Square taper to Hollotech?

[Gary E]

I need to change the chainset on my Giant FCR and I'm thinking about changing it to a Sora 9 speed double. The problem is that it's currently fitted with a square taper bottom bracket (for an FSA Vero chainset). In order to fit the Sora chainset this will have to be changed to a Hollowtech BB.
Has anyone done this already? If so I'd appreciate any insights you may have gained along the way for example what components did you use?
The FCR has the same chainset as the Defy if that helps.
Thanks.

 

[lpretro1]

Usually the bb cups will come with the crankset. But do check. Remove old square taper. It is best to have bb faced if it hasn't been done (if it is a carbon bike then not needed). Your LBS should do for a few pounds. Some copper-slip on threads fit new cups slide axle through from drive side - may need to be tapped wit rubber hammer - attach l/h crank - do up pre-load finger-tight only (start shaped plastic bit) push down security tab and then do up allen bolts to torque shown on crank (12-14Nm). You will need tool to get old cranks off and to remove bb. You will need another tool to put new cups on and tighten pre-load. If you know what you are doing - and have tools - it is easy. if not let LBS do it - should only cost £10-15 for them to do so.

 

[boydj]

Simple job, well described above. Hardest bit will be getting the old BB out for which you'll need the correct tool and be able to get good leverage.

 

[PaulSecteur]

Usually the bb cups will come with the crankset.

That may be if you buy them retail, but the cheaper ones from Ribble and the 3 I have got so far do not include the cups. Check before you order them to avoid buying them twice, or having to make a seperate order for them.

 

[byegad]

A backward step re-longevity IMHO. The only BB I've worn out in the last 20 years, is a Hollowtech II and after only 4500 miles. I have Square taper BBs with a whole lot more miles on them and no wear.

On the other hand new bearing are cheap enough and very easy to change with the right tools.

 

[Star Strider]

I would stay square taper, there are bargains to be had on what were some very high end square taper chainsets.

 

[simon_adams_uk]

Ditto the advice above - I'd be tempted to keep the BB and get a heavily discounted higher-end chainset