Types of Bottom Brackets

There are several types of bottom brackets for bicycles, including:

1. Threaded bottom brackets: These are the most common type of bottom bracket and are found on most traditional road and mountain bikes. They screw into the frame and use threaded cups to secure the bearings.

2. Press-fit bottom brackets: These are becoming more common on modern road and mountain bikes. They press into the frame instead of being screwed in and use cups to secure the bearings.

3. External bottom brackets: These are a type of threaded bottom bracket that have the bearings located outside of the frame. They are typically found on newer road and mountain bikes and are easier to service than internal bottom brackets.

4. Internal bottom brackets: These are a type of threaded bottom bracket that have the bearings located inside the frame. They are becoming less common as external bottom brackets become more popular.

5. Tapered bottom brackets: These are a type of bottom bracket where the spindle is tapered towards the ends. They are typically used on high-end road and mountain bikes and offer improved stiffness and durability.

It's important to know what type of bottom bracket your bike has when replacing or servicing it to ensure you use the correct tools and parts.

 

How to Replace an Adjustable Bottom Bracket on a Bicycle

Replacing an adjustable bottom bracket on a bicycle is a fairly straightforward process, although it requires some specialized tools. Here are the steps to replace an adjustable bottom bracket:

Tools you will need:

• Bottom bracket tool
• Crank puller
• Wrench
• Grease

Step 1: Remove the Crank Arms 

Use a crank puller to remove the crank arms from the bottom bracket. Insert the crank puller into the crank arm and turn the tool counterclockwise until the arm comes off. Repeat for the other side.

Step 2: Remove the Old Bottom Bracket 

Use a bottom bracket tool to remove the old bottom bracket. Insert the tool into the bottom bracket and turn it counterclockwise until the bottom bracket comes out of the bike frame.

Step 3: Clean the Bottom Bracket Area 

Clean the bottom bracket area inside the bike frame with a rag or brush to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 4: Install the New Bottom Bracket 

Grease the threads of the new bottom bracket and insert it into the bottom bracket area. Use the bottom bracket tool to turn the bottom bracket clockwise until it is snug.

Step 5: Install the Crank Arms 

Grease the spindle of the bottom bracket and slide the crank arms onto the spindle. Use a wrench to tighten the bolts that hold the crank arms onto the spindle.

Step 6: Test the Bottom Bracket 

Spin the crank arms to make sure they rotate smoothly and there is no wobbling or grinding. Adjust the bottom bracket if necessary.

That's it! You have successfully replaced the adjustable bottom bracket on your bicycle. It is important to make sure the bottom bracket is properly installed and adjusted to prevent any issues while riding.