FSA K-Force Light ABS crankset review

FSA K-Force Light ABS crankset review

Pricey Italian fat-axle performance piece

Our rating

3.5

450.00

Published: February 2, 2016 at 10:00 am

Our review
Impressively stiff and superlight, but unique chainring pattern and pricey Buy if, You're all about performance, not price, and want a flagship crankset that lives up to the marque

Pros:

Light, super tough one-piece construction, straightforward setup

Cons:

Brand-specific bolt spacing, knee-weakening cost

FSA has taken a while to get into the secure-ring crankset game. But these K-Force cranks are the flat-out-fast flagship of an extensive range that’ll be in shops soon.

In terms of weight they’re right up there with the best in class at only 11g heavier than Race Face’s Next SL Cinch cranks. While we’ve not had them available for test long enough to say they’re as tough as the bombproof Canadian competition, the hollow box-section carbon arms are certainly a match in terms of torque-transferring stiffness. That’s helped in part by the fact the driveside arms and four-arm spider are formed in one piece.

FSA’s BB392 system also lets you fit the stiff yet lightweight 30mm alloy axle into all the oversized frame standards such as PF, BB30 and BB92, and threaded external cup setups normally restricted to skinny 24mm shafts. Installation and removal is an easy process and FSA cranks have historically always stayed secure and squeak-free.

The ‘ABS’ bolt spacing is unique to FSA, which is potentially a problem if you need a replacement ring in an emergency. Stock up ahead though and FSA’s 30-36 tooth chainring range should cover most needs.

The extended and hooked ‘MegaTooth’ tooth profile also uses a narrow/wide alternation for reliable chain security. Premium performance comes at a similarly top-level price though.

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