BMX cranks take some of the hardest abuse on your bike.
Drops, crank arm grinds, sketchy landings — yup, they deal with all of it.
I’ve ridden plenty of different BMX cranks over the years, from classic 3-piece designs to newer 2-piece setups, and I’ve learned that strength isn’t the only thing worth looking at.
Spindle size, crank length, arm shape, weight, drive-side compatibility, and even ankle clearance can make one crankset work much better for you than another.
Below are the BMX cranks I’d trust most right now, along with some quick advice to help you pick the right setup.
Note: If you’re into racing, check out my collection of the best BMX race cranks instead.
This post covers:
- Best BMX Cranks For Street, Park & Dirt
- How To Make Your BMX Cranks Last Longer
- What Makes A Good BMX Crankset?
- 19mm Vs 22mm Vs 24mm Crank Spindles
- 8 Spline Vs 48 Spline BMX Cranks
- Conclusion: Get The Ideal BMX Cranks For Your Riding Style
- FAQs About BMX Cranks
Hint: You may also need BMX ankle braces to prevent injuries (especially when learning tailwhips!). Or a new BMX sprocket?
Best BMX Cranks For Street, Park & Dirt
| BMX Cranks | Best For | Length | Spindle | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kink Brace | Best all-around BMX cranks | 160–175mm | 22mm | 33.4 oz |
| Odyssey Thunderbolt | Best light BMX cranks | 165–175mm | 22mm | 27.8 oz |
| Cult Hawk V2 | Best heavy-duty street cranks | 165–170mm | 22mm | 32.5 oz |
| Primo Powerbite V3 | Best aluminum BMX cranks | 165–170mm | 22mm | 34.1 oz |
| Shadow Finest | Best ankle-friendly BMX cranks | 160–175mm | 22mm | 32.1 oz |
| Odyssey Calibur | Best value 48-spline cranks | 160–175mm | 22mm | 30.4 oz |
| Sunday Saker V2 | Best budget BMX cranks | 155–175mm | 19mm | 32.8 oz |
| BSD Substance XL V2 | Best 24mm BMX cranks | 160–170mm | 24mm | 30.4 oz |
| Kink Pillar | Best lightweight 2-piece cranks | 170–175mm | 22mm or 24mm | 28.5 oz |
| Fiend Team V2 | Best crank-arm grind setup | 160–175mm | 22mm | 35.5 oz |
| Cult Crew | Best affordable 48-spline cranks | 160–175mm | 19mm | 30.3 oz |
| Fit Blunt | Best grind-friendly 24mm cranks | 160–175mm | 24mm | 34.8 oz |
Note: I also have a guide that’ll help you pick the right BMX crank size. Here, I talk about picking the right crank arm length.
1. Kink Brace Cranks
Kink’s Brace cranks are many pros’ favorite sets because of their different length options and solid build.
The three-piece design features a hollow 22mm spindle with 3/8th ratchet bolts to tighten the cranks (which isn’t too common).
Kink also put extra thought into designing Brace cranks to be ankle-friendly. They achieved this by making larger radiuses on the spindle bosses.
If you need a pair of cranks that will last you a long time – go Brace!
Note: Check out my full Kink Brace cranks review.
Kink Brace cranks specs:
- Length: 160mm, 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 33.4 oz / 946.9 g
- Price: $169.99 (may vary)
2. Odyssey Thunderbolt (Light Option)
Here we have the legendary Thunderbolt cranks from Odyssey. These cranks are the current iteration starting with the original Twombolt cranks years ago.
These are a two-piece crank design meaning that the spindle is welded on one side and there is only one bolt needed to tighten the crankset.
A unique aspect of these cranks is the tightening system on the non-drive side.
The Thunderbolt cranks utilize a wedge cluster system that has triangle wedges.
These wedges work in conjunction with the angled portion of the spindle to tighten which Odyssey labels as a “Never-Wobble” interface.
These cranks go through the 41-Thermal heat-treating process and offer a full lifetime replacement warranty.
For your information, Brett Silva, Jacob Cable and Broc Raiford are all fans of Thunderbolts.
Note: Check out my full Odyssey Thunderbolt cranks review.
Are you weight-conscious? Then check out one of the lightest BMX cranks, the Colony Venator cranks.
Odyssey Thunderbolt cranks specs:
- Length: 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm
- Weight: 27.8 oz / 788.1 g
- Price: $249.99 (may vary)
3. Cult Hawk V2 Cranks
The Cult Chase Hawk cranks are built for riders who demand peak performance and durability.
