Shimano External BB vs RaceFace External BB?

[Juan]

Hi Guys,

 

I currently have a Shimano LX External BB and it needs replacing. I would like to replace it with something a bit more "upmarket"... My LBS recommends a RaceFace BB. its about half the weight but im not really bothered about that. As long as it lasts.  

 

The BB that they recommend is similar to this.

http://www.raceface.com/comp/48/full.png

Can anyone give me some advise? I dont have any experience with this brand.

 

I had a look at Dirt Rider's Post on replacing the BB, waht an awesome post! My plan is to buy a new set and replace the existing with new bearings and keep them as spare.

 

Does anyone know what the RRP is this is?

[dirtrider]

Juan I had raceface many years ago and was not impressed but now that I look back I think maybe the sea water that got into the BB did it no good and most probably would destroy any BB anyway . I don't know where the weight saving comes in but can only guess it will be the actaul bearings . But from what I can remeber the RF was a bit more expensive than the shimano stuff and if that is the case I would not bother . I prefer the LX/XT hubs because they are fairly cheap even at a 50% markup .

[stringbean]

Rather look at the Hope BB with stainless steel bearings.There is an agent here in SA.

[AndreZA]

Look at Hope or even better Chris King if you can wait.

 

http://www.cyclingnews.com/photos/2008/tech/shows/interbike08/interbike082/Chris_King_BB.jpg

 

http://www.cyclingnews.com/photos/2008/tech/shows/interbike08/index.php?id=/photos/2008/tech/shows/interbike08/interbike082/Chris_King_BB

 

 

[GoLefty!!]

I would get theShimano.

 

Shimano uses caged stainless balls in the bearings they fit. This allows space for grease to circulate.

Race Face uses full complement bearings, uncaged. The balls are smaller and moreclosely packed. This allows little space for grease to circulate and makes the bb sensitive to dirt ingress.

 

 

[Slowbee]

Golefty, where does the KCNC stuff fit in your analysis?

[danlate]

i second mampara, get a hope or chris king. race face is not worth it, they last just as long as shimano.

[GoLefty!!]

Golefty' date=' where does the KCNC stuff fit in your analysis?

[/quote']

 

I have not yet seen a KCNC BB so I can't comment. However their derailleur pulley whels are excellent. The wheels are fitted with open cage , rubber seal bearings which are servicable. Just snap off the gold covers, using a hobby knife liftoff the seals, clean and regrease.

 

I will try to find an example of their BB and have a look inside. If it is open cage, rubber sealed bearings then .

The cups themselves are nothing more than bearing holders so don't be swayed by the colour