The Shimano CN-HG701 [paid link] chain is a premium 11-speed option known for its durability, smooth shifting, and quiet performance when installed correctly. However, many cyclists report that the chain feels rough during rides even after initial setup. This roughness is not necessarily a flaw in the chain itself but typically stems from installation errors, improper maintenance, or compatibility issues. In this guide, we’ll explore why your CN-HG701 [paid link] chain may feel rough and provide precise methods to diagnose and resolve these problems effectively.
Understanding the CN-HG701 Chain’s Design
The CN-HG701 [paid link] chain is engineered with Shimano’s Sil-Tec surface treatment to reduce friction and increase longevity. Designed specifically for 11-speed road and mountain drivetrains, it features a directional design. One side of the chain is optimized for outer shifting, while the other enhances inner shifting, making the orientation during installation critical for smooth performance.
The chain is intended to pair seamlessly with Shimano’s 11-speed drivetrains, but it can also be compatible with certain non-Shimano setups with minor adjustments. Understanding its directionality and compatibility is foundational to achieving optimal set-up quality.
Common Reasons for Rough CN-HG701 Chain Feel
Incorrect Chain Direction
The CN-HG701 is a directional chain, which means it must be installed with the correct side facing outward. Shimano engraves indicators on the outer plates, usually the brand logo or model number. Installing the chain backward compromises shifting quality and increases drivetrain friction, leading to a rough feeling during pedaling.
Improper Chain Length
An improperly sized chain, whether too long or too short, can cause inefficient drivetrain tension. Too short and the rear derailleur pulley alignment is compromised; too long and the chain slackens, increasing slap and chain movement. Both scenarios contribute to a rougher ride.
Suboptimal Chain Lubrication
While the CN-HG701 chain comes with factory lube, this grease is often too heavy for road cycling conditions. Over time, inadequate re-lubrication or use of inappropriate lubricants can cause increased friction between chain links and sprockets, making pedaling feel laborious and uneven.
Worn or Incompatible Drivetrain Components
A new chain on a worn cassette or chainring creates poor mating surfaces, leading to skipping, grinding, and a rough pedaling sensation. Similarly, incompatibility between the CN-HG701 chain and non-Shimano 11-speed drivetrains may exacerbate performance issues if tolerances do not match precisely.
Misaligned Drivetrain Set-Up
Front and rear derailleur misalignment — including poor B-tension screw adjustment or inaccurate limit screw settings — often cause rough chain movement. Even slight misalignments result in cross-chaining and increased chain friction.
Diagnosing and Fixing Rough Chain Issues
Check Chain Direction
Inspect your CN-HG701 chain for the Shimano logo on the outer plates. If the logo faces inward toward the bike, the chain is installed incorrectly. Reinstall it with the logo facing outward to restore intended shifting performance and minimize friction.
Verify and Adjust Chain Length
Shift into the smallest chainring and smallest cog. The derailleur should not be overly stretched or slack. If unsure about the correct chain length:
- Wrap the chain around the largest chainring and largest cog without routing through the derailleur.
- Add two full links to the point where the chain ends meet.
- Cut accordingly and install with a Shimano-approved quick link or pin.
Proper chain length ensures optimal derailleur tension and chain line, significantly improving pedaling smoothness.
Optimize Lubrication
Clean the chain thoroughly with a degreaser and dry it completely. Apply a high-quality, road-specific lubricant evenly across each link. Wipe off excess lube to prevent dirt accumulation, which can cause unnecessary friction.
Routine lubrication schedules vary but generally, chains should be relubricated every 150-300 miles, depending on conditions.
Assess Drivetrain Wear
Inspect the cassette and chainrings for signs of wear such as hooked teeth or significant thinning. Use a chain checker tool to measure chain stretch. If the chain is new but the cassette or chainrings are worn, replacing those components is necessary to avoid rough operation.
Fine-Tune Drivetrain Adjustments
Check rear derailleur alignment and adjust the B-tension screw to ensure the jockey wheels are properly spaced from the cassette. Also, re-index the gears so that each shift is precise and clean. If needed, align the front derailleur to reduce friction during cross-chain situations.
Preventive Practices for Long-Term Smoothness
Maintaining smooth performance of the CN-HG701 chain requires proactive measures. Regularly cleaning the drivetrain, monitoring wear indicators, and using the appropriate lube are vital practices. Additionally, periodic derailleur adjustments after a few hundred miles can compensate for cable stretch and keep the system finely tuned.
Avoid cross-chaining (large chainring to large cog or small chainring to small cog combinations) as much as possible. This places unnatural lateral stress on the chain and increases friction, undermining the smoothness the CN-HG701 is designed to deliver.
Conclusion
The Shimano CN-HG701 chain is capable of delivering exceptionally smooth performance when installed and maintained correctly. Roughness typically stems from minor but critical errors in direction, length, lubrication, or drivetrain compatibility. By methodically diagnosing these areas and adhering to best maintenance practices, cyclists can ensure their CN-HG701 chain performs to its full potential, providing efficient, quiet, and enjoyable rides for thousands of miles.