The Shimano SM-BB5700 [paid link] bottom bracket is a durable and performance-oriented component designed for road bikes using the Hollowtech II crankset system. Its design supports smooth pedaling and longevity when properly installed and maintained. However, the debate over whether to perform a DIY installation or seek professional help remains significant for many cyclists.
This guide explores both options, offering detailed insight into the technical aspects of each to help riders make an informed decision based on their tools, skills, and needs.
Understanding the SM-BB5700 [paid link]: What Makes It Unique
The SM-BB5700 [paid link] is part of Shimano’s 105 series, engineered for a balance of performance, affordability, and ease of maintenance. It features external, threaded cups compatible with English-threaded bottom bracket shells (68mm width). Its cartridge bearing design offers low resistance and reasonable service life, but only when aligned and torqued correctly during installation.
Because it supports the Hollowtech II crankset, correct installation is crucial to ensure precise bearing preload, crankset alignment, and overall drivetrain efficiency.
Tools Required for SM-BB5700 Installation
To perform a DIY installation, you’ll need:
- Hollowtech II-compatible bottom bracket tool [paid link] (e.g., Shimano TL-FC32 [paid link] or TL-FC36 [paid link])
- Torque wrench [paid link] (with appropriate socket adapter)
- Hollowtech II crank arm preload tool (TL-FC16 [paid link] or equivalent)
- Anti-seize compound or grease (for threads and shell interfaces)
- Clean rag or degreaser
- Threaded bottom bracket shell (BSA/English thread, 68mm width)
The Case for DIY Installation
For skilled home mechanics with the right tools, installing the SM-BB5700 can be straightforward. The threaded system makes it more accessible than press-fit models, and Shimano’s tolerances generally ensure consistency between frames.
Benefits:
- Cost Efficiency: You eliminate labor costs entirely. This can be ideal if you’re budget-conscious or performing other upgrades.
- Convenience: You can work at your own pace, without needing to transport your bike to a shop.
- Learning Opportunity: Performing your own installation builds mechanical knowledge, which is valuable for future repairs and upgrades.
Risks and Challenges:
- Tool Investment: Acquiring high-quality tools can be expensive upfront if you don’t already own them.
- Thread Damage Risk: Cross-threading or over-torquing can damage the frame shell, especially on aluminum or carbon frames.
- Misalignment Issues: Improper torque or lack of proper bearing preload may cause premature wear or creaking.
- Contamination Risk: Without careful cleaning and greasing, contaminants can compromise bearing life or cause creaks.
Why Opt for Professional Installation
A professional mechanic brings experience, calibrated tools, and the ability to diagnose compatibility issues with surrounding components, such as cranksets or chainlines.
Advantages:
- Precision and Experience: Mechanics install dozens of bottom brackets weekly. Their experience minimizes risks of cross-threading, under-torquing, or misalignment.
- Proper Torque Settings: Using a calibrated torque wrench [paid link], shops ensure factory-spec torque values are achieved, reducing stress on the frame and bottom bracket.
- Diagnosis of Related Issues: A mechanic may detect shell ovality, contamination, or thread damage that a home mechanic might overlook.
- Warranty and Support: Shops may offer warranties on their labor or accept responsibility if an error causes damage.
Drawbacks:
- Cost: Labor charges vary but usually range between $30 and $60 for a bottom bracket install, which can increase if cleaning or facing the shell is required.
- Availability: Not all shops offer same-day service. Some may require booking, which delays your build or ride plans.
- Less Control: You rely on the shop’s choice of lubrication and torque practices, unless you specify them.
Situations Best Suited for DIY Installation
If the following applies to you, DIY installation may be the right path:
- You’ve installed bottom brackets before or are confident with technical work.
- Your bike frame is metal (steel or aluminum), which is more forgiving of minor torque inconsistencies.
- You own the proper tools and a torque wrench [paid link].
- Your frame threads are in excellent condition and require no facing or chasing.
When to Choose Professional Installation
Professional help is highly recommended when:
- You own a carbon frame or titanium shell, which require delicate handling and precise torque.
- You hear creaking or clicking noises from the crankset area and suspect a bottom bracket issue.
- You lack the tools or the experience to inspect and prep the shell before installation.
- You’re installing the SM-BB5700 into a new or previously untested frame.
Long-Term Performance Considerations
Correct installation directly affects the longevity of your SM-BB5700. A well-installed unit can perform quietly and smoothly for thousands of kilometers. However, poor installation—especially under- or over-torquing—can cause creaking, bearing failure, or even thread damage.
Greasing the threads, applying anti-seize on steel frames, and avoiding contamination are all essential steps that trained professionals often handle meticulously.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Installation
| Factor | DIY Installation | Professional Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Labor Cost | $0 | $30–$60 |
| Tool Investment (one-time) | $50–$100+ | $0 |
| Risk of Installation Error | Moderate to High | Low |
| Time Required | 1–2 hours | 15–30 minutes |
| Long-Term Reliability | Depends on skill | High |
Final Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
If you’re mechanically inclined, have access to proper tools, and ride a bike with a robust metal frame, DIY installation can save money and be rewarding. However, for riders who value long-term performance, own carbon or titanium frames, or lack the necessary tools, professional installation is the safer and more reliable choice.
The SM-BB5700 is a component that performs best when installed with precision. Whether you do it yourself or go to a shop, the key is to ensure the bottom bracket is installed cleanly, torqued correctly, and checked for proper alignment.