The Shimano CS-5700 [paid link] cassette, part of the 105 series, is a popular 10-speed road cassette known for its reliability, solid shifting performance, and durable build. To maintain the cassette’s high performance over time, it’s crucial to implement a comprehensive care and maintenance routine. This guide explores how to keep your CS-5700 [paid link] cassette functioning like new—covering cleaning methods, drivetrain optimization, and troubleshooting common wear-related issues.
Understanding the Shimano CS-5700 Cassette Design
The CS-5700 [paid link] features precisely machined sprockets with close gear ratios for efficient cadence management. It comes in various configurations like 11-25T, 12-27T, and 11-28T, which cater to both flatland speed and moderate climbing. The cassette uses nickel-plated steel sprockets and an aluminum lockring for durability and corrosion resistance.
Maintaining this performance level [paid link] requires more than just routine cleaning. Each sprocket must be kept clean, aligned correctly, and used within compatible drivetrain systems to prevent premature degradation.
Routine Inspection and Cleaning for Optimal Longevity
Regular inspection of the cassette’s teeth is critical. Look for any sharp or hooked profiles—an early indicator of wear. Cleaning should follow a structured routine based on riding frequency and environmental conditions.
Recommended Cleaning Routine:
- For dry riding environments, clean the cassette every 200–300 miles.
- In wet or gritty conditions, reduce this interval to every 100–150 miles.
Use a brush and degreaser to remove built-up grime between the sprockets. Avoid pressure washers, as they can force debris into tight crevices and damage seals. After degreasing, dry the cassette thoroughly and re-lubricate the chain to prevent rusting.
Chain Compatibility and Wear Synchronization
The CS-5700 cassette is designed to work optimally with Shimano 10-speed chains. Always use a matching Shimano or compatible 10-speed chain to avoid shifting inconsistencies. A worn chain will accelerate cassette wear, so use a chain checker tool frequently and replace the chain once elongation exceeds 0.75%.
Synchronizing the cassette and chain wear is key. Replace the chain before it damages the cassette sprockets. If the chain has been run too long, both components may need replacement to restore performance.
Lubrication Strategy for Smoother Operation
While the cassette itself doesn’t require direct lubrication, its performance is intrinsically tied to a well-lubricated chain. Use a chain lubricant suited to your climate—dry lube [paid link] for arid conditions and wet lube [paid link] for moisture-heavy environments. Apply lubricant sparingly and wipe off excess to prevent attracting dirt.
Rear Derailleur Alignment and Cassette Shifting Quality
An overlooked cause of poor cassette performance is rear derailleur misalignment. A bent derailleur hanger can cause inconsistent shifts or chain skipping. Using a derailleur alignment gauge ensures that the derailleur runs parallel to the cassette, which is vital for clean gear transitions on the CS-5700.
Additionally, fine-tuning the barrel adjuster on the rear derailleur can resolve hesitation when shifting into higher or lower gears.
Torque Settings and Lockring Tightness
The CS-5700 lockring must be torqued to Shimano’s specified 40 Nm. An under-tightened lockring can allow the sprockets to shift during load, while over-tightening may damage the freehub body threads. Use a torque wrench [paid link] with a cassette lockring tool [paid link] for accuracy.
Inspect the lockring during routine maintenance and re-tighten if any play is detected in the cassette stack.
When to Replace Your CS-5700 Cassette
Despite regular care, every cassette wears out eventually. Telltale signs of a worn CS-5700 cassette include:
- Chain slippage under load, especially when using new chains.
- Shifting hesitation even after derailleur adjustment.
- Visibly worn or hooked sprocket teeth.
In these cases, replacing the cassette is the only way to restore smooth shifting and drivetrain efficiency.
Best Practices to Maximize CS-5700 Cassette Life
To keep your cassette running like new:
- Clean and inspect regularly.
- Replace chains before they wear excessively.
- Ensure proper drivetrain alignment and torque.
- Avoid cross-chaining to reduce load stress.
- Use compatible components from Shimano’s 10-speed ecosystem.
Following these practices not only extends the lifespan of your cassette but also improves overall riding performance and drivetrain fluidity.
FAQs
1. How long does the CS-5700 cassette last?
With proper maintenance, the CS-5700 cassette can last between 5,000 to 8,000 miles, depending on riding style and conditions.
2. Can I use a different chain brand with the CS-5700 cassette?
Yes, as long as it’s a 10-speed compatible chain from a reputable brand like KMC or SRAM. However, Shimano chains are optimized for best performance.
3. What happens if I don’t replace a worn chain?
A worn chain will wear down the cassette faster, resulting in poor shifting and the need for earlier cassette replacement.
4. Can I upgrade from the CS-5700 to an 11-speed cassette?
Only if your rear hub is 11-speed compatible. Otherwise, you’ll need a new hub and possibly a new derailleur and shifter setup.
5. What causes skipping under load with a new chain?
This often means your cassette is worn, and the new chain doesn’t mesh well with the old teeth profiles.
6. Is lubrication of the cassette itself necessary?
No, direct lubrication isn’t required. Keeping the cassette clean and ensuring the chain is well-lubricated is sufficient.