The Shimano CS-4700 [paid link] cassette, designed specifically for the Tiagra 10-speed groupset, plays a critical role in the overall efficiency and responsiveness of your drivetrain. Over time, wear and tear degrade shifting quality and increase the risk of chain slippage or drivetrain noise. Replacing the cassette at the right interval ensures smoother rides, better power transfer, and longer component life.
This technical guide walks you through the complete replacement process of the Shimano CS-4700 [paid link] cassette, covering preparation, removal, installation, and post-installation tuning. You’ll also learn how to identify wear patterns, select compatible replacement parts, and fine-tune the drivetrain for peak performance.
Tools Required
- Chain whip
- Cassette lockring tool [paid link] (compatible with Shimano/SRAM)
- Adjustable wrench or ratchet handle
- Torque wrench [paid link] (recommended)
- Clean rag or shop towel
- Grease or anti-seize compound
- Bike stand [paid link] (optional but helpful)
When and Why to Replace the Shimano CS-4700 Cassette
Replacing the CS-4700 [paid link] cassette should be based on visual inspection, performance symptoms, and mileage. As a general guideline:
- Replace after 3,000–5,000 miles of typical road use.
- Replace immediately if teeth are visibly worn, shark-fin shaped, or chipped.
- Replace if you experience frequent chain skipping, especially under load.
- Swap in a new cassette when installing a new chain, especially if the old one was heavily worn to avoid mismatched wear.
Using a new chain on a worn cassette often leads to poor engagement and accelerated wear, diminishing the drivetrain’s lifespan.
Cassette Removal: Safe and Efficient Disassembly
To remove the CS-4700 cassette:
- Remove the rear wheel from the bicycle.
- Insert the lockring tool [paid link] into the cassette’s lockring. Ensure it’s fully seated.
- Use the chain whip to hold the cassette in place by bracing it against a cog.
- Turn the lockring tool [paid link] counterclockwise using an adjustable wrench or ratchet. Once loosened, unthread and remove the lockring by hand.
- Slide the cassette off the freehub body. Cogs may be connected in groups or individually depending on the gear ratio selected.
Use a clean rag to wipe debris and grease from the freehub body. Inspect the splines for wear or damage.
Choosing the Right Replacement: Shimano CS-4700 Compatibility
The CS-4700 cassette is part of Shimano’s 10-speed Tiagra system and is only compatible with Shimano 10-speed road systems. It must be paired with:
- Shimano 10-speed road rear derailleurs (Tiagra 4700 or compatible).
- Shimano 10-speed chains (e.g., CN-4601 [paid link] or equivalent).
- 10-speed Shimano-compatible freehub bodies (standard Shimano HG design).
Available gear ratios include 11-25T, 12-28T, and 11-32T. Gear range selection should align with your derailleur’s capacity and chain length.
Avoid mixing with MTB-specific 10-speed components or 11-speed systems, as spacing and shift indexing differ.
Installing the New Shimano CS-4700 Cassette
Follow these precise steps to ensure correct installation:
- Align the splines: The cassette features a single narrow spline that matches one on the freehub body. This alignment ensures correct orientation.
- Slide each cog and spacer (if separate) onto the freehub body in the correct sequence.
- Apply a thin layer of grease or anti-seize to the lockring threads to prevent seizing.
- Thread the lockring into place by hand to avoid cross-threading.
- Tighten the lockring with a torque wrench [paid link] to Shimano’s specification: 40 Nm.
Reinstall the wheel and check for secure fitment and alignment.
Post-Installation Tuning and Testing
Once installed, shift through all gears to verify smooth indexing:
- If shifting is imprecise, adjust the barrel adjuster on the rear derailleur for fine tuning.
- Check derailleur B-tension to ensure the top pulley maintains adequate clearance over the largest cog.
- Inspect chain length and replace if it no longer fits the new cassette range correctly.
Listen for unusual noises or hesitation while shifting under load. Proper alignment should result in crisp, quick shifts across the range.
What to Watch for After Cassette Replacement
After replacing the CS-4700 cassette, monitor the following:
- Noise or resistance: May indicate misalignment or a dry lockring.
- Chain skipping: Likely caused by an incompatible or worn chain.
- Derailleur hesitation: Typically corrected with minor barrel adjustment.
Initial test rides should be done on flat terrain while observing performance in all gears. Re-check torque after a few rides, especially if unusual sounds develop.
FAQs: Shimano CS-4700 Cassette Replacement
Q1: Do I need a new chain when replacing my CS-4700 cassette?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to replace the chain to ensure proper engagement and prolong drivetrain life.
Q2: Can I use the CS-4700 cassette on an 11-speed system?
No. The spacing and compatibility differ. The CS-4700 is exclusively for 10-speed road drivetrains.
Q3: What’s the maximum gear ratio supported by the CS-4700?
The largest standard ratio available is 11-32T. Make sure your rear derailleur can accommodate it.
Q4: How tight should the lockring be?
Shimano specifies a torque of 40 Nm. Use a torque wrench [paid link] for accurate installation.
Q5: Why does my new cassette feel rough when shifting?
This could be due to incorrect indexing, a worn chain, or incorrect derailleur setup. Recheck tuning.
Q6: Is lubrication needed during cassette installation?
Yes, a light application of grease or anti-seize on the lockring threads prevents seizing and ensures easier removal later.
Conclusion
Replacing the Shimano CS-4700 cassette is a critical maintenance step that directly affects your drivetrain’s efficiency and ride quality. By understanding the correct procedure, selecting compatible components, and fine-tuning the setup, you can restore crisp shifting and extend the life of your bike’s drivetrain. With the right tools and attention to detail, even home mechanics can confidently complete this upgrade.