Advantages of Compact BMX Cranks:

Advantages of Compact BMX Cranks:

Bunches of you dudes keep asking me about the deal with short BMX cranks - what's all the fuss about?

So, I'm gonna spill the tea and let ya'll know why these bad boys are a game-changer for your two-wheeled adventure.

But remember, it's essential to consider your riding style when deciding whether shorter cranks are your jam. While long cranks have ruled the BMX scene for a hot minute, it's the short cranks' time to shine!

Street and technical riding are all the hype right now, and you don't need the need for speed like you would with racing or freestyle. These convincing advantages might make your decision about shorter cranks an easy one if you're in the market for a change.

Benefit

Strap in, because putting short crank arms on your bike can AMP UP both your performance and comfort significantly!

Details

Let's dive deep and uncover why they might be the key to unlocking your BMX potential.

Short Cranks: Benefits Unleashed

More hip-friendly

| | || --- | --- || Benefit | Details || Hip-friendly | Less strain on your hips for improved comfort || Easier tailwhip landings | Shorter cranks make catching pedals and landing easier || Higher bunnyhops | Better leg control for higher hops || Peg clearance | Less risk of hitting your back peg during tricks || Durability | Shorter cranks last longer due to reduced leverage || Weight | Less material equates to lighter cranks for easy maneuverability |

Less strain on hips, improved comfort with closer leg position

1. Hip-friendly

Many of you have complained about battling hip fatigue or pain when riding long cranks. With shorter cranks, you'll experience significantly less discomfort because your legs will be in a more straight and aligned position.

Easier tailwhip landings

Although a 5mm difference might seem minimal, going from 175mm to 160mm will make a world of difference. As someone who's always had mobile hips, I never experienced any hip pain. However, I talk about lower back pain and BMX in one of my previous articles if that tickles your fancy.

Shorter cranks make catching pedals & landing easier

2. Easy Tailwhip Landings

If your tailwhip game is still a work in progress, you might want to consider giving shorter cranks a shot. Because your legs will be closer together, catching the pedals and nailing that first tailwhip will feel like a breeze. Even if you're an experienced whip master, you'll find that landing tricks becomes much more straightforward.

Higher bunnyhops

3. Higher Bunnyhops

Better leg control, allowing for higher hops

Have you ever tried leaping off the ground with your legs spread apart like you're on a bike? Of course, you don't have the same control as you'd have with your legs close together. The same goes for longer cranks vs. shorter ones. So, if you're trying to pop higher, your crank length can make a difference.

For example, Broc Raiford, the king of pop, rides 170mm cranks, but he's 6′ tall. I've been rocking 160mm cranks for a while now, and I'm 5'11".

Extra peg clearance

4. Peg Clearance

Less risk of hitting back peg during tricks

This one's a biggie for me: more back peg clearance! Nothing grinds my gears like catching my back peg with my foot - I can't even begin to express how annoying that is.

While I opted for a frame with a longer chainstay for this reason, I also chose 160mm cranks so I wouldn't have to worry about smashing my peg anymore. I honestly can't fathom how some riders can even function when their back leg covers the back peg entirely. Scary stuff!

More durable

5. Longer Lifespan

Shorter cranks last longer due to reduced leverage

When you compare a long stick to a short one, which one do you think would break easier? You guessed it - the longer one. And the same goes for long BMX cranks. Since shorter cranks create less leverage, they'll last you much longer. Most aftermarket cranks are top-notch quality, but you'll probably end up replacing longer ones more often throughout your BMX journey.

6. Lightweight Cranks

Lighter weight

Short BMX cranks' other benefit is their lightweight construction. This is super self-explanatory - less material, less weight. I don't think I need to elaborate any further on that one.

Less material makes cranks lighter & easier to maneuver

Conclusion: Short Cranks for Faster Progress

You guys were right; they do feel better.

At first, I didn't notice a major difference, but with each session, my bike felt better and better, and I've never looked back. Short crank arms are a must if you're into street riding, especially for technical wizards who live for the magic!

For a deeper dive into the topic, you might be interested in finding out the ideal BMX crank size.

Let's quickly recap what we covered so far:

1. Your legs will be closer together, reducing hip strain.
2. Catching pedals and landing tailwhips becomes a breeze.
3. Better leg control allows for higher bunnyhops.
4. Avoid the risk of hitting your back peg.
5. Shorter cranks will last longer thanks to reduced leverage.
6. They'll make your bike slightly lighter.

If you need some help choosing new cranks, check out my list of the best and strongest BMX cranks.

Bonus Read: What are the different BMX crank types?

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In BMX riding, shorter cranks can significantly improve performance and comfort, making tailwhip landings easier, allowing for higher bunnyhops, and providing better leg control. Moreover, shorter cranks reduce the risk of hitting the back peg during tricks, last longer due to reduced leverage, and are lighter for easier maneuverability.

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