Gravel bikes chew through front derailleurs faster than road bikes do, and the chainline complications of running wide tires through a double crankset lead plenty of riders toward 1x setups. Shimano's GRX FC-RX600-1 delivers that simplicity with a purpose-built design rather than a mountain bike crank adapted for drop bars. The 40T chainring paired with an 11-speed cassette covers the gearing range most gravel riders actually use, from grinding up fire roads to spinning out on paved descents.

The crankset uses Shimano's Hollowtech II 2-piece construction with a 24mm steel spindle that interfaces with standard threaded or press-fit bottom brackets. GRX cranks run a 2.5mm wider chainline than traditional road components, pushing the ring outboard to 49.7mm. That extra clearance matters when you're running 42mm tires through a frame designed for gravel duty. The 151mm Q-factor keeps your feet at a comfortable stance width without the splayed-out feel some riders get from mountain bike cranks.

Chain retention on 1x systems comes down to chainring design, and Shimano's Dynamic Chain Engagement tooth profile addresses that directly. The alternating tooth heights and shaping grab the chain positively while still allowing it to release cleanly. You won't need a chain guide for most gravel riding, though bikepacking loads on rough terrain might warrant one as insurance. The ring itself is forged aluminum with hard anodizing on the tooth surfaces for durability and corrosion resistance.... Read More