Originally Posted by
sKiLLeD
cottered cranks render the bike useless - just my 2 cents. I have a uo8 with an updated square taper BB spindle and alloy cranks and it has become a whole different machine. To make this conversion you need french threaded BB cups and a new spindle. In my opinion its totally worth it as the bike will ride so much better and maybe be worth a little more. In its current state I would pay 50-75 dollars at most. Have the cottered cranks slipped yet? try riding up a hill and the cranks will most likely begin to fall off.
Cottered cranks don't fall off when you ride up a hill if they've been installed properly. Cottered steel cranks are heavier, but the steel rings last nearly forever. Replacing the steel rims will make a much bigger difference in the ride than replacing the crank.