Replacing Your Threaded or Press-Fit Bottom Bracket

Nestled at the core of your bike frame is a bottom bracket. It’s the part that connects the pedals to the frame so your bike can move. There are two types of bottom brackets: threaded and press fit.

Threaded bottom brackets have threads on the frame’s shell and cups that screw into the threads. They’re the new standard because they’re easy to service and replace. Press-fit bottom brackets have no threads. Instead, they’re pressed directly into the shell of the frame and rely on a tight fit to stay in place.

You might notice weird noises or a grinding feeling. Or your crankset wobbles while you ride. All signs that your bottom bracket needs attention. You should check it regularly if you’re constantly rolling through rain and mud.

It takes some special tools to service a threaded or press-fit bottom bracket. Along with an adjustable wrench or socket set, grease or anti-seize compound, and rags for cleaning.

Replacing a Threaded Bottom Bracket

1. Use special tools to take off the crankset so you can get to the cups.

2. Use a threaded bottom bracket tool and a wrench or socket set to remove the cups.

3. Give the bottom bracket a good cleaning and check it over to see if it’s damaged or worn.

4. Put some grease or anti-seize on the threads of the new cups and screw them into the frame by hand.

5. Use the bottom bracket tool and wrench or socket set to tighten the cups.

6. Put the crankset back on the bike and now you’re ready to roll with a new bottom bracket!

Replacing a Press-Fit Bottom Bracket

1. Use special tools to take off the crankset so you can get to the bottom bracket.

2. Push it out using a press-fit bottom bracket tool, clean the shell, and check if it’s damaged or worn.

3. Put grease or anti-seize on the new bearings and use a push-press to install them in the frame.

4. Put the crankset back on the bike and now you’re ready to roll with a new bottom bracket!

Get Your Bike Serviced at Airpark Bike Co

Get your bike professionally serviced at Airpark Bike Co.’s North Scottsdale or Phoenix locations. We carry both press-fit and threaded bottom brackets in stock! While you wait for yours to be serviced, rent a bike. The cost of a rental goes towards the purchase of a new bike.