SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Crank Arm Assembly [Rider Review]

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Trying to figure out how to add a power meter to your cranks? SRAM has your back with their XX1 Eagle AXS Crankset. In order to run a Quarq powermeter, you'll need a 8 bolt direct mount system. Which is exact what those cranks have. Our friend, Andrew has been running the setup. See what they think. 

Overview

Stop getting dropped on climbs, that boat anchor stock crank is holding you back and slowing you down. Get yourself a sleek modern carbon crank and winning PR's. The SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Crank Arm Assembly is the one for you. It's light and stealthy and full of options. It is essentially an XX1 DUB crankset without a chainring or spider. I opted to buy the pieces separately and put it together rather than buying it complete. Due to the shortage of bicycle parts availability, I couldn't get the configuration I wanted in a package deal.

The best part about the SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Crank Arm Assembly is the numerous chainring options. I race cross country, so it was paramount for me to get a crank with power meter options. While most brands have a power meter option, many are out of stock with indefinite fulfillment dates. I choose to add the Quarq power meter to this crank. The eight-bolt interface offers unparalleled stiffness and ease of install. Sram, Absolute Black, Wolf tooth, and a host of others make various chainrings to suit your needs. I've ridden oval rings before but haven't been convinced of their effectiveness and choose to go with a 34 tooth round ring this time. Another feature of this crank is the DUB interface. SRAM now only makes one size spindle, no more oddball BB30 or the awful GXP. One spindle and multiple bottom brackets to fit any frame on the market.

I had always run 175mm crank arms. I'm 5'11" and decided to size down to 170mm. I'm very glad I did this as it allows me to spin the cranks faster, get around corners, and accelerate better. I highly recommend anyone considering downsizing to give it a try. You'll be glad you did.

The SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Crank is incredibly stiff. I cannot notice any flex coming out of it. SRAM claims to have incorporated tuned carbon into the design to get the maximum stiffness out of the crank. Also, the crank arms are tapered to allow for more material where needed and less where it can be cut to save weight.

The SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Crank is one of the lightest cranks on the market.

It matches and compliments the XX1 group set wonderfully and I prefer having a matching crank with the bike. It also allows for ultimate adaptability if you want to run a power meter or various chainrings.

To protect your spendy investment SRAM includes rubber crank boots that go over the ends to protect against pedal strikes. I'm often hesitant about carbon cranks due to the impact they make. I think it's definitely worth it for a cross country bike and having some included protection seals the deal.

Final Thoughts

So if you're looking to upgrade your crankset, or are building a new bike this crank is for you! Get lighter and stiffer. Go buy it and go win some races or get some PRs! You won't regret it!