BB86 vs. T47 Bottom Brackets: A Complete Guide for Road Cyclists
When building or upgrading a performance road bike, choosing the right bottom bracket standard is critical. In this guide, we compare BB86 press-fit and T47 threaded options, explaining how each affects stiffness, weight, crank compatibility, and serviceability.
What Is a Bottom Bracket?
The bottom bracket is the component that allows your crankset to rotate smoothly. It houses the bearings that support the crank spindle and is pressed or threaded into the bottom bracket shell of your frame.
There are dozens of standards on the market, but two dominate in high-performance road bikes: BB86 and T47.
BB86 Bottom Bracket Overview
Technical Specifications
- Type: Press-Fit
- Shell Width: 86.5 mm
- Shell Inner Diameter: 41 mm
- Spindle Compatibility: 24 mm (Shimano Hollowtech II, SRAM GXP with adapter)
- Bearings: Sealed (steel or ceramic)
- Tool Requirements: Press-fit tools for installation and removal
Used In:
- TWITTER R5 Pro Disc
- Giant TCR Advanced
- Scott Addict RC
- Canyon Ultimate CF SLX (older models)
- Cube Agree and Litening (some configurations)
Advantages
-
Wider Shell = More Stiffness: Improves pedaling efficiency and power transfer.
-
Lower Weight: No threading or external cups = lighter frame design.
-
Optimized for 24 mm spindles: Perfect match for Shimano road groupsets.
Disadvantages
-
Creaking Issues: Sensitive to frame tolerances.
-
Challenging Maintenance: Requires special tools and experience.
-
Frame Dependent: Less adjustability after installation.
T47 Bottom Bracket Overview
Technical Specifications
- Type: Threaded
- Shell Width: Typically 68 mm or 86 mm
- Outer Diameter: 47 mm thread interface
- Spindle Compatibility: 24 mm (Shimano), 30 mm (SRAM, Rotor, etc.)
- Bearings: Sealed (steel or ceramic)
- Tool Requirements: Threaded BB tools (e.g., Park Tool BBT-47)
Used In:
- TWITTER R10 Pro Disc
- TWITTER R12, R15 Pro Disc
- Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 (T47 versions)
- Trek Émonda and Domane (current gen)
- Cervélo Caledonia and R5
Advantages
-
Threaded Reliability: Less creaking and movement.
-
Oversized Shell: Larger bearings = longer life.
-
Wide Compatibility: Works with 24 mm, 30 mm, and DUB cranks.
-
Easier Maintenance: Simple to remove/reinstall.
Disadvantages
-
Heavier: Threaded cups add some weight.
-
Frame Design Constraints: Needs more material in the shell area.
BB86 vs. T47: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature |
BB86 Press-Fit |
T47 Threaded |
| Frame Interface |
Press-fit into 41 mm shell |
Threaded into 47 mm shell |
| Shell Width |
86.5 mm |
68–86 mm |
| Installation |
Requires press tool |
Standard threaded tools |
| Serviceability |
More difficult |
Easier and more consistent |
| Creaking Risk |
Higher |
Very low |
| Weight |
Lighter |
Slightly heavier |
| Bearing Size |
Medium |
Larger possible |
| Crank Compatibility |
Mostly 24 mm |
24 mm, 30 mm, DUB |
| Ideal For |
Weight-focused builds |
Ease of service and durability |
Which Bottom Bracket Is Best for You?
Choose BB86 if:
- You prioritize weight and stiffness
- You use Shimano 24 mm cranks
- You’re building a bike like the TWITTER R5 Pro
- You have the tools for press-fit maintenance
Choose T47 if:
- You want quiet performance
- You do your own bike servicing
- You use 30 mm or DUB cranksets
- You ride bikes like the TWITTER R10 or Cervélo R5
Final Thoughts
The bottom bracket might seem small, but it has a big impact on performance. Choose BB86 for weight and stiffness. Go with T47 for serviceability and silence.
Need help choosing? Reach out to our team at twitterbikeusa.com.
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