6771
2 ай бұрын
I can't believe the new trends in cycling- first, wider tires. Now, shorter cranks. It's the old saying " If it feels good do it!".🤙
@kevinsylvester770
2 ай бұрын
I worked part time in a bike shop between 1999 and 2001 and was using wider tyres and 165mm cranks ( I'm 6'1") back then , everyone looked at me like I was crazy but it seems I was right all along !
@noelbrown6771
2 ай бұрын
@@kevinsylvester770 Haha, I'm sure they did. We benefited years ahead of the Crowds :)
@Tarmaccyclocross
2 ай бұрын
Marketing cr@p
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
cant argue with that!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Ahead of your time. When I told the Specialized dealership I wanted my new 61 cm Aethos specced with 160 cranks they had quite a chuckle!
@luiscolon921
2 ай бұрын
Pogi has made Lance’s and Pantani’s greatest exploits look natural.
@StopTheRot
2 ай бұрын
Based on?
@Jan-se1nd
2 ай бұрын
@@StopTheRot Eyes?
@danjo1967
2 ай бұрын
pogi. mr " i dont know what that is", switches to " we only use that for training"
@colnagog6026
2 ай бұрын
@charlesmansplaining Yeah, nothing has changed in cycling industry, nor the pro peloton, in "3 decades", that would warrant faster times. May want to look into the under 18yo juniors as well, given that their race pace is also faster, upwards of 20%.
@Silidons91
2 ай бұрын
@charlesmansplaining The truth is EVERY SINGLE PRO ATHELETE is on PEDs. There, you happy?
@edwinwong9547
2 ай бұрын
Informative, thanks. New SRAM Red now even available in 160mm🤩 (previous shortest was 165mm). Wouldn't be surprised to see some pros experimenting with 160mm next year. Went to 165 on one of my three bikes last year. To be honest, can't tell much difference between 165 and 170mm. But appreciate being able to raise the saddle. At some point on other two bikes will switch to 165 to raise saddle. Also might avoid some rock strikes and be able to pedal out of corners faster, or even pedal through corners with shorter cranks.
@mattcarter2902
2 ай бұрын
unfortunately only 165 in the power meter version 😭
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yes my 160s are SRAM - but Rival spec.
@delarow
2 ай бұрын
Awesome analysis, thank you for breaking this down!🎉
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Cheers. Appreciate the feedback!
@jeffs5519
2 ай бұрын
Brilliant analysis and explanation. Best I’ve seen, subscribed. Just got 165mm cranks on a new frame instead of all the 170 and 172.5’s I now have. Like the feel and speed so far.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Cheers. Hope it works well for you long term!
@gregleonard1562
2 ай бұрын
Brilliantly described. Well done. No holds barred.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks Greg!
@teecee4459
9 күн бұрын
Best discussion of this topic as most people fail to mention that you will be required to make corresponding changes to saddle and handlebar height which are major considerations to take into account when shortening crank arm length.
@podiumphysio657
9 күн бұрын
Cheers! Yes making any bike fit change has a cascade of downstream/ upstream effects. Sometimes people forget this. However when you have unalterable components like a one piece bar and stem, then you need to find a middle ground.
@g.fortin3228
2 ай бұрын
I did it on my mountain bike.. knees were happy and I have not looked back. It's cool to know Tadej did this.. bet there will be more to follow once the word gets out !!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Win on Sunday, sell on Monday!
@Jin_KX
2 ай бұрын
Thanks for making a video about this topic and I too was intrigued when I found out Tadej Pogacar won the GIRO on 165s! To share about my own experience with shorter cranks.. Am 176cm or 5ft 9 with an 820mm or 32 inch inseam. Used 175, 172.5, 170, 165 and running 145mm at the moment. Before settling on 145s, I've shuffled between long and short cranks multiple times over the past few years while figuring my fit. What I've noticed is that the shorter cranks allows me to deliver much smoother pedal strokes and this was the most significant with 145s. The pedaling just feels more granular and I feel that I can deliver power in the forward and down stroke more efficiently. I'm unable to replicate this same feeling with longer cranks. 165mm and shorter is when I start to feel this. The loss in leverage felt significant when I went down to 165mm yet I kind of enjoy mashing more with shorter cranks. Surprisingly, I didn't notice any difference in leverage when I eventually went down to 145mm from 165mm. While speed may not be an accurate indicator, I do notice completing my usual loops with almost the same time compared to the longer cranks with a lower perceived effort. Recovery also seems easier when riding on consecutive days. Riding with a power meter is insightful. Go to a lower gear and spin 10 - 15rpm higher and noticed that I'm able to easily produce the same power or higher on the same hill compared to the longer cranks. I think it could be the adaptation kicking in since I'm able to mash on my 145s better than when I started using them about a 1.5 months ago. Highly encourage anyone who has chanced upon this topic to experiment. Here are a few brands for cranks shorter than 165mm Sugino & Shimano 105 does 160mm cranks Croder - Starts from 140mm (I'm using this) Dixna La - Starts from 130mm. Appleman Crank - Starts from 100mm Rotor - Starts from 155mm
@marcdaniels9079
2 ай бұрын
Highly personal. I am the opposite in climbs. I can generate the same watts but with lower HR at lower rpm
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Brilliant! Thanks for your contribution Jin! I agree that we would expect a smoother stroke (less stabilisation needed and less dead spots). Similar power outputs, lower perceived effort and better recovery is very interesting! Your list of short crank providers is much appreciated!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Grinding a big gear by the sounds. You must be a torque machine
@Jin_KX
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 Welcome! Had my fair share of struggles searching for short cranks for road bikes so hope that this list of short crank providers help!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@Jin_KX Wonderful thanks again
@ucdcrush
2 ай бұрын
I recently went from 170mm to 165mm, and agree, it's more comfortable. My performance hasn't changed, but I've never really pushed it to find out. I'm certainly not any slower and might be a little faster. I'm 5'9.5", so about Poggies height. I raised my saddle (by 5mm) but made no other changes.
