BB30 Benefits W/O the Downside (BSA Spindle 30 Conversion aka BSA30)

How to convert your BSA bottom bracket to take a 30mm spindle—enjoy the benefits of BB30 without the disadvantages.

We demonstrate installing First's T30 "BSA30" bottom bracket using a bike with an old square taper bottom bracket that has been in use for 10 years. We cover quick and easy quick release link removal, how to remove your chain without scratching the paintwork, and how to remove the square taper bb quickly.

Preparation is important. The bike was originally fitted with a square taper bb where the bearings are situated inside the bb shell. There was no need need to clean the bb shell's faces—in other words "dress" or face the frame. The new bearing cups to be installed, which accept a crank with a 30mm diameter spindle, are outboard and so must fit exactly flush and square with the bottom bracket shell's faces. We show how this is done in a few minutes with the tapping and facing tool. This tool also cleans and prepares the threads for the new installation.

Once the preparation is complete, the grease can be applied and then the bb cups installed using the special tool that comes with A little grease on the crank's spindle makes sure it moves smoothly into position.