Not all cranksets fit every frame. If you're installing a crankset on a non-Wabi frame, it's important to check that the crankarms have enough clearance from your frame's chainstays.
You can check compatibility with a few simple measurements using the crankset's Q-factor and crankarm length, both listed in our product specifications.
Step 1: Find the measurement point
Start at the center of your bottom bracket (where the crankarms attach to the frame). Measure back along the chainstay using the following distance:
Crankarm length + 20 mm
For example:
- 165 mm crankarm → measure 185 mm
- 170 mm crankarm → measure 190 mm
- 175 mm crankarm → measure 195 mm
This accounts for the crankarm extending approximately 20 mm beyond the center of the pedal spindle hole.
Step 2: Measure your chainstay width
At the point identified in Step 1, measure the total width across both chainstays, from the outside of one chainstay to the outside of the other.
Use calipers if possible for a more accurate measurement.
Step 3: Calculate available crankarm clearance
Find the crankset's Q-factor in the product specifications. This is the distance between the outside faces of the crankarms.
Subtract 20 mm to account for the approximate thickness of both crankarms (10 mm each).
Inside crankarm width = Q-factor − 20 mm
For example, a crankset with a 139 mm Q-factor has approximately 119 mm of space between the inside faces of its crankarms.
Step 4: Check for adequate clearance
We recommend at least 5 mm of clearance on each side between the crankarms and chainstays. A minimum of 3 mm per side may be acceptable, but provides less margin.
Subtract 10 mm from the inside crankarm width to determine the recommended maximum chainstay width.
Recommended maximum chainstay width = Q-factor − 30 mm
For example, with a 139 mm Q-factor:
- Inside crankarm width: 119 mm
- Recommended maximum chainstay width: 109 mm (5 mm clearance per side)
- Minimum-clearance maximum chainstay width: 113 mm (3 mm clearance per side)
If your chainstays are wider than these measurements, the crankset may not have enough clearance for your frame.
Important: These measurements are a guide, not a guarantee of fit. Crankarm shape, frame geometry, bottom bracket compatibility, and manufacturing tolerances can affect clearance. Always verify actual clearance after installation and before riding.