Shimano Ultegra FC-6800 Crankset

Shimano Ultegra FC-6800 Crankset Info

Even if trickle-down economics never really worked, trickle-down technology has a much better record. The Shimano Ultegra FC-6800 Crankset is a perfect example of the taking advantage of the innovations devoted to the Dura-Ace big brother, while taking a considerable bite out of the cost with only a little weight gain as a trade-off.

The FC-6800 Crankset makes use of the Hollowtech technology that has been instrumental in keeping Shimano cranks light and strong for several seasons now. In fact, Shimano has updated its Hollowtech technology, splashing out with the Hollowtech II construction. Starting with a hollow forged crank arm, the technology then integrates the BB axle and the drive train-side crank arm in an effort to make the set-up more rigid and lighter. Shimano made the very deliberate decision to use a 24mm chromoly axle. Though a larger axle may have greater rigidity, they eschewed using something larger than 24mm because the larger size can often flex under pressure. Not only that, but a bigger diameter axle will create more rotating friction and would require having larger and heavier bearings.

Shimano has designed the crankset to strike the perfect balance of rigidity, strength, weight-savings and rotational silkiness. Balance and stability play a large role as well, with the Hollowtech II allowing for most frames with 68mm bottom bracket shells to position the bearings outside the frame. This is a hallmark Shimano design since that BB set-up improves the distribution of weight and consequently, stability. Part of that thinking also inspired the engineers at Shimano to ignore convention and get rid of the fifth crank arm. With the new four-arm FC-6800, Shimano has reduced weight while increasing strength by placing the arms where the pedaling forces require the most support. 

Considering their dedication to the “rider tuned” philosophy, Shimano has made the 6800 crank with the same BCD as the Dura-Ace, which means that you can fit different chain ring sizes, such as compact rings, without having to buy an entire new crankset. The bolt circle diameter is 110mm whether you go for a standard or a compact, so potentially, you could have a couple of sets of rings to cater to your various riding needs. The variety of gearing choice covers just about anything you could ever need from traditional 53/39T, to compact 52/36T and 50/34T, to a cyclocross-friendly 46/36T. The chain rings themselves are the pretty fancy Hollowglide rings. They are a hollow, but super stiff construction, hitting both the goals of keeping the rigidity and durability while losing some weight. It has also been combined with the new chain guide design to reduce chain drop.

The Shimano Ultegra FC-6800 Crankset is a big step forward compared to the Ultegra FC-6700, and just a tiny step behind the king of the lot, Dura-Ace 9000. Both press-fit and Hollowtech II outboard bottom brackets are available. Shimano recommends you use the Ultegra CN-6800 Chain with their crank.