Can You Upgrade Your CS-4700 Cassette? Compatibility and Best Practices

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The Shimano CS-4700 [paid link] cassette, part of the Tiagra 4700 groupset, is a workhorse component aimed at road cyclists seeking durability and dependable performance at a mid-tier price point. However, as riders evolve and demand more from their setups—whether for hill-climbing efficiency, faster flats, or wider gear ranges—the question arises: can the CS-4700 [paid link] cassette be upgraded? This article explores the compatibility options, ideal upgrade paths, and best practices for upgrading or replacing the CS-4700 [paid link] cassette.

Understanding the Shimano CS-4700 Cassette Specifications

Before exploring upgrade routes, it’s crucial to understand the baseline specifications of the CS-4700. This 10-speed cassette is designed specifically for use with the Shimano Tiagra 4700 drivetrain, which features a unique cable pull ratio differing from older 10-speed groups like 4600 and current 11-speed systems.

The CS-4700 comes in the following gear ranges:

  • 11-25T
  • 12-28T
  • 11-32T

This variety provides options for most road riding conditions but may feel limited when compared to modern 11- or 12-speed cassettes offering broader gearing spreads.

Is It Possible to Upgrade the CS-4700 Cassette?

Yes, but with conditions. Upgrading the CS-4700 cassette can be approached in two ways: sticking within the 10-speed ecosystem or transitioning to a different groupset entirely. Each path has important compatibility constraints.

Best Practices for Upgrading Within the 10-Speed System

If you’re keeping your Tiagra 4700 shifters and derailleurs, your upgrade options must stay within the 10-speed range to maintain shift accuracy. Shimano and SRAM 10-speed cassettes are largely cross-compatible in terms of spline fit and chain width, but indexing remains a concern.

Recommended upgrade strategies include:

  • Switching to a wider range: Move from a standard 11-25T to 11-32T for better climbing gears.
  • Using a third-party 10-speed cassette: Brands like SunRace offer wider ranges such as 11-34T. However, you’ll need to confirm your rear derailleur’s capacity.
  • Matching the chain and derailleur capacity: Upgrading your cassette range often requires a long cage rear derailleur and a new 10-speed chain to match.

Always verify the maximum cog size your rear derailleur can accommodate. For CS-4700, the medium cage RD-4700 [paid link] GS supports up to a 34T cog when using a compatible cassette and B-screw adjustment.

Transitioning to 11-Speed: A Bigger Commitment

If you want to move beyond the limitations of 10-speed, you’ll need to overhaul most of your drivetrain. The CS-4700 is not compatible with 11-speed derailleurs or shifters due to different cable actuation ratios. This means:

  • You must replace: Shifters, cassette, derailleur, chain, and often the freehub body (depending on your current wheelset).
  • Your wheel’s freehub must be 11-speed compatible: Most 11-speed Shimano cassettes need a wider freehub than 10-speed.
  • You get access to broader gearing: 11-speed options like 11-34T or 11-36T can enhance climbing performance without affecting cadence in high gears.

This upgrade path makes sense if you’re replacing a worn drivetrain and want better performance, or if you’re looking to move toward a modern, future-proof setup.

CS-4700 Cassette Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The CS-4700 is compatible with:

  • Shimano Tiagra 4700 components only.
  • Some third-party 10-speed chains and cassettes, with caution on shifting precision.
  • Standard Shimano/SRAM 10-speed freehubs.

It is not compatible with:

  • Older 10-speed Shimano systems (e.g., 4600) due to differing cable pull.
  • 11-speed shifters or derailleurs, as they use different indexing.
  • Campagnolo or MicroSHIFT 10-speed systems, unless specifically matched for cross-brand compatibility.

Optimizing Performance Post-Upgrade

Whether you expand within the 10-speed range or switch to an 11-speed platform, optimization is key. Ensure:

  • Precise derailleur adjustment to match the new cog sizes.
  • Correct chain length and tension.
  • Use of a compatible chain tool and torque specs during installation.

Periodic maintenance—like chain cleaning, cassette inspection, and gear indexing—ensures your upgraded drivetrain performs as expected.

When Is an Upgrade Necessary?

You should consider upgrading if:

  • Your current cassette shows visible wear, such as shark-fin-shaped teeth or slipping under load.
  • You need better climbing efficiency and the 11-25T is too limiting.
  • You want smoother, modern shifting and are ready to transition to an 11-speed groupset.

If you’re happy with your current gear range and shifting performance, it may be more cost-effective to simply replace your cassette with another CS-4700 in the same range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use an 11-speed cassette with my Tiagra 4700 shifters?
No, the indexing and cog spacing are different. It requires a full drivetrain upgrade.

Q2: What’s the largest cassette I can use with CS-4700 components?
With the RD-4700 [paid link] GS rear derailleur, you can use up to a 34T large cog with proper B-screw adjustment.

Q3: Will a third-party 10-speed cassette work with CS-4700?
Yes, but be cautious. Brands like SunRace can be compatible if spacing is similar, but shifting may be less precise.

Q4: Do I need a new chain when upgrading the cassette?
Yes, especially if you’re increasing range or the chain is already worn. A new, compatible 10-speed chain is essential.

Q5: Is it worth upgrading to an 11-speed system?
If you’re already replacing multiple components or want future-proofing and smoother shifts, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Q6: Can I use a 9-speed cassette with Tiagra 4700?
No. 9-speed and 10-speed systems differ in spacing and chain width, leading to poor shifting performance.

Conclusion

Upgrading the CS-4700 cassette is possible and can breathe new life into your Tiagra drivetrain—provided you follow compatibility rules and best practices. For riders seeking wider range within the 10-speed system, smart cassette and derailleur combinations can deliver better performance without breaking the bank. If you’re eyeing a shift to 11-speed or beyond, be prepared for a more involved but ultimately rewarding upgrade. In both cases, precision and planning ensure that every gear change is crisp, efficient, and perfectly tuned to your riding needs.