The tool came with my SLX crank bought (via LBS) direct from Shimano. Being Shimano, I bet that they offer cranks to distros both with and without the tool, if the distro wants to save a buck. I know that the tool did not come with a friends SLX crank.
Andrew - I wonder if the move the to the smaller bearing for OB BB was to use the same bearing that they are using for PF BB? I too recall there being a line about how going smaller reduced drag and increased the lifespan due to the smaller bearing face.
July 7, 2020, 2:22 p.m. - Nouseforaname
The tool came with my SLX crank bought (via LBS) direct from Shimano. Being Shimano, I bet that they offer cranks to distros both with and without the tool, if the distro wants to save a buck. I know that the tool did not come with a friends SLX crank. Andrew - I wonder if the move the to the smaller bearing for OB BB was to use the same bearing that they are using for PF BB? I too recall there being a line about how going smaller reduced drag and increased the lifespan due to the smaller bearing face.