The e*thirteen TRSr crankset is the brand's range-topper, and its aimed squarely at those who value their time between the tapes. The small ‘r’ stands for ‘race’, in case you were wondering.
At 674g – weighed with a bottom bracket (BB) and 34T Guidering M direct-mount chainring – it’s seriously light. It’s extremely stiff too, and the CNC machined finish is superb.
The alloy arms are forged then machined, which gives them a sculpted look and maintains stiffness. This is backed up by the P3 Connect Polygon axle/crank interface, which e*thirteen says gives a large contact patch and hence additional stiffness.
The oversize 30mm axle has a polygonal interface that’s claimed to improve the crank/axle connection but can only be used with e*thirteen BBs. Sealing could be better, with the unit starting to creak after around four months of use, but for 2015 the bottom bracket’s been updated and we’re told it should be more reliable. It’s just a pity it has to be bought separately, which pushes the price even higher.
The Guidering M chainring has an integrated spider and mounts directly to the driveside crank arm. Coupled with a clutch derailleur, the narrow/wide tooth profile keeps the chain securely in place, so a chain guide is optional. It’s available in sizes 28-38T and can be retrofitted to e*thirteen's TRS, TRS+ and LG1 cranks.
The TRSr is a seriously stiff piece of kit and about as minimal and ‘racy’ as enduro-specific cranks get. It’s expensive for an alloy crankset though – particularly when you consider the added expense of forking out for that BB too.