Its often assumed that taller riders automatically have a higher power output and greater leverage, but does that necessarily mean they should be using longer cranks, or are 165mm cranks actually the sweet spot for taller riders. Crank length is supposed to be proportional to leg length, but what about riders with longer torsos and shorter legs - do the same rules apply. And lets not forget, were not all built like professional cyclists, so what about average Joe riders who just want to get some exercise and have fun on the bike.
When you think about it, 165mm cranks are actually shorter than the old-school standard of 170mm or more, so maybe theyre not that short after all. Could it be that the shorter crank length actually helps to reduce the stress on the riders knees and hips, making them more suitable for taller riders who may be more prone to joint problems. And what about the whole leverage argument - do taller riders really need longer cranks to generate power, or can they get the same result from using shorter cranks and spinning a higher cadence.
Its also worth considering the type of riding that taller riders are doing - are they mostly cruising around on the flat, or are they tackling steep hills and mountains. Maybe 165mm cranks are perfect for the former, but not suitable for the latter. So, whats the verdict - should taller riders consider using 165mm cranks, or are they better off sticking with the traditional longer crank length.