Reviews

Praxis Works Alba M30 chainset

Gravel-friendly gearing from Praxis Works

The Praxis Works Alba M30 chainset is a quality alternative to a standard supplied chainset, with a range of chainring options to give you the gearing you want.

We’re going to focus on the sub-compact 48-32t version here, although there are 50-34t and 52-36t versions available too. That’s because it’s often a given that your bike will come fitted with the latter two varieties, but the benefits of a slightly smaller setup can work wonders if you’re either just starting out on the road, or if your terrain has gotten decidedly loose and gravelly of late.

Of course, the chainset comes as two parts: rings and crank arms. Both are forged from aluminium, providing great reliability and stiffness. Those chainring are also cold-forged, which is a byword for reliability and longevity these days, too.

The cranks are of a five-arm design, and feature a 110mm bolt circle diameter that is squeezed onto the inner 32t ring – achieved by mounting the bolts directly to the chainring, doing away with any unnecessary bulk in the process. Additionally, Praxis will also throw in the M30 fitment tools for free – ideal.

The axle is 30mm on the driveside and 28mm on the non-driveside, and requires use of Praxis own M30 bottom bracket, which will work with threaded, BB86, BB30 PF30 and Specialized’s OSBB systems. You buy the relevant one at point of purchase, while you can also choose between three crank lengths (at 170, 172.5 and 175mm).

Praxis Works Alba M30

All this comes with compatibility for Shimano, Campagnolo, and SRAM groupsets, and will also run sweetly if you happen to use a KMC chain too. As a result, the Praxis Alba M30 is a solid chainset replacement or a smart option if you’re putting together your own build.

And in this 48-32t configuration it opens up new gearing possibilities for gravel riders who want a slightly smaller gear range than a regular compact chainset.