The Shimano PD-5700 pedals, part of the 105 series, are renowned for their smooth engagement, reliable retention, and long service life. However, even the most precisely engineered components can underperform or wear prematurely if installed, maintained, or adjusted incorrectly. Many riders unknowingly make simple errors that compromise both performance and safety. This guide explores the most common mistakes made during installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the Shimano PD-5700 pedals—and how to avoid them.
Understanding the Shimano PD-5700 Pedal Design
The PD-5700 pedals use a SPD-SL road cleat system, offering a wide platform for stability and efficient power transfer. Their sealed cartridge bearings and chromoly spindle design make them both durable and low-maintenance when treated correctly. The pedal’s adjustable tension allows for fine-tuning release strength according to rider preference. Understanding these design elements is key to avoiding set-up and usage mistakes that lead to poor engagement, uneven wear, or even pedal failure.
Tools Required
- 15 mm pedal wrench[paid link] or 8 mm hex key
- Torque wrench[paid link]
- Grease (Shimano or lithium-based)
- Clean rag
- Degreaser
Incorrect Installation Torque
One of the most common mistakes riders make with the PD-5700 pedals is improper installation torque. Over-tightening the spindle can stress crank threads, while under-tightening can cause micro-movements that lead to creaking or thread wear.
Shimano specifies a torque range of 35–55 Nm for pedal installation. Always apply a thin layer of grease to the pedal threads before tightening. This prevents galvanic corrosion between the steel spindle and aluminum crank arm, ensuring easy removal later. Using a torque wrench[paid link], rather than hand tightening, ensures consistency and accuracy.
Neglecting Thread Preparation
Many cyclists skip applying grease to the pedal threads before installation. This is a costly oversight. Without grease, moisture and dirt can cause corrosion, effectively seizing the pedal into the crank arm. Once this happens, removal often damages the crank threads or the pedal spindle. A small dab of high-quality grease during installation prevents this issue entirely.
Incorrect Cleat Positioning
Improper cleat alignment is one of the primary causes of discomfort and poor engagement with PD-5700 pedals. Misaligned cleats lead to inefficient pedaling, knee strain, and uneven cleat wear. Riders should align the cleats so that the ball of the foot sits directly over the pedal axle, ensuring a natural pedaling motion.
Additionally, ensure the cleats are installed using the correct torque (5–6 Nm). Over-tightening can deform the shoe sole, while under-tightening allows the cleat to shift during rides, altering the release point and engagement consistency.
Overlooking Tension Adjustment
The PD-5700 features adjustable spring tension for both entry and release. Many cyclists ignore this feature, either leaving tension too high or too low. Excessive tension makes disengagement difficult, increasing the risk of a fall during emergency stops. Too little tension, on the other hand, can cause accidental release during sprints or climbs.
Shimano recommends starting with a medium tension setting and adjusting gradually to match riding style. Always ensure both pedals are adjusted equally to maintain predictable release behavior on both sides.
Failing to Clean and Lubricate Regularly
Dirt and debris buildup around the engagement mechanism can cause premature wear and inconsistent cleat retention. The PD-5700 pedals are sealed, but not immune to contamination. Regular maintenance keeps them functioning smoothly.
Clean the pedals with a mild degreaser and a soft brush, paying attention to the engagement jaws and the spring area. After cleaning, apply a small amount of dry lubricant to the moving parts. Avoid over-lubrication, as excess oil attracts grit and accelerates wear.
Ignoring Bearing Maintenance
While the PD-5700 uses sealed cartridge bearings, these can still degrade over time, especially when exposed to water or road salt. Many riders ignore subtle signs of bearing wear, such as slight play or grinding sensations. If left unaddressed, this can lead to spindle damage or bearing seizure.
Check for lateral play by rocking the pedal body side to side. Any movement indicates bearing wear. Servicing the PD-5700 requires removing the end cap, cleaning the bearings, and regreasing the internals. Shimano’s specific bearing tool (TL-PD63) ensures correct disassembly and reassembly. Regular servicing every 5,000–10,000 km extends bearing life significantly.
Mixing Incompatible Cleats
Another frequent and costly mistake involves using non-Shimano cleats with the PD-5700 pedals. Aftermarket cleats may appear similar, but differences in material hardness, angle, and tolerance can result in poor engagement, premature wear, or even pedal damage.
Only Shimano SPD-SL cleats (SM-SH10[paid link], SM-SH11[paid link], or SM-SH12) are compatible. Choosing the correct float option—red (fixed), yellow (6° float), or blue (2° float)—ensures proper ergonomics and joint comfort. Avoid combining cleats with mismatched float or wear levels between shoes, as this can cause uneven engagement.
Overlooking Pedal Orientation During Installation
The PD-5700’s spindle threads are directional: the right pedal has a standard thread, and the left pedal has a reverse thread. Installing the left pedal clockwise will strip the crank threads immediately—a mistake that often requires crank arm replacement.
Always double-check the stamped “L” or “R” markings before installation. Thread each pedal by hand first to ensure smooth engagement before applying torque.
Using Dry Threads or Incorrect Grease Type
While thread lubrication is essential, using the wrong grease type can also create long-term problems. Avoid heavy anti-seize compounds or copper-based greases, which can affect thread engagement accuracy. Shimano recommends a light lithium-based or Teflon grease that maintains protection without excessive viscosity.
Neglecting Pedal Float Adjustment and Ergonomic Fit
Many cyclists experience knee pain due to improper float adjustment. The PD-5700’s SPD-SL system allows float customization through cleat selection, but riders often fail to test multiple options. A cleat with too little float restricts natural leg motion, while excessive float can feel unstable. Finding the correct balance is crucial for long-term comfort and efficiency.
Failing to Replace Worn Cleats
Worn cleats lead to vague engagement, increased lateral play, and reduced retention strength. Riders often overlook this until disengagement becomes unpredictable. Shimano recommends replacing cleats once the engagement tabs become rounded or the wear indicators disappear. Continuing to ride with worn cleats accelerates pedal wear and can cause premature spring fatigue.
Using Incorrect Crank Arm Spacers
For frames with wide bottom bracket shells or crank arms with unique offsets, failing to install appropriate pedal washers or spacers can lead to incorrect Q-factor alignment. Misalignment causes uneven pressure on the pedal body and increases bearing stress. Shimano provides thin washers for minor adjustments; using these ensures correct pedal alignment with the crank face.
Storing or Transporting Bikes Improperly
Laying a bike on its side or resting it on the pedals can bend the spindle or compromise the pedal bearings. Always support the frame rather than the pedal when transporting or storing the bike. A bent spindle often manifests as a slight wobble during rotation and must be replaced immediately to avoid crank damage.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common Shimano PD-5700 pedal mistakes ensures smooth operation, consistent engagement, and extended component life. Proper installation torque, regular cleaning, correct cleat alignment, and periodic bearing checks preserve both performance and safety. By treating your PD-5700 pedals with care and precision, you maintain the efficiency and reliability that define Shimano’s 105 series engineering excellence.