BB Question: Hollowtech II = EVO Max?

[ColonelJLloyd]

My frame has a traditional 68mm BSA threaded shell. I just ordered a Miche SS crankset with 24mm axle that uses an EVO Max BB. The crankset didn't come with a BB.

I have a barely used Shimano XT8000 BB here. Is my situation as simple as installing the XT BB in my frame with a 2.5mm spacer on each side then installing the Miche crankset according to TFM? Seems simple and easy, but I don't want to assume I'm that lucky or smart.

[ColonelJLloyd]

Mechanics in the house? Mark McM? Anyone?

[Mark McM]

I don't think the combination will work. The XT 8000 bottom bracket is intended for a 73mm shell width (or 68mm plus spacers), which is a standard MTB width. The Miche SS cranks appear to have a road length spindle, which calls for a 68mm threaded shell.

Try measuring the spindle length. If it is 109mm, then it is a road length spindle, and you'll need a road width bottom bracket (68mm). If it is closer to 114mm, then it is an MTB length spindle, and the XT 8000 bottom bracket will work.

[ColonelJLloyd]

Got it. This makes sense. Thank you.

It does sound like you are confirming that "24mm is 24mm", which I wasn't sure about. I don't have the Miche crank in hand to measure. Ideally I'd just buy the Miche BB, but I'm not finding a source stateside. I found this product page which says the Miche is Hollowtech II compatible. So, can I just source a much more common Shimano 68mm Hollowtech II BB (Ultegra, Dura Ace) and I'm set?

[Mark McM]

I haven't used Miche cranks, so I can't absolutely comfirm that these cranks are Hollowtech II compatible, but most 24mm cranks are.

[ColonelJLloyd]

Update on this. The Pistard 2.0 is compatible with an Ultegra Hollowtech II, though it is tight and a rubber mallet was required to insert the DS arm with integrated spindle. A poster on LFGSS has stated this is the case with HTII and EVO Max BBs. It also required considerable torque to install the NDS arm on the spindle. This too was reported in the same LFGSS thread.