Today my bearing seals FINALLY arrived. This means I can install my drivetrain and get my Factor O2 VAM on the road.

Why did they take so long? I ordered some, they sent the wrong ones (internal seals, not external), then the correct ones were lost in the post, then they ran out of stock. So I purchased some from Wiggle… Royal Mail tracking info still says ‘Due to COVID-19 there is a delay with your order’… So yesterday I ordered some from Condor Cycles which turned up today. Thanks, Condor. #SupportLocalBikeShops

When is the book coming out, right? Sorry to bore you.

Today I finally installed my CeramicSpeed Bearings onto my chainset and glued them into my BBInfinate bottom bracket. Yes, you read that correctly… glued.

CeramicSpeed bearings, Loctite, grease, isopropyl alcohol. What could possibly go wrong?

I have to say, I have used a few different bearing manufactures over the years: Campagnolo, Kogel, C-Bear, NTN, Enduro, EZO, SKF, etc. On first impressions, these CeramicSpeed bearings are a cut above the rest. The seals, grease and manufacturing quality feel… premium.

Ceramic doesn’t mean ‘faster’. Quality design, reduced friction and durability make faster bearings. Other than CeramicSpeed, C-Bear bearings are the best quality I have ridden - I recently popped some onto my Colnago C40 to replace the Kogel bearings that I drowned with sweat (due to all the indoor training).

Glueing in the bearings

I have been saving this NOS 2014 Campagnolo Super Record chainset for something special. This chainset is the perfect blend between modern performance and classic style. The five-arm design is the same shape as Campagnolo chainsets from the ’80s and ’90s, rather than the modern four-arm designs. I threw on some silver chainrings for extra style points.

Usually, Ultra-Torque bearings are retained with a clip. The BBInfinate system uses Loctite instead... I’m pretty sure that glue and bearings don’t mix…? However, if installed correctly, this is a really cool idea.

After installing the bearing onto the crank, you have to clean the top race with isopropyl alcohol, then apply a thin layer of Loctite before you press into the bottom bracket shell. I used an earbud to gently dab on the Loctite and avoid destroying these ceramic jewels.

Now I have to let this cure overnight before I can install the chain and adjust the front and rear derailleur.

Then it’s just the finishing touches: set the brake blocks, adjust the bars and stem, seatpost, saddle, wrap the bar tape and finally pump up the tyres. Oh, and pop a coin battery in the Stages Power meter - more on that later.

It’s so close…

Gareth.