The Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] chainring is a critical component of your road bike’s drivetrain. Whether you’re tackling long-distance rides or sprinting on competitive circuits, maintaining your FC-6700 [paid link] chainring ensures smooth shifting, improved efficiency, and long-lasting performance. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to keep your Shimano FC-6700 [paid link] chainring in peak condition.

Understanding the Shimano FC-6700 Chainring

The Shimano FC-6700 chainring is part of Shimano’s 6700 series, designed for the Ultegra 10-speed groupset. Known for its durability and precision, the FC-6700 features an optimized design for performance, providing smooth shifts, increased rigidity, and reduced weight. It’s available in a variety of tooth configurations to suit different riding styles, including 39T/53T options, making it ideal for both competitive cyclists and enthusiasts.

Regular Cleaning to Prevent Wear

One of the most important aspects of maintaining your Shimano FC-6700 chainring is regular cleaning. Dirt, grime, and moisture can quickly build up on the chainring, leading to increased wear and tear, and compromising performance.

Cleaning Steps:

1. Remove the Chainring: If needed, remove the chainring to ensure thorough cleaning. Use a chainring tool to detach it from the crankset.
2. Use a Degreaser: Apply a bike-specific degreaser to the chainring. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down any grease and grime.
3. Scrub with a Brush: Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub between the teeth and the inner ring of the chainring. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas where dirt accumulates.
4. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the chainring with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean towel or rag to avoid rust.
5. Lubricate: After cleaning, lightly lubricate the chainring with a dry lubricant to help prevent dirt from sticking and keep it moving smoothly.

Chainring Inspection: Look for Wear and Damage

Periodic inspection of the FC-6700 chainring helps you catch potential issues before they become serious. Inspect the chainring for signs of wear such as:

• Tooth Wear: Check for teeth that are worn down, chipped, or bent. Excessive wear can cause poor shifting and chain skipping.
• Cracks or Damage: Look for cracks or physical damage to the chainring, especially around bolt holes or the teeth. This can affect the safety and performance of the drivetrain.
• Alignment: Ensure that the chainring is properly aligned with the crankset. Misalignment can lead to uneven chain wear and inefficient pedaling.

Chainring Bolt Tightening and Torque

Proper tightening of the chainring bolts is crucial for both performance and safety. Over-tightening or under-tightening the bolts can lead to damage or cause the chainring to come loose during use.

Proper Tightening Steps:

1. Use a Torque Wrench [paid link]: Always use a torque wrench [paid link] when tightening the chainring bolts to ensure you reach the correct torque specifications.
2. Follow the Manufacturer’s Torque Setting: Shimano recommends tightening the bolts to a torque setting of 12–14Nm. This will prevent the bolts from loosening without damaging the chainring or crankset.
3. Even Tightening: Tighten the bolts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure across the chainring. This helps keep the chainring seated properly.

Chainring Alignment for Optimal Performance

Incorrect alignment can cause poor chain engagement, inefficient pedaling, and rapid wear on both the chainring and the chain. To maintain the best performance from your Shimano FC-6700 chainring, ensure that it’s properly aligned with your bike’s crankset and chain.

Alignment Tips:

• Check for Chainline Issues: A misaligned chainring can affect the chainline, which in turn impacts shifting efficiency. If the chainring is misaligned, you may notice poor shifting, especially when in the large chainring.
• Inspect the Crankset: Ensure that the crankset is securely mounted and that there is no play in the bottom bracket. Any movement can affect chainring alignment and overall drivetrain performance.

Lubrication for Smooth Performance

While the Shimano FC-6700 chainring does not require heavy lubrication, applying a light coating of lubricant after cleaning is essential to keep it running smoothly. Lubrication helps minimize friction between the chain and the chainring, promoting efficient pedaling and reducing wear on the drivetrain.

Lubrication Guidelines:

• Use a Dry Lubricant: For best results, apply a dry lubricant to the chainring’s teeth. This will reduce the buildup of grime and keep the drivetrain clean.
• Avoid Excess Lubrication: Excessive lubrication can attract dirt and debris, leading to the very wear you’re trying to avoid. Apply a light coat, wiping away any excess.

Troubleshooting Common Chainring Performance Issues

Even with regular maintenance, you might encounter performance issues with your Shimano FC-6700 chainring. Here’s how to troubleshoot and fix some of the most common problems.

1. Slipping Chain or Poor Shifting:

• Check for Worn Teeth: If your chain is slipping or shifting poorly, inspect the chainring for worn or damaged teeth. Replace the chainring if necessary.
• Inspect the Chain: A worn chain can cause poor shifting. Ensure that the chain is in good condition and replace it if needed.

2. Chain Skipping on the Large Chainring:

• Check Chainring Bolts: Loose chainring bolts can cause the chainring to shift slightly, leading to skipping. Tighten the bolts to the correct torque setting.
• Ensure Proper Alignment: Misalignment between the chainring and crankset can cause skipping. Check that the chainring is properly aligned with the rest of the drivetrain.

3. Excessive Noise During Pedaling:

• Clean the Chainring: Dirt buildup on the chainring can cause noise. Clean the chainring thoroughly and lubricate it to reduce friction.
• Check Chain and Derailleur: Excessive noise could also come from other drivetrain components. Inspect the chain and derailleur for wear and misalignment.

Conclusion

Maintaining your Shimano FC-6700 chainring is essential for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your bike’s drivetrain. Regular cleaning, proper bolt tightening, alignment checks, and lubrication can go a long way in keeping the chainring running smoothly. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you’ll enjoy a seamless and efficient riding experience.