Best Bike Bottom Brackets of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Bike bottom brackets are an essential component of any high-performance bicycle. These small but crucial parts sit at the center of the bike frame, connecting the pedals to the crankset and allowing the rider to transfer power to the wheels. Bottom brackets come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit different types of bikes and riding styles, from road bikes to mountain bikes and everything in between. Whether you're a casual cyclist or a serious racer, investing in a high-quality bottom bracket can make a big difference in your ride quality and overall performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SHIMANO Square Type Bicycle Bottom Bracket Cover #TOP 1
SHIMANO Square Type Bicycle Bottom Bracket
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Shimano SM-BBR60 Ultegra / FC-CX70 / 105 Bottom Bracket Cover #TOP 2
Shimano SM-BBR60 Ultegra / FC-CX70 / 105 Bottom Bracket
ftb score rating icon 9.7
SRAM AM BB Dub English/BSA (MTB) 73mm Cover #TOP 3
SRAM AM BB Dub English/BSA (MTB) 73mm
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Bike Bottom Brackets

#TOP 1

SHIMANO Square Type Bicycle Bottom Bracket

EBBUN300B22X m
Black
One Size
SHIMANO Square Type Bicycle Bottom Bracket Cover
SHIMANO Square Type Bicycle Bottom Bracket - BSA 68MM, Spindle: 122.5MM - EBBUN300B22X

This bottom bracket is designed to fit JIS square-taper cranksets. It is a durable and reliable option for bike enthusiasts looking to replace their current bottom bracket.

What We Like
High-quality Shimano parts
Smooth action performance
Easy installation with right tools
Long-lasting replacement option
What We Don't Like
Installation can be challenging
Some fit issues reported
#TOP 2

Shimano SM-BBR60 Ultegra / FC-CX70 / 105 Bottom Bracket

ISMBBR60B
English
One Size
Shimano SM-BBR60 Ultegra / FC-CX70 / 105 Bottom Bracket Cover
Shimano SM-BBR60 Ultegra / FC-CX70 / 105 Hollowtech II Bottom Bracket

The Shimano SM-BBR60 Bottom Bracket is 14 g lighter and 50% less friction than the SM-BB6700. With small ball bearings to reduce weight, the anodized bearing cups provide a smoother ride. This bottom bracket is recommended for Ultegra FC-R8000, FC-6800, 105 FC-5800, Metrea FC-U5000, FC-CX70, and is an excellent choice for bike enthusiasts.

What We Like
Significant friction reduction
Easy installation with right tools
Improved bike efficiency
Attractive modern design
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Requires specific installation tools
No assembly instructions included
#TOP 3

SRAM AM BB Dub English/BSA (MTB) 73mm

BBDUB5000
Black
68mm/73mm
SRAM AM BB Dub English/BSA (MTB) 73mm Cover
SRAM DUB English Bottom Bracket - English/BSA, 68/73mm, Black

The SRAM AM BB Dub is a mountain bike bottom bracket that connects your crankarms and ensures a smooth and long-lasting application of power to your drivetrain. With its oversized Dub spindle, it works across every bottom bracket standard, providing greater bearing durability. The improved riding experience is achieved through better crankarm compatibility and enhanced protection from the elements. Thanks to Dub technology, the relationship between the chainring, crank, spindle, and bottom bracket is seamlessly integrated. The installation process is made easier with the PressFit threading cups for lighter weight. This BB30 shell type bottom bracket comes with a 28.99 DUB axle. Upgrade your bike's performance with the SRAM AM BB Dub.

What We Like
Easy installation
Compatible with various spacers
Smooth bearings
Lightweight material
Stiff performance
What We Don't Like
Requires specific tools
Inconsistent packaging
#TOP 4

SHIMANO BB-RS501 Bottom Bracket

EBBRS501B
Silver
SHIMANO BB-RS501 Bottom Bracket Cover
SHIMANO BB-RS501 Hollowtech II English Bottom Bracket

The SHIMANO BB-RS501 is designed specifically for English thread bottom bracket frames, ensuring a seamless fit with Hollowtech II 24mm crank spindles. This product features anodized aluminum cups, which provide both strength and lightweight performance, making it an excellent choice for cyclists who prioritize efficiency. Weighing in at just 93 grams, it helps keep your bike light and agile. By integrating perfectly with your crankset, the BB-RS501 enhances your bike's overall performance and durability, allowing you to enjoy a smoother and more reliable ride.

