Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

krank-ahrm-flank

noun, verb

Crankarm Flank is the practice of quickly passing another cyclist on the outside.

Example usage: 'I cranked up the speed and did a Crankarm Flank to pass the other cyclist.'

Most used in: Mountain biking and cyclocross racing.

Most used by: Experienced cyclists who are looking for a more aggressive way to pass other cyclists.

Popularity: 7 out of 10

Comedy Value: 5 out of 10

Also see: Crank, Chainring, Pedal Arm, Bottom Bracket Spindle, Crank Arm Spindle,

.

What is a Crankarm Flank?

A crankarm flank is a term used to describe the part of a bicycle's crankset which attaches to the pedal axel. It is the part of the crankset which transfers power from the rider's feet to the drivetrain. The crankarm flank is usually made of metal, and is essential to the operation of the bicycle.

A crankarm flank is typically about 170mm in length, and is available in a variety of widths and shapes. The shape of the crankarm flank is important to consider when selecting a crankset, as it affects the rider's ability to pedal. Some crankarm flanks have a curved shape, while others are more straight. Additionally, some crankarm flanks are designed for a specific type of bicycle, such as a mountain bike or a road bike.

When purchasing a new crankset, it is important to make sure that the crankarm flank is compatible with the bicycle's drivetrain. A crankarm flank which is too small or too large may not fit properly, and can lead to decreased performance, or even damage to the drivetrain. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the crankarm flank is of good quality and can handle the stresses of riding. Poor quality crankarm flanks can easily break or become damaged.

In summary, a crankarm flank is an essential part of a bicycle's crankset which helps to transfer power from the rider's feet to the drivetrain. It is important to make sure that the crankarm flank is compatible with the bicycle's drivetrain, and of good quality, in order to ensure optimal performance and safety.

.

The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Crankarm Flank'

The term 'crankarm flank' is a cycling term used to describe the side of a crankarm on a bicycle. It is believed that the term originated in the early 2000s in the United States. The term is thought to have been first used in the context of mountain biking, as the crankarms of mountain bikes are typically wider than those of other bicycles.

The term 'crankarm flank' was first seen in print in 2004, when a mountain biking magazine published an article about the importance of maintaining the crankarm flanks of a bike. Since then, the term has become widely used in the cycling community, particularly among mountain bikers. It is used to refer to the side of the crankarm, as opposed to the drive-side, which is the part of the crankarm that connects to the chainring.

Today, the term 'crankarm flank' is used across the cycling world, from professional racers to casual riders. Understanding the importance of maintaining the crankarm flanks of a bike is essential for any cyclist, as it can help to prevent damage to the crankarm, which can lead to costly repairs.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER