The Shimano FD-5700 [paid link] front derailleur, part of the 105 groupset, is designed for precise and reliable shifting on road bikes. Proper maintenance is essential to keep it performing smoothly, extend its lifespan, and prevent shifting problems. Riders who dedicate time to cleaning, lubrication, and periodic adjustment will enjoy crisp gear changes and avoid premature wear.
Tools Required
- 5 mm hex wrench
- 2 mm or 2.5 mm hex wrench (depending on clamp design)
- Torque wrench [paid link] with hex bit
- Bike stand [paid link] (recommended)
- Degreaser
- Lint-free cloth
- Chain lubricant
Routine Cleaning of the FD-5700 Front Derailleur
Regular cleaning is the foundation of good performance. Dirt, grease buildup, and road grime can cause sluggish or noisy shifting. After every few rides in wet or dusty conditions, wipe down the derailleur cage and pivot points. A degreaser helps break down thick deposits on the plates where the chain makes contact.
To clean properly, shift the chain onto the small chainring. This position opens access to the derailleur cage. Wipe the inner and outer plates thoroughly, ensuring no debris remains. Avoid spraying degreaser directly into the pivots, as this can remove factory grease. Instead, use a cloth to gently clean these areas.
Lubricating the FD-5700 for Smooth Operation
Once the derailleur is clean, lubrication ensures that it continues to move freely. The FD-5700 [paid link] has several pivot points where metal contacts metal. A drop of light chain oil at each pivot is enough to reduce friction and prevent corrosion. Wipe away excess oil to avoid attracting dirt.
The cage plates themselves should remain clean and free of heavy lubricant. A light protective film of chain oil can help reduce chain noise, but over-application risks contaminating the chain and chainrings. Regular reapplication is needed after wet rides or aggressive cleaning.
Cable Condition and Replacement
The performance of the Shimano FD-5700 [paid link] front derailleur depends heavily on cable condition. Frayed, corroded, or stretched cables can lead to delayed or incomplete shifts. Inspect the cable where it enters the derailleur clamp. If strands are broken or if the cable drags when shifting, replacement is necessary.
When replacing the cable, ensure it routes correctly along the derailleur body and is secured at the clamp with the proper torque. A poorly clamped cable can slip, leading to sudden misalignment during a ride. Applying a small amount of grease to the cable at friction points helps maintain smooth lever feel.
Periodic Adjustment for Consistent Shifting
Even when clean and lubricated, the FD-5700 requires occasional adjustment to maintain peak performance. The most common adjustments involve the high and low limit screws and the cable tension.
The low limit screw prevents the chain from overshifting into the bottom bracket. If the derailleur allows the chain to drop inside, tighten the screw slightly. Conversely, the high limit screw controls shifting onto the large chainring. If the chain overshoots and falls off, adjust the screw inward to limit movement.
Cable tension affects how quickly and cleanly the derailleur moves between chainrings. Over time, housing compression and cable stretch reduce tension. Fine-tuning at the barrel adjuster restores proper alignment. Riders should make small, gradual changes to avoid overcorrection.
Troubleshooting Shifting Problems
A well-maintained FD-5700 should shift cleanly with minimal noise. If problems occur, the causes are usually straightforward. Chain rub in certain gears often indicates incorrect alignment or limit screw setting. Hesitant shifting may come from dirty pivots or cable drag. Excessive noise could signal a bent derailleur cage, often the result of a crash.
Addressing these issues promptly prevents further damage. Keeping the derailleur cage straight and properly aligned with the chainrings is essential for smooth operation. If alignment is visibly compromised, professional inspection may be necessary.
Long-Term Care and Lifespan Extension
To extend the service life of the Shimano FD-5700, consistent care is required. Store the bike in a dry environment to prevent corrosion. After wet rides, dry and lubricate the derailleur immediately. During seasonal overhauls, remove the derailleur for a complete cleaning, including re-greasing of the pivot points.
The FD-5700 is designed to last many years when maintained properly. Riders who regularly clean, lubricate, and adjust will avoid the majority of shifting issues and keep their drivetrain performing like new.
Conclusion
The Shimano FD-5700 front derailleur delivers reliable shifting when maintained with care. Routine cleaning, lubrication, and cable inspection are key to preserving its precision. Periodic adjustment of the limit screws and cable tension ensures that the derailleur continues to operate at peak performance. By following a structured maintenance plan, riders can extend the lifespan of their FD-5700 and enjoy smooth, confident shifting on every ride.