What We Like
Excellent fit and installation
Improved bike stance
Durable under hard use
Silent operation
Cost-effective replacement
What We Don't Like
Limited long-term durability insights
#TOP 5

SHIMANO BB-MT501 English Bottom Bracket

EBBMT501B 12/15
Black
68/73mm
SHIMANO BB-MT501 English Bottom Bracket Cover
SHIMANO BB-MT501 English Bottom Bracket - English, 68/73mm, Fits Hollowtech II Spindle, Black

The SHIMANO Bottom Bracket is a threaded bottom bracket designed for MTB use. It features an English (BSA) thread and is compatible with a Hollowtech II spindle. The bottom bracket is made with aluminum threaded cups and comes in black color. The English thread makes the installation process easier for you, while the compatibility with Hollowtech II spindle ensures a smooth ride. The aluminum threaded cups make the bottom bracket lightweight and durable, and the black color adds a sleek look to your bike.

What We Like
Easy installation
High-quality bearings
Durable and long-lasting
Smooth performance
Great material quality
What We Don't Like
Potentially higher local prices
#TOP 6

SHIMANO BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket

EBBUN300B10X
Black
68mmx110mm
SHIMANO BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket Cover
SHIMANO BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket - English, 68 x 110mm Spindle, Square Taper JIS

The SHIMANO BB-UN300 is designed to fit JIS square-taper cranksets, making it a reliable choice for your bike. You can easily install it with crankarm fixing bolts, which are sold separately. Its hollow spindle design not only reduces weight but also enhances performance, allowing for smoother pedaling. With a spindle length of 110mm and a BB shell width of 68mm, it provides the perfect fit for various bike frames, ensuring stability and efficiency during rides.

What We Like
High-quality Shimano product
Smooth ride experience
Affordable replacement option
Easy installation with proper tools
Excellent customer communication
What We Don't Like
Delivery delays noted
#TOP 7

Shimano BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket

EBBUN300C23X
Shimano BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket Cover
Shimano BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket - English, 73 x 123mm Spindle, Square Taper JIS

The Shimano BB-UN300 is a reliable bottom bracket designed for your bike. It features a hollow spindle, which is lighter and helps improve your bike's performance. The square taper JIS interface ensures a secure fit for your crank arms, enhancing stability during rides. Additionally, the bottom bracket shell has a standard inner diameter of 1.37 inches, making it compatible with various bike frames. Keep in mind that crankarm fixing bolts are sold separately, allowing you to choose the best option for your setup.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Easy installation
Long-lasting performance
Smooth operation
Compatible with vintage bikes
What We Don't Like
Instructions lacking
Missing necessary screws
#TOP 8

SHIMANO BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket

EBBUN300B13X
noir/argentÃ
68mmx113mm
SHIMANO BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket Cover
SHIMANO BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket - English, 68 x 113mm Spindle, Square Taper JIS

The SHIMANO BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket is designed for JIS square-taper cranksets and offers a spindle length of 113mm. It has a BB shell width of 68mm and a bottom bracket shell I.D. of 1.37, making it a great choice for many bike models. Please note that the crankarm fixing bolts are sold separately.

What We Like
Easy installation
High quality
Lightweight
Smooth performance
Long-lasting durability
What We Don't Like
Unknown longevity
#TOP 9

SHIMANO Square Type Bicycle Bottom Bracket

EBBUN300B17X
noir/argentÃ
68mmx117.5mm
SHIMANO Square Type Bicycle Bottom Bracket Cover
Shimano BB-UN300 Bottom Bracket - English, 68 x 117.5mm Spindle, Square Taper JIS

This bike bottom bracket is designed to fit JIS square-taper cranksets and comes with a shell width of 68mm and spindle length of 117.5mm. It ensures better chainline stability with chain line stabilizer. Crankarm fixing bolts are sold separately.

