I probably need a new bottom bracket for my bicycle. Is it ok if I wait till it totally goes on me?

Question

My biccyle is making clicking noises on each pedal stroke. A person mentioned that it might need a new bottom bracket but I was thinking about also buying a whole new bicycle for other reasons.

First, is it messing with my pedaling efficiency? Will it eventually hurt my knees?

Second, what is a reasonable price to expect having to pay for a bottom bracket and labor to install it?

Lastly, can you really make tons of headway with a real high-end bottom-bracket in terms of updating components, or are they fairly standard, like chains?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hey ZSFeinstein,

First, no this won't hurt your knees...but it will mess with pedalling efficiency. It would help if we knew what kind of components you are running but if I had to guess, you have the internal bottom bracket style versus the newer external bottom bracket. It is possible that the bb just needs to be removed, the threads relubed and reinstalled (this option is more likely if the bb is of higher quality). In any case, it shouldn't be too expensive to replace if you get a mid-grade bottom bracket. Bottom brackets are definately NOT standard. There are different shells sizes as well as different lengths of bottom brackets...unless as I stated before, your are running the new external bottom bracket. In that case there are less variables but they are still there. Unfortunately, I see a visit to your LBS (local bike shop) in your future.

Answer 2

1.   It may just need to have the retainer snugged up a bit.  This is more common with new bikes, but its possible.   There are a couple of $10 special tools required, a crank remover, and a bottom bracket tool.    If the cranks feel smooth when rotated by hand, try this first.

2.  Coincidentally, the same two tools are required to replace the bottom bracket if that is indeed the problem.  

3.  Unless you're an elite racer, you probably won't notice the difference between high and low end parts.

Bottom brackets usually give you a lot of warning before failing totally, but I did get caught out once...... long walk.  A cell phone is no help if there's no one to answer at that particular time.

Answer 3

Well, if you have a cup and cone bottom bracket, all it will probably need is new bearings. These cost under four pounds, but you will normally need a special tool to undo both the cranks and the bottom bracket. If you leave it, the cups will become damaged beyond repair, and it will cost you more.

A stitch in time saves nine.