Made from fully heat-treated 4130 chromoly, these cranks are engineered to handle any abuse.
The investment cast oversized spindle bosses and wraparound spindle gusset add serious strength and rigidity, ensuring they hold up under heavy use.
With a 22mm hollow chromoly spindle and hollow spindle bolts, the Hawk cranks keep the weight low without compromising toughness.
They’re compatible with both RHD and LHD setups, as well as regular and nano drives, giving you ultimate versatility.
These cranks are a solid, worry-free upgrade for any BMX rider.
Note: Check out my full Cult Hawk cranks review.
Cult Hawk cranks specs:
- Length: 165mm, 170mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 32.5 oz / 921.4 g without bottom bracket
- Price: $169.99 (may vary)
4. Primo Powerbite 3-Piece V3 Cranks
The Primo Powerbite V3 cranks are a classic that’s stood the test of time, now refined for modern shredding.
Built from 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum, they deliver a rare mix of strength and lighter weight, backed by a 22mm hollow chromoly spindle for stiffness.
The square spindle interface, heat-treated chromoly pinch bolts, and pressed-in steel pedal inserts keep everything tight and prevent stripped threads.
Their 3-piece design is simple to install, and Primo even includes a grease packet to help you get set up right.
With RHD/LHD compatibility and a clean, recessed logo finish, they offer durability and style for street, park, and trail riders alike.
While aluminum arms aren’t ideal for crank arm grinds on steel rails, they excel in all-around riding where responsiveness and reliability matter most.
These cranks are a proven upgrade for anyone wanting long-term performance without gimmicks.
Note: Here’s my Primo Powerbite cranks review to learn all the ins and outs.
Primo Powerbite cranks specs:
- Length: 165mm, 170mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm hollow chromoly (square interface)
- Weight: 34.1 oz / 966.7 g (165mm)
- Price: $164.00 (may vary)
5. Shadow Finest Cranks
The Shadow Conspiracy Finest cranks combine strength, comfort, and minimalist design in a package built for dedicated riders.
With a unique flat-sided, rounded-top arm shape and reduced offset, they keep your stance more centered for better balance and improved control.
Post-weld heat-treated 4130 chromoly arms, oversized welds, and a hollow 22mm spindle deliver next-level solidity without unnecessary extra weight.
The ankle-friendly profile means fewer knocks mid-line (those suck big times!), and the neat design keeps your bike looking clean.
Compatible with both RHD and LHD setups, the Finest cranks are available in multiple lengths to match any style of riding.
Trusted by pros like Trey Jones and Matt Ray, these cranks are built to feel natural underfoot while holding up to heavy sessions.
Note: Learn more about these through my Shadow Finest cranks review.
Shadow Finest cranks specs:
- Length: 160mm, 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm hollow chromoly (48-spline)
- Weight: 32.1 oz / 910 g (170 mm)
- Price: $234.99 (may vary)
6. Odyssey Calibur
The Odyssey Calibur cranks come with a 22mm hollow spindle (48 spline) and hollow bolts to reduce the weight. But the axle being hollow means it’s even stronger than a full one.
Calibur cranks are fully compatible with RHD and LHD and guarantee a tested and proven EXTREME strength.
These are great for all-terrain with a focus on street riding.
One of the dudes that rides the Calibur cranks is Boyd Hilder.
Note: Check out my full Odyssey Calibur cranks review.
Odyssey Calibur cranks specs:
- Length: 160mm, 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 30.4 oz / 861.8 g
- Price: $179.99 (may vary)
7. Sunday Saker (Cheap BMX Cranks)
The Sunday Saker V2 cranks are an affordable crank option from Sunday that come in a few different length options.
These cranks are RHD or LHD compatible and have a single pinch bolt design.
They are a 19mm design which also has an 8 spline spindle.
The Saker cranks are available in length options from 155mm to 175mm and also come with a 19mm mid bottom bracket.
Coming in at a retail price of $79.99, these cranks are definitely affordable.
Note: Check out my full Sunday Saker cranks review.
Sunday Saker cranks specs:
- Length: 155mm, 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 19mm – 8 Spline
- Weight: 32.8 oz / 929.9 g without bottom bracket
- Price: $84.99 (may vary)
8. BSD Substance XL V2 Cranks
The BSD Substance XL V2 cranks are built for riders who go big and need their setup to handle serious abuse.
These 2.5-piece cranks combine heat-treated rectangular chromoly arms with a 24mm hollow chromoly spindle, giving you a strong yet light design that’s ready for anything.
