Anyone had any experience with FSA (Cranks) ?

[R1 GTR]

I'm really stuck here.

My crank has been ready for the bin for ages. So I thought I would treat my pride and joy to some XT shinyness. Problem is, the Acera/Alvio stuff it currently has is 8 speed. XT is 9 speed. So, I'd have to buy the lot. I would, if I had that kind of money to spend, didn't realise cranks on their own are £100

I've tried mixing Deore and XT together but it's still too much for what I should be spending as I'm 17 in January and have no funds for a car/lessons/insurance yet.

So, I'm back to just buying a crank, and found this: FSA V-Drive Mega Exo. I've never heard of FSA, so I was just wondering if anyone has had any experience with them?

If they are worth avoiding, where do I go? I am spending £70 tops, will have to run 8 speed, so no XT , and my BB is splined (FSA one comes with a hollowtech style BB).

Thanks,
R1

[Beyond Rational]

XT can be had for £80 or LX for £60 - they will work with an 8 speed chain.

[pastrana72]

I have used FSA cranks in the past, I still have a couple of pairs tucked away, I was happy with them, they were cheap but not nasty, good value for money, lasted well, so I would recommend them. If you are on a budget, and I used to be a few years back.

[pawsmcgraw]

I run 10x2 on FSA cranks.Great kit, now going into bed with Trek on their high end MTB range.FSA don't really make many crap products in my opinion, just make sure you get the right length cranks

[R1 GTR]

Beyond Rational said:

XT will work with an 8 speed chain.

Can this be said for the shadow mech too then? Guy in my LBS said no, but Merlin says yes.

[Beyond Rational]

Haven't tried that myself, but I'd be inclined to go with Merlin, I can't imagine them adding infomation that wasn't on the specifcations.

[R1 GTR]

True, dealt with them before and had no problems. That's an FSA V-Drive crank and a Shimano XT Shadow mech ordered then