Shimano FD-5700 Front Derailleur Set-Up Quality: Why It Feels Off and How to Fix It

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The Shimano FD-5700 [paid link] front derailleur, part of the 105 10-speed groupset, is designed to deliver smooth and precise front shifting. However, if your set-up feels sluggish, noisy, or inconsistent, the issue often lies not in the derailleur itself but in the installation and adjustment process. This guide covers why the FD-5700 [paid link] front derailleur may feel off, how to identify the root cause, and how to correct it for optimal shifting performance.

Tools Required

  • 5 mm hex key
  • Torque wrench [paid link] with hex bit
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Cable cutters
  • Bike stand [paid link] (recommended)

Understanding the FD-5700 Front Derailleur Design

The FD-5700 [paid link] is a braze-on or clamp-style front derailleur designed for Shimano’s 10-speed road drivetrains. It is optimized for a double chainring system and requires precise positioning to function correctly. Unlike newer generations, the FD-5700 relies heavily on exact cable tension and correct limit screw adjustment. Any deviation in alignment or tension will quickly result in poor performance, chain rub, or incomplete shifts.

Common Reasons Why the FD-5700 Feels Off

Several issues can cause poor set-up quality with the FD-5700:

Incorrect Mounting Height

If the derailleur cage sits too high above the big chainring, shifts will feel slow and may not complete. Conversely, if it is too low, the cage can catch on the teeth of the chainring.

Poor Cage Alignment

The outer cage plate must run parallel to the chainrings. Even a slight toe-in or toe-out misalignment can create excessive chain rub and inconsistent shifting.

Improper Cable Tension

Low cable tension leads to the derailleur failing to shift up to the big ring, while too much tension can make it difficult to return to the small ring.

Limit Screw Errors

Incorrect high- or low-limit screw settings can prevent the derailleur from reaching the chainrings or allow the chain to drop.

Worn or Contaminated Components

Old cables, corroded housing, or worn chainrings can degrade performance, even if the derailleur itself is correctly installed.

Step-by-Step Fix for FD-5700 Set-Up Issues

Step 1: Check Mounting Position

Ensure the derailleur cage sits 1–3 mm above the tallest tooth on the big chainring. Adjust the clamp or braze-on mount position if necessary.

Step 2: Align the Cage

Rotate the derailleur so that the outer plate runs exactly parallel to the chainrings. This eliminates side-loading that causes rubbing.

Step 3: Reset Limit Screws

Back out both limit screws and reset them:

  • Low-limit screw should position the cage just clear of the chain when in the small ring and largest sprocket.
  • High-limit screw should prevent the chain from overshifting when moving to the big ring.

Step 4: Correct Cable Tension

Pull the cable taut and secure it with the anchor bolt using a torque wrench [paid link]. Fine-tune the tension using the barrel adjuster until the derailleur moves cleanly across both chainrings without hesitation.

Step 5: Test Under Load

Shift repeatedly under moderate pedaling force. Check for smooth movement, absence of chain rub, and complete transitions between chainrings. Make small adjustments to the barrel or limit screws as needed.

Advanced Optimization for Better Shifting

To improve long-term performance of the FD-5700, consider the following refinements:

  • Use low-friction cable housing: This reduces resistance and makes shifting feel lighter.
  • Upgrade to stainless steel or polymer-coated cables: These improve durability and maintain tension longer.
  • Match with Shimano 10-speed compatible chainrings and shifters: Mixing components from different generations often results in poor alignment and inconsistent shifting.
  • Regular cleaning and lubrication: Prevents dirt build-up, which can restrict derailleur movement.

Compatibility Considerations

The Shimano FD-5700 front derailleur is designed specifically for 10-speed Shimano road drivetrains. It is compatible with Shimano 105, Ultegra, and Dura-Ace 10-speed systems. However, it is not optimized for 11-speed drivetrains due to differences in chainline and pull ratios. Using the FD-5700 with mismatched components will compromise shifting quality.

Conclusion

When the Shimano FD-5700 front derailleur feels off, the problem usually lies in the set-up rather than the component itself. Correct mounting height, cage alignment, limit screw adjustment, and proper cable tension are critical for smooth, consistent performance. By following a systematic adjustment process and maintaining the derailleur with clean, lubricated components, you can restore crisp and reliable front shifting that the FD-5700 was designed to deliver.