How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano RD-5700 Rear Derailleur

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in 105, Rear Derailleur, Shimano

The Shimano RD-5700 [paid link] rear derailleur is part of the 10-speed Shimano 105 groupset, offering reliable performance for road cyclists. Whether you’re upgrading your drivetrain or replacing a worn-out derailleur, proper installation and maintenance are crucial for smooth and precise shifting.

This guide will walk you through the installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the Shimano RD-5700 [paid link] rear derailleur, ensuring that your bike operates at peak efficiency.

Tools Required [paid links]

Shimano RD-5700 Rear Derailleur Installation

1. Preparing Your Bike

Before installing the RD-5700 [paid link], make sure your bike frame is clean and the derailleur hanger is aligned. A misaligned hanger can cause shifting problems and excessive wear.

  1. Inspect the derailleur hanger: Use a derailleur hanger alignment tool to check for any bends.
  2. Ensure the drivetrain is clean: Remove old grease and debris from the cassette and chain.
  3. Check the shifter cable: If frayed or sticky, replace it before installing the derailleur.

2. Mounting the Rear Derailleur

  1. Locate the mounting bolt on the RD-5700.
  2. Align the derailleur with the derailleur hanger and thread the bolt into place using a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link].
  3. Tighten the bolt to 8-10Nm torque to ensure a secure fit.

3. Attaching the Chain

  1. Shift to the smallest chainring and smallest rear cog.
  2. Route the chain through the jockey wheels following the proper path.
  3. Use a chain tool to join the chain securely with the correct link.

4. Connecting the Shift Cable

  1. Pull the shifter cable taut and insert it into the cable anchor bolt on the derailleur.
  2. Tighten the anchor bolt securely while ensuring there is no slack.
  3. Trim any excess cable and add a crimp end to prevent fraying.

Adjusting the Shimano RD-5700 Rear Derailleur

1. Setting the Limit Screws

The RD-5700 features two limit screws:

  • High limit screw (H-screw): Prevents the chain from shifting past the smallest cog.
  • Low limit screw (L-screw): Prevents the chain from shifting past the largest cog.

Adjusting the H-Screw

  1. Shift to the smallest rear cog.
  2. Turn the H-screw clockwise if the chain moves past the smallest cog.
  3. Turn counterclockwise if the derailleur is not reaching the smallest cog.

Adjusting the L-Screw

  1. Shift to the largest rear cog.
  2. Turn the L-screw clockwise if the chain wants to go beyond the largest cog.
  3. Turn counterclockwise if the derailleur is not reaching the largest cog.

2. Setting the B-Tension Screw

The B-tension screw controls the derailleur’s distance from the cassette.

  1. Shift to the largest rear cog.
  2. Adjust the B-tension screw to create a 5-6mm gap between the guide pulley and the largest cog.
  3. Fine-tune for optimal shifting response.

3. Indexing the Shifting

  1. Shift to the second-smallest cog and turn the barrel adjuster to fine-tune cable tension.
  2. Shift through all gears, ensuring smooth transitions.
  3. Adjust the barrel adjuster clockwise if shifting is sluggish, and counterclockwise if it overshifts.

Maintaining the Shimano RD-5700 Rear Derailleur

1. Cleaning the Derailleur

Regular cleaning prevents dirt buildup and extends component lifespan.

  1. Wipe down the derailleur after every ride.
  2. Use a degreaser on the jockey wheels and pulleys.
  3. Lubricate pivot points with a light PTFE-based lubricant.

2. Checking for Wear

  1. Inspect jockey wheels for excessive wear.
  2. Ensure bolts and pivots are tight and free from corrosion.
  3. Check the cable and housing for signs of fraying or dirt buildup.

3. When to Replace Your Derailleur

Consider replacing the RD-5700 if:

  • Shifting remains inconsistent despite adjustments.
  • The derailleur has visible damage or bent components.
  • Excessive play develops in the jockey wheels.

Common Shimano RD-5700 Rear Derailleur Issues and Solutions

1. Poor Shifting Performance

  • Check if the cable tension is set correctly.
  • Ensure the derailleur hanger is aligned.

2. Noisy Shifting

  • Clean and lubricate the jockey wheels.
  • Adjust the B-tension screw to correct chain positioning.

3. Chain Dropping Off the Cassette

  • Inspect and adjust the limit screws.
  • Check for a worn or stretched chain.

Comparison: Shimano RD-5700 vs. RD-5701

While both models belong to the 105 groupset, the RD-5701 was introduced as a slight upgrade with better cable routing for smoother shifts.

Key Differences:

  • RD-5701 supports wider gear ratios with an improved geometry.
  • RD-5700 uses traditional cable routing, which can require more precise adjustments.

Conclusion

Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance of your Shimano RD-5700 rear derailleur ensure long-lasting and reliable shifting performance. By following this guide, you can maximize efficiency and prevent common derailleur issues.