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Do Ovalized Cranks Work?

Question: A couple of my friends want to try the new Rotor cranks. Apparently, they help eliminate the “dead spot” at the top of the pedal stroke. What do you think? — Mandy P.

Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Rotor cranks have a cam device that makes them turn “out of phase.” When one crank is at dead bottom center, the other has already gone past 12 o’clock.

I tested a Rotor crank but was unable to adjust to the different pedaling motion it causes. Maybe I didn’t give it enough time.

I’ve used a conventional crank and pedaling action for 32 years. But for whatever reason, I couldn’t ride the Rotor for more than 15 minutes without knee discomfort and a feeling that I was on a galloping horse.

Apparently, however, other riders have persisted, adjusted and experienced improvement in power output and efficiency. So, it appears to be a case-by-case situation.

You can check out several reviews of ovalized cranks, including some by Rotor in the Pedals & Cranks area of our Reviews section. 

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