Yes, the new BB Cartridge seems to be a hair smaller diameter. There is NO SERVICING of the cartridge, you just use it and throw it away! Indeed, an easier instal, makes it quicker and less fuss for an LBS...less thinking involved. The Felt, which I got used, BB started going click...pop....and had lateral play....NO idea of how many miles, but it was about 12 yrs old. The VINTAGE BB, was starting to softly grind...it was 27 yrs old. I had serviced it when we picked it up last year, and noted that the spindle and cups were both pitted...and NO ONE in town had anything but cartridges to replace it. Got lucky and found the Suntour at a Garage Sale, in it's BOX, for $12...Superbe Pro BABY!!!! Nice....
Originally Posted by
dddd
No surprise that in all these years that a newer bb benefits from improved design efficiency and thus lower weight.
But is the FELT's bb spindle a full 17mm diameter? I suspect not.
And is the FELT's bb as easily serviceable as the Suntour's design(?) (won't know until you try).
But in truth, the Suntour cartridge bb is an antiquated design with it's circlip grooves cut into the spindle.