The Shimano CS-4700 [paid link] cassette, part of the Tiagra 4700 groupset, delivers excellent 10-speed shifting performance tailored for road cyclists seeking reliability and value. However, improper handling during installation, adjustment, or maintenance can result in premature wear, poor shifting, and even drivetrain failure. In this article, we’ll break down the most common CS-4700 [paid link] cassette mistakes riders and mechanics make—and show you how to avoid them for long-lasting, top-level [paid link] performance.
Incorrect Torque During Installation
One of the most frequent yet overlooked errors is improper tightening of the lockring. Over-torquing can stress the freehub body or damage the cassette’s splines. Conversely, under-torquing leads to cassette wobble, causing shifting issues and eventual damage to both the cassette and chain.
The CS-4700 [paid link] requires a torque of 30–50 Nm for the lockring. Use a calibrated torque wrench [paid link] with a Shimano-compatible cassette tool to ensure accuracy. Never estimate torque by feel—precision is crucial for long-term component health.
Improper Spacer Placement on the Freehub Body
Many mechanics forget or misplace spacers during installation, especially when the cassette is fitted on 11-speed compatible freehub bodies. The CS-4700 is a 10-speed cassette and needs a 1.85mm spacer to sit correctly on 11-speed Shimano road freehubs.
Failing to install this spacer causes poor alignment of the cogs, leading to imprecise shifting and accelerated wear. Always confirm the freehub standard before installation and insert the required spacer if applicable.
Neglecting Cassette Cleaning and Lubrication
Grime and road debris gradually clog up the narrow gaps between the cassette cogs. If left unchecked, this buildup hampers chain movement and increases wear rates. The CS-4700 cassette, like all high-performing components, demands regular maintenance.
Clean the cassette at least monthly with a degreaser and soft brush. Avoid spraying degreaser directly into the freehub, which can displace vital grease. After cleaning, ensure the chain is lubricated and the cassette is dry to prevent corrosion.
Running a Worn Chain Too Long
The CS-4700 cassette is engineered to work in harmony with a well-maintained chain. Using a worn chain beyond its service life causes the cassette teeth to wear into the chain’s stretched profile. This leads to “skipping” and poor engagement when a new chain is eventually installed.
Check chain wear every 500–1000 kilometers using a chain checker tool. Replace the chain once elongation exceeds 0.75%. Replacing a $30 chain in time is far less costly than having to replace an entire $60–$80 cassette due to neglect.
Using Incompatible Chains or Derailleurs
Some riders unknowingly pair the CS-4700 cassette with incompatible components. While Shimano 10-speed chains are designed for optimal compatibility, using narrower 11-speed chains or mismatched derailleurs can cause misalignment, noise, and premature wear.
Ensure you’re using a Shimano 10-speed road chain and a Tiagra 4700-series derailleur, which has a unique pull ratio incompatible with older 10-speed shifters. Proper compatibility preserves drivetrain integrity and shifting precision.
Ignoring Cassette Wear Indicators
It’s easy to overlook cassette wear because the signs are subtle. Sluggish or inconsistent shifting, especially under load, often indicates cog tooth wear. Riders sometimes adjust cable tension or the derailleur instead of recognizing the cassette is at fault.
Regularly inspect the teeth for signs of “shark fin” shapes or missing metal. Worn teeth can’t properly engage with the chain and will accelerate chain wear. If you’re on your second or third chain without replacing the cassette, it’s time for a closer inspection.
Incorrect Gear Combinations Under Load
Riding in extreme cross-chain gear combinations—such as big ring with big cog or small ring with small cog—places lateral stress on the chain and cassette. Over time, this stress leads to cog damage and degrades shifting performance.
Train yourself to shift proactively and use efficient chainlines. The CS-4700 offers a wide gear range, but that doesn’t mean every combination is ideal. Stick to middle cassette cogs for the most frequent riding scenarios to distribute wear more evenly.
Failing to Replace the Cassette with the Chain
Another overlooked mistake is replacing the chain without inspecting or replacing the cassette. Chains and cassettes wear together; installing a new chain on a worn cassette often results in skipping and rapid chain degradation.
When in doubt, test the new chain’s engagement on each cog. If it skips under pressure or doesn’t mesh cleanly, it’s time to replace the cassette too. This practice ensures smoother shifting and reduces drivetrain strain.
Overlooking Freehub Condition
Before installing a new CS-4700 cassette, inspect the freehub body for notching or excessive wear. Deep gouges can prevent the cassette from seating flush, leading to lateral play and gear noise.
Use a file to lightly smooth minor notches or replace the freehub body if it’s severely damaged. A clean, functional freehub is essential for cassette alignment and long-term drivetrain reliability.
Using Damaged or Dirty Cassette Cogs
Riders sometimes reuse bent or heavily worn cogs, particularly if they’ve salvaged a cassette from another build. This compromises gear indexing and increases friction during pedaling.
The CS-4700’s nickel-plated cogs are durable, but once damaged, they lose efficiency. Always inspect each cog for wear, warping, or burrs before reuse. If any cog fails visual inspection, replace the cassette entirely to avoid compromising your drivetrain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use an 11-speed chain with the CS-4700 cassette?
No, the CS-4700 is designed for 10-speed chains. Using an 11-speed chain can lead to misalignment and poor shifting performance.
2. How often should I clean my CS-4700 cassette?
Clean your cassette every 500–1000 km or more frequently in wet or dirty conditions to prevent grime buildup and wear.
3. Do I need a spacer for installing the CS-4700 cassette?
Yes, if you’re using an 11-speed freehub body, you must use a 1.85mm spacer to ensure correct alignment.
4. How can I tell if my CS-4700 cassette is worn out?
Look for shark-fin-shaped teeth or skipping during shifts, especially with a new chain. These are signs of wear requiring replacement.
5. What’s the correct torque for tightening the lockring on a CS-4700 cassette?
Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the lockring to 30–50 Nm as per Shimano’s specifications.
6. Should I replace the chain and cassette together?
If the cassette has experienced significant use with a worn chain, yes. Installing a new chain on a worn cassette often results in poor performance.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can extend the life of your CS-4700 cassette, improve shifting quality, and protect your drivetrain investment. Regular inspections, precise installations, and mindful gear usage go a long way toward keeping your ride smooth and efficient.