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The unit we are testing today weighs in at a shade over 500g fitted with the company\u2019s 42T chainring.
\nInstallation and setup is literally a cinch, with the EC90SL system using Easton\u2019s \u2018Cinch\u2019 crank \/ chainring interface system. One of the easiest crankset fishing methods we\u2019ve used, this system allows for the very simple direct mount of a 1x ring or 2x spider onto the crank which is held in place by a splined bottom bracket tool (ParkTool\u2019s BBT-32\u2014around $20 online.)<\/p>\n
With the lockring tensioned to 40nm, crank installation was simple and straightforward thanks to the instructions and 5-step diagram included with the packaging.<\/p>\n
The crank suits a BB30 axle and slots together via an eight-lobed recess. The two sides are pulled together via an 8mm hex key incorporated as a captive lock nut.
\nWith the crank tensioned and chain fitted, it was time to ride the 1x setup.<\/p>\n
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Back to the installation, and pedals were fitted\u2014along with the supplied flat washers to help protect the crank. Pedal thread is via a clean, quality-looking aluminium insert embedded in the end of each crank.<\/p>\n
Fitting the Easton carbon crank to the test bike\u2014an original 3T Exploro gravel machine\u2014markedly helped reduce the overall weight of the build. With the 42T round chainring driving the 10-42 cassette, acceleration was swift and gearing perfectly capable for a wide range of applications. Equally at home on road and gravel, the ratios proved to be a good balance when tested over terrain that ranged from lose, gritty gravel through to smooth blacktop bitumen. <\/p>\n For those after higher-speed and more road-specific riding, the chainring is available up to 50T. Conversely, for those keen on tackling looser and steeper terrain, a 38T is available.<\/p>\n One of the advantages of the Cinch system is ease of swapping out chainrings. And with RRPs ranging from $132.50 (for the 38T) through to $159 (for the 50T), it wouldn\u2019t be out of the question to have a few options on hand.<\/p>\n The cranks are available in lengths from 170mm to 175mm, the Q-Factor\u2014the width between each pedal thread\u2014is 149mm and the cranks offer a clean, slick and complimentary look. With a more pronounced and prominent tooth profile, Easton say they aimed to achieve \u201ca more positive chain roller engagement\u201d, and this certainly rings true when riding.<\/p>\n Popular 1x setups have many advantages including less weight and simplicity. Easton direct mount rings use a new narrow\/wide design specifically tailored to road\/cx\/gravel applications. The individual tooth profile has moved to a more directional-specific design with a slight forward angle to each tooth. <\/p>\n Overall, the system is incredibly easy to install, is quiet, smooth, reliable, and very additive to the aesthetics of the bike. Looking to save weight, ride a more reliable chainring, and pimp your ride? This crankset option comes highly recommended.<\/p>\n Through extended use on both road and trail we are yet to have the Easton crank set up drop a chain. The carbon cranks are super light and the chainrings are (literally) a cinch to install with the correct tool.<\/p>\n Available Lengths: 170\/172.5\/175mm![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cyclingclassics.com.au\/mudgee\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2022\/04\/IMG_7308-scaled-768x576.jpg\")
\nTo the all-important chain holding qualities, and I\u2019ve not experienced a dropped chain while using the Easton system. <\/p>\n
\nRing Sizes: 38\/40\/42\/44\/46\/48\/50T
\nRRP: From $449<\/p>\n