@rafscindaydreamer5616
2 ай бұрын
In flat you run faster with shorter crankarm ..170 is just right for climbing
@BMXTraining
2 ай бұрын
Same scenario, height everything. I ride a 56 SL7 with a 120 stem. I think the shorter cranks eat higher cadences, it loves it and wants it. Slower cadences feel like I am behind the gear.
@jeffrysusanto78
2 ай бұрын
@@rafscindaydreamer5616agree
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey UCD. In making my 15mm change I found I did not need any other adjustments besides a saddle/ HB raise. Same gearing worked just fine.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@rafscindaydreamer5616 Hey there. I've been quite happy climbing our local hills here with 160s. Works well for me.
@rkentwenger5095
2 ай бұрын
Very interesting! I've been meaning for a while to try shorter cranks, and this is really motivating me to give it a shot...
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yup. I went from 175 to 160 and love it. Less pain, better performance. Simple
@roquelitojessedelosreyes4399
2 ай бұрын
Very well explained, Im 173cm tall and tried between 172.5 and 170 crank. But i find the shorter 170 comfortable. Thinking of going down a bit maybe 167.5/165 mm crank. Thank you
@paxundpeace9970
2 ай бұрын
165mm do seem reasonable it does depend a bit on what you gone be riding.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Glad you found the info useful!
@hikerbikeromar
Ай бұрын
Great video! I am tall (not as tall as you), and I was worried that the shorter cranks were not suitable for tall people. Your video gives me confidence that it will be suitable for me too.
@podiumphysio657
Ай бұрын
Thanks. I honestly have not seen any downside. I really enjoy using them and it is nice to pedal through corners without concern about ground strike
@paulovictor3608
2 ай бұрын
I'm 189cm tall with shoe size UK13. I switched from 170mm cranks to 175 years ago and never looked back.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Glad that worked well for you Paul. Suits your physiology
@MichaelMackenzie-sb4hx
2 ай бұрын
going to smaller cranks only works when doping
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@MichaelMackenzie-sb4hx It has worked well for me and I'm not doping
@acanfield87
2 ай бұрын
Thank you for the detailed analysis! I am 6’-2” and have always rode 175mm cranks. I even experimented with 180mm back in the day when Lennard Zinn was promoting longer cranks for tall guys. I now have multiple stents in my left common iliac vein. The stents cross the hip joint so high flexion could restrict flow. I am considering going to shorter cranks to alleviate this potential overuse issue. Many thanks!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Sorry to hear about your medical issues. Yes as I said there really are no downsides that I can see. If you are in the stage of your cycling career where you are more enjoyment focussed rather than race/ performance focussed, then Id say you have nothing to lose
@InMotion808
2 ай бұрын
It’s not the equipment, it’s the motor.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
He is an enigma, for sure!
@MrGoodaches
2 ай бұрын
Glad to see the detailed explanation of why “shorter” cranks are better. I remain curious as to why the group set makers and bike builders went to too long cranks. In the 1970s and 1980s cranks were shorter than on same size frames now. I don’t know when they migrated to too long cranks but I do know my M size 1986 Specialized HardRock has 170mm cranks and my M size 2013 HardRock had 175. All of my other bikes from 2015 on have come with 175mm cranks. I can sustain a higher speed and longer on my 1986 with 170 cranks than any bike I’ve owned since then! It wasn’t until a couple years ago that I realized the crank length issue and how newer bikes (longer cranks) degraded my physiological performance. Ironic that so much other tech is touted for weight savings, aero improvements, etc but then they basically crippled us with excessively long cranks. Somewhere at some time this was a high level decision. I simply would like to know what was the belief or the supply chain issue that moved us away from the more efficient crank lengths of the past.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I would suspect that a few high profile athletes were touting longer cranks as the reason behind their strong performances, and in the absence of scientific scrutiny the trend became folklore.
@davidlilja9180
2 ай бұрын
After 16 years on 180s, I'm about to fit my 165mm 9000 arms. I stand at 183cm. I've also just ordered a 'budget' Shimano R510 x 165 crankset so I can continue using my Q & QXL rings which won't fit the 2 last DA, Ult or 105 groupsets. Used top level 165 cranks are now so rare, thanks Pog! ;-) Congrats too, I wish he was also in the Olympics road race I'm watching now. Nine dropped the race from the TV, thanks again, whilst the 9now sound has thankfully dropped out with inferior commentators. Grrr! We'll see how those crank changes pan out at next month's Amy's GF, my 12th.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Nice. Good luck at Amy's Grand Fondo!
@leonardoramos6889
2 ай бұрын
I don't understand why are there people making silly comments, like "How could I not think of that" referring to the crank length, of course changing to shorter crank length wasn't the only thing that made him improving his performance during this tour, and I think you also did't intend to say that. So, I want to say: great opinion and great video.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@jeremiahreilly9739
2 ай бұрын
Fascinating. Thanks. So…what did Eddie Mercks ride?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hmm. Dont have that info at hand sorry
@jeremiahreilly9739
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 Thank you for the heart and reply. I confess that I was being a little bit cheeky with my question, implying that whatever crank length Merckx rode, Eddie would have dominated. I did a little research and the best I could find is a list of crank lengths posted by "phourgenres" at the weightweenies.starbike forum which claimed Merckx rode 175mm cranks. Loved your initial video because we athletes should be testing and measuring and trying new ideas instead of just doing the accepted. A few years back I read a study which explored whether runners should stretch before running or not. The result? Runners run better on tight muscles. Warm up? Yes. Stretch before? No. Stretch afterwards? Sure. I tested this idea. Worked for me. I changed my pre-run warmup for the better.
@antymisiek2972
2 ай бұрын
Eddie jeździł na 140 mm
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@antymisiek2972 Wow
@jeremiahreilly9739
2 ай бұрын
@@antymisiek2972 Thanks! Appreciated! Source?
