[Lucky]

Still shopping around for a crank. How do the various integrated BB designs compare, Shimano vs. Truvative GXP vs. RF X-type? Is any one significantly better than the others in terms of longevity and ease of installation and service? I've read the Shimano and RF reviews, but there don't seem to be any Truvative GXP reviews. Does that mean no one has any complaints?

Also, any big changes between the '05 Truvative Stylo Team GXP and the '06? Price Point has the '05 for $40 less than the '06.

Kathy :^)

 

[shiny_car]

all are very similar, and some are interchangable (eg: shimano and FSA), depending upon the spindle/axle diameter (inner diameter of bearings and/or cover-pieces).

however, what can differentiate them is the quality of the grease packed into the bearings. inferior grease will wear or wash away over time, especially in wet and muddy conditions, subject to how good the seals are. but you can service them and repack with quality grease, or replace with superior bearings (eg: enduro).

rumours suggest the truvativ setup is not as durable. not sure if this reflects the bearing grease or not; probably. having said that, the others are not immune to the grease drying out or deteriorating.

i would personally choose the crankset you want, and go with the supplied BB. if it wears, either service the bearings or replace. no big deal.

 

[massmang]

Still shopping around for a crank. How do the various integrated BB designs compare, Shimano vs. Truvative GXP vs. RF X-type? Is any one significantly better than the others in terms of longevity and ease of installation and service? I've read the Shimano and RF reviews, but there don't seem to be any Truvative GXP reviews. Does that mean no one has any complaints?

Also, any big changes between the '05 Truvative Stylo Team GXP and the '06? Price Point has the '05 for $40 less than the '06.

Kathy :^)

Here is what I have... great crank... free shipping from smartbikeparts... great guys to deal with too... they are out of Chicago...

http://smartbikeparts.com/prod_info.php?prod_id=102

Look at the quality of the chainrings...

 

[Relayden]

Those FSA do look good, main concern would be how they shift? Sems that the more durable bearings are the shimano ones. But plenty of instructions and photos on how to repack or change the bearings can be found here. I'd go Shimano, as they are more eye pleasant ( to me) and better shifting performance than others, thou they are not far. Go with the one that suits your pocket and style preference, bearings can be taken care of later.