Yes, ANYTHING!
What’s cool is the invest cast boss design – it sits flush with the crank arm, so no more sharp edges to bang your ankles on.
Moreover, they’re compatible with RHD and LHD, and even come with a BSD Mid 24mm bottom bracket.
It’s rare that you get BB with your cranks, so props to BSD.
Strong, smooth, and rider-friendly – these cranks are a no-brainer for your next upgrade.
Don’t miss my extensive BSD Substance XL V2 cranks review.
BSD Substance cranks specs:
- Length: 160mm, 165mm, 170mm
- Spindle Size: 24mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 30.4 oz / 861.8 g without bottom bracket
- Price: $229.99 (may vary)
9. Kink Pillar Cranks
The Kink Pillar cranks are built for riders who want a strong setup without going full tank-mode on weight.
They’re a 2-piece design with tubular 4130 chromoly arms, and the standout is the one-piece forged backplate that ties the spindle and pedal bosses together for extra rigidity.
That design helps the cranks feel more solid when you’re landing sideways or stomping big drops.
The 22mm or 24mm hollow heat-treated chromoly spindle keeps things tough while still trimming weight where it matters.
Kink also uses a single hollow flush-mount spindle bolt, so the crank ends stay clean and less snaggy.
They’re TruTherm post-weld heat-treated, which is exactly what you want on cranks you plan to abuse.
You can run them RHD or LHD, and they come in 170mm or 175mm lengths to match your riding style.
For more ins and outs, check out my in-depth Kink Pillar cranks review.
Kink Pillar cranks specs:
- Length: 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm or 24mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 28.5 oz / 807.9 g (175mm)
- Price: $199.99 (may vary)
10. Fiend Team V2 Cranks
Fiend’s version two of the Team cranks is a tough 2-piece setup made for shredders who go HARD.
The left arm uses Fiend’s internal wedge system, which helps lock everything in tight and keeps the cranks feeling solid. It’s a smart little feature that makes it much easier to assemble and disassemble the cranks.
The arms are rectangular-shaped, so crank arm grinds feel more stable and predictable than with rounder profiles.
Moreover, they’re made from heat-treated chromoly, and the one-piece spindle + sprocket bosses add another layer of strength.
The 22mm hollow, 48-spline spindle helps keep weight down without killing durability.
You can run them both sides, and they come in various lengths to ensure you find exactly what works best for you.
Just note: the bottom bracket isn’t included, so you’ll need to grab one separately. (But that’s a common situation for most BMX cranks anyway.)
Hungry for more info? Read my Fiend Team cranks review.
Fiend Team cranks specs:
- Length: 160mm, 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 22mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 35.5 oz / 1,006.4 g
- Price: $209.99 (may vary)
11. Cult Crew Cranks
The Cult Crew cranks are a great pick if you want a strong, straightforward BMX crankset without spending premium money.
They use heat-treated chromoly arms with wraparound spindle and pedal gussets for additional strength. Also, the hollow 19mm 48-spline spindle keeps the setup proven and reliable.
I also like that Cult offers them in 160mm, 165mm, 170mm, and 175mm lengths, so you have plenty of room to fine-tune your setup.
They work with both RHD and LHD setups, come in black or chrome, and have a super clean look with basically no unnecessary branding.
The only thing to keep in mind is that they do not include a bottom bracket, so you’ll need a compatible 19mm BB if you don’t already have one.
If you want a closer look at the build, ride feel, value, and possible downsides, check out my full Cult Crew cranks review.
Cult Crew cranks specs:
- Length: 160mm, 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 19mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 30.3 oz / 858.9 g
- Price: $139.99 (may vary)
12. Fit Blunt Cranks
If you ride hard street and want a crankset that’s especially friendly for grinds, the Fit Blunt 24mm cranks deserve a serious look.
The concave, indented 100% heat-treated chromoly arms are built to resist dents.
Moreover, the investment-cast spindle bosses and flush-mount bolts remove those nasty sharp edges that can destroy your ankles during whips or crankflips.
Ouch.
I also really like the beefy 24mm hollow chromoly spindle and the multiple available lengths.
Yes, they’re RHD/LHD compatible, and come with a Mid bottom bracket, which adds a bit more value to the package.
If you want to dig deeper into how they ride and what I like most about the design, check out my full Fit Blunt cranks review.
