Well, grease.....is grease.....is grease? Not hardly! I have worked in the petroleum refining industry in process, production and manufacturing for a long time. I am a 3rd generation petroleum production specialist (does that sound knowledgeable and important?). Everyone knows that the secret to lubrication is to cover all mating surfaces that provide friction. A good example of this is the new engines of the late 1990's-today use thinner viscosity oils? Why? (Please don't get bored, because my point will be made in about 4 sentences). Because Auto manufacturer's are using a higher nickel content in engine block production allowing for higher temperatures to be maintained in engines. The key to lubrication is penetration which by using thinner oils will reach tighter bearing tolerances. This is why you see 5w-20 and 10w-30, when in the 1930's up through the 1970's single viscosity oils, such as 30w were very utilizable in the old 64 327/300horse power Chevrolet's. The higher nickel content in the block allows for the higher temperatures to be run, but oil breaks down much quicker demanding an oil change every 3000 miles, unless running pure Synthetic oil. What does that have to do with bikes bearing surfaces? Everything. Does anyone here have a clue what Andy Schleck's bottom bracket was going through during last years Tour De France (I know you don't give a hoot if you are not his fan)? There is a lot of stress and fatigue in the bottom bracket of a high end road bike under such strain. Unless the chain stays and a part of the seat tube and down tube are sealed off and holding a level of ATF in a pool (Dexron, no doubt), the bottom bracket shell area is going through a lot and need to be properly lubricated. A thin lubricant will have to be used that will hold its viscosity and adhere to the bearing and race surfaces for a long duration. There are many excellent products on the market that will conform to the TDF pressures. I am just a cruiser who fits many other peoples needs who are here reading this. All who are into road bikes should do seasonal's on a quarterly basis, minimum. What oil brand do I buy for my car? My grandfather used to laugh as a geologist working for an oil company during the 20's and say, it all comes out of the same hole in the ground and they are all bickering and fighting for the best lubrication. Processing and production is the key. You all can run your Phil grease and automotive top grade bearing grease, or what ever you should choose, but for me and my horse? My Colnago will run Campagnolo Grasso. Good night and Ride Smart - Ride Safe,
John in La Grange, Texas