@keirfarnum6811
2 ай бұрын
When I raced XC in the early 90s, everyone was using 175-180mm cranks. I was the only person I knew of that rode 170s. It seemed natural to me having short legs. And it helped me learn to ride with a higher cadence.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yep. Our sport is mired in tradition. I think there will be more options available in the future as manufacturing techniques become cheaper
@johnslover8079
2 ай бұрын
Somebody posted a video of Pogi actually having 165 cranks on his bike. In every video I've seen he has 172.5
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I understand he dropped from 172.5 to 170s in 2023 then to 165 in 2024. Must be an old video (or an old bike)
@sveneisenhauer1
2 ай бұрын
Very informative video. Will have to go shorter with my next bike build. Thank you!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks Sven
@pinnaclewd
2 ай бұрын
I went to 165 3 years ago and would never change again. Watch lots changing to 165 and Tom Pidcock is testing out currently!!
@siy01
2 ай бұрын
Pidcock is 5ft nothing, he should be on 150mm cranks.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yes. Damn I forgot about Pidcock. Should have given him a shout out also!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@siy01 Have to start dropping the bottom bracket for him so he can keep railing those descents!
@christopheralix8554
2 ай бұрын
I’ve been on 165s after a bike fit. Unfortunately, still couldn’t make the TDF squad.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Maybe ask for a transfer to a new team?
@PerryScanlon
2 ай бұрын
As a tall trail runner (2 decades experience), a bicycle always feels like a restricted range of motion. Could optimal crank length be much longer for me?
@paulovictor3608
2 ай бұрын
Yes, especially if you're tall with large feet.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Possibly. Like all elements of bike fit it is a person by person activity
@cuebj
22 күн бұрын
Loved my fixed gear race bike with shortish cranks (can't remember exact length) which I gave away in Covid lockdown. Stupidly, I missed the chance to get shorter cranks when my Ultegra crankset was recalled and replaced earlier this year. Had the cranks on my wife's folding Mezzo cut down to 155mm (she is 64.5" = 164 cm tall with short legs). QUESTION: shorter cranks means higher saddle means... can't touch toe down at traffic lights or any other pause. With higher saddle and fatter tyres, DO WE NEED SMALLER WHEELS, eg 650B? Or lower bottom bracket in relation to 700C wheel hub height from ground?
@podiumphysio657
22 күн бұрын
You are really going to terrify bike manufacturers with that suggestion! Seriously though, people do need to be warned that the ground gets further away when the saddle goes up (for any reason)
@gr8videofun
2 ай бұрын
It started when I was told I needed a carbon frame, then carbon wheels, then disc brakes, then aero frame, followed by skinnier handle bars. Now I need a 165 crank? After all those previous upgrades, I'm still a slow ass sloth on the bike.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Bike industry execs gotta eat!
@keacoq
2 ай бұрын
I've recently changed from 175 to 165 cranks with higher seat. I found that my cadence naturally increased from something rather low. Happy to hear that Pogacar has done the same thing. I'm 170 tall, so even shorter might be useful. But they are hard to find.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
There are many smaller manufacturers making shorter cranks. This selection was provided by @Jin_KX Sugino & Shimano 105 does 160mm cranks Croder - Starts from 140mm Dixna La - Starts from 130mm. Appleman Crank - Starts from 100mm Rotor - Starts from 155mm
@edwarddevlin6034
2 ай бұрын
You will also have to move the saddle forward due to raising the saddle to maintain optimum riding position
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Probably but not definitely. Bike fitting is both a science and an art. Sometimes you make a change, expect certain results and get something different.
@daveoram7249
Ай бұрын
Yes. You will be moving back slightly and that will mean the Bars will be further away and your knees will be further back from the correct position. But a raise of 15mm is not huge so it will depend if the gap between saddle nose and bars is still comfortable. Depending on how far you shorten the cranks may even require a shorter stem
@podiumphysio657
Ай бұрын
@@daveoram7249 I have 2 different Specialized bikes, a Tarmac and an Aethos. The Aethos has a higher stack and I definitely appreciate that extra half cm or so.
@MM-xr6tz
2 ай бұрын
I ride a 150mm by ROTOR, have done for the past 10 years and it's a game changer. The late legendary engineer Mike Burrows also made me a 150mm from an Ultegra crank. Mike who designed the original Lotus bike was a pioneer for short cranks. He would make anything from an 80mm to get people back on there bikes and advocated that 100mm was a sweet spot for time trials. Matt Jackson at TheFootLab in Norfolk was a good friend of Mikes and is an advocate of shorter crank lengths where necessary. So if your based in the UK, give him a try.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey thanks for the intel. True bespoke cranks! I think I'm happy where I've settled for now, with 160mm. Norfolk UK is quite a long day in the saddle from Adelaide Australia (you didnt pick up the Aussie accent😁?)
@MM-xr6tz
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 😂 I did, was just in case you had any viewers from Blighty.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@MM-xr6tz Good lad!
@sciaessentials3341
2 ай бұрын
Another advantage of a shorter crank is greater clearance above the ground when the pedal is at the bottom of the stroke, so can pedal through turns more easiily, which is one reason track bikes have shorter crank arms
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Kinda makes sense but as a non- trackie talking here, aren't they leaning in at roughly the same angle as the pitch of the track? I guess only at top speed.
