V2 was mostly MTB and others. V1 was the 105/Ultegra/Dura Ace, and some FSA's.

That's what I seem to remember. I've interchanged 5500/6500/7700 more than a few times, running a 5500 triple on my 6503 crankset, a 6500 double on my 7700 double crankset, and a 7700 double on my FSA crankset.

The 7700 Octalink used needle bearings, looked like a cartridge, but came apart for servicing, etc. They didn't seem as durable because they started making noise about when the 6500 was getting really broken in. Many people threw them away (including shops) when they could generally be cleaned and re-lubed and then used again. I'm sure they wore out over time, but most that I've seen discarded or sold just needed overhaul. The bearing races actually wore out first, generally from lack of lube. The design just didn't seem to be geared for the long haul. I.E. they were for racing, pretty much.


I've asked Token and Omni a couple of times to see if Shimano would let them machine the Octalink spindles for their BB's.
Silly request, but a light carbon/Ti BB in Octalink would sure be fun with a DA7700 crankset.