Mountain biking is one of the most thrilling outdoor activities that provides an adrenaline rush to many riders. For passionate mountain bikers, maintaining and upgrading their bike is a top priority. One of the essential parts of a mountain bike is its crank, which is responsible for transferring the rider’s pedaling force to the wheels.
However, over time, the crankset may wear out, and it needs to be replaced. Though it might seem like a daunting task, changing a mountain bike crank is a relatively straightforward process, and any bike rider can do it. In this article, we will guide you through seven simple steps to change your mountain bike crank and get your bike back to its optimal performance. So, let’s get started!
Understanding the Different Types of Mountain Bike Cranks
Mountain bike cranks are an integral part of the drivetrain system, responsible for transferring the rider’s pedal power to the rear wheel. Therefore, understanding the different types of mountain bike cranks is important before replacing them. There are two main types of mountain bike cranks: square taper and external bearing cranks.
Square taper cranks are the most common type of crank where the crankarm connects to the axle via a square-shaped interface. These cranks are reliable and easy to install, making them a popular choice for entry-level mountain bikes. External bearing cranks, on the other hand, use an external bearing system to attach the crankarm to the axle. These cranks are stiffer and more durable than square taper cranks, providing better power transfer. They also have wider compatibility with different types of bottom brackets. Understanding the differences between these two types of mountain bike cranks will help you choose the right one for your bike and riding style.
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Tools Required for Changing Your Mountain Bike Crank
Before you dive into changing your mountain bike crank, it is crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary tools. The process can be daunting and frustrating if you don’t have the right tools. Therefore, it’s essential to have the following tools at hand before you start the process:
The first important tool that you will need is a torque wrench. This tool will ensure that you correctly tighten the bolts on the crank arm. The next tool you’ll need is a bottom bracket tool. This tool is designed to remove and install the bottom bracket from the bike frame. You may also need a crank puller tool, especially if the crank is stubbornly attached and won’t come off quickly. Other essential tools include a rubber mallet, a set of Allen wrenches, and a Phillips screwdriver. With these tools, you’ll be able to change your mountain bike crank with ease.
Removing Your Mountain Bike Crank: Step-By-Step Process
Removing the crank from your mountain bike can be a bit more challenging than other components on your bike. However, with the right tools and some patience, it’s a manageable process. Before beginning, ensure that you have a crank puller, a wrench (usually an 8mm or 10mm), and possibly a rubber mallet.
The first step is to remove the pedal from the non-drive side of the bike. Next, use your wrench to remove the bolts that hold the crank arm in place. Once the bolts are removed, you may need to use the rubber mallet to loosen the arm from the spindle. Once the arm is off, insert the crank puller into the spindle and begin to turn it until the crank pops off. Repeat this process on the opposite side of the bike, and your crankset will be removed.
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Inspecting Your Mountain Bike Crankset: Diagnosing Wear and Tear
Before you begin the actual crankset replacement process, it is essential to inspect your mountain bike’s crankset for wear and tear. This step is necessary as it allows you to diagnose any issues that your bike might have beforehand. A thorough inspection of the crankset saves you time and money in the long run, especially if you identify a fixable issue before it becomes severe.
A few things to look out for when inspecting your mountain bike crankset include rusted or worn chainrings, looseness, and damage to the pedal threads. Ensure that the chainring’s teeth are not worn out, as they aid the chain’s movement during gear shifts. In addition to this, inspect the pedals and check if there are any stripped threads or damages that could compromise your riding experience. During the inspection process, identify any issues and determine if they are fixable.
Installing Your New Mountain Bike Crank: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing your new mountain bike crank is an important step in ensuring your bike runs smoothly and efficiently. This process can be completed in just a few simple steps.
First, start by placing the new crank arm onto the axle and making sure it lines up with the chainrings. Then, tighten the crank bolt to the manufacturer’s recommended torque using a torque wrench. Next, install the non-drive-side crank arm onto the axle and tighten the bolt by hand. Finally, use a torque wrench to tighten the non-drive-side bolt to the manufacturer’s recommended torque. Make sure to double-check both bolts for proper torque before heading out on your next ride. By following these simple steps, you can install your new mountain bike crank quickly and easily.
Precautions to Take While Changing Your Mountain Bike Crank
As with any bike repair, it is important to take certain precautions when changing your mountain bike crank. Firstly, always ensure that you have the correct tools for the job. Using makeshift tools or those not designed for the specific component can lead to damage or failure of the crank, which can be expensive to replace.
Secondly, ensure that all the screws, bolts, and fastenings are properly tightened and torqued to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. Incorrect torque settings can cause damage to the crank or even cause safety issues when riding. Finally, take care to only use quality replacement parts that are designed for your specific bike model and value your safety more than saving money. Always remember to test ride and visually inspect your bike after assembling to confirm all works as intended, ensuring your mountain bike crank replacement is a success.
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Testing Your New Mountain Bike Crank: Ensuring Smoothness and Accuracy
Once you have installed your new mountain bike crank, it’s vital to ensure it’s working correctly before hitting the trails. Start with checking the crank’s tightness and that all bolts are securely fastened. You can shake the crank lightly to see if there is any wobble or looseness. If it seems tight and secure, move onto the pedal stroke.
Pedal through the full rotation, and listen for any unusual noises or resistance. The pedal stroke should be smooth and even. If you experience any grinding or resistance, you may need to adjust the bottom bracket or seek professional help. Lastly, do a visual inspection of the entire crankset, including chainrings, chain, and derailleur. All components should be in good working order for ultimate performance and safety.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, changing the crank on a mountain bike might seem daunting, but it is actually a fairly simple process that anyone can do with the right tools and knowledge. First, ensure that you have the correct replacement crankset and tools. Then, remove the old crankset and clean the bottom bracket area before installing the new crankset. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for torque settings and re-grease as needed.
Taking proper care of your bike is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance. By knowing how to change the crank, you can save yourself time and money by doing it yourself rather than paying for a bike mechanic. With a little bit of practice, you’ll become even more confident in your ability to perform bike maintenance and repair, giving you more time to enjoy the ride. Don’t be intimidated by the process; changing the crank on a mountain bike is well within reach for any bike enthusiast.