I'm building up a Tallboy and am wondering if you guys think there is a difference. Internet is mixed.
I've ordered 170mm, but I might bump up to 175mm.
Current Nomad has 27.5" wheels, Eagle drivetrain (10-50) and 170mm cranks and 30T chainring. No issues with knee pain or anything. Going up steep stuff is a geometry limitation rather than a "power" limitation.
Going XT on the Tallboy (10-51) with a 30T chainring. With 29" wheels and the 51 in the rear, the gearing is the same with 175mm cranks.
170mm cranks should make pedaling 6% harder than what I am used to now. Is that even perceptable?
170 or 175 or it doesn't fucking matter, just ride.