Originally Posted by
noglider
I think you got unlucky. I expect your new one will last longer. But not super unlucky in an unjustified way.
Another way to look at it is that you got lucky. Lucky it wasn't the cranks or pedals that were loose, because by the time they make those noises, they're probably damaged.
While cartridge BBs don't last as long as the older style, you don't have to service them until they fail, and once you have to replace them, it's an easy job, requiring less skill.
Originally Posted by
Slaninar
Not just the cartridge. The external cartridge BBs last 3-4 times less than the older, internal cartridge BBs - like square tapper, or Octalink 2. That's the problem.
It was definitely a very simple job to replace. It's also not a terribly expensive part, so I don't mind doing it from time to time, but I do hope the new one gives me more than a year of life. If not, I might look into [MENTION=392125]79pmooney[/MENTION] 's suggestion and "downgrade."