Fit Blunt cranks specs:
- Length: 160mm, 165mm, 170mm, 175mm
- Spindle Size: 24mm – 48 Spline
- Weight: 34.8 oz / 986.6 g
- Price: $184.95 (may vary)
How To Make Your BMX Cranks Last Longer
BMX cranks are a critical component of your bike, and ensuring their longevity can save you money and prevent injury.
Here are six essential tips to make your BMX cranks last longer:
1. Proper Installation
Correct assembly: Make sure that the cranks are correctly assembled and aligned. Incorrect installation can lead to uneven wear and potential damage.
Some cranks come with the installation/removal tool – use it instead of hammering your cranks together, which can damage the spindle and crank arms.
If you don’t have the tool and plan to use a hammer, use some protection – don’t hammer directly on the spindle or crank arm.
2. Regular Inspection
Check for damage: Regularly inspect the cranks for any signs of damage, wear, or cracking, especially around the pedal and bottom bracket interfaces. (I once broke a crank arm just because I didn’t inspect it regularly.)
Check for looseness: Ensure that the cranks are not loose. A loose crank can lead to damage over time and can be dangerous. Thus, tighten bolts regularly if necessary (depending on how much you ride).
3. Keep It Clean
Clean regularly: Dirt, grime, and moisture can cause corrosion and wear. Clean the cranks regularly, especially after riding in wet or muddy conditions. (Also, store your bike in a dry place, preferably indoors, if possible.)
Dry after cleaning: Ensure the cranks are completely dry after cleaning to prevent rust, especially if they are made of steel.
4. Lubricate
Lubricate the spindle: Apply a small amount of grease to the spindle before installing the cranks. This helps to prevent seizing and ensures smooth operation.
Lubricate pedal threads: Apply grease to the pedal threads before installation to prevent them from seizing – but don’t add a ton.
5. Avoid Harsh Impacts
Smooth riding: Try to land smoothly and avoid harsh impacts that can bend or damage the cranks. Learning landing tricks more effortlessly will increase your overall bike’s lifespan.
Mind the grind: If you grind, be mindful of how you land to avoid putting undue stress on the cranks. For instance, if you’re doing crank arm grinds, try and avoid landing on the crank arm too harshly.
6. Regular Maintenance
Tighten bolts: Periodically check and tighten the crank bolts to ensure they are secure. Some cranks get loose quicker than others. I usually check my cranks every session.
Check chain tension: Ensure that your chain tension is not too tight, as this can put extra stress on the cranks and bottom bracket bearings.
By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your BMX cranks, ensuring they remain reliable and perform well ride after ride.
Regular maintenance and attention to detail are key in prolonging the lifespan of your bike components.
Speaking of which, have you checked my complete BMX bike maintenance guide?
What Makes A Good BMX Crankset?
A good BMX crankset needs to be strong, reliable, and compatible with the rest of your setup.
Here are the main things I look at:
- Strength: Heat-treated chromoly is the most common choice for freestyle because it handles serious riding well.
- Spindle size: 19mm, 22mm, and 24mm are all common. The important part is making sure your bottom bracket matches the spindle.
- Spline/interface: A solid spindle-to-crank interface helps keep everything tight and reduces unwanted movement. 48-spline setups are especially common on higher-end BMX cranks.
- Crank length: Shorter cranks can give you more clearance around your pegs and heels, while longer cranks can give you a little more leverage when pedaling.
- Arm shape: This matters more than many riders think. Rounded and ankle-friendly profiles can reduce painful knocks, while flatter arms can feel better for crank arm grinds.
- RHD/LHD compatibility: If you run your drivetrain on the left side, make sure the cranks support LHD before buying.
- Weight: Lighter cranks are nice, but I wouldn’t sacrifice too much strength just to save a few ounces.
- Included parts: Some cranks include a bottom bracket, while others don’t. It’s worth checking before ordering so you don’t end up needing another part before installation.
19mm Vs 22mm Vs 24mm Crank Spindles
19mm BMX Crank Spindles
A 19mm spindle is the smallest of these three sizes and has been used on BMX cranks for many years.
You’ll still find it on plenty of solid cranks, including the Cult Crew, as well as more affordable options such as the Sunday Saker V2.
A 19mm setup can be strong enough for serious freestyle riding when the crankset is designed properly.
It can also help keep weight down. But not necessarily, because the larger spindles are usually hollow.
However, you’ll need a 19mm bottom bracket to match it.
22mm BMX Crank Spindles
A 22mm spindle is probably the most common option you’ll find on modern aftermarket freestyle BMX cranks.
It offers an excellent balance between strength, stiffness, and weight, which is why so many high-end cranks use it.
