Salsa Middle Ring

Shimano XT cranks

Durable and inexpensive

None

Everywhere

Salsa

If you have Shimano cranks on your bike, you appreciate the stiffness and durability of the cranks. While generally not a fan on Shimano products, I find the cranks are excellent. Except for the chain rings.

I ride 2x9, the big ring was removed years ago in favor of a bash guard (highly recommended) because the need for big ring is fairly small. The granny gear on Shimano cranks is fine because I rarely ever use it. 95%+ of my riding is in the middle ring. And Shimano has a terrible history with middle rings. Over the years there have been many defective rings on the market. I even had a brand new ring go bad, causing me to replace a cassette because I figured that must be the problem (how could a brand new middle ring be a problem?)

The solution to the problem, after trying everything was to swap the middle ring. $20 fixed all of my drive train issues. The Salsa middle ring provided an immediate solution to the problem. It is strong, properly ramped (for shifting) and durable. If you are facing problems with slipping under load, especially when climbing or cranking hard, then get yourself a Salsa middle ring.

The ring is machined perfectly to replace the existing Shimano rings. I have found that other rings, like Race Face, have slight gaps that keep them from evenly installing - it takes a little force to get them in place. Installation will require removal of the crank and in order to take the ring off, you will probably need a crank bolt spanner tool. Check out your crank first before you start the job, it's a pain to take the bike apart only to find that you have to run to the shop for a specialty tool.

Another replacement that I hear good things about is the Blackspire. I have not had an opportunity to try these, but I know many who swear by them.

Score: A Cheap, easy to install, and a solid choice for replacement on any Shimano crank.

Copyright 2009, John Fruehe