ok, what i was referring to as diameter, i think you guys are referring to as width.

in that case, what about the other dimension... from the left side of the shell to the right side of the shell (i guess you could call it "length"). how do i determine the correct length of BB to get?

also, in terms of english vs. italian threads, this applies to the threads on which the cranks will screwn onto, or is the BB also threaded into the bike frame?

haven't chosen a frame yet, but just educating myself so i know what parts to purchase, and what to stay away from (e.g. if there's some kind of rare standard that i should avoid)

thanks again