@gordonmorrow4720
2 ай бұрын
I am truly amazed by your analysis! While watching Pogacar on the final TT in Nice, he seemed to corner more aggressively, pedaling further into the turn and starting earlier coming out of the turn - yet he never scraped a pedal (although I feared it). Did his bike perhaps have a higher bottom bracket?? Now I understand why. I’m 184cm and we always thought cranks should be 175 or at least 172.5. I’m excited to try shorter cranks. Any guess why Pogacar isn’t using 160’s? You can be sure he’s experimented with them. Well done. Very well done.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks Gordon
@muchwow6249
2 ай бұрын
Hi Podium Physio, sorry could you kindly elaborate @1:10 to 1:30 min in your video, why shortening the crank length by 7.5mm and raising saddle by 7.5mm, will result in a relative differential of 15mm between saddle and top of peddle stroke? I'm failing to understand this from an anatomist point of view.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Sure. In bike fitting the initial focus is to get the angle of the knee at the bottom of the pedal stroke correct . If you shorten the crank by 7.5mm but you dont change the saddle height, then the knee is more bent at bottom dead centre. We dont want that. So we then raise the saddle 7.5mm to get the equivalent knee angle at bottom dead centre. Now the measurement from the saddle to the pedal at bottom dead centre is the same as before, but the diameter of the circle created by the shorter cranks is 2 x the difference in the radius. So the pedal and therefore the foot and the knee are 15mm further away from the saddle at top dead centre.
@thomashald8000
2 ай бұрын
This i think is part of the explanation why i love oval Chainrings, they give the same leverage as a short crank and slows down muscle contraction. The Studys on Ovals also support sprint power mainly
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Interesting thought. I dont know a lot about Oval Chainrings but I can see the potential there
@thomashald8000
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 could be fun to see you do some testing on Ovals, but i am sure u need to put them on your long cranks, otherwise the lever becomes to short, i have tried 167 and went back up to 172 cranks with my Ovals, it felt better
@godismeme272
2 ай бұрын
165 on all my cranks, and now Im considering 160 based on my Big Sur Sport
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Go for it!
@consumtion-is-destruction
Ай бұрын
Where to buy these cranks of 165mm, with a medium drive for road bike, in Belgrade ? There is desperately little specific goods, here. Planet Bike , as the largest importer does not have it in stock except for MTB bike ? Thanks for the comprehensive presentation !
@podiumphysio657
Ай бұрын
In Australia we have multiple online shops that can help, but I'm not sure what you have access to in Belgrade sorry!
@consumtion-is-destruction
Ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 Thank You Sir, serbia is a Black Hole for many useful and necessary things. Only for modern things like e-bikes, there are parts, for classic not enough. people loves only, If it`s easy for him, so that he doesn`t sweat. They just eat, sit and gain weight, the vast majority
@podiumphysio657
Ай бұрын
@@consumtion-is-destruction Sadly that sounds like much of the western world I'm afraid. Most would benefit from eating less and moving more.
@geucamole
2 ай бұрын
What a nice and knowledgeable guy!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
thank you!
@Cycle.every.day.
2 ай бұрын
But he's a little lad.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Littler than me!
@Chibster83
2 ай бұрын
I just switched to 160mm cranks down from 170mm. Brilliant! Set a personal best average speed on my first ride. Just felt easier overall.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Glad to hear it worked well for you. Awesome!
@paulmcknight4137
2 ай бұрын
A great analysis of crank lengths. Y'know, trackies have been using 165mm cranks for years. Not only are they great for rapid fixed gear acceleration, but they won't hit the banked track!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks Paul. Ive never ridden on the track but I'd love to give it a go. I think it is amazing that people worry their power will drop off with shorter cranks, when you give the perfect and obvious example of why it doesn't. The strongest riders in the world use shorter 165mm cranks. Cheers!
@HADDEN67
2 ай бұрын
I’ve been using 150mm cranks for 17 years. I had a set of SRM power meter cranks reduced to 150mm to measure the difference. I won a lot of races using them.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Brilliant. Glad to hear it!
@NeverTakeNoShortcuts
2 ай бұрын
I think the idea of lowering knee height at the top makes a lot sense
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I hope my explanation was clear
@daveoram7249
Ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 It was
@podiumphysio657
Ай бұрын
@@daveoram7249 Thanks Dave. Appreciate your feedback!
@finn_niko
2 ай бұрын
Never would've thought just a crank length alone could make such a difference!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I'm sure his natural talent and training helps!
@finn_niko
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 For sure 😅
@billr8721
2 ай бұрын
Top work AB. 👌
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Appreciate that Bill!
@bensonburnsaus
2 ай бұрын
This is an excellent video.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks Benson. I really appreciate your feedback!
@mvp_kryptonite
2 ай бұрын
Nice! Pete Torque done a technical video on this too. I was hoping to grab a newer 4iiii left side so let’s see what the future holds. I agree, I ride a XS frame and my road bike came with 172.5 and my MTB 165. 160 is easily a shout
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Supplying a XS bike frame with 172.5 cranks just makes no sense to me
@ToOldToTurnProcycling
2 ай бұрын
I switched to 165 after watching one of your other videos, and it's been for the better, not that some of my local Spainish cycling group agree.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Cheers for that! Yes not many of my cycling compadres are buying shorter cranks yet either
@steveprice9737
2 ай бұрын
Gone back to 165mm after years on 170mm, feel less sore after races and recovery seems quicker. Its vague but times are the same on given courses so no obvious downside. Used 155 for ages, haven't got any of those to try at the moment, but according to my old log book notes it was efficient . 5ft 8inch tall.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Sounds like you have tried a few crank length options. Glad to hear that 165s suit you well! Less pain and better recovery is good for your cycling!
@patthecat6491
2 ай бұрын
I found this video interesting and informative. The breakdown and accompanying video on the effect of the longer crank arm at the top of rotation was well done. Having started riding back in the days of 10 speeds and toe clips, I've sort of clung to old ideas. Now, in my late 60's I'm willing to experiment with something that seems to offer improved biomechnical efficency. How did you determine that 160 was better for you than 165 considering your height?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Well I reflected on Jim Martin's work that said going down as low as 145s was still very viable, and considering my hip issues I thought that I'd make a significant change, not just the next size down. SRAM makes 160s in Rival spec which is the group set on both my Specialized roadies so I thought I'd give it a try.
