Bike Bottom Brackets & Bearings

Q: How often should I replace my bottom bracket?

Replace your bottom bracket every 3,000–5,000 miles, or when you feel grinding or play. Proper maintenance extends its lifespan.

Q: Can I upgrade to ceramic bearings?

Yes, ceramic bottom brackets offer lower friction and smoother performance. Check compatibility with your crankset before upgrading.

Q: How do I measure my bottom bracket?

Measure the shell width (68mm or 73mm) and spindle length (like 119mm) to find the correct fit for your bike frame and crankset.

Q: What’s the difference between threaded and press-fit bottom brackets?

Threaded bottom brackets screw into the frame for durability and easy service, while press-fit models are lighter but require precise installation.

Bike Bottom Brackets & Bearings are the heart of your bike’s drivetrain, allowing your crankset to spin smoothly with minimal friction. Whether you need a threaded BSA bottom bracket, press-fit BB92, or a ceramic bottom bracket upgrade, we’ve got you covered.

At The Outdoor Warehouse, we carry bottom brackets for Shimano, SRAM, Race Face, and GXP systems — engineered for precision fit, smooth rotation, and long-lasting durability on road, gravel, and mountain bikes.

Shop Bottom Brackets & Bearings by Category

Bike Cranksets Bike Pedals Bike Chainrings & Guides Bike Bearings

Compare Bottom Bracket Types

Type	Frame Fit	Maintenance	Key Benefits
Threaded (BSA)	Aluminum / Steel Frames	Low	Easy installation and high durability
Press-Fit (BB86 / BB92)	Carbon Frames	Medium	Lightweight and improved stiffness
BB30 / PF30	Performance Frames	High	Large bearings for smoother efficiency
Ceramic Bearings	Universal	Low	Reduced friction and race-grade performance

Pro Tip

When upgrading your bike crankset or bearings, replace your bottom bracket for the best fit. Always use anti-seize compound or carbon-safe grease to prevent creaking and corrosion in press-fit systems.

Learn About Bottom Bracket Compatibility

Visit our Cycling Learning Center for guides on how to measure a bike bottom bracket, identify your frame type, and choose the right model for your drivetrain.

How to Measure a Bottom Bracket

Learn how to accurately measure spindle length and shell width to ensure a perfect fit.

Bottom Bracket Maintenance Tips

Discover how to clean, grease, and extend the lifespan of your bottom bracket.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my bottom bracket?

Most riders replace their bottom bracket every 3,000–5,000 miles, or sooner if you feel grinding, noise, or play in the crank. Regular cleaning extends its lifespan.

Can I upgrade to ceramic bearings?

Yes — ceramic bottom brackets reduce friction and deliver smoother performance. Ensure compatibility with your crankset (Shimano, SRAM, or GXP) before upgrading.

How do I measure my bottom bracket?

Measure the shell width (typically 68mm or 73mm) and spindle length (like 119mm). Our bottom bracket measuring guide explains this in detail.

What’s the difference between threaded and press-fit bottom brackets?

Threaded bottom brackets screw directly into the frame for easy maintenance, while press-fit models use friction fit — lighter but more sensitive to installation precision.