The Shimano BR-5700 [paid link] brakes, part of the popular 105 series, are known for their consistent modulation, sleek design, and reliable performance in both dry and wet conditions. However, as with any dual-pivot caliper brake system, improper installation, adjustment, or maintenance can quickly compromise their efficiency. This guide focuses on the most common setup and usage mistakes cyclists make with the BR-5700 [paid link]—and more importantly, how to avoid them.
Tools Required
- 5mm Allen key
- Cable cutters
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Phillips screwdriver
- Ruler or caliper for measurement
- Bike stand [paid link] (optional but recommended)
Misaligning the Brake Arms During Installation
A frequent and costly error is installing the BR-5700 calipers without properly centering the brake arms over the rim. These brakes rely on symmetrical pivot movement for balanced braking force. If the arms are skewed, braking becomes uneven, and rim wear accelerates.
When mounting the brake to the frame or fork, ensure the caliper is centered using a 5mm Allen key through the recessed mounting bolt. A minor rotation in either direction can shift the brake out of alignment. Always check alignment visually and by compressing the brake lever before tightening the bolt to final torque (6–8 Nm).
Improper Cable Tension Setting
Correct cable tension is vital for optimal lever response and braking power. Too tight, and the pads may rub the rim even when not braking; too loose, and the lever will travel excessively before engaging the brake.
After feeding the brake cable through the anchor bolt, pull the cable taut enough so the brake pads sit just off the rim—roughly 1–2mm of clearance. Tighten the anchor bolt to 6–8 Nm. Then, use the barrel adjuster for fine-tuning. Test lever feel and check pad clearance by spinning the wheel. Avoid using the barrel adjuster to compensate for poor initial tension—it should only be used for minor adjustments.
Using Incompatible or Worn Brake Pads
The BR-5700 calipers use Shimano-compatible cartridge pads, but not all pads are created equal. Mixing in pads from different brands or for different rim materials (e.g., carbon vs. alloy) can drastically reduce stopping power or damage the rim.
Stick to Shimano R55C3 or R55C4 pads for alloy rims unless you specifically ride carbon wheels, in which case switch to carbon-specific pads. Replace pads when the wear indicators approach the groove limit. Never wait until the backing plate is visible, as this can cause scoring on the braking surface and require rim replacement.
Failing to Set the Correct Pad Toe-in
Another often-overlooked mistake is neglecting to set toe-in during pad installation. When the pad surface contacts the rim flat or heel-first, it can produce brake squeal and inconsistent modulation.
Set the brake pads so the front edge of the pad touches the rim slightly before the rear—typically a 0.5–1.0mm difference. This can be achieved by inserting a small shim (e.g., folded business card) behind the rear of the pad during alignment. The toe-in angle helps dampen vibrations, particularly during high-speed or wet braking.
Over-Tightening the Mounting Bolt or Pad Holders
Excessive torque on the caliper bolt or pad holder bolts is a common beginner error. Over-torquing the caliper can distort the brake arm alignment, while overtightening the pad holders may strip the threads or deform the cartridge.
Always use a torque wrench [paid link] when securing hardware. For the caliper bolt, tighten to 6–8 Nm. For the pad holder fixing bolt, use a maximum of 5–6 Nm. Double-check all fasteners after your first few rides to ensure they remain secure without overtightening.
Skipping Routine Inspection and Cleaning
Like any mechanical component, the BR-5700 calipers require regular maintenance. Accumulated dirt, road grime, and brake dust can impair brake performance and lead to corrosion.
Every few weeks, inspect the caliper arms for grit buildup. Use a soft brush and isopropyl alcohol to clean the arms, pivot bolts, and pad surfaces. Avoid lubricants on the caliper arms or near the brake pads—use dry PTFE lubricant only on the pivot points if necessary, and wipe excess thoroughly.
Installing with Incompatible Levers or Drivetrain Components
Although the BR-5700 is part of Shimano’s 10-speed 105 series, some riders attempt to pair it with non-compatible levers (e.g., certain SRAM or older Shimano 9-speed models). Mismatched pull ratios result in poor brake feel and reduced modulation.
Ensure that you’re using Shimano 10-speed STI levers designed for use with the BR-5700 or equivalent. Mixing incompatible components can make even a perfect mechanical setup feel underwhelming on the road.
Mounting the Rear Brake on the Wrong Frame Boss
On frames designed for direct-mount or bottom-bracket-mounted rear calipers, some riders mistakenly attempt to fit the BR-5700, which is a traditional center-mount caliper. This not only prevents correct alignment but can damage the frame or the brake unit itself.
Always confirm that your frame is designed for center-mount brakes before installation. If unsure, consult your frame’s technical documentation or contact the manufacturer directly.
Neglecting Spring Tension Balance
Unequal spring tension between the left and right arms causes uneven return to center and inconsistent brake pad clearance. If your caliper pulls to one side after release, this is the likely cause.
Use the small tension adjustment screws located near the pivot arms to balance return spring tension. Adjust in quarter turns until the caliper centers itself naturally after lever release. This step is crucial for consistent performance and should not be skipped during setup.
Ignoring Brake Track Condition
Riders often blame brake feel solely on the caliper, when in reality, rim surface condition plays a major role. Dirty or worn brake tracks reduce pad contact efficiency and accelerate pad wear.
Inspect the rim surface periodically for glazing, grooves, or debris buildup. Clean with rubbing alcohol and a non-abrasive pad. If deep grooves are present, the rim may require professional resurfacing or replacement. Keeping the rim clean ensures your BR-5700 brakes perform at their best.
Conclusion
The Shimano BR-5700 brake calipers deliver exceptional value and performance when properly set up and maintained. Avoiding these costly mistakes ensures your braking system remains powerful, responsive, and safe in all conditions. Pay attention to installation accuracy, component compatibility, and routine upkeep to maximize the lifespan and reliability of your setup.