New Ultegra 6500 Bottom Bracket Question
 

This past weekend I installed a new Ultegra 6500 bottom bracket - the first cartridge bb that I have ever installed. When I turn the spindle with my hand it feels smooth but somewhat stiff. Is this normal for a new Shimano cartridge bottom bracket? Will this change over the life of the bb? Thanks.

I too was surpised at how stiff my ultregra bb felt when I turned the spindle with my hand. But put your crank on there and spin that and see how smooth it is.

This is normal. I was concerned when I first got my Ultegra external BB, and several others here at the forums have asked the same question. No worries, that's how it's supposed to be.

As to whether it will change over the life of the BB, I've been riding mine for about a year now and have observed no noticeable change.