The Shimano SM-BB5700 [paid link] Hollowtech II bottom bracket is a robust and widely used component found on many mid to high-end road bikes. Built for efficiency, durability, and ease of service, it plays a critical role in crankset support and drivetrain performance. However, to ensure this bottom bracket performs optimally throughout its service life, riders must follow a diligent routine of installation verification, ongoing maintenance, and component alignment.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to keep your SM-BB5700 [paid link] bottom bracket running like new through detailed care and performance practices.
Understanding the SM-BB5700 [paid link] Hollowtech II Design
The SM-BB5700 features Shimano’s Hollowtech II external bearing system, which utilizes wide-set bearings threaded directly into the bottom bracket shell. This design improves stiffness and power transfer while allowing easy servicing. It’s compatible with English-threaded (BSA) frames and supports standard Hollowtech II cranksets.
Due to its outboard bearing placement and press-fit spindle interface, the SM-BB5700 requires precision in both installation and maintenance. When left unchecked, contaminants, improper torque, or misalignment can drastically reduce its longevity and effectiveness.
Regular Inspection and Cleaning Schedule
To maintain peak performance, a structured inspection and cleaning regimen is essential.
Inspect the bottom bracket every 2,000 to 3,000 km, or sooner if you ride in wet or gritty conditions. Remove the crankset and check for bearing play, grinding sensation, or corrosion around the cups. Excessive noise or uneven crank rotation are also signs the system needs attention.
When cleaning:
- Use a mild degreaser to clean the external bearing cups.
- Avoid high-pressure water near the bearings to prevent contamination.
- Wipe down the spindle and bearing interface with a lint-free cloth.
- Lightly re-grease the spindle contact surfaces before reassembly.
Optimizing Installation for Longevity
A misaligned or poorly torqued SM-BB5700 can cause accelerated wear and inefficient crank performance. Proper installation practices are foundational to maintaining bottom bracket function.
Ensure:
- Frame shell threads are clean, free of debris, and properly faced.
- Apply a thin layer of anti-seize or appropriate grease to both the cup threads and frame shell.
- Thread the right-side cup clockwise and the left-side counter-clockwise.
- Use a Hollowtech II-specific bottom bracket tool [paid link] to torque each cup to 35–50 Nm, as per Shimano specs.
Over-tightening can compress bearings and reduce their lifespan, while under-tightening may cause creaking or cup movement.
Lubrication Best Practices
Proper lubrication ensures smooth bearing operation and reduces friction between the spindle and bearing cups.
- Apply high-quality waterproof grease to the crank spindle surfaces and bearing contact points.
- Reapply grease after every major cleaning or if you hear noise during pedaling.
- Do not over-pack the bearing area with grease, as this can attract dirt and increase drag.
Shimano’s own grease or similar products with corrosion inhibitors and water resistance are ideal for this purpose.
How to Detect Early Signs of Wear
The first indicators of SM-BB5700 wear typically involve drivetrain inefficiency or audible cues.
Watch out for:
- Creaking or popping noises during pedaling
- Rough or gritty crank rotation
- Lateral crank arm play
- Visible rust or contamination around the bearing seals
If you observe any of these symptoms, remove the crankset and inspect the cups and spindle interface immediately. Early detection can prevent further damage and extend bottom bracket life.
Preventing Contaminant Intrusion
The location of the SM-BB5700’s external bearings makes it vulnerable to water and road grime.
To guard against contamination:
- Install rubber bearing shields or crank arm dust caps if not already present.
- Use frame protection tape or a BB seal kit in particularly wet or sandy environments.
- After riding in adverse conditions, clean and re-lubricate as soon as possible.
These simple steps can prevent premature corrosion and bearing degradation.
Choosing the Right Tools and Torque
Using the correct tools ensures that the SM-BB5700 is installed and serviced without damaging the threads or bearing races.
Tools Required:
- Hollowtech II bottom bracket tool [paid link] (Shimano TL-FC32 [paid link] or equivalent)
- Torque wrench [paid link] capable of 35–50 Nm
- Crank arm cap tool (for pre-load adjustment)
- Waterproof grease or anti-seize compound
- Allen keys [paid link] (typically 5 mm and 8 mm)
Adhering to torque specifications not only prevents mechanical issues but ensures structural safety over time.
When to Replace the SM-BB5700
Despite proper care, all bottom brackets have a service life. Shimano recommends inspection every 6,000–8,000 km, with replacements as needed.
Replace the unit if:
- Bearings feel rough, even after cleaning
- There’s visible corrosion or pitting
- Noise persists despite reinstallation
- Crank arms no longer rotate smoothly under load
When replacing, always use compatible Hollowtech II SM-BB5700 cups to maintain spindle fit and performance.
Conclusion
Maintaining the SM-BB5700 Hollowtech II bottom bracket doesn’t require complex tools or advanced skills, but it does demand precision and attention to detail. With a consistent routine of inspection, lubrication, and correct installation, you can keep this bottom bracket performing smoothly and efficiently for thousands of kilometers. It’s an investment in both your bike’s performance and your riding enjoyment.
FAQs About the SM-BB5700
Q1: How often should I service my SM-BB5700 bottom bracket?
Every 2,000 to 3,000 km under normal conditions; more frequently in wet or off-road environments.
Q2: Can I use the SM-BB5700 with a press-fit frame?
No. It’s designed exclusively for threaded BSA frames.
Q3: What cranksets are compatible with the SM-BB5700?
Any Shimano Hollowtech II road crankset is fully compatible.
Q4: Why is my SM-BB5700 creaking under load?
Common causes include dry or contaminated threads, poor torque settings, or worn bearings.
Q5: Can I use threadlock instead of grease on installation?
Threadlock is not recommended for this model. Use grease or anti-seize to prevent seizing and creaks.
Q6: Is there a difference between the SM-BB5700 and SM-BBR60 [paid link]?
Yes. The SM-BBR60 [paid link] is a newer, lighter unit with smaller bearings and is not cross-compatible due to bearing width differences.