Triples: Sakae SX OvalTech vs. Shimano FC-B124
03-30-21, 10:11 PM
#1
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Triples: Sakae SX OvalTech vs. Shimano FC-B124
I have an 87 Voyageur that was spec'ed with FC-B124. When I acquired the bike it had an SX triple instead. Are these two cranksets equivalent in terms of quality, desirability or function? I can get my hands on an FC-B124 and I wonder if it would be worthwhile putting it back to factory spec.
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03-31-21, 02:05 AM
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The Shimano FC-B124 seems to be of higher quality than the Sakae SX, but the difference in quality probably wouldn't make a difference in terms of function. I'd just stick with what you have and pass the savings elsewhere onto the bike.
03-31-21, 06:28 AM
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I've got two bikes with OvalTech cranks, one mountain and one road, and one road bike with Shimano FC-B124. I don't notice any differences between them for functionality or looks. Both the Shimano and Sakae cranks feel smooth when pedaling, although each one has a slightly different approach to the oval chain ring theory. I wouldn't go out of my way searching for the "correct" crank if the one I had was doing the job adequately.
03-31-21, 09:22 AM
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I have an 87 Voyageur that was spec'ed with FC-B124. When I acquired the bike it had an SX triple instead. Are these two cranksets equivalent in terms of quality, desirability or function? I can get my hands on an FC-B124 and I wonder if it would be worthwhile putting it back to factory spec.
To answer your question- I would say they are equal in quality and function. With regard to desirability, that is up to the individual. Me personally, I dont desire one over the other since I care about function and cosmetic condition for which I see them as equal.
If you have a strong drive to spec the bike as original, then you clearly desire one more than the other. Or if you love one brand more, then you clearly desire one more than the other.
As for the rings- Ovaltech and Biopace are different shapes. Neither is game changing for me and both are failed tech that can easily be replaced with round rings. I dont see reason to spec something with an item that is both consumable(so itll need to be replaced due to use) and failed(it wasnt good enough to change behavior). Just use round rings if you want since consumables arent sacred.
