BMX BBs: confused

.blitz

I'm OK with with MTB cranks and cartridge BBs - get the tools, follow the instructions and Bob's yer uncle. But BMX... :?

This is jr's Mongoose:

What kind of BB is it and how do I remove it?

nicklouse

hit it.

standard BMX bb

and as pics help.

.blitz

nicklouse wrote:

hit it.

What's holding the spindle in place?

nicklouse

nothing.

well the crank arms.

.blitz

nicklouse wrote:

nothing

So if I remove the crank arms, the spindle will 'just slide out' ?

nicklouse

well if you hit the end without the arm on now the axle and arm will come off.

.blitz

nicklouse wrote:

well if you hit the end without the arm on now the axle and arm will come off.

OK much appreciated.

MeddlE

That's a sealed bearing US BB, the bearings sit in cups. Can also be got in caged bearing type.

Then there's Mid BB which is the same bearings but without cups, the bearings press fit straight into the frame.

Then there's Euro BB which is a smaller sealed bearing in a threaded cup.

Then there's Spanish BB which is also a smaller sealed bearing (different size to Euro though) without cups that press fits into the frame.

Which BB you need is dictated by the frame.

Most (ie not all) modern BMX frames now use Mid BB, lower end frames still use US BB.
Euro seems to have gone out of fashion.
Spanish is used by manufacturers like Fly Bikes.

.blitz

MeddlE wrote:

That's a sealed bearing US BB...
Then there's Mid BB...
Then there's Euro BB...
Then there's Spanish BB...

This is why I'm confused

I wish there was a 'How To...' website for BMX.

nicklouse

and they all go together the same basic way.