The Kink Brace, Odyssey Thunderbolt, Cult Hawk V2, Shadow Finest, and Odyssey Calibur are all examples from this roundup.
For most freestyle riders, 22mm is a very safe all-around choice.
Just make sure you’re using a matching 22mm bottom bracket.
24mm BMX Crank Spindles
A 24mm spindle gives manufacturers even more room to create a stiff and burly crank interface.
You’ll often see this size on cranks aimed at riders who put their bikes through serious abuse.
The BSD Substance XL V2 and Fit Blunt are two good examples, while the Kink Pillar is available with either a 22mm or 24mm spindle.
But don’t choose 24mm simply because it’s bigger.
Modern 19mm and 22mm cranks can already be ridiculously strong, and spindle construction, material, heat treatment, and the overall crank design matter just as much.
8 Spline Vs 48 Spline BMX Cranks
8 Spline BMX Cranks
An 8-spline spindle has fewer, larger grooves.
You’ll mostly see this setup on more affordable BMX cranks, such as the Sunday Saker V2.
The design is simple, proven, and perfectly fine for beginner and intermediate riders who don’t need a premium crankset.
However, compared with a 48-spline setup, it offers less adjustment and is usually associated with more budget-friendly cranks.
48 Spline BMX Cranks
A 48-spline spindle uses many smaller grooves around the spindle.
This creates a very secure connection between the crank arm and spindle and also gives you more freedom when positioning the arms.
That’s one reason 48 spline is so common on higher-end freestyle BMX cranks.
Most of the cranks in this roundup use a 48-spline interface, including the Kink Brace, Cult Hawk V2, Shadow Finest, Odyssey Calibur, BSD Substance XL V2, Fiend Team V2, Cult Crew, and Fit Blunt.
Conclusion: Get The Ideal BMX Cranks For Your Riding Style
There are a lot of excellent BMX cranks out there, but the best option depends on how you ride and what you want from your setup.
If you want a strong all-around crankset, the Kink Brace is an easy recommendation.
If keeping weight low matters more, the Odyssey Thunderbolt is one of the best picks.
For hard street riding, the Cult Hawk V2, Shadow Finest, BSD Substance XL V2, and Fit Blunt are all built to take serious abuse.
And if you’re upgrading on a tighter budget, the Sunday Saker V2 and Cult Crew give you solid performance without the premium price tag.
Before ordering, check the three things that matter most: crank length, spindle size, and bottom bracket compatibility.
After that, pay attention to details like spline count, arm shape, weight, and whether the cranks support RHD or LHD.
Get those basics right and you’ll end up with a crankset that not only fits your bike properly, but also works better for the way you actually ride.
FAQs About BMX Cranks
What crank length do I need?
Selecting the right BMX crank length depends on your riding style (also a personal preference). When it comes to modern street riding, it’s getting very common for riders to go for 160-170mm cranks.
But a 170-175mm may still be a better option for riding transitions and going fast.
Why are 3 piece cranks better?
A 3 piece crank is tougher and will last you a lot longer than a 1 piece crank. It has sealed bearings, which will protect it from dirt, plus, you can (usually) replace individual parts.
Another option is also a 2 piece crank, but I prefer 3 piece all day. However, a 2 piece crank is simpler to install, normally lighter and stiffer (with fewer options on the market).
What are the different types of BMX cranks?
There are mainly three types: 3-piece cranks, which are durable and common in freestyle BMX; 2-piece cranks, which have the spindle attached to one crank arm; and 1-piece cranks, often found in entry-level BMX bikes.
Are BMX cranks universal?
Not exactly. BMX cranks vary in spindle size (19mm, 22mm, 26mm), arm length (160mm, 165mm, 170mm …), and fit specific to the bottom bracket type of the bike. Ensure compatibility before purchasing.
How often should I replace my BMX cranks?
Replace them if you notice cracks, bends, or significant wear. With regular maintenance and depending on usage, cranks can last several years.
Can I install BMX cranks myself?
Yes, if you have the right tools and basic mechanical skills. However, proper installation is crucial for safety, so seek professional help if you’re unsure.
What are the lightest BMX cranks?
The Odyssey Thunderbolt is one of the lighter high-end options in this roundup at around 27.8 oz. Kink Pillar cranks are also impressively light for how strong they are.
Do BMX cranks fit every BMX bike?
No. You need to check spindle diameter, bottom bracket compatibility, crank length, and drive-side compatibility before buying.
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Note: This article was originally published on October 19, 2021. But I regularly review it and update it with necessary improvements for accuracy.
