Shimano 105 BB-5500 OCTALINK bottom bracket 109.5mm

Shimano 105 BB-5500 OCTALINK: a reliable, high-performance bottom bracket

The Shimano 105 BB-5500 OCTALINK 109.5 mm is a bottom bracket designed for drivetrains Shimano using the interface OCTALINK. It connects the crankset to the frame whilst ensuring smooth operation and good overall stiffness.

Part of the range Shimano 105, this bottom bracket is designed specifically for road bikes fitted with an OCTALINK-compatible crankset. Its integrated axle design and sealed bearings provide a durable solution for the maintenance or restoration of a bike fitted with this generation of drivetrain.

With an axle length of 109.5 mm, the BB-5500 should be selected according to the pedal set used and the recommendations Shimano in order to ensure the correct chain pitch.

An interface Shimano OCTALINK

The BB-5500 uses the standard mounting system OCTALINK developed by Shimano.

Unlike traditional square-spindle systems, OCTALINK uses a splined interface between the bottom bracket spindle and the crankset. This design ensures a precise connection between the two components and efficient transmission of pedalling force.

However, when choosing an OCTALINK bottom bracket, you must ensure that it is fully compatible with the crankset. A crankset designed for a different axle standard cannot be fitted directly to this bottom bracket.

A 109.5 mm axle

The Shimano 105 BB-5500 uses an axis of 109.5 mm.

This factor directly affects the position of the crankset in relation to the frame and, consequently, the chainline. It is therefore important to ensure that the axle length specified for the crankset being used is observed.

If you are replacing an existing housing, we recommend that you check the model number of the installed unit and the width of the housing before placing your order.

A case designed for road bikes

The Shimano The 105 BB-5500 has been designed for the latest generation of road drivetrains using the OCTALINK interface.

In particular, it is a suitable solution for the repair or maintenance of bicycles fitted with older groupsets Shimano compatible with this standard.

When restoring a vintage bicycle or preserving its original configuration, it is particularly important to adhere to the standard axle specifications and bottom bracket length.

A solution for replacing a worn-out casing

Over time, the bearings in a bottom bracket may develop play, become less smooth or start to make noises when pedalling. Replacing the bottom bracket will then restore the drivetrain to normal operation.

The BB-5500 OCTALINK 109.5 mm allows you to replace a compatible bottom bracket without changing the crankset standard.

Before assembly, you should check the condition of the frame’s threads, clean the contact surfaces and follow the assembly instructions Shimano.

Compatibility and choice of case

The length of the axle alone is not sufficient to determine compatibility. You must also check the crankset standard, the width of the bottom bracket shell and the type of thread.

As the BB-5500 is a model OCTALINK, it is designed for cyclists Shimano intended for this interface.

Checking the part number of the crankset and bottom bracket currently fitted will help to avoid any compatibility issues.

The key features of the Shimano 105 BB-5500

• Bottom bracket shell Shimano 105

• Reference BB-5500

• Pedal interface OCTALINK

• Focus on 109.5 mm

• Designed for compatible road drivetrains

• A solution suitable for replacing an OCTALINK housing

• Useful for the maintenance and restoration of bicycles fitted with this generation of components Shimano

• Manufacturing Shimano

Technical specifications