Cranks are integral to your BMX riding experience; that’s why shopping for one can be terrifying because you need to get it right. Differentiating 2 piece vs 3 piece cranks is essential to picking the best cranks for your BMX bike.
A 2 piece crank has two distinct parts- a free crank arm and a crank arm that has an axle/spindle connected to it. On the other hand, a 3 piece crank has three parts- two separate crank arms and a free crank arm plus an axle/ spindle. Both cranks work for a BMX bike, so pick the one you prefer.
The most suitable cranks for your BMX bike depend on your riding style. This article will provide the necessary information you need to make the right choice.
2 Piece Vs 3 Piece Cranks Explained.
What Is A 2 Piece Crank?
As mentioned above, a 2 piece crank has a crank arm with an axle or spindle integrated into it, plus a free crank arm. They were developed more recently compared to 3 piece cranks and are usually used together with mid-style bottom brackets.
An excellent example of a 2 piece crank that will serve you well CYSKY Bike Crank Arm Set. It’s stylish, lightweight, aluminum alloy-made, and has high axial compatibility and strength.
Benefits Of A 2 Piece Crank
Here are the compelling reasons to choose a 2 piece crank:
1. Extra Stiffness
Theoretically, a 2 piece crank should be tighter since the axle is attached to one crank arm, making the power transfer while pedaling stronger. However, it can be challenging to set apart between a 2 piece and a 3 piece crank’s stiffness if you install each correctly.
2. Lightweight
A 2 piece crank weighs less because the spindle’s diameter is larger, making it lighter and hollow but quite robust. In addition, since the arm that’s pre-attached to the axle doesn’t have a pinch bolt saves more weight.
However, remember that not every 2 piece crank weighs less than 3 piece cranks as it usually depends on the model. For instance, Eclat Tibia 2 piece crank weighs 934 grams while a Colony Venator is 731 grams.
3. Simple Installation
2 piece cranks are easy to install since one of the crank arms is hydraulically welded or pressed to the axle already and don’t need additional adjustment. The attached arm raises comfort because you can use it as a handle when putting the axle via the bottom bracket.
Shortcomings Of A 2 Piece Crank
The disadvantages of 2 piece cranks:
1. Higher Price
While the price depends on the brand and model, 2 piece cranks tend to cost more than 3 piece cranks.
2. Non-Replaceable Spindle
If a 2 piece crank’s spindle gets damaged or malfunctions, you’ll have to replace the whole set because it’s attached to the arm. On the other hand, you can change a 2 piece crank’s axle if you can find a replacement.
However, you shouldn’t worry much because spindles are robust and don’t tend to break down often, but in case it does, consider DECKAS Bike Crank Arm Set (Amazon link). It’s a colorful crank compatible with Gaint ATX770 ATX770-D XTC 750, FSA, and Shimano.
3. Fewer Choices
There are fewer 2 piece cranks in the market compared to 3 piece cranks because 2 piece cranks are relatively newer. However, crank manufacturers produce both options nowadays.
4. You Cannot Remove Both Crank Arms
Since one crank arm in a 2 piece crank is machine-pressed to the spindle, you can only remove one crank arm. Hence, this crank cracks or breaks, you’ll need to get a new set or find a second–hand spare.
What Is A 3 Piece Crank?
It is a bike crank that comprises two separate crank arms and one with a spindle found in 48, 16, and 8 spline spindle varieties attached to it. These cranks are popular among freestyle BMX bicycles.
3 piece cranks have been around longer than their 2 piece counterparts.
An excellent 3 piece crank to consider for your BMX is Sunday Saker v2 Crank 175mm. It has Chromoly tubular arms, is LHD/RHD compatible, and comes in chrome or black.
What Is The Benefit Of A 3 Piece Crank?
Below are the advantages of a 3 piece crank.
1. It’s A Classic
3 piece cranks have been in the market for the longest time and have proven to be robust and reliable. It’s no wonder a majority of freestyle BMX bike owners gravitate towards them.
2. Affordable
3 piece cranks are sold at fair prices, with most ranging between $35 to $100, although you can spend as much as $400. $35 to $100 gives you a Chromoly or steel-made armed crank with 16, 8, or 6 spline spindles, while about $100 to $200 gets you more durability, good value, and powerful and light designs.
3. Modularity
If your 3 piece crank’s spindle or crank arm breaks or malfunction, you can replace only the broken part without purchasing a new crankset. This saves you money in the long run.
4. Greater Variety
Due to the popularity of 3 piece cranks, there are more models in the market to choose from compared to 2 piece cranks.
What Are The Disadvantages Of 3 Piece Cranks?
3 piece cranks are not free of shortcomings. They are:
1. Heavier Weight
Most 3 piece cranks weigh more than 2 piece cranks, but as indicated earlier, you can find a 3 piece that’s lighter than a two-piece. For example, Cult Crew 19mm 3 piece crank weighs 860 grams while BSD substance freestyle 2 piece crank weighs 884 grams.
2. More Tinkering
You’ll need to put more work to install a 3 piece crank because it has a detached crank arm.
What’s Better 2 Piece Or 3 Piece Cranks?
A 2 piece crank is better for your BMX if you want a light, simple crankset that you can quickly install. However, you’d be better picking a 3 piece if you want a classic crankset with modularity for your BMX and don’t prioritize having the lightest bicycle.
However, remember that both options are excellent choices if they are strong, well-built, and reliable. Therefore, your best choice depends on your preferences and needs.
FAQs
1. Are 3 Piece Cranks Good?
3 piece cranks are classic options that are pocket-friendly and allow you to replace the damaged parts without buying a whole chainset. The ones with sealed bearings perform and feel better, and you can change them if damaged.
They also let you pick where to put the chain line and adjust the crank arm to chainstay clearance.
2. Are 2 Piece Cranks Good?
2 piece cranks are lightweight, provide additional stiffness, and are easy to install because of the pre-attached axle, making your work much more manageable. You can use a 2 piece crank on your BMX and achieve a smooth riding experience.
3. Is A 2 Piece Crank Better Than A 3 Piece?
Your preferences determine if a 2 piece crank is better than a 3 piece crank. 2 piece cranks are generally lighter, offer extra stiffness and easy installation.
On the other hand, 3 piece cranks are more affordable, and you can find the one that suits you most because there are more models in the market.
4. Are 3 Piece Cranks Better?
In general, 3 piece cranks are more robust and have more compatible bottom bracket applications and pedal types than 2 piece cranks. They also offer value because you don’t have to replace the whole crankset if a crank arm breaks or malfunctions.
Conclusion on 2 Piece Vs 3 Piece Cranks
So, from the comparison between 2 piece vs 3 piece cranks, you can clearly see that both have pros and cons that you should consider during your selection. You deserve to have a quality, reliable crank on your BMX, so choose wisely, whether you do for a 2 piece or 3 piece crank.
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