Atherton Bikes is entering the component market with the A.GR.TI crank. The British brand, known for its mountain bikes, is utilising its expertise in 3D printing with titanium to present a crank that is designed for durability and robustness. The A.GR.TI crank is manufactured at the company's headquarters in Machynlleth, Wales, from grade 23 titanium using an additive manufacturing process. The special design with optimised internal structure is intended to ensure exceptional durability that goes far beyond the usual service life of bicycle components.
Durability as a central design feature
According to Atherton Bikes, the A.GR.TI crank is designed to last for decades rather than just a few seasons. The fact that the British company is serious about this statement is demonstrated by the lifetime guarantee that Atherton Bikes offers on the product. The crank was tested according to EFBE and ISO category 5. Remarkably, the crank is said to have pushed the EFBE Jumpload test rig to its limits and was still ready for use afterwards. These tests confirm that the crank can withstand even the toughest loads in mountain biking. The use of titanium as a material also offers the advantage that no painting or anodising is required, which could flake off or scratch over time. Instead, the surfaces should develop a unique patina with age.
Atherton Bikes A.GR.TI Crank - Info & Price
- Material3D-printed titanium grade 23
- Available lengths150 / 152.5 / 155 / 157.5 / 160 / 162.5 / 165 / 167.5 / 170 / 172.5 / 175 mm
- Chainring mount8-Bolt Direct Mount
- Axle diameter28.99 mm (DUB) or 30 mm
- Chainline options52 mm, 55 mm (Wide) or DH
- SurfacesRaw, Burnished or Tumbled
- Weightapprox. 20% more than premium trail options
- CertificationEFBE and ISO category 5 (Gravity)
- GuaranteeLifetime
- Pricefrom 845 pounds (raw)
Construction and special technical features
According to the manufacturer, the A.GR.TI crank is based on a sophisticated internal structure. Thanks to the 3D printing process, the wall thickness can be precisely adjusted along the entire length of the crank, which saves weight without compromising on strength and stiffness. Despite being designed for gravity riding, the crank is said to be only around 20 per cent heavier than premium trail options on the market. The crank has a slimline exterior, which should offer less surface area for mud to attack while remaining visually appealing. The crank ends have been designed particularly flat, which should result in 5-6 millimetres less material on the other side of the pedal axle - exactly where contact with stones and roots often occurs. However, should a bump occur, the solid titanium at the tip offers sufficient resistance.
Modularity and compatibility
Another focus during development was on future-proofing through a modular concept. The A.GR.TI crank is supplied with a robust axle made of 7075 aluminium, which is available in either the DUB standard with a diameter of 28.99 millimetres or 30 millimetres. Thanks to the modular design, you can choose the chainline now and adapt it later if future drivetrain standards require it. There are three different axle lengths to choose from: 52 millimetre, 55 millimetre (wide) or DH chainline. Installation and maintenance have been deliberately kept simple: A self-extracting design allows quick installation and easy maintenance with an 8-millimetre Allen key.
Extensive customisation options
Atherton Bikes offers the A.GR.TI crank in an impressive range of eleven different lengths, ranging from 150 to 175 millimetres in 2.5 millimetre increments. This fine gradation should make it possible to find the perfect crank length for every body type, riding style and bike. Whether for tall riders, compact bikers, high cadences or power-focussed riding - the selection of crank lengths covers almost all requirements. Customers can also choose between three different surface treatments: Raw (no extra charge), Burnished (polished high points for more shine and depth, +£30) or Tumbled (even smoother, more polished surface, +£50).
Chainring and bottom bracket options
The A.GR.TI crank uses the latest 8-bolt direct mount interface for chainrings, which should make it future-proof. Atherton Bikes offers Works Components chainrings, which can be ordered directly with the purchase of the crank. The chainring costs an additional £40. For those looking for a durable bottom bracket, Atherton also offer the Enduro Bearings MaxHit bottom bracket for £100. This has oversized stainless steel bearings in solid steel shells and also comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Stefan Frey
Editor
