In a message dated 10/4/06 1:29:24 AM, Kurt writes:
> >>I cannot see any reason why Ashtabula cranks need be significantly
> heavier
> than any other type.
>
Since the crank has to slide thru the bottom bracket, I think most of the extra weight comes from the larger bottom bracket shell, as well as the larg er bearing cups.
> >>They will require a thin section for the left side arm
> which pretty much rules out Al alloy though. A thin set in Ti could be
> both light and strong if perhaps excessively flexy for a masher.
>
The other problem with a one-piece alloy or Ti crank is figuring out how to get steel bearing races on the spindle.
Bob Hovey
Columbus, GA USA