shortest cranks?

[Triskeliongirl]

I think you will be fine with 165s (that is what I ride with). But if you need shorter Lenard Zinn makes custom cranks in any size to order.

[sundial]

Custom cranks or special order cranks are something I will keep in mind. Hubby was thinking about the cranks on a 'bent bike and asked if I wanted to consider a recumbent trike in the meantime. I told him that for now I want to remain motivated to work towards turning the pedals on my diamond frame bike. I don't know how long it will be before I can--it could be within a month or it could be 3 months. I've been told by my ortho to expect to wait at least 6 months before I feel pretty good.

[itself]

I ride recumbent with 155mm cranks. Peregrine Bicycle Works sells a triple, 52-42-30 with the 155mm cranks for $95.

My physicial therapist said the crank length is really important to look at with mechanics. If you are having hip issues, IT band issues, shorter cranks might be a consideration.

[MomOnBike]

I'm riding 165s on my recumbent. After I had my knee 'scoped, I just couldn't turn the 170s I had on it at the time. (Your mental picture should be a glorious spring day, and me out in the backyard unable to make the cranks go all the way 'round. That incident ended in frustrated tears). I'm 5'8" when I stand straight, and my 6'2" father used to ride the same saddle without changing stirrup length, BTW.

As several have said, shorter cranks are out there. They are a Godsend if you have knee problems.

[sundial]

Just wanted to update my crank issue.

I had 165's put on my mtb and it was a godsend for me. I was able to ride my bike earlier post-op than I would have with the 175's. In fact, I rode my mtb so much 6 weeks post op that my OS told me to back off for awhile. I still have the shorter cranks on it even though I can comfortably ride the 172.5 on my Fargo and Pistola. With the taller cranks however, I do have to pedal with my heel centered over the spindle for the first dozen strokes or so until my knee loosens up.