The bike I bought in 2005 was equipped with a spindle type cartridge. Tore up 2 really quick. Creaking, needing adjustments, forget it. Bontrager replaced under warranty but still..........
I bought and outboard bearing setup crank from Shimano. Ebay about $120, well worth it. Put it in myself, no problems since and still riding the same crank here in 2024.