@theDude9750
2 ай бұрын
OMG BUYING SHORTER CRANKS NOW
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Go get em
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@charlesmansplaining definitely watts to be saved right there
@elaeroplano
2 ай бұрын
Do you have a script of your speach? I would like to translate in German. By the way, I ride 165mm long before it was popular since Pogacar did. And it feels. Your video explanation confirms my intuition. But I would like to understand all what you said. For this I need the text to read.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey there. You can view the transcript of all youtube videos via the button at the bottom of the description panel
@kristiaandoms2822
2 ай бұрын
Good video again . I raced for years on 175mm, relying on my powerfull quads ( I am 1.76cm ) Then I moved to 172.5mm , was slightly better. Last year I changed to 165mm but did not feel any benefits apart from no back pain and less stress on the knees. I changed to 170mm ( as advised by a local top ex pro who has a bikefitting business as well ) I am about to build a second bike for climbing. What crank lenghts would you suggest? Many thanks.
@paxundpeace9970
2 ай бұрын
Depends on your height/leg length and the climbs you are gone be doing. If those climbs are mostly 5.5/6% or less on average like for example many climbs on Mallorca then keep you might keep it as it. If climbs are steeper like those i the alps with 7% or more for longer durations you could tend to shorter cranks. Still even on time trail bikes they are tend to go for shorter cranks. Less back pain and less knee pain should be worth it to tend shorter. You have to choose what fits you best.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey Thanks K2822. There is a bit to unpack here. You said 172.5 was better than 175, but in what way? How was it better? Better performance in FTP or sprints or VO2 or something else? You then went to 165s and felt more comfortable. I would say this is pretty important, as - if your body is dealing with the shorter cranks with less pain, and pain is warning sign of potential tissue injury/ overload, then avoiding pain would be a high priority. You cant train well when you are injured. I came to 160s to reduce load on my hip arthritis but stayed for the performance benefits.... You didnt feel any (other) benefits on 165s, so was it at least "as good" as 172.5s? What did you find when you went back up to 170s? If you have strong quads then you seem to fit the profile of someone who could use shorter cranks, benefit from same cadence, slower foot speed and greater force output to maximise torque. If your performance on 165s is equivalent to that on 172.5, with less pain, then I'd be sticking to 165s! That said, my key point is don't just accept what the bike industry dishes up out of habit, low cost (to them) and tradition....
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@paxundpeace9970 Thanks for your reply. My point here really is that it isnt as simple as height and leg length. I'm one of the tallest cyclists I know (six foot four) and have greatly benefitted from moving to the shortest available cranks from SRAM (160s). I agree that it is an "individual" solution and you need to choose what fits you best!
@Duncanclarkeiii
2 ай бұрын
Could you reference some of the studies showing no increased metabolic cost of crank length?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I believe Jim Martin used this study in his presentation: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12183473/ And another quoted on the same topic is cdnsciencepub.com/doi/abs/10.1139/h97-027#.XnkXtZNKiqA
@Spekulant-c4s
2 ай бұрын
What is Poagacar's inseam length? Mine is 92.5 and I'm a little reluctant going below 175mm
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Sorry I dont have this info available
@danielblain2961
2 ай бұрын
I'm a Doble hip replacent guy and 165s on this week. Feels weird but numbers look good and comfy
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hope it goes well for you
@jakobfromthefence
2 ай бұрын
I bought a new bike with larger cranks about a year ago. It’s been a noticeable downgrade. Thanks for reminding me to deal with it some time asap.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Shame you have to go and spend extra now...
@jakobfromthefence
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 yup. With so many things to consider it just slipped my attention
@Gledii
2 ай бұрын
This is very scientific and well explained. thanks a lot. im wondering with all the techs out there and teams like Jumbo that are crazy about the numbers, they dont go for shorter cranks. there is no body characteristics that probably facilitate one or another rider for shorter cranks? or this would be independently of body sizes? btw, have you try to calculate somehow how much Pogi would save in wattage or more output compared to Vingegaard on a specific stage? on that stage were both disputed by a sprint, i would expect that longer crank would give an edge over the shorter.....but what do i know? :P thanks
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks Gledii. I'm sure all of the teams have their own "marginal gains" they are working on, depending on who is involved and their personal experience, expertise and beliefs. Not that long ago Sky wanted to bring along a motor home for their GC rider so they slept in the same bed every night. Obviously Pogi's support people believe strongly in this so they have pursued it. I changed cranks because I have terrible hip arthritis and found that there were a lot of good outcomes along the way I didnt really anticipate.
@twowheels222
2 ай бұрын
Really interesting! Was curious though why gearing would not need adjusting at the same time? It seemed these changes (like -15 mm) would affect ratios pretty noticeably?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Well, as I said in the video there are other factors at play, such as increased muscle force production potential as slower contraction speeds. I also point out that I rarely "run out of gears" cycling through the Adelaide Hills so just moving up and down my existing cassette has served me well enough
@twowheels222
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 I recalled that increase in muscle output you mentioned, but didn't know if that would be enough to counter the leverage loss. Now I see others say they are using a little easier gears w/ shorter cranks, so something to consider for riders like me that use the top of the cassette now. Am looking forward to protecting the knees some with shorter cranks!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@twowheels222 Everyone is different. If you are making a smaller change like 5 mm you may well not notice it and be quite happy with your existing cassette. However if you choose to make a significant change like I did and are already requiring your lowest gear, then yes you might require a different cassette.
@seanbell2067
2 ай бұрын
i switched to 165mm and love it. I'm thinking of going to 155mm. is that a bridge too far ? I'm 5 ' 10'' with a 32 '' inseam.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I'm not yet in a position to "prescribe" crank length over the internet, although that would be a cool project to work on. I'd ask first what are the specific reasons you are considering this?
