The most common mid-high end bikes these days use what are called external bearing cranks. On your basic question of compatibility, the answer is no; while there be a few exceptions, there are even differences with different cranks of the same manufacturer. If you plan on changing your crank, plan on buying a new bottom bracket also. Here is the Park site that discusses the different makes and how they are R&R..http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-...o-ultra-torque