Ever since SRAM showed the first narrow-wide chainring design for their ground breaking XX1 group, the exodus from the front derailleur has spawned a number of competitors. Creating an aluminum chainring with a narrow-wide tooth pattern seems to be comparatively easier to manufacture meaning we’re seeing new brands throw their hat into the ring.
As one of the bigger OEM suppliers in the bicycle world, Miranda is looking at 1x cranksets and chainrings in their own way. While most other non-drop chainring makers seems to be focused on weight and cost, Miranda is also targeting weight but more importantly – durability. Without aluminum teeth to wear down and degrade the chain retention performance, Miranda’s Infinium crank and chainring could be an interesting addition to both OEM and Aftermarket 1x sales… Update after the break.
We’ve gotten so accustomed to seeing narrow-wide chainrings for 1x use that at first, the Infinium Chainflow ring looks out of place. First and foremost, the chainring is made from a Titanium alloy rather than the ubiquitous aluminum. Add to that an advanced carbon coating on the titanium, and Miranda claims it is one of the lowest friction, most durable chainrings available.
But what about the chain retention? Utilizing their Chainflow technology, the rings trade a narrow-wide tooth pattern for long, squared off teeth. By engaging the chain more quickly at the upcoming rollers, the tooth design puts pressure on the rollers holding it in place. We’ve already seen a few other chainring designs that are supposed to keep the chain in check without a narrow-wide pattern like the XTR rings (which also use titanium teeth), so we’re assuming the Chainflow rings should work. Should they work as advertised, there is a very good chance these rings will be more durable than your typical aluminum chainring.
The Infinium system isn’t all about the chainrings though. Weighing in at just 590g for a crankset with a 32t chainring, the Infinium is super light. How did they get the weight so low without the use of carbon fiber? The titanium spindle probably has something to do with it. The crank arms are also constructed using their proprietary cold forging techniques that allow for a super light but very durable structure which can withstand heavy impacts.
Available in 170 and 175mm arm lengths, Chainflow rings will be available in 28-44t sizes. We are looking into the BCD of the chainrings as well as what bottom brackets will be supported, but it is listed as “all major drivetrain system configurations and bottom brackets.”
Update: We just heard back from Miranda that the crankset is directly compatible with GXP English/PF86 bottom brackets. Through the use of adapters, the crankset can be used for BB30/PF30 frames. This is the current compatibility list that could grow in the near future. Also, the 28-38t chainrings will be an 88 BCD which allows for use of the smaller 28t ring. The larger 38-44t chainrings will use a more standard 104 BCD.
