The Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] front derailleur is a high-performing component within the Tiagra 4700 10-speed groupset, but many riders eventually consider upgrading their drivetrain. However, because the FD-4700 [paid link] uses Shimano’s 11-speed cable pull ratio, upgrading isn’t as simple as swapping in a higher-end derailleur.
This guide will help you understand which upgrades are possible, what works, what doesn’t, and the best practices for transitioning from Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] to higher-end components.
For troubleshooting shifting issues before upgrading, check:
Why Your Shimano FD-4700 Might Not Be Set Up Correctly and How to Fix It
1. Can You Upgrade Shimano FD-4700 to a Higher-End Derailleur?
Upgrading from FD-4700 to a different front derailleur requires careful consideration because it uses an 11-speed cable pull ratio despite being a 10-speed derailleur.
| Component | Compatible with FD-4700 Setup? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shimano 105 R7000 (11-speed FD) | No | Different cable pull ratio |
| Shimano Ultegra R8000 (11-speed FD) | No | Not compatible with Tiagra 4700 shifters |
| Shimano Dura-Ace R9100 (11-speed FD) | No | Requires a full 11-speed drivetrain |
| Shimano 105 5700 (10-speed FD) | No | Different cable pull ratio |
| Shimano Ultegra 6700 (10-speed FD) | No | Won’t work with Tiagra 4700 shifters |
| Shimano Tiagra 4700 FD (Same model replacement) | Yes | Works with Tiagra 4700 shifters |
| Shimano GRX RX810 (Gravel FD) | No | GRX uses a different pull ratio |
What This Means
The only compatible front derailleur upgrade while keeping Tiagra 4700 shifters is… another Shimano FD-4700. If you want to move to 105 R7000, Ultegra R8000, or Dura-Ace R9100, you must replace your entire drivetrain with an 11-speed system.
For a deeper understanding of component compatibility, check:
Shimano FD-4700 Compatibility Secrets: What Works, What Fails, and What to Avoid
2. What About Upgrading to an 11-Speed Drivetrain?
If you want to upgrade beyond FD-4700, you will need to replace multiple components to switch to an 11-speed system.
| Component | Upgrade Required? |
|---|---|
| Shifters | Yes – Must upgrade to 105 R7000, Ultegra R8000, or Dura-Ace R9100 |
| Front Derailleur | Yes – Must match the new 11-speed shifters |
| Rear Derailleur | Yes – 11-speed rear derailleur required |
| Cassette | Yes – Must use an 11-speed cassette |
| Chain | Yes – Must use an 11-speed chain |
| Crankset | Optional – 10-speed cranks can work, but 11-speed cranks offer better shifting |
If you are considering upgrading to an 11-speed drivetrain, check:
Shimano FD-4700 Limit Screw Adjustments: How to Get Them Just Right
3. Best Upgrade Paths for Shimano FD-4700 Users
If you are currently using Shimano FD-4700 and want to upgrade, here are the best options:
Option 1: Stay on Tiagra 4700 and Upgrade Other Components
- Upgrade to a lighter crankset (Shimano 105 R7000 or Ultegra R8000)
- Use a higher-end chain (Shimano HG-X or Dura-Ace chain for smoother shifting)
- Upgrade to a better bottom bracket for improved efficiency
Best for: Riders who want small performance gains without a full drivetrain swap.
Option 2: Upgrade to a Full 11-Speed Shimano Groupset
- Replace shifters, front derailleur, rear derailleur, cassette, and chain
- Compatible options: Shimano 105 R7000, Ultegra R8000, or Dura-Ace R9100
Best for: Riders looking for modern shifting performance and future upgrade potential.
Option 3: Consider a Mixed Drivetrain with GRX for Gravel Riding
- Shimano GRX RX810 front derailleur requires GRX-specific 11-speed shifters
- GRX RX810 rear derailleur works with 11-speed road cassettes up to 34T
- Use Shimano 105 R7000 or Ultegra R8000 shifters
Best for: Riders who frequently ride gravel or adventure routes.
4. What Upgrades Should You Avoid?
Some upgrades may seem like an improvement but will actually reduce performance or cause compatibility issues.
| Upgrade Attempt | Why It Won’t Work |
|---|---|
| Using an 11-speed front derailleur (105 R7000, Ultegra R8000, or Dura-Ace R9100) with Tiagra 4700 shifters | Different cable pull ratio; won’t shift properly |
| Mixing older 10-speed derailleurs (105 5700, Ultegra 6700) with Tiagra 4700 shifters | Different pull ratio |
| Trying to use an 11-speed chain with a 10-speed cassette | Chain is too narrow, causing poor shifting |
| Using a GRX front derailleur with Tiagra 4700 shifters | GRX has different cable pull geometry |
| Mixing a 10-speed crankset with an 11-speed groupset | Works, but shifting won’t be as smooth |
For detailed troubleshooting, check:
Troubleshooting Shimano FD-4700: How to Fix Common Set-Up Issues
5. Is Upgrading Shimano FD-4700 Worth It?
The best upgrade option depends on your riding goals:
| Upgrade Goal | Recommended Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Want smoother shifting but staying on 10-speed? | Upgrade crankset, chain, and bottom bracket |
| Want modern shifting and performance gains? | Upgrade to full 11-speed Shimano 105 R7000 or Ultegra R8000 |
| Ride gravel and mixed terrain? | Consider Shimano GRX 11-speed drivetrain |
6. Conclusion: Should You Upgrade Shimano FD-4700?
- If you’re staying with a 10-speed setup, your only front derailleur option is FD-4700.
- To move beyond FD-4700, you need a full 11-speed drivetrain upgrade.
- Cranksets, chains, and bottom brackets are great upgrades that improve performance without requiring a new groupset.
If you don’t want to replace your entire drivetrain, upgrading components like the crankset, chain, and bottom bracket will provide the best performance gains.
Would you like help choosing the right upgrade path? Let us know in the comments!