Originally Posted by
Dfrost
I’d definitely buy a used crank or BB if: A. I could physically examine the parts as with either of the fitted used cranks on my bikes, or B. Purchased from a C&V member, from whom I’ve never had a poor transaction (think that’s been essentially true for all of us on C&V). Pretty sure my only new crankset was the one purchased with my new Klein frame in 1992.
I’m not a fan of any of the current new cranks other than the ones you’ve mentioned and those have gotten pricey. Sugino XD-whatever are fine.
I’ve installed plenty of used square taper cranks in 7 years rebuilding bikes for Bike Works. Never had a problem that wasn’t obvious. The challenge is to be sure the BB length is appropriate for the crank.
Sealed bearing square taper BB are either obviously bad (crunchy bearings) or fine. Just be sure to get the corresponding NDS part. Any of the Shimano varieties seem to be good. Again, I’ve used plenty of those in rebuilt bikes. OTOH, we recently had a subtle problem with one of the newer style splined BB (Octalink XX?) Not a fan, and I wasn’t before that experience, either.
Rings I’d probably get new (for middle and large, used stainless granny rings are fine) and I choose expensive TA rings that last a long time, but that’s just me. I’ve sold quite a few used rings inexpensively through our sub-forum, and hope that they’ve been good buys for the purchasers.
Since now I've got a cottered spindle coming that should work - I guess I'm going to ride what I've got for a while longer. My chainrings don't look great, I tried to clean them up a bit but they still look pretty battered. Here's some pics. Looks like I can't change the rings without also changing the crank? Is that normal? Since I have the cottered spindle already on its way, I'll be keeping the cottered cranks. Also here is a pic of the bar end shifters I ended up picking up. So eventually may try to update the rear drivetrain to index shifting or at least a 7 speed freewheel. My main goal now is to get the bike back on the road and riding it. Then I need to prioritize the potential upgrades/work. With a new spindle/BB put together, I may see about swapping the wheels to 700c and freehub with cassette. Right now I have 27 1 1/4, they don't match, and one does not have hooks/hoops (?) in the rim so I have to ride it at a lower PSI. Hoping maybe I could gain a little more clearance as well so maybe up the tire size or at least go with a decent size tire and some fenders.
