The Shimano FD-5700 [paid link] front derailleur, part of the 105 5700 series, is a reliable and precise shifting component designed for road cycling. However, like all mechanical parts, it requires regular care to avoid premature wear. Riders who neglect adjustment, cleaning, or lubrication often experience noisy shifting, excessive friction, or shortened service life. This guide provides detailed, technical instructions on how to keep your FD-5700 [paid link] front derailleur in top condition for years.
Understanding the FD-5700 Front Derailleur
The FD-5700 [paid link] is designed for 2×10-speed drivetrains and is available in both braze-on and clamp-band versions. It features a wide pivot design for improved stiffness and accurate front shifting. Despite its durability, improper maintenance can lead to wear on the pivot points, cage plates, and spring mechanism. Recognizing these vulnerabilities helps you understand where to focus your preventive care.
Tools Required
- 5 mm hex wrench
- Phillips screwdriver
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Cable cutters
- Bike-specific degreaser
- Chain lubricant
- Clean microfiber cloths
Correct Installation to Prevent Early Wear
Proper installation is the first step in preventing premature derailleur failure. The derailleur cage must sit 1–3 mm above the large chainring and align parallel to the chainrings. Any misalignment creates additional friction, which accelerates wear on the cage plates.
Torque specifications are also critical. The braze-on fixing bolt should be tightened to 5–7 Nm. Under-tightening causes the derailleur to slip, while over-tightening can stress the mounting surface. Both scenarios contribute to uneven wear.
Cable Tension and Routing
Incorrect cable tension is one of the leading causes of accelerated wear on the FD-5700. Overly tight tension puts unnecessary strain on the derailleur spring, reducing its lifespan. Too little tension, on the other hand, forces riders to overshift, which grinds the chain against the cage.
Ensure the cable runs smoothly through the frame guides without excessive bends. A frayed or corroded cable should be replaced immediately, as damaged strands can dig into the derailleur’s cable anchor and shorten its service life.
Cleaning and Lubrication Practices
The FD-5700 operates best when free of grime and adequately lubricated. Dirt buildup around the pivot points increases friction, leading to sluggish shifting and accelerated pivot wear.
Use a bike-specific degreaser to clean the derailleur thoroughly, making sure to reach all pivot points and the inner and outer cage plates. After drying, apply a light lubricant directly to the pivots to protect against corrosion. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess oil attracts dirt and can cause more harm than good.
The derailleur cage plates should also be kept clean to minimize chain rub. A microfiber cloth with a small amount of degreaser is effective for wiping away residue from the inner cage.
Chainline and Drivetrain Compatibility
A poorly maintained drivetrain can indirectly shorten the lifespan of the FD-5700. Cross-chaining—using the big chainring with the big cog or the small chainring with the small cog—creates side pressure on the derailleur cage. Over time, this can cause uneven wear on the plates and lead to noisy shifting.
Using the correct bottom bracket spacing and chainline ensures smoother operation. Since the FD-5700 is optimized for Shimano’s 10-speed road drivetrains, mixing it with incompatible cranksets or chains should be avoided.
Avoiding Common User Mistakes
Many premature failures are due to rider habits rather than mechanical faults. Avoid the following mistakes:
- Shifting under heavy load, which stresses the cage and pivots.
- Ignoring limit screw settings, leading to over-travel and cage deformation.
- Allowing dirt and road salt to accumulate without regular cleaning.
Consistent attention to these details prevents unnecessary strain on the derailleur.
Seasonal Inspection Schedule
To extend the life of your FD-5700, adopt a seasonal maintenance routine. During peak riding months, inspect the derailleur at least once every four weeks. Check the limit screws, cable tension, and cage alignment. In the off-season, perform a deeper cleaning and lubrication, and replace worn cables or housing before storage.
Recognizing Early Signs of Wear
Catching issues early helps avoid costly replacements. Common warning signs of wear on the FD-5700 include:
- Increased play at the pivot points.
- Chain rub that persists despite proper adjustment.
- Stiff cage movement due to internal corrosion.
- Frayed shift cables at the anchor point.
Addressing these problems immediately prevents further damage.
Conclusion
The Shimano FD-5700 front derailleur can deliver years of reliable performance when properly maintained. By ensuring correct installation, managing cable tension, cleaning and lubricating regularly, and avoiding poor shifting habits, you can prevent premature wear. A seasonal inspection schedule further safeguards the component, extending its service life and preserving crisp, accurate shifting. Investing time in care and maintenance ensures that your FD-5700 remains a dependable part of your drivetrain for many seasons of riding.