The Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] chainring is a key component of your road bike’s drivetrain, designed for precision, durability, and performance. Keeping it in peak condition ensures a smoother ride, better shifting, and extended longevity. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive maintenance plan to keep your Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] chainring running at its best. From regular cleaning to troubleshooting, this guide covers everything you need for effective upkeep.

Understanding the Shimano FC-6700 Chainring

The Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] chainring is part of the Shimano 105 series, offering a high-performance balance between cost and quality. Designed for 10-speed road bikes, the FC-6700 is known for its lightweight construction and excellent power transfer. The chainring features a durable aluminum build with a precise tooth profile, ensuring smooth shifting even under load.

Regular Cleaning and Lubrication

A clean chainring is vital to its performance and longevity. Dirt and grime can cause wear on both the chainring and the chain, leading to poor shifting performance. Here’s how to clean your FC-6700 chainring effectively:

1. Remove the chainring from the crankset – For a thorough clean, you’ll need to remove the chainring from the crankset. This process varies depending on your crankset type but typically involves removing the crank arms and unbolting the chainring.
2. Clean with degreaser – Apply a bike-specific degreaser to the chainring and scrub with a soft brush. Ensure that you clean between the teeth to remove any accumulated dirt or grease.
3. Rinse and dry – After degreasing, rinse the chainring with warm water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent rust.
4. Lubricate the chainring bolts – Apply a thin layer of grease to the chainring bolts before reassembling. This prevents seizing or rusting of the bolts, which could make future removal difficult.
5. Clean the chain – Use the same degreaser on the chain to remove any buildup. A clean chain will help reduce the frequency of cleaning the chainring itself.
6. Reinstall the chainring – After cleaning and lubricating, reinstall the chainring and make sure all bolts are properly tightened according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Monitoring Wear and Tear

Over time, even the most durable components like the Shimano FC-6700 chainring will experience some wear. It’s crucial to monitor the chainring regularly to ensure optimal performance.

• Check for tooth wear – Inspect the teeth for any signs of damage, such as shark fin-like wear or broken teeth. A worn chainring can cause poor shifting and premature chain wear.
• Inspect for cracks – Look for any visible cracks in the chainring, especially around the bolt holes. Cracks can lead to catastrophic failure, so replace the chainring immediately if you notice any damage.
• Check chainring bolts – Regularly inspect the bolts for tightness. Loose bolts can lead to chainring wobble, which may cause poor shifting performance and uneven wear.

Replacing the Chainring

Although the Shimano FC-6700 chainring is built for longevity, it’s not immune to wear. Typically, you should consider replacing the chainring when you notice significant tooth wear or damage. Follow these steps for a smooth replacement:

1. Remove the crankset – For an easy chainring replacement, you’ll need to remove the entire crankset from your bike. This typically involves loosening the crank arm bolts and using a crank puller.
2. Remove the worn chainring – Unbolt the chainring from the crankset. Pay attention to the bolt pattern to ensure correct installation of the new chainring.
3. Install the new chainring – Position the new Shimano FC-6700 chainring on the crankset and tighten the bolts securely, following the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
4. Reinstall the crankset – After replacing the chainring, reinstall the crankset on your bike and make sure everything is properly aligned.
5. Test ride and adjust – Once the new chainring is in place, perform a test ride to ensure smooth shifting and optimal performance.

Optimizing Performance with Chainring Adjustments

To keep your Shimano FC-6700 chainring running like new, it’s important to adjust the front derailleur and chain regularly. Proper adjustments will help maintain smooth, precise shifting and reduce unnecessary wear on your drivetrain components.

1. Front derailleur alignment – Ensure that the front derailleur is aligned correctly with the chainring. Misalignment can cause poor shifting performance and increased wear on both the chainring and the derailleur.
2. Chain tension – Keep your chain properly tensioned. A loose chain can result in poor shifting performance, while an overly tight chain will cause excessive wear on the chainring and other drivetrain components.
3. Shifting precision – If shifting becomes sluggish or imprecise, check for chainring or derailleur misalignment. A slight adjustment in the derailleur’s position or limit screws may be all that’s needed.

Troubleshooting Common Chainring Problems

Sometimes, despite regular maintenance, issues may arise with the FC-6700 chainring. Here are a few common problems and solutions:

• Noisy shifting – This can be caused by a misaligned front derailleur or worn-out teeth. Try adjusting the derailleur first, and if the problem persists, inspect the chainring for wear and replace if necessary.
• Skipping or poor shifting – If the chain skips or the shifting feels rough, check the chain for stretch and replace it if necessary. Also, ensure the front derailleur is set up properly to avoid poor shifting under load.
• Chain drop – A chain that falls off the chainring is usually due to a misaligned derailleur or a worn chainring. Realign the derailleur or replace the chainring as needed.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance of your Shimano FC-6700 chainring is crucial to ensure long-lasting performance and efficiency. By following this maintenance plan—cleaning, lubricating, monitoring wear, and performing regular adjustments—you can enjoy smooth and efficient shifting for many miles. Replacing worn-out components promptly and troubleshooting issues early will also help extend the life of your drivetrain and improve your riding experience. With proper care, your Shimano FC-6700 chainring will serve you well for years to come.