Shimano’s old Saint cranks were the benchmark for easy-use strength. These new ones are light enough to race but still burly. They’re a complete redesign on the proven hollow arm, integrated axle Hollowtech II platform, and use Duralumin alloy previously reserved for XTR and Dura-Ace.
They feel monumentally stiff and their strength is equally impressive. Ground and ankle clearance is improved too, while deep bearing cups and a permanently fixed pedal insert also boost user friendliness.
Recent Shimano bottom brackets are running a lot longer than original ones, too. This double version has a usefully broad 36/22-tooth range behind a honeycomb bashguard designed to absorb impact shock rather than smashing the spider if you really case it.