What We Like
Easy drop-in replacement
Smooth crank operation
Long-lasting with maintenance
Lightweight compared to OEM
Well made and fairly priced
What We Don't Like
Installation requires specific tools
Potential thread compatibility issues
#TOP 10

BUCKLOS Square Taper Bottom Bracket

BB68-Black
110.5mm
BUCKLOS Square Taper Bottom Bracket Cover
BUCKLOS Bike Square Taper Bottom Bracket - 68/80/90/100/110/120x110.5 113 116 118 122.5 127 140 152 156 166 174mm Bicycle BSA Brackets for Mountain/MTB/Road/Fat Bike/Ebike

The BUCKLOS Bottom Bracket is designed for long-lasting performance, crafted from high-quality materials that ensure durability with minimal upkeep. It offers wide compatibility with various BSA bike thread sizes, so you can choose the right fit for your bike. With CNC precision threading, installation is straightforward, allowing you to connect your bicycle efficiently and reduce energy loss. The integrated system enhances power output while being lighter and stronger than standard options, making it an excellent addition to your bike setup.

What We Like
Perfect fit for various bikes
Easy installation process
Sealed well for bearing protection
Good value for the price
Quiet and smooth operation
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent quality reported
Resistance in spindle movement
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know what bottom bracket I need for my bike?

To determine the bottom bracket size for your bike, measure the inside of the bottom bracket shell in your frame. Common sizes are 73mm, 70mm, or 68mm. Older frames may have Italian threaded bottom brackets instead of the more modern English threaded.

2. Are all bike bottom brackets the same size?

No, bike bottom brackets come in different sizes. The most common sizes for BSA bottom brackets are 68mm, 73mm, 83mm, or 100mm. Road bikes typically use a 68mm wide BSA bottom bracket, while mountain bikes often use the 73mm width.

3. Does any crankset fit any bottom bracket?

In general, your replacement cranks should have the same or smaller spindle diameter and the same or longer spindle length as the bottom bracket system designed for your bike. For example, a BB30/PF30 bottom bracket is designed for large 30mm spindles and has a narrow shell width.

4. How often should a bottom bracket be replaced?

Most bottom brackets are designed to be replaced once worn out, which typically occurs after thousands of miles or 1-2 years for many riders. However, if your bottom bracket is exposed to moisture or experiences other factors that accelerate wear, you may need to replace it more often.

5. What happens when a bottom bracket fails?

When a bottom bracket fails, it can result in decreased efficiency and a stiff, gritty feeling while pedaling. The bearings may wear out, leading to increased resistance and difficulty in turning the pedals. Regular maintenance and replacement of worn-out bottom brackets are necessary to ensure smooth operation.

6. What length of bottom bracket do I need?

The 68mm and 73mm measurements refer to the width of the bottom bracket shell on the bike frame, without the bottom bracket installed. Most road bikes with threaded bottom brackets have a width of 68mm, while cross country/trail mountain bikes typically have a width of 73mm.

7. What is the typical life of a bottom bracket?

The lifespan of a bottom bracket can vary depending on factors such as climate and contamination. Basic bottom brackets from the factory may not last longer than 500 miles, while higher-quality options like Wheels Mfg brackets can last longer. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, can help prolong the life of a bottom bracket.

8. What does a worn-out bottom bracket sound like?

If you hear creaking when you put weight on the pedal, it is likely coming from the bottom bracket. However, if you don't hear anything, the issue may be with the bearings in your headset, hubs, or linkages. Bearings can wear out, especially in wet or sandy conditions, and may need to be replaced.

Editor's Notes

During our bike bottom bracket research, we found 24 bike bottom bracket products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 20,988 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bike bottom brackets list. We found that most customers choose bike bottom brackets with an average price of $17.79.

The bike bottom brackets are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bike bottom brackets, including SHIMANO, SRAM, BUCKLOS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 891 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.