Hi, I'm doing a build and had the frame prepped. All ready to go for install of parts.

I pulled my 'stash' of bb assemblies. The first I picked looked great. Record cups with the rifled threads. Races are 100%. Pulled the ball bearings and noted they were 3/16" and obviously smaller than the usual 1/4".

Is this right? Does it really matter? The cups are great, they screw onto the shell perfectly and the spindle is super. I suppose the smaller bearing will allow for one more ball. That's a good thing.

Are these smaller bb used only for specialized purposes (eg track sets) or is it OK to use 'em for road cranksets?

If the spindle wasn't designed for the smaller bb, then it'd put the spindle a little to the right (all of 1/32".)

If the spindle was designed for the smaller bb, then all should be good. If it wasn't then it may affect the right side positioning of the spindle and the crankset.

Any insight as to the use of the Campy smaller 3/16" bb?

Steve