New frame needed a T47 internal BB. I was debating about doing a run of the mill, or splurging on the King. Glad I did. I don't have enough miles on this yet to say it's lasted 60,000 miles and has been trouble free, but I have others in other bikes going strong.
One thing to note. Ceramic bearings in our field of use aren't exactly all they're cracked up to be in terms of "making you faster". But, what I can tell you, is ceramic bearings last longer because from what I've found, they pulverize grit. My cross BB is going strong through 2 seasons of, well, cross weather. And I'm not delicate with the hose either, I blast the dirt out and call it a day.
So, I can say ceramic has a place for not getting so chunky and such like steel, but it's of course costly.
Regarding maintenance, it's not too bad, pop the seal ring out, flush with cleaner, new grease, pop seal back in, done. I do wish there was a cap or something over the seal itself like most BB's have, just for some added protection and a spot to put more grease, but it's not a big thing.
Threaded into the frame by hand too, and then I got the torque wrench to finish the job. No goofy threads.