@StopTheRot
2 ай бұрын
Annoyingly, I seem to be the only person that creates far less power on shorter cranks. I wanted shorter cranks for better position, but my power dropped off hugely - even after 6 months of trying. And I only went from 175 to 170. Sprint power went up though, particularly longevity of sprint. 20 minute power 175: 344 20 minute power 170: 323 5 minute power 175: 398 5 minute power 170: 375
@StopTheRot
2 ай бұрын
(Would love to know why it doesn’t work for me. But my climbing is definitely weakened - unlike Pog’s!).
@StopTheRot
2 ай бұрын
No responses for opposing evidence it seems. Shame
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Did you test your performance on the road? Was there any aero benefit that offset that loss of power?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Not sure. I guess if it was a panacea then we would all already be on short cranks. It is going to help some folks but not everyone
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey there. Trying to answer as many as I can. I get email notifications for primary responses but not secondary.
@Xtrakth
2 ай бұрын
There is no point to buy shorter crank without testing first !!! I'm 177cm and using 175mm and it's absolutely perfect, i can't see any reason to change for shorter one.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hard to "test" cranks without buying them. Especially if you want real world, on the road experience. Sometimes 20 minutes on a trainer in a shop or fit studio just isnt enough feedback
@mikedittsche
2 ай бұрын
Visma LAB has surely looked into it as well. Will be interesting to see if they go that route as well next year.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
I would imagine that all of the teams have awareness of the trend, and I'm sure we will see more and more riders dropping down 5-10 mm in coming years. However there obviously still needs to be room for individual preference, different rider roles and different physiologies.
@danielmasset4153
2 ай бұрын
...I'm not sure this pertains to mt. biking but I am considering going to 165mm cranks from 175mm cranks but I have been told that I would have to change my 32 tooth front sprocket down to a 30 tooth sprocket to maintain the correct leverage rate...I would rather stay with my 32 tooth front sprocket...what are your thoughts on this as it relates to mt. biking...tia...Dan...!!!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey Dan. Never tried MTB so cant speak with authority on the discipline, however when I was planning this change I decided not to alter any element of the gearing. I lose leverage with the shorter levers but gain force capacity and endurance. There may be some elements of MTB that I'm not across that would benefit from the longer cranks. I'm told that the reduced likelihood of foot strike is a blessing...
@myNamezMe
2 ай бұрын
As a shorter rider, the stock 170mm cranks which came on my 48 size frame were just too long for me. Moved to shorter step by step from 160, 155 to 150mm with Rotor cranks, also offsetting the gearing 1-2 cogs. Ideal might be to have a frame with lower compensated BB drop, so you don't sit as high on the bike.
@myNamezMe
2 ай бұрын
It's like tuning a race car-you wouldn't leave that option on the table if you could. Some might benefit from shorter cranks, some might not. Expecting to go from zero to hero with this change alone is a bit of a stretch.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
170 cranks on a 48cm frame is insane. Who sold you that? What brand / model bike? Absolutely crazy
@myNamezMe
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 My old rim-brake Cervelo R2 came with 170 mm cranks as stock. I'm not sure if this has changed, as crank length isn't listed in the current specifications. I've seen 165 mm cranks on similarly sized frames from other brands, but I can't recall which ones.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@myNamezMe Just doesnt make sense. I think you have been poorly served with that setup
@benfinesilver2250
2 ай бұрын
Rotor do down to 145. I have bikes with 155 and Shimano 165. You need to consider gearing below 155. Pluses are a bigger saddle drop, can use a smaller frame with a long stem (more aero) as you aren’t as cramped. For every mm of difference you create 2mm of space. The bottom of the pedal stroke is higher, which mean you increase the height of your seat post. The top of the pedal stroke is lower and that gives you space again. You can therefore hold aero positions comfortably. Shorter cranks allow for better acceleration. Foot speed remains the same, so the distance traveled if you associate a crankset with a 400m track is no different between inside lane and the outside lane. You just do more or less laps.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yup. Pretty much what I said in 1/10th of the time! But unless you change gearing foot speed will be slower, hence more muscle force capacity
@benfinesilver2250
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 Thanks for replying. It’s an interesting topic and you are right. It will adjust your lowest and highest gearing, so for any given gear you’ll be applying more force. It lends for having a 32 Tooth cassette for steep inclines to get to your regular cadence. If you go from say a 172.5 to a 155, that’s a 11% difference meaning that say you ride at 90rpm at 172.5, then to apply the same foot speed, your cadence would increase to 100 in order to reach the same distance travelled related to applied force. The upshot is that cadence is really a misnomer. It is entirely tied to crank length and you can’t compare one cadence to another without factoring in proportional differences on crank length. For myself, I have quite a strange combination that seems to work for me. I found through trial and error that I’m more efficient with low cadence/high torque and I don’t fatigue over long distances. So using 155-165 cranks I am at the 60-80 rpm range. This helps put me less to the extremes of my cassette related to my ability, so it’s a bit more efficient for the chain line. One other thing is acceleration. The pivot axis is shorter, therefore the moment of force acts more immediately. This lends to the application of higher torque being more efficient perhaps.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@benfinesilver2250 Yes I think in this stream of discussion there is a fine nuance between talking "cadence" and "footspeed". It may well be that foot speed is the more useful parameter to know.
@rayF4rio
2 ай бұрын
You need to widen your view of the variables in the pedal stroke. I swapped from 175 to 170 (6'1'), and several years ago. I find the biggest factor in feel is the horizontal factor of the pedal being further back at 3 o'clock and further forward at 9 o'clock. Thus making you extend less for the same vertical load, and then on the up stroke, it's easier to get your leg back over the top. It is this you are feeling, and which makes the shorter cranks more comfortable for most people. But the vertical aspect is a factor in power production. I moved my saddle up 3mm and back 1.5mm when I changed over. You need to address both vertical and horizontal planes when discussing this subject, unfortunately almost nobody thinks about both planes.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey. I can see some merit in those points, however it is not something I have come across much in bike fit literature. I did explain in the video that making a crank length change is likely to have some flow on effects that a professional bike fit may need to address. I would say though that the one and only key factor for me feeling better with my cycling was having a more open hip angle at Top Dead Centre. Everything else for me (including performance) was a secondary concern. Also having the knee more extended at 3 O'Clock would be beneficial for power production based on my point about mechanical advantage.
