Bottom Bracket Cluster · Glossary

BSA: the classic threaded bottom bracket

Quick answer

BSA is the most common threaded bottom bracket standard. It uses a 1.37″ × 24 TPI thread and the frame shell is 68 mm (road) or 73 mm (MTB). The drive side is left-hand threaded (tightens the opposite way) so it won't loosen itself. It's the easiest to maintain and almost never creaks; it fits Shimano 24 mm and SRAM DUB spindles.

If your bike is alloy or mid-range, it's almost surely BSA. It's the oldest, most universal standard and every mechanic's favorite because it's easy to service.

What is it?

BSA (British Standard) is a bottom bracket that threads straight into the frame, pressing nothing. It seats firmly, doesn't depend on tight frame tolerances and rarely makes noise. It dominates alloy and mid-range bikes.

Specification

Thread
1.37″ × 24 TPI (≈ 34.8 mm)
Shell width
68 mm road · 73 mm MTB · 83 mm DH
Drive side
left-hand thread (anti-precession)
Type
threaded (not press-fit)
Cross-section of the BSA threaded bottom bracket showing thread and external cups
BSA · threaded section, 24 mm spindle

What fits

It natively accepts 24 mm spindles (Shimano Hollowtech II) and SRAM DUB (28.99 mm), with external cups. It can also take 30 mm spindles, but only with thin-wall bearings (less durable). Almost every crank on the market has a BSA bottom bracket version.

Common mistake: Loosening the drive-side cup counter-clockwise. Since it's left-hand threaded, that tightens it and can strip the frame thread. It loosens by turning toward the front wheel.
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Frequently asked questions

Are BSA and English threaded the same?

Yes. BSA and English refer to the same standard: a 1.37 inch × 24 TPI thread.

Why does the drive-side cup tighten the opposite way?

Because it's left-hand threaded: pedaling forces tend to tighten it rather than loosen it (precession).

Is BSA compatible with SRAM DUB?

Yes, there are BSA DUB cups for 68/73 mm that house the 28.99 mm spindle.

BikeLab-pedia · Bottom Bracket Cluster / Bicycle compatibility and standards / Carlos Eduardo Ravello Joo · BikeLab Studio · Trujillo, Peru