Any alternatives for other brands be used ?
I just buy em cheap, lob in some more grease, and expect to change them regularly.
Matt , what kind of intervals/mileage
Depends - last one about 6 months / couple of rides a week, but I have had one last a month, and the latest one went in start of July, and made some noises today...grrrr.
Just tried swapping the bearings out for some good quality ones. Will see how long they last. The ones they replace have done about 2 months. With vat costs as much as a cheap BB but hope to get a bit more use out of them. Changing was simple enough with a large vice and a selection of sockets. Will report back.
I recently "upgraded" to GXP and went through similar issues.
Tried the hollowtech->gxp adaptors. Didn't really work, but i'll be keeping it for emergencies.
Decided to push the boat out and bought a 2nd hand hope BB that had new bearings. This seems to be the most financially sensible option given how quick the real GXP stuff runs out.
Just ordered the hope bb and gxp adapters. Don't know how long it will last but my last sram one lasted 3 months so I want to try something different.
I've been using a used hope stainless bottom bracket with the GXP adaptors on my daily for over 1 1/2 years, used nearly every day in every weather condition with loads of miles on the promenade with sandy patches everywhere. Stripped down bottom bracket the other day and bearings still as smooth as the day I got it.
Only problem with the GXP adaptors is when It comes to routine cleaning, removal of the outer plastic dust shield on the bottom bracket is a pain cos the GXP adapter holds it to the bearing and needs careful disassembly.
The sensible option: http://www.merlincycles.com/shimano-deore-m615-double-chainset-63270.html
I was [url= http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/replacing-sram-gxp-team-bb86-road-with-something-that-lasts ]recently recommended the Hope BB as a replacement for a road pressfit GXP BB[/url].
I'd imagine the same advice probably applies here?