AK404

I used the search function, but couldn't find any posts on bottom bracket compatibility, so here goes....

I have a road bike that uses a 68mm JIS BB. I've swapped it in and out with similar BBs like the Octalink 1 while monkeying around with the 9spd drivetrain, but I now find myself wondering if I could introduce other BB types into the mix. I'm fairly sure GXP would work, as well as Shimano's Hollowtech system. What other bottom brackets can I safely put into this assembly with minimum fuss?

jimc101

The frame doesn't care about the BB, as long as it fits in, the important issue, which you haven't give any details about is the crank you are planning to use. Without knowing what you are going to use, the BB type is irrelevant.

For the specs given, 68mm makes sense, as it's the standard spec for threaded road bike BB shells with an english thread, the JIS is specific for the taper on a square taper BB, not the shell.

AK404

So basically what you're saying is that any bottom bracket assembly will fit in there?

I really don't have a crank planned out; I just wanted to know what kind of options I had available to me.

jimc101

No, once you have found the crank you want, you need to confirm it will fit before buying. With the spec of BB shell you have given, you will be able to fit any BB/crank combination that uses GXP, HT2, MegaExo, Octanlink V1/V2, ISIS, Square taper or Ultra Torque Bottom Brackets (may have missed out a few) The BB will need to fit the 68mm shell spec. Some examples which won't fit are BB30 (all pressfit) , 73mm or 83mm MTB, 100mm Fat Bike, French, Swiss and many others

It's easier to look for the crank first, then work out if the BB required will fit your frame, and get the appropriate BB, as this fitting or not will determine if you are going to buy it.

JohnDThompson 

Yes, if its the proper thread.

The crank you select will determine the proper spindle length for clearance, so you really can't choose your bottom bracket until you have chosen your crank.

AK404

That's...interesting.

Thanks for the advice guys!