Maintaining a clean and properly lubricated Shimano FC-5700 [paid link] crankset is essential for ensuring peak performance and extending the lifespan of your drivetrain. The FC-5700 [paid link] is a reliable, mid-range crankset from Shimano’s 105 series, designed for smooth, efficient power transfer during road cycling. In this guide, we’ll outline the best lubrication and cleaning routine to keep your Shimano FC-5700 [paid link] crankset running smoothly, ensuring optimal performance on every ride.

Why Regular Lubrication and Cleaning Are Crucial

Over time, dirt, grime, moisture, and friction can accumulate on your crankset, causing wear and tear that affects performance and efficiency. Proper cleaning and lubrication reduce friction between moving parts, helping to prevent premature damage to components like bearings, chainrings, and bolts. Additionally, regular maintenance helps maintain the smooth shifting experience and ensures consistent power transfer, which is critical during rides.

Key Benefits of Proper Lubrication and Cleaning

• Prevents corrosion: Moisture exposure can lead to rust and degradation of metal parts. Lubrication forms a protective barrier, preventing corrosion.
• Reduces friction: Proper lubrication ensures smoother pedal strokes by reducing the friction between the crankset components.
• Improves shifting performance: A well-maintained crankset allows for more efficient power transfer, resulting in crisp and reliable shifting.
• Extends lifespan: Regular cleaning and lubrication prevent wear, helping your crankset last longer and perform better over time.

Tools Required

• Degreaser or cleaning solution
• Soft brush (toothbrush or bike-specific)
• Chain cleaning tool (optional)
• Rags or microfiber cloth
• Bike stand [paid link] (optional, but recommended)
• Lubricant (dry or wet, depending on your riding conditions)
• Grease (specifically for crankset and bottom bracket)
• Torque wrench [paid link]

Cleaning Your Shimano FC-5700 Crankset

Cleaning your Shimano FC-5700 crankset is a straightforward process that should be done regularly, especially after wet or muddy rides. A clean crankset improves both the longevity and efficiency of the entire drivetrain.

Step 1: Remove the Crankset (Optional)

While it’s not strictly necessary to remove the crankset for routine cleaning, doing so allows you to clean thoroughly. If you’re opting to remove the crankset, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper removal. Use a crank arm puller tool to safely detach the crankset from the bike.

Step 2: Apply Degreaser

Use a biodegradable degreaser to break down grease, grime, and dirt that may have built up on the crankset. Apply the degreaser liberally to all parts of the crankset, including the chainrings, bolts, and crank arms. Allow it to sit for several minutes to dissolve any stubborn residue.

Step 3: Scrub the Components

Using a soft brush, such as an old toothbrush or a bike-specific cleaning brush, scrub the crankset. Pay close attention to the chainring teeth, where dirt and debris tend to accumulate. Be sure to remove any buildup around the bottom bracket area as well. For hard-to-reach places, use a smaller brush or even compressed air to blow out dirt.

Step 4: Rinse and Wipe

After scrubbing, rinse the crankset thoroughly with water to remove the degreaser and debris. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the crankset, ensuring all excess water and degreaser are removed.

Step 5: Dry the Crankset

Allow the crankset to dry completely before moving to the lubrication stage. You can dry it with a clean, dry cloth or let it air dry. Ensure that there is no remaining moisture, particularly in the bolt areas or the spaces between the crank arms and bottom bracket.

Lubricating Your Shimano FC-5700 Crankset

Lubrication helps reduce friction, prevent rust, and promote smooth operation of your Shimano FC-5700 crankset. There are several areas of the crankset that require lubrication: the pedal threads, crank arm bolt, and the chainrings. Additionally, using the right type of lubricant is important for achieving optimal performance.

Step 1: Apply Grease to Pedal Threads

Before reattaching your pedals, apply a thin layer of grease to the pedal threads on both the left and right crank arms. This will prevent seizing and make it easier to remove the pedals in the future. Use a high-quality, bike-specific grease for this purpose.

Step 2: Lubricate Crank Arm Bolts

The crank arm bolts should be greased to prevent them from seizing or corroding over time. Apply a thin layer of grease to the threads of the bolts before tightening them. Be sure to use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification (usually around 30-40 Nm for Shimano cranksets).

Step 3: Lubricate Chainring Bolts

Chainring bolts should be lubricated to ensure smooth operation and to prevent them from rusting. Apply a light coat of grease to the threads of the chainring bolts. If your crankset features a removable chainring system, check for any play or looseness and tighten the bolts as necessary.

Step 4: Apply Chain Lubricant

While the crankset itself does not require lubricant directly, the chain is an important component that interacts with the crankset. Regularly lubricate your chain to ensure smooth interaction between the chain and chainrings. Apply the appropriate lubricant based on your riding conditions, choosing either a dry or wet lubricant for the best performance in various weather conditions.

Step 5: Reassemble and Check Tightness

Once the crankset components are lubricated, reassemble the crankset (if you removed it) and ensure that all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications. Double-check that everything is secure and there is no play in the crank arms or chainrings.

Best Practices for Lubrication and Cleaning

• Frequency: Clean and lubricate your Shimano FC-5700 crankset at least once every month or after every 100-150 miles of riding. If you ride in wet or muddy conditions, consider cleaning and lubricating more frequently.
• Use Bike-Specific Products: Always use bike-specific degreasers, lubricants, and greases. These products are designed to work with the materials and components of your bike, preventing damage and ensuring optimal performance.
• Avoid Over-Lubricating: Too much lubricant can attract dirt and debris, causing more harm than good. Use a small amount of grease or oil and wipe away any excess.
• Check for Wear: While cleaning and lubricating, inspect the crankset for any signs of wear, damage, or loose bolts. Address any issues before they become major problems.

By following this lubrication and cleaning routine, your Shimano FC-5700 crankset will perform optimally for years to come. Proper care ensures that your bike’s drivetrain remains smooth, efficient, and reliable, providing you with the best riding experience possible.