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  • :)

    i've heard that dirt likes to and does get in easily, if that's what you mean.. i actually can't decide between the DA7700 octalink and the truvativ gxp system.. (for the mali project in cp)

    Yup, it'll be a straight up GXP bb. 24mm spindle drive side and the kicker; a 22mm on non drive side.
    Longevity aside, I've used the GXP system on my work bike for quite some time and I'd have to agree with your concerns. I personally found the combo nice and stiff (Omniums and S300 crank sets), but despite efforts to keep both shell and seals clean, it was futile.
    The seals don't really do much to keep dirt out, but I give the bearings credit in keeping smooth.

    My main two concerns were the non drive side bearings were the smaller 22mm and to fit tightly over the axle, a sleeving/shim system is incorporated to give a snug fit. I noticed over time that because the shim was made of aluminium, constant force applied tended to flatten it into the Bearing cover on the BB itself, which in turn made for crank arm play because of the mm or two space, which if ignored as I stupidly did, let a surprising amount of dirt it, resulting in a bitch of seized BB which made for a lot of hair pulling.

    It's a light, and easy system, and I'm still using it as I write this...sort of....but it does have a few flaws.
    I haven't tried any of the more expensive alternatives like the Hope or Chris King BB's, but the standard one I used stayed smooth till the bitter end. Some recommend the more expensive alternatives, but for how cheap and (shocking to say) durable-ish the standard BB is. I'd say go with it.

    The last octalink system I used was aeons ago, so cannot comment on their effectiveness as a system, but If I remember right, I was terrified of even looking at it.

    P.s I can show you what 2 years of daily use looks like, and I know if I put them on now they'll carry on working for another.

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