I’m not loving my xt crank arms, they’re getting tired; I’d prefer a more subtle/nimble replacement (must be black).

Can you folks recommend a suitable replacement that boasts similar or better changing quality to Shimano?

I’m running 9spd atm, but would consider x2 10spd left shifter and front mech as a start to the inevitable to 10spd ‘upgrade’…but a nice one-for-one swap would be great for now.

Race face look pretty cool, but I have no idea of their performance….advice welcomed.

Cheers.

deore rings with Saint arms
that combination can’t be beaten for shifting performance/durability/strength to weight/stiffness/value for money. IMO

There’s just no beating Shimano… Shifting performance, price, stifness/weight ratio, longevity, etc.

If you don’t like your current XT arms cos they’re silver and have 3 rings, buy some new XT cranks, available in 2 and 3 ring setups but now available in black as well as silver!

Raceface are usually heavier, and not as stiff or durable as shimano IMO, and they’re a lot more expensive too! Can look quite nice though…

Those new black XT cranks look like Deore and the black paint comes off in seconds. Black cranks in general are a silly idea. The Shifting on anything from SLX upwards is basically perfect, if the XT isn’t shifting well I’d take a close look at your front mech setup.

Oh, and XTR cranks are the only cranks better than XT.

Middleburn cranks and rings and a good old fashioned but reliable internal square taper BB.

I am sure others say that Middleburn stuff doesn’t shift as well as Shimano but I am totally happy with mine and never had a shifting problem with the normal Middleburn rings I have.

This

Also here

Mine states 10 speed only on the rings but I run it 9 speed OK.

Middleburn X-type. You can change them to single ring, double or tripple as you wish by buying a different spider arm. Also come with a life time warranty which is honoured plus their british.

£205 Middleburns with rings

Thanks for the info folks, nice one.

GO OLD SKOOL
Hollowtech 1 crank arms, UN51 bb and SIS front mech. Job done, total cost about £60.

Look in awe people!… IT’S THE FUTURE (only about 20years ago)

edit: that front mech with an XO GripShift is as rare as a quick handy off the Pope but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you’re running 1×9, Saint arms + Renthal ring works a treat. Stiff, reliable, tough

Middleburn RS8.
Either square with UN74 (or Royce if £ isn’t an issue) or X-type with Chris Bling BB.
But the black does wear off a little. Maybe start silver?
Also have a look at Tune Bigfoot.
.
I’ve gone to MBs after breaking a RF carbon one. 3 MBs on the MTBs and a Tune on the road bike.