RaceFace’s top line Turbine range is aimed at bridging the gap between trail and cross-country race, with a group of components that home in on low weight as much as strength.
The Turbine cranks have changed little for 2013. The arms are cold forged then machined to remove excess weight and create the stiff I-Beam profile. Weighing 820g with bottom bracket, they are slightly heavier than the cheaper Shimano XT equivalent but are stiff and well made. If you want a lighter setup, there’s a Turbine SL with a titanium axle, but they cost £120 more.
The cranks fit in the opposite way to Shimano with the chromoly axle connected to the non-drive arm, and a machined spline keeping it all tight. A single bolt on the driveside holds it all together. Available in 26/38 and 28/40 teeth, the anodised chainrings are tough and last well. There are double bashguard and triple ring options with a standard 104mm BCD.
An external bottom bracket is included and uses the same installation tools as Shimano. The bottom bracket’s bearings are housed in a titanium coated shell with improved seals, and come with spacers to perfect chainline.
RaceFace has press-fit and BB30 conversions too, and crank lengths between 170mm and 180mm. The shape of the arms lends itself to rub damage so a good wrap with heli tape is advised, but they’re stiff and smooth, with sharp shifting.
This article was originally published in What Mountain Bike magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.