Lots of poor, and outright incorrect bottom bracket advice here.
>>1734153>how do I know what bottom bracket I need?Instead of listening to these other posters, please consider reading the ~4 related pages on Sheldon's site (search "square taper bottom bracket" on
sheldonbrown.com).
Spindle length is largely determined by the cranks you're using--check the crank manufacturer's spec for a starting point.
>>1734211>cheap isn't really a concernPhil Wood, Tange Seiki, IRD (made by Tange), SKF all make good square taper bb's in longer spindle lengths. Whether or not they're in stock these days...
>>1734235>I can and should use something elseCan? Yeah, there are several types of outboard bearing bb's whose cups have the same threading (Shimano Hollowtech II, for example).
Should? Who knows. Do you have some compelling reason? I just built up a '91 Miyata 914, and chose to install some Shimano 600 cranks w/ a square taper bb--works well, and it's beautiful.
