Looking for some advice/reviews for a new build I’m doing. It’s for a 1x build. Was thinking of a Rotor crank plus associated ring but have just seen the Easton EC90SL and it’s not only cheaper but lighter. It also has the option of adding a power meter later by just changing the spindle. If I wanted to upgrade the Rotor I would have to get the whole lot again with their 2inpower. Any thoughts or suggestions much appreciated.
Hi, I have 2 bikes with the EC90 SL cranks, a Salsa Warbird and a No. 22 ti frame, I went back later and added the power meter spindles. If you’re looking for single chain ring set up I would highly recommend it. I’ve had no problems to date. The first power meter I got through Jenson USA was defective, exchange was no problem. I set mine up with the Shimano XTR di2 rear derailleur and have had zero issues. My power meters say I need a bigger motor!
I converted my Jamis Renegade Exploit from a Shimano 105 2X11 to a 1X11 with the Easton EC90 SL crankset with the powermeter spindle. Yes, cost is a definite issue, but I'm so happy I did this. I have both a 44 and a 40 tooth easton rings for a variability of terrain. The power meter has been awesome and the battery goes forever between charges. I utilize a DI2 XTR rear deraileuir that is programmed to move up the rear cog on a left shift (either paddle) and the right shifter drops the chain down the cog. this way, with winter gloves on, I don't miss a shift. I've also gone to the Easton carbon cockpit and am really happy. Good luck on your decision!
Thanks folks. Seems like the Easton is the way forward. It’s a cheaper crank and chain ring anyway but when you add the power meter to it, it’s way cheaper than the Rotor. I’m going to be running a Di2 XTR rd as well. So my shifting will be perfect. I’m also getting an absolute black CX specific oval ring. I’m looking forward to getting g it buil and getting out there. The Easton’s seem to be very popular and I’m glad some of you on here have used them and sing their praises.
Nothing against the Easton crank, but a Rotor 3D+ in brand new condition is pretty easy to find for under $250. There's a dozen of them brand new on eBay at any time. The 3D30 version is the exact same crank without 25 grams of material drilled out and those are usually under $200 with rings. If you wanted to add a power meter, the Power2Max spider is $490 and works great. You aren't tied to the Inpower. Quarq makes one for Rotor cranks as well.
It would be tough to find that Easton crank with the compatible ring for under $450 and I don't think the Cinch power meter could be found for much under $600. You could buy the Rotor 3D30 and power meter straight from Power2Max today for under $700 total and put whatever chain ring you wanted on it.
I don't have experience with the Easton crank, but have been running the Rotor regular Inpower for the last two years and love it. Looking to upgrade to 2inpower sometime soon.
Having used power for several years, I would lean towards getting the fully integrated power solution from Rotor rather than a third party solution.
It’s a new build so I was kind of looking for new components for it.
I will certainly look into it as I struggled to find both rotor and power2max at hose prices you quote.
The Rotor retail prices are crazy, but since they do a lot of OEM you can find brand new parts really cheap if looking around. I have a handful of 3D+ and 3D30 cranks and I don't think I have ever paid over $200 for a brand new one. Are you USA based? Going straight to the Power2Max site should get you the same prices I mentioned. I have a couple P2M units and haven't had any problems. One has gone through dozens and dozens of CX races, many gravel rides and was even under water (accidentally) at one point. It's sure had its share of getting hit with the occasional sprayer as well. Other than a new battery every 9 months or so, it needs nothing. I can't imagine spending nearly twice as much for the Inpower.
Again, nothing against the Easton stuff. I have had many Easton parts. If the looks and weight savings are worth the extra $$$ for this build, then go for it. If the looks are about equal to you, I think you could go the Rotor and P2M NGeco route for ~$300 less at the expense of maybe (totally guesstimating) ~200 grams once you factor in the rings and power meters.
I have had a few rotor cranks over the years and if you're going to be changing stuff up (as in spiders) you'll need to find a shop with the special widget to do so. I happen to have one but it doesn't work with my SRM (have to send it in) and that's the only Rotor crank I have left (aside from a 172.5 3d+ if you're looking?).
I'll also join the P2M love. Stuff is and has been great, had the original (aka Classic) and now own an NG and NG Eco through their trade-in program. So far (a couple 12hr and one 24hr events along with day-to-day riding) so good.
the Easton/RF spindle measures left side only and is a deal breaker for me.
Thanks for all the reply’s. I’m certainly not against rotor as I have two bikes fitted with rotor and Power2max and they have all been amazing. Being a more fun bike than a racing bike I wasn’t too bothered with the dual sided but would take dual over a single side any day. I like the ability to change rings on the Easton direct mount crank. For a 1x this is a really good idea. Price wise, I’m in Canada and so far have found the following. All new I have to admit but still seems to be an average price for me anyway.
Rotor 3D+ 550, QXc ring 135, power2max Ngeco 629 so a total of 1314cad (1022usd)
Easton crank 437, absolute black ring 120, Easton cinch power meter 732 so a total of 1289 (1000 usd)
Not much in it for either manufacturer but certainly no where near $300!
