Bottom bracket bearings

Bottom bracket bearings

Bottom bracket bearings are an essential part of your bike. They ensure smooth rotation of the crankarms and direct power transfer to the drivetrain. Whether you ride a road bike, mountain bike (MTB), or gravel bike, properly functioning bottom bracket bearings make the difference between an efficient ride and frustrating resistance or creaking noises.

What are bottom bracket bearings?

Bottom bracket bearings – known as bottom bracket bearings in English – are located in the frame at the point where the crank axle passes through. They allow the crank to rotate smoothly while simultaneously absorbing the forces you exert with your legs.

There are different types of bottom bracket bearings, depending on your frame, crank type and the chosen bearing system.

Common systems include:

  • BSA (thread): classic, robust and easy to maintain
  • PressFit: popular with carbon frames, where bearings are pressed directly into the frame
  • BB30 / PF30: wider bearings for a stiffer and lighter crankset
  • T47: modern hybrid solution (screwed and wide)

When should you replace your bottom bracket bearings?

Bottom bracket bearings gradually wear out due to stress, dirt, and moisture. You'll know it's time to replace them when:

  • Cracking noises are part of pedaling
  • Resistance is felt when turning the crank
  • Play is noticeable in the crankset
  • Rust or dirt is visible upon disassembly

Bearings wear out faster, especially on bicycles that are often used in wet or muddy conditions (such as MTBs or gravel bikes).

Which bottom bracket bearings fit your bike?

Finding the right bottom bracket bearings depends on a number of factors:

  • Frame type (BSA, BB30, PF30, T47, BB86, etc.)
  • Crankset axle (24 mm, 30 mm, DUB, GXP, etc.)
  • Bottom bracket width (68mm, 73mm, 86mm, 92mm)
  • Compatibility with brand and type of crankset (e.g. Shimano , SRAM , Rotor, Campagnolo)

Also pay attention to the bearing type itself: standard steel, stainless steel, or ceramic bearings for lower friction and higher performance.

Types of bottom bracket bearings

There are several types of bottom bracket bearings available:

1. Screw bottom brackets (BSA, T47)

  • Easy to assemble and maintain
  • Very durable and resistant to dirt

2. PressFit bottom brackets (BB86, PF30)

  • Light and compact
  • Less tolerant of incorrect installation – good tools recommended

3. External bearings

  • Common with Shimano Hollowtech II cranksets
  • Bearings are located outside the frame for added stiffness

4. Ceramic bottom bracket bearings

  • Very low friction
  • Ideal for those who want maximum performance on a racing or time trial bike

Brands and alternatives

At Cycle Center 5311 we offer a wide range of bottom bracket bearings from top brands such as:

  • Shimano: reliable and affordable

  • SRAM / DUB: lightweight and innovative

  • CeramicSpeed: high-end ceramic bearings for top performance

For those looking for an upgrade for durability, smoothness or stiffness, there is always a suitable bottom bracket available.

Tips for installation and maintenance

  • Always use the correct tools when installing or replacing
  • Lubricate threaded or pressed connections thoroughly to prevent creaking
  • Check the condition of your bottom bracket at least once per season
  • Consider ceramic bearings if you're looking for a noticeable performance boost

Buy bottom bracket bearings at Cycle Center 5311

Whether you want to replace a worn bottom bracket or upgrade your drivetrain, at CC5311 you will find:

  • Bottom brackets for almost every type of frame and crankset
  • Original parts and performance upgrades such as CeramicSpeed
  • Fast delivery and technical advice
  • Large stock of all common bottom bracket systems

We're happy to help you choose the right bottom bracket bearings for your bike, so you can pedal smoothly and worry-free again.

Conclusion

Bottom brackets are the heart of your bike's drivetrain. They directly influence your pedaling, comfort, and performance. Whether you're a recreational cyclist or training for races, a good bottom bracket means greater efficiency, less maintenance, and less frustration on the road.

Browse Cycle Center 5311's range of bottom bracket bearings now and find exactly what you need for your racing bike, mountain bike, or gravel bike.