Ignite Components’ new CNC-machined Prototype cranks claim to outperform many other premium alloy cranks in both lightweight and stiffness, while offering more fit options & customization for gravel and mountain bikers alike. Entirely made in the USA, the shapely aluminum cranks are available for pre-order now, with first deliveries later this spring…
Ignite Components Prototype modular, US-made alloy MTB cranks
Engineer Ian Colquhoun at Swift Designworks has been developing, machining, and refining versions of these CNC’d cranks in his New Jersey workshop for around two years. You may remember his or his shop’s name from machining the crazy Discord Creemee 0mm stems together with Analog Cycles.
Calling them lighter & stiffer than both the affordable benchmark RaceFace Turbines and US custom builder favorite White Industries M30, Ignite’s Prototype cranks promise even more customization possibilities. With a narrow (for MTB) 168mm Q-factor, a wide range of standard lengths (plus custom lengths), plus industry-standard spindle & chainring interface, the Ignite cranks can finish out custom gravel, bikepacking, cross-country, or trail mountain bike builds.
Tech details
The US-made Ignite Prototype cranks are CNC-machined from “the finest cold-forged aluminum” and “engineered to last”. Then, they get a mirror-smooth flat surface finish to stand out whether you are building a classic steel singlespeed or a modern carbon trail bike.
“Mtn cranks laugh at rock strikes and 1400w sprints. Strap on some bags and bikepack the world knowing an encounter with a grizzly or drop off the front of a bus in Nepal won’t leave you with both shattered plans and bike. These are strong enough and stiff enough to race enduro on yet amazingly lighter than almost any other aluminum option out there. If you are looking for something lighter for race-day or you tour divide rig, head on over and check out our Superlights.” -Ian Colquhoun
The cranks are being produced in two versions – a standard set that will weigh 510g including spindle and all hardware and without a rider weight limit, plus a lighter SL version at 480g that will get a 185lb weight limit.
Standard crankarm lengths range from 155-175mm in 5mm steps (with custom lengths made on request), and they spin on a 30mm spindle to work with standard BBs on almost any bike.
The cranks are offered in standard or Boost spacing (Superboost or Fat spacing also possible on request) and use standard 3-bolt splined chainring mounting (bolts included). Ignite says that custom powder coating or anodizing finishes are also possible.
Pretty much if you need something extra custom, reach out and Ian will probably be able to accommodate you.
Ignite Prototype Mtn cranks – Pricing & availability
The Ignite Prototype cranks are technically available now for pre-order, direct from Ignite or likely via partner shop Analog Cycles. Pre-order pricing is $350 for a set of cranks, with the retail price expected to be ~$400 once they are more available this summer. Ignite says that the first batch is expected to ship out to the early backers at the end of May 2021.
IgniteComponents.com (online now!)
