I have just bought a frame that has a French bottom bracket shell. Do I need a special spindle too?

Question

The seller can provide the cups, but can I use a British standard spindle?

Answer 1

Thats a very good question but not one with a good answer.

Cottered spindles are usually a different diameter than cotterless. This is particularly true with the likes of Stronglight, TA, and some other French manufacturers.

I'd go ahead and try to use a cotterless spindle. Check to make sure that both use the same size bearings.