callyjack said:
I have Tuf-Neck bmx cranks with a euro BB and they are great and only cost $270, they are the same as primo powerbite cranks (if you know much about bmx stuff) except better becuuse they have a replaceable/lockable stainless steel pedal insert.
bmx bottom brackets are better than just about about all mtb bottom brackets. Floating spindle means you can get a perfect chainline. Bearings are easily replaceable (just slide them out of the cups and replace with bearings from your local bearing shop for about $18, which is much cheaper than a new mtb bottom bracket).
While I'll agree that the tufneck cranks are good value, I'll disagree about the bottom brackets. The bmx style bbs go through bearings very quickly at at $18 each, if you kill all 4 thats $80. Shimano LX/hone BBs are around $59. If you were to see the two bearings side by side, you'd know why they die quickly.
With the external type bbs you can also get a perfect chainline. Allot easier too, the spacers just sit under the bb cups. Further more the shimanos are fool proof to install. From my experience theres usually a bit of hit and miss with bmx style cranks to get things right.
The other problem I found with bmx like cranks is the spider setup. Because it bolts on, it can be near impossible to get to run round. I also found they can bend easier when whacked as they arn't as well supported by the crank arm. And don't forget to factor the price of a decent spider ($50+) into your $270 price tag.
As for the V-drives, I used to also recommend them Roasted, but I've changed my tune recently. Seen three pairs fail in the last few months. Two pedal threads pulled and one snapped a chainring lug off. If you want a cheap ISIS crank I'd go the Dabomb syle cromo isis cranks from for the riders. But your local bike shop should be able to get them also, They are distributed by KWT and Pryamid imports if your shop needs to know. The cranks are identical to the dabombs in every way and being 4130 should be pretty bomb proof, the spider is also replacable and quite thick too.