Avoid These Costly Shimano FC-6700 Crankset Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Drivetrain

The Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] Crankset is an essential component of any road cyclist’s bike, offering a balance between performance and durability. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the cycling world, understanding how to properly install, maintain, and adjust your crankset is crucial for both safety and performance. Making the wrong adjustments or neglecting simple maintenance can lead to costly repairs, diminished power transfer, and a suboptimal riding experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common mistakes associated with the Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] Crankset and provide tips on how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Incorrect Crank Arm Bolt Tightening

One of the most common mistakes when working with the Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] Crankset is improperly tightening the crank arm bolts. If the bolts are too tight or too loose, it can lead to a range of issues, from poor power transfer to potential damage to the crankset or bottom bracket.

What Happens: Over-tightening can cause stress on the crank arms and the bottom bracket interface, potentially leading to cracks or warping. Under-tightening may result in the crank arm becoming loose, which can create dangerous riding conditions and cause the pedals to feel unstable.
How to Fix It: Always torque the crank arm bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. For the Shimano FC-6700, the recommended torque is typically 12–14 Nm. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to ensure proper tightness, and check for any play or wobbling in the crank arms after installation.

Mistake 2: Neglecting Bottom Bracket Maintenance

The bottom bracket plays a crucial role in the performance of your Shimano FC-6700 crankset. Neglecting bottom bracket maintenance can lead to creaks, poor power transfer, and premature wear of the crankset.

What Happens: When the bottom bracket is not properly maintained, it can cause excessive wear on the interface between the crankset and the bike frame. This can lead to a reduction in performance and a noticeable creak during pedaling. In some cases, an improperly maintained bottom bracket can also result in a misaligned crankset, affecting gear shifting and overall bike handling.
How to Fix It: Ensure that the bottom bracket is regularly checked for tightness and condition. If your bike frame uses the Shimano Hollowtech II system, it is important to inspect the bottom bracket for any signs of wear or damage. If needed, clean the bottom bracket and apply fresh grease during installation to reduce friction and prevent corrosion.

Mistake 3: Overlooking Chainline Alignment

A misaligned chainline is another common issue with the Shimano FC-6700 crankset, often overlooked by riders. If the chainline is off, it can result in inefficient pedaling, increased drivetrain wear, and even chain drops during hard efforts.

What Happens: When the chainline is misaligned, the drivetrain components are not working in harmony. This can lead to poor shifting performance, excess wear on the cassette and chainrings, and the risk of chain slippage. In some cases, it can also cause the chain to rub against the derailleur or frame, increasing the risk of damage.
How to Fix It: When installing or adjusting your Shimano FC-6700 crankset, make sure the chainline is properly aligned with the rear cassette. You can check the alignment by inspecting the chain’s path through the front and rear gears. If needed, adjust the position of the crankset or rear derailleur to ensure the chainline is as straight as possible.

Mistake 4: Failing to Keep the Crankset Clean and Lubricated

A clean and well-lubricated Shimano FC-6700 crankset is essential for optimal performance. Dirt and grime buildup can increase friction and accelerate wear on key components, leading to costly repairs and maintenance.

What Happens: Neglecting to clean and lubricate your crankset can result in grit and debris building up between the crank arms, bottom bracket, and pedals. This can cause increased friction, noise, and wear on the components, ultimately leading to a decrease in performance.
How to Fix It: Regularly clean the crankset with a degreaser and a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime. After cleaning, apply a light layer of lubricant to the pedal threads, crank arm interface, and bottom bracket interface to keep everything running smoothly. Avoid using excessive amounts of grease, as it can attract more dirt.

Mistake 5: Ignoring Crankset Alignment and Installation

Proper installation and alignment of the Shimano FC-6700 crankset are critical for smooth and efficient power transfer. Misalignment during installation can cause unnecessary stress on the drivetrain components and reduce performance.

What Happens: If the crankset is not aligned properly during installation, it can cause uneven wear on the chainrings and chain. This can result in poor shifting performance, as well as potential chain skips or drops. Misalignment may also lead to a less comfortable riding experience due to improper Q-factor or pedal placement.
How to Fix It: When installing the Shimano FC-6700 crankset, ensure the crank arms are aligned properly on the spindle and securely fastened. Check the chainrings for any wobbling or misalignment, and ensure that they are level [paid link] with the frame. If you are unsure about proper installation, consult the manual or a professional mechanic for assistance.

Mistake 6: Overlooking Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Shimano FC-6700 Crankset is designed to work seamlessly with other Shimano components. However, failing to ensure proper compatibility between the crankset and other drivetrain parts can result in inefficient shifting, poor chain performance, and even damage to the bike.

What Happens: Using incompatible chainrings, bottom brackets, or other drivetrain components with the Shimano FC-6700 crankset can cause shifting issues, chain rubbing, and excessive wear. If the chainring sizes or tooth profiles do not match the chain or rear cassette, the drivetrain may not function smoothly, leading to a poor riding experience.
How to Fix It: Before upgrading or replacing any drivetrain components, ensure that they are compatible with the Shimano FC-6700 crankset. Stick with Shimano’s recommended chainring sizes and ensure that the bottom bracket matches the crankset’s specifications. Always double-check compatibility with your local bike shop or manufacturer documentation to avoid costly mistakes.

Mistake 7: Not Regularly Inspecting Crankset for Wear and Tear

The Shimano FC-6700 Crankset is built to last, but like all components, it will wear over time. Ignoring signs of wear and tear can lead to failure at the worst possible moment, potentially causing serious damage or even injury.

What Happens: If the crankset is not regularly inspected for wear, small issues can quickly become bigger problems. Worn chainrings, loose bolts, or damaged pedal threads can compromise performance and safety, resulting in expensive repairs or component replacements.
How to Fix It: Regularly inspect the crankset for signs of wear, including worn chainrings, loose bolts, or play in the crank arms. Replace any worn parts immediately to avoid further damage. If you hear unusual noises or feel any instability while riding, take your bike to a professional mechanic for a thorough check-up.

Conclusion

The Shimano FC-6700 Crankset is a high-performance component that can significantly enhance your cycling experience when properly maintained and installed. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your crankset runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely for years to come. Regular maintenance, correct installation, and proper care will keep your drivetrain performing at its best, helping you ride with confidence and power.