I believe that crankset would use the outboard style BB correct? Is there a specific one for that crank? Also, with her drivetrain being 9-speed 105, is that compact crankset for 10-speed groupsets only? Or will it work on her bike? If not, is there a 9-speed compatible compact I should look for? Thanks.
The crank uses the standard Shimano outboard BB for road, there is a small price difference between the Ultegra and Dura Ace versions of the BB, I cant say I have noticed a difference in longevity or “smoothness” between them. It should work fine on a 9 speed drivetrain.
Cool, thanks for the info. I think she’ll be a lot happier with the compact gearing after having moved to Massachusetts.
I also see there is the FC-R700 and the FC-R600 in Shimano compact cranks. There is about a $100 price difference between the two. I’ve also seen the FC-R4550 which is another $100 cheaper. I’ve seen the 4550 described as Tiagra level so I will stay away from that. I’ve seen the R700 described as Ultegra level, so I’d guess that maybe the R600 would be 105 level, is that accurate?
If so, would you spend the extra money for the R700 or go with the R600?
You are correct in that the R600 is 105, the R700 is Ultegra. We have put both R600 and R700 cranksets onto bike, they both work well, the R700 is a little lighter, the finish is nicer and has better chainrings. IMO its worth the extra money.
i think someone had a r700 on sale in the classified in the last week (i don’t think it sold but i’m not sure). it was very well priced at only $90. I think I paid $140 shipped for a new one off ebay. just a heads up.