How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the SM-BB5700

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The Shimano SM-BB5700 [paid link] bottom bracket is a Hollowtech II-compatible external-threaded bottom bracket designed for road bikes using the Shimano 105 5700 crankset. As a critical component of your drivetrain, the bottom bracket supports the crank axle and ensures smooth, efficient pedaling. This guide will provide a complete overview of how to install, adjust, and maintain the SM-BB5700 [paid link] to keep your bike running at peak performance.

Tools Required

  • Hollowtech II bottom bracket tool [paid link] (e.g., Shimano TL-FC32 [paid link] or compatible)
  • Torque wrench [paid link] with appropriate adapter
  • Anti-seize compound or Shimano-specific bottom bracket grease
  • Thread prep compound (if not factory-applied)
  • Clean shop rags
  • Allen key set (for crank arm bolts)

Understanding the SM-BB5700 [paid link]

The SM-BB5700 is a threaded bottom bracket that fits English-threaded (BSA) bottom bracket shells with a 68mm width. It uses outboard bearings to support a 24mm Hollowtech II spindle, offering greater stiffness and durability compared to square taper or Octalink systems.

The right-hand (drive side) cup contains the plastic sleeve that passes through the shell and connects to the left-hand (non-drive side) cup, providing bearing alignment and contaminant protection.

Installation Process

Before installation, ensure your bottom bracket shell is correctly faced and tapped. Any misalignment can result in premature bearing wear or poor crank performance.

1. Prepare the bottom bracket shell
Clean the shell thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol. Inspect for damage or corrosion. Ensure there are no remnants of old thread locker or debris. If the bike frame is aluminum or steel, apply anti-seize compound to the shell threads. For carbon frames or those with metal inserts, use the grease or compound recommended by the manufacturer.

2. Install the right-side cup
Start with the drive side. Insert the bottom bracket cup and rotate it counter-clockwise by hand to prevent cross-threading. Once hand-tight, use the Hollowtech II tool to torque the cup to Shimano’s recommended spec (typically 35–50 Nm). The plastic inner sleeve should be oriented properly through the shell.

3. Install the left-side cup
Thread the left-side cup clockwise into the frame by hand first. Once secure, torque it to the same specification as the right side. Confirm the sleeve is seated properly inside both cups.

4. Final inspection
Check for any misalignment, and spin the bearings by hand to verify they feel smooth and free from grit. Wipe off any excess compound.

Adjustment and Crankset Installation

The SM-BB5700 does not allow for traditional bearing preload adjustment, as preload is managed via the Hollowtech II crank arm design.

1. Insert the crank spindle
Slide the right crank arm with spindle through the bottom bracket from the drive side. Ensure it moves smoothly and doesn’t bind.

2. Install the left crank arm
Align it 180 degrees from the right arm. Lightly grease the mating surfaces. Use the crank arm preload cap to gently eliminate any side-to-side play without overtightening. Use an appropriate Shimano preload cap tool.

3. Tighten crank bolts
Using the appropriate Allen key, tighten the two pinch bolts alternately in small increments. Torque to the specified 12–14 Nm. Verify there is no crank arm wobble.

Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance of the SM-BB5700 will extend its lifespan and help prevent bearing contamination and noise.

1. Periodic inspection
Every 1,000–2,000 kilometers, check for creaks or play in the crankset. Rotate the crank arms to detect any rough bearing feel or resistance.

2. Cleaning the external cups
Use a damp cloth to wipe off any visible grime from the cups. Do not spray water directly at the bottom bracket, especially with high pressure.

3. Re-greasing intervals
About every 5,000–6,000 kilometers, remove the crankset to inspect and clean the cups and inner sleeve. Reapply fresh grease to the bearing contact points and threads. Replace the crank arm preload cap if wear is evident.

4. Bearing replacement
Though the SM-BB5700 is not designed for bearing service, worn bearings can be replaced using Shimano-compatible bearing removal tools. If bearings feel gritty or drag significantly, it’s best to replace the entire bottom bracket assembly.

Avoiding Installation Mistakes

Incorrect installation is the most common source of premature wear or noise. Always ensure:

  • Threads are properly greased or treated
  • Cups are torqued to specification
  • Crank arms are installed with preload correctly adjusted
  • Bottom bracket shell is faced and clean

Skipping any of these steps can compromise longevity and performance.

Conclusion

Installing, adjusting, and maintaining the Shimano SM-BB5700 bottom bracket requires careful attention to detail, but with proper technique, this component can deliver thousands of smooth kilometers. Regular inspection and cleaning ensure your drivetrain remains efficient and free from annoying creaks or resistance. For riders using the 105 5700 crankset, the SM-BB5700 remains a reliable and compatible choice that, when correctly maintained, performs exceptionally well under road cycling conditions.