Originally Posted by
Yogurt
Last week I brought my Paramount (sans chain & derailleur) into a local LBS for a hanger alignment. It' s not uncommon for them to sell and service extremely expensive bikes. (i.e. $10k Pinarellos) The guys just couldn't stop flicking my cranks back and forth, in awe of the Super Record BB. To quote... "They just don't make them like that anymore."
I know what you mean. With the chain off, my N. Record BB will spin almost endlessly and there's absolutely no play detectable. It's cool and I'm in awe of any part with those tolerances. On the other hand, I really don't know if that's a difference I can feel while riding the bike. Cartridge units are seductively easy to deal with, last a long time and require no maintenance. Tough call.