I am getting a compact crank for my new bike. Should I change my crankarm length as a result?

Question

I am getting a compact crank for my new bike. Should I change my crankarm length as a result?

Answer 1

Crank lengths can have a bearing on way you ride!!

If you prefer to stomp up hills then a longer crank will provide a little more leverage, conversely a smaller crank will allow you to spin a little faster.(although technically, your feet will be moving faster on a long crank for a given chainring rpm).

As the poster said above, it's more to do with leg size than gearing.  Having said that, frame size and height of bottom bracket will also govern which crank is most suitable.

If you are not experiencing any problems, then stay as you are!

Hope this helps.

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Answer 2

Crank arm length has little to do with gearing. Instead, it has to do with leg length and comfort.

If you are comfortable with what you have, don't change arm lengths but you WILL have to change chain length!