@rayF4rio
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 👍 It may be that what you feel as open hip angle is actually due in large part to the reduced rearward travel of your foot thru the 8-11 o'clock position, and the reduced effort to get your leg/foot over the top of the stroke as its further in front of your hip joint. Our perceptions are often follow on sensations of something that has occurred upstream. Anyway, I am always mindful of the fact that our actual pedal stroke is a full 360 degrees of rotation, whether we "feel it" or not. As with bike fit in general, each single adjustment or change, has follow on affects. But, shorter cranks are helpful for most people. Just as tire width has increased from the days of 20mm tubs, crank length is now being looked at. Its a good thing.
@SalikRafiq
2 ай бұрын
Nice explanation.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thank you Salik
@adalbertthomalla4887
2 ай бұрын
A shame that all bikes in size S are sold with 170mm. How?? why?? But can it be also a benefit somehow? In Sprint?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@adalbertthomalla4887 bike industry keeping costs down by reducing options
@dirgsuite5546
2 ай бұрын
Will it work for Remco? I'm from Belgium.
@colnagog6026
2 ай бұрын
If the numbers are to be believed, Pogi was burning 1,000 - 2,000 less calories per stage than Remco (per their own Strava "activities"), so Remco will need to do something to improve efficiency if he wants to challenge Pogi/Jonas. I wished Quintana would have switched to a shorter crank...he always looked clunky when climbing.
@xlightsxoutx
2 ай бұрын
😂
@DerAusdauersportler
2 ай бұрын
@@dirgsuite5546 Check the net, according to some articles Remco used 165 on the TT and tried it on the road bike in 2024.
@colnagog6026
2 ай бұрын
@@DerAusdauersportler If your response was meant for me, I'm not suggesting that "crank length" is the answer, regardless if already implemented.
@StopTheRot
2 ай бұрын
@@colnagog6026the numbers aren’t to be believed. Calories are literally and perfectly correlated with watts produced.
@frantzs1077
2 ай бұрын
Didn't work for me. I'm 53 recreational rider. New to road bikes. My position is relatively upright. Got much more problems with my but and knees on shorter cranks. Bike fitter suggested longer cranks and it is much more comfortable ride now. Don't know why. Probably this might change as I build up core strength and get used to my road bike. Might try shorter cranks again in few years.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Interesting. By far, most of the (sensible) comments about choice of crank length have been in favour of short cranks. But obviously it is not going to suit 100% of the cycling population. Did you get an assessment of your musculoskeletal issues off the bike (Separate to the bike fit)?You might have a weakness/ impairment or injury that contributes to the problem
@frantzs1077
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 Yes, several diferent injuries. Some old and few still recovering. Also limited flexibility. I guess shorter cranks can be good for good riders. I'm not there yet, but happy to finish my first Grand Fondo.
@chrisyoung8062
6 күн бұрын
Being curious about this subject, I decided to get a set of shorter crank arms to replace my Ultegra 170mm. Since Shimano doesn't make the R8000 group set in a 160mm arm length, I got a pair of 105 arms which do come in 160mm. BTW, I can tell no difference between the Ultegra arms and the 105 arms. They look identical and the 105s were actually lighter (probably due to being shorter in length) than the Ultegra. I'm installing them tomorrow and can't wait to give them a try. If anyone is curious, I'm about 5'6" with about a 30.5" inseam.
@podiumphysio657
5 күн бұрын
Good luck with the test.TBH at 5'6" you could probably go shorter (if you could find suitable cranks). I'm 6'3" and use 160s
@kpsig
2 ай бұрын
Let us stop generalizing! I am 184 tall, quite strong for my age; switching from 170mm to 175mm cranks on my MTB helped reduce my general knee pain and fatigue. I can also get out of steep sudden climbs easier, without the need to change a gear down. For my road bike I use 172.5mm and for my cyclocross 170mm, which I am ready to change to 172.5 or 175mm ones.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey there. So you present one good personal example of going the other direction being beneficial. The entire bike industry "generalises" by offering 170 - 175mm cranks as the standard options, despite huge numbers of cyclists preferring or likely benefitting from something else. Same goes for other components like saddles and handlebars. The number of saddles that get taken off new bikes straight away and binned or resold is crazy
@charlesblithfield6182
2 ай бұрын
I switched to 165 from 170 two years ago. The difference was so positive I tried 160 and it was even better. The main benefit for me is reduced knee pain and hips feel better. I can ride longer as well.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey Charles. Yes I came to this juncture to help my hips also, but saw so much beyond just the pain relief. Glad you are really benefitting!
@charlesblithfield6182
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 so true many other benefits…another thing you pointed out is that legs can go up and down more in a vertical plane. Sometimes mine feel like they are pistons with more power and a more efficient pedal stroke which is a sensation I never had before.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@charlesblithfield6182 Yes more vertical leg drive and smoother stroke - I agree
@ibilyy
2 ай бұрын
my tarmac is size 52 and it came with 170 cranks. Should I go 160? I ordered 165 as it is smaller change
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hi There. I'm not able to provide specific advice over the internet, but what I can say is that 170mm cranks seems to be quite long for a 52 cm bike frame. I think going down to 165 would be a good start, and going even shorter to 160 might be even more beneficial. I went from 175 to 160 as a leap of faith and was very happy with the results.
@tilu3303
2 ай бұрын
What all is involved in changing out the crank size? I think my knees would benefit by not having to bend them quite as much.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Im sure there are dozens of youtube videos on how to do that. Otherwise go see your local bike shop.
@JC-oz6xn
2 ай бұрын
Wow! Simply, clearly & beautifully presented. Now, I prefer saying that I have "a long crank" but if any of this info is true I may be switching to 165 and voluntarily compromise my masculinity. But thanks!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yup I get my share of chuckles and sniggers from other riders looking at my 160s. Then I drop them on the climbs and I cant hear them any more!
