Shimano Octalink bottom bracket compatibility?
 

Hey gang -

I have a NOS Shimano 105 Octalink crank. From what I understand, I can use either a BB-5500 or BB-6500 bottom bracket (in 68x109.5 for my particular frame/application).

My question is... Is the Dura-Ace 7700 bottom bracket also a compatible Octalink BB?

I think I need a code-breaker...

Thanks.

Yes, any of the three...though I understand BB5500 and 7700 are much easier to locate than 6500.

Excellent. Thank you.

5500, 6500 and 7700 use V1 splines, so yes.

just don't use a BB with V2 splines, and you're good.
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/bbsize.html#shimano

Drag - My Octalink isn't the best, but IIRC the DA version was REALLY prone to failures and short service life. FWIW I would get an Ultegra version.

Thanks Psimet. I do appreciate the input.

Completely agree. I had a DA one fail due to the small roller bearings. The Ultegra one uses ball bearings and lasts much longer. Slightly heavier, but more durable.

As others have mentioned earlier, the BB7700 will work. But keep in mind what Psimet has mentioned. The BB7700 is an adjustable type BB and needs regular maintanence. Whereas the 6500 and 5500 are essentially set and forget sealed bearings. The 6500 is good, but becoming very difficult to locate (though they do show up on ebay every once in a while.) The 5500 is also a good/durable BB in its own regard.

If we could bottle the knowledge here and resell it, we'd all be rich. Thanks.