The Shimano CS-6700 [paid link] cassette is a precise and lightweight 10-speed road bike cassette designed for smooth shifting and reliable drivetrain performance. Available in multiple gear ratios, it’s a popular choice for riders upgrading or maintaining their Shimano 10-speed drivetrain. Whether you’re doing a full rebuild or just replacing a worn-out cassette, one common question arises: should you install the CS-6700 [paid link] cassette yourself or take it to a professional bike mechanic?
This guide compares the DIY and professional installation routes for the Shimano CS-6700 [paid link] cassette. We’ll examine the process, required skills, benefits, risks, and long-term outcomes of each approach so you can make an informed decision.
Tools Required for DIY Shimano CS-6700 Cassette Installation
- Cassette lockring tool [paid link] (Shimano-compatible)
- Chain whip
- Torque wrench [paid link] (Nm scale)
- Adjustable wrench or compatible socket
- Grease or anti-seize compound
- Clean rag
Understanding the Shimano CS-6700 Cassette
The CS-6700 is part of Shimano’s Ultegra 10-speed series. It’s made of nickel-plated steel sprockets for enhanced durability and uses a lightweight aluminum carrier for reduced weight. Its HyperGlide profile ensures fast, precise shifts when paired with compatible Shimano 10-speed chains and derailleurs. Because of this performance specificity, installation accuracy is vital to avoid drivetrain inefficiencies and shifting issues.
DIY Installation: Key Considerations
Installing the CS-6700 cassette yourself can be rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges.
Advantages of DIY Installation
- Cost Savings: You save on labor costs, typically $20–$50 at most shops.
- Learning Experience: It enhances mechanical knowledge and self-sufficiency on the road.
- Immediate Access: No waiting for a shop appointment—do it when you want.
Challenges to Consider
- Tool Investment: Initial setup requires buying the correct tools, which could cost more than a professional install if only done once.
- Precision Matters: Improper torque on the lockring or misaligned sprockets can result in poor shifting, increased wear, or drivetrain noise.
- Cleanliness and Lube Discipline: Over-lubing or skipping cleaning the freehub body can attract grit, leading to cassette slippage.
Typical Installation Errors
- Installing the cassette without aligning the spline guide tab.
- Under-tightening the lockring, causing sprockets to loosen mid-ride.
- Reusing a worn chain, which can cause accelerated wear on the new cassette.
For riders confident with their mechanical skills, the CS-6700 is relatively straightforward. However, inexperience can lead to mistakes that compromise performance.
Professional Installation: What You Get
Taking your bike to a shop ensures accuracy and provides peace of mind, especially for those unfamiliar with drivetrain mechanics.
Professional Benefits
- Precision Torque Application: Shops use calibrated torque wrenches to match Shimano’s lockring spec (typically 40 Nm).
- Comprehensive Inspection: A mechanic may also inspect the freehub, chain wear, and shifting alignment.
- Guaranteed Workmanship: If something goes wrong, reputable shops often offer warranties or re-tuning at no cost.
Potential Downsides
- Cost Factor: Labor adds up, especially if combined with other maintenance.
- Time Inconvenience: Appointments may delay ride plans.
- Limited Customization Input: Some riders prefer hands-on tuning for specific performance feel.
Professional service is ideal for riders seeking flawless installation, long-term drivetrain health, and minimal hassle. It’s especially recommended if you lack proper tools or are unsure about the procedure.
Performance Impact: DIY vs. Professional
When done correctly, both DIY and professional installations will yield similar performance results. The key difference lies in precision and confidence. If your cassette isn’t torqued properly or aligned during DIY installation, you may experience chain skips, slow shifts, or premature wear.
In contrast, a professional mechanic ensures component integrity, torque compliance, and system compatibility—especially important for riders integrating new chains or derailleurs with their CS-6700 cassette.
When to Choose DIY Installation
- You already own the necessary tools.
- You’re comfortable performing drivetrain maintenance.
- You need quick access without shop delays.
- You enjoy learning and hands-on work.
When to Opt for Professional Help
- You’re new to bike mechanics or lack tools.
- You hear shifting noise even after cassette installation.
- You suspect drivetrain compatibility issues.
- You want a full drivetrain assessment during installation.
Final Verdict: Which Is the Right Choice?
The Shimano CS-6700 cassette is a well-engineered component, but its performance hinges on correct installation. DIY installation is viable for skilled home mechanics who value autonomy and cost savings. However, for precision, speed, and long-term peace of mind, professional installation remains the safer choice—especially when transitioning between worn and new drivetrain components.
Understanding your skill level [paid link], available tools, and expectations will guide you toward the best approach. Either way, your CS-6700 cassette deserves careful installation to ensure the smooth, silent shifting Shimano is known for.
FAQs: Shimano CS-6700 Cassette Installation
1. Do I need a torque wrench [paid link] to install the CS-6700 cassette?
Yes, using a torque wrench [paid link] ensures you meet the specified 40 Nm torque for the lockring, preventing future loosening.
2. Can I reuse my old chain with a new CS-6700 cassette?
Only if the chain shows minimal stretch. A worn chain will accelerate wear on a new cassette.
3. What’s the risk of not aligning the cassette properly?
Misalignment causes poor shifts, uneven wear, and noise. Ensure the largest sprocket’s spline matches the freehub body’s keyed slot.
4. How often should I clean the CS-6700 cassette?
Ideally after every few rides, especially in wet or dusty conditions. Use a degreaser and brush for best results.
5. Is the CS-6700 compatible with 11-speed systems?
No, it is designed for Shimano 10-speed drivetrains and will not work properly with 11-speed chains or derailleurs.
6. How long does the CS-6700 cassette typically last?
With proper care, expect 5,000 to 10,000 km of use, depending on riding conditions and chain maintenance.