@johnurtu7844
2 ай бұрын
Thanks!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hi John. I've never received a SuperThanks before. I'm extremely grateful for the gesture. Very much appreciated and glad you enjoyed the video!!!
@wss327
2 ай бұрын
Been riding 165 for ages. I’m 5’9” and short legs so what am I to do with anything longer? Also great for peddling through the turns.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Absolutely right
@rafaeljerry-r8c
2 ай бұрын
i am a short guy 5 foot 2 but i used very long crank 175 mm and i do a lot of out of saddle while riding only to avoid knee pain while performing 60 to 80 rpm on the crank because i preferred low cadence high gear
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
That is highly unusual. But if it works for you thats great
@gr8videofun
2 ай бұрын
I miss the days when riders were on affordable bikes and it was the dope that made the difference.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
The horse has definitely bolted regarding affordable bikes
@jackmehoff2363
2 ай бұрын
Theres this thing in the cycling community, where if you dont have an expensive bike, then what you own is a pile of junk. Its insane. Like not all people can afford to pay 5k for a bike.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@jackmehoff2363 In my cycling group the chaps are fairly respectful of people riding older or cheaper bikes, its just that average cost of the bikes being ridden rises more steeply each year.
@adamkelley1159
2 ай бұрын
Great content!
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Thanks for that!
@dickieblench5001
2 ай бұрын
My saddle height bb-seat is 88cm. I'm on 175mm
@markusseppala6547
2 ай бұрын
That's high. I thought I had long legs my bb to seat is 83.5cm.
@dickieblench5001
2 ай бұрын
@@markusseppala6547 194 cm
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
You must either be a giant or you point your toes when pedalling (or both)
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@markusseppala6547 My saddle height is 85cm ish and I'm 192cm tall
@dickieblench5001
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 194cm long legs short body
@daveoram7249
Ай бұрын
I have been using 170 Cranks for most of my life. I did try 165 on my Wahoo Kickr Bike but it didn't make any noticeable difference. Had a Bike Fit recently and trying a 160 crank length resulted in a much smoother, more comfortable and faster ride. The Bike Industry has a lot to answer for. I have also been using 40cm width bars (42 on the Wahoo Kickr Bike) and I felt a noticeable difference using a 38cm Bar. I cannot stress enough the importance of a proper Bike Fit, preferably not a Bike Shop who sells Bikes as they want to sell you one of their Bikes so there is some conflict of interest
@podiumphysio657
Ай бұрын
I guess it all comes down to cost savings and product line optimisation. Many cyclists dont know what they want or need in a bike, they are happy enough with what is recommended. I was like that once. However a degree of more choice and more options for the rest of us would be greatly appreciated.
@geothunder1971
2 ай бұрын
I predict Jonas Vingegaard switching to shorter cranks this year or off season he's currently on 172.5mm. His former Visma biomechanics guru Javier Soler is now at UAE and Is said to have helped with getting Pogi on board with 165mm.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yes Sola is listed at UAE and he is credited now as being Pogacar's coach. All teams will be chasing these sorts of "Marginal Gains"
@nateisright
2 ай бұрын
I think about this often. How much does foot length matter? Does this dictate crank size? What about the ratio of foot length to inseam? What about sliding the cleats all the way aft? Does that have a similar effect to shorter cranks?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Yes the foot is another lever, with the ankle as the axis. It becomes an issue when riders either overuse their calf muscles and plantarflex their ankles (toe down) or allow their foot to fall into dorsiflexion (toe up). Both of these are problematic for different reasons. If either of these things are happening it is useful to move the cleats rearward on the shoe to reduce the mechanical activation of the ankle. In general we want the ankle to remain fairly fixed, to transmit force rather than create extra force. Ive deliberately steered away from inseam measurements in my discussion. I dont rely on this at all in my bike fitting
@nateisright
2 ай бұрын
@@podiumphysio657 Thanks for the thorough response. When I said inseam above, I was thinking about ratios: foot size, lower leg, upper leg (upper leg + lower leg ≈ inseam), imagining a 1.7m person with 47 or 47 shoes. I want to know your thoughts on the edges of this short crank idea.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@nateisright Just thinking on the spot...the main reason we would move cleats back is to take the ankle "out of the equation" ie minimise the impact of any unwanted relative ankle activity. Whereas moving to shorter cranks gives the whole lower body system mechanical and force production advantages. So I'd say one is a joint specific target and the other is a whole leg target
@nateisright
2 ай бұрын
I’m starting to get it now. Excellent video and discussion! Thank you, my friend.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
@@nateisright Happy to help
@TheMurpleMan
2 ай бұрын
Also less pedal strike risk when pedaling through curves and less toe overlap for smaller frames.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Also great points
@ryandoyle6404
2 ай бұрын
I am the same height as you and considering shorter cranks. Why did you go for 160 over 165?
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Hey Ryan. Great question. If you go back to look at some of the older videos I linked in the description, you will see that my primary reason for changing crank length is a pair of very arthritic and painful hips. I've been looking for ways to cycle more comfortably but still be competitive with my mates on group rides. Jim Martin's research showed that going down to even 150s and 140s does not adversely affect performance, so I figured I'd make a bigger rather than smaller change in the interested of scientific discovery. Glad I did!
@SprintTri57
2 ай бұрын
Have to admit as a triathlete 5’8” 32.5” inseam, I switched from 170 to 165 and just feel “stronger” on the run. I think my hips just feel less tight. Still run 170 on my road bike. But considering dropping down to 165 on that bike too.
@podiumphysio657
2 ай бұрын
Shorter cranks are an absolute must for Tri/ TT bikes. I've never done a triathlon however my hips were always much tighter (and sore) even walking after riding with my old 175mm cranks, and now far more comfortable after riding with 160mm
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