The absoluteBLACK Race Face Cinch Direct Mount Chainring is the gold standard for riders looking to optimise their 1x drivetrain. Specifically engineered for the Cinch system, this chainring replaces your heavy spider and bolts with a single, incredibly stiff piece of CNC-machined 7075 aluminium. This version features a 3mm offset, specifically designed to achieve a perfect 52mm chainline on Boost 148 frames, ensuring crisp shifting and reduced wear across the entire cassette.
What truly sets absoluteBLACK apart is their patent-pending 3D tooth machining. This unique narrow-wide profile is designed not just for chain retention, but for mud evacuation. The sculpted reliefs at the base of the teeth allow dirt and grit to fall away, dramatically increasing the lifespan of both the ring and your chain while reducing drivetrain noise. Whether you are racing XC or smashing enduro laps, this chainring provides the ultimate blend of lightweight performance and "fit and forget" reliability.
Direct Mount Design: Eliminates the spider and bolts to save weight (up to 150g) and increase lateral stiffness.
3mm Boost Offset: Provides the optimal 52mm chainline for modern Boost 148 mountain bike frames.
Advanced Narrow-Wide Profile: Patent-pending tooth design ensures maximum chain retention without the need for a bulky chain guide.
Superior Mud Relief: Unique 3D machining allows mud and debris to clear easily, extending component life and reducing friction.
Premium Construction: CNC machined from high-strength 7075-T6 aluminium and finished with Type II anodising for long-lasting durability.
The Weight Weenie: You want to shed significant rotating mass from your crankset without sacrificing strength.
Muddy Trail Riders: You frequently ride in wet conditions and need a tooth profile that won’t "pack up" with grit and grind your chain down.
Boost Frame Owners: You have a Boost 148 bike and want the quietest, most efficient chainline possible.
Minimalists: You want to ditch your chain guide for a cleaner cockpit and lower maintenance.
Non-Boost Riders: If you have an older 142mm rear hub spacing, you will likely need the 6mm offset version for a proper chainline.
Shimano HG+ Purists: While compatible with most 12-speed chains, riders specifically using the new Shimano HG+ 12-speed chains may require a specific "Hyperglide+" tooth profile for perfect performance.
Budget Restorations: If you are simply looking for the cheapest replacement part, a stamped steel ring may be more cost-effective.
The Race Face Cinch system uses a standard external bottom bracket tool for installation and removal. When fitting your new absoluteBLACK ring, ensure the splines are perfectly clean and apply a small amount of high-quality waterproof grease to the interface. This prevents the "creak" that direct-mount rings can sometimes develop under high torque. Always check your chain wear when installing a new ring; putting a stretched chain on a brand-new CNC-machined ring will significantly shorten its lifespan!
