The Shimano CS-4700 [paid link] cassette is an integral component of the Tiagra 10-speed groupset, offering durable performance for road cyclists seeking reliable shifting over thousands of kilometers. Like any drivetrain component, however, it has a finite lifespan. Understanding when and how to replace the CS-4700 [paid link] cassette is crucial for maintaining optimal drivetrain performance and preventing premature wear of your chain and chainrings.
This technical guide will help you identify cassette wear, determine replacement timing, and walk you through the precise steps needed to remove and install a new CS-4700 [paid link] cassette with professional accuracy.
Recognizing Signs of Cassette Wear
Cassette wear on the CS-4700 is a gradual process that depends on riding style, maintenance habits, and chain replacement frequency. Key symptoms of a worn cassette include:
Slipping Under Load
When your chain skips under pressure—especially in commonly used cogs—it often signals that the cassette teeth no longer mesh cleanly with the chain. This is a clear indicator of excessive wear.
Noisy Shifting
Increased drivetrain noise, even with a clean and lubricated system, often stems from unevenly worn cassette teeth. Poor gear transitions or rattling noises typically emerge during shifts to or from frequently used cogs.
Visible Tooth Deformation
Inspect the teeth for signs of wear such as hooked, pointed, or thinned profiles. A fresh CS-4700 cassette has uniform, symmetrical teeth. Any irregularity suggests it’s time for a replacement.
Chain Elongation Impact
If you’ve used a stretched chain for too long, it may have damaged the cassette. Measuring your chain with a wear indicator tool and tracking its mileage is essential to preserving cassette integrity.
Recommended Replacement Intervals
While there’s no single mileage threshold, most riders should consider replacing the CS-4700 cassette after:
- 4,000–6,000 kilometers for competitive or high-power cyclists
- 6,000–8,000 kilometers for recreational or efficient riders who replace their chain regularly
These intervals assume ideal conditions with routine cleaning and proper lubrication. If maintenance is inconsistent or riding occurs in wet, gritty environments, expect faster wear.
Tools Required
Before starting the replacement process, gather the following tools:
- Cassette lockring tool [paid link] (Shimano-compatible)
- Chain whip
- Adjustable or torque wrench [paid link]
- Grease (for freehub splines)
- Clean rag or brush
Removing the Shimano CS-4700 Cassette
- Remove Rear Wheel
Shift the chain to the smallest cog and carefully remove the wheel from the bike. - Stabilize the Cassette
Use a chain whip to hold the cassette in place. Wrap it around one of the middle cogs to avoid slipping. - Loosen the Lockring
Insert the lockring tool [paid link] into the center and turn counterclockwise using a wrench. The lockring will release with moderate force. - Slide Off the Cogs
Carefully slide the cassette cogs and spacers off the freehub. Keep them in order for reference or recycling.
Inspecting and Cleaning the Freehub
After removal, clean the freehub body and check for gouging or damage. Apply a light layer of grease to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth installation of the new cassette.
Installing the New CS-4700 Cassette
- Align the Spline Patterns
The cassette has one narrower spline to guide proper alignment. Match it with the corresponding groove on the freehub. - Stack the Cogs and Spacers
Install each cog and spacer in the correct order. Refer to the original configuration if unsure. The CS-4700 typically has 10 cogs and multiple thin spacers. - Tighten the Lockring
Hand-thread the lockring, then tighten with a torque wrench [paid link] to Shimano’s recommended torque specification (typically 40 Nm). - Check for Lateral Play
Spin the cassette and ensure there is no side-to-side wobble. If there is, recheck the order of spacers or correct installation.
Post-Replacement Chain Inspection
Never install a new cassette with a worn chain. A new chain should have minimal elongation (less than 0.5%). If in doubt, install a fresh 10-speed Shimano-compatible chain alongside the new cassette to ensure smooth and quiet shifting.
Why Timely Replacement Matters
Delaying replacement of the CS-4700 cassette can cause several drivetrain issues:
- Accelerated wear of the chain and chainrings
- Sloppy or inaccurate shifting
- Increased drivetrain noise
- Higher long-term component costs
Routine cassette inspection and timely replacement not only preserve performance but also extend the life of your entire drivetrain system.
FAQs About Shimano CS-4700 Cassette Wear and Replacement
1. Can I replace just one cog on the CS-4700 cassette if it’s worn?
No. Shimano cassettes are designed as integrated systems, and individual cog replacement is neither recommended nor cost-effective.
2. How do I know if the cassette or the chain is causing poor shifting?
Check chain stretch with a chain wear tool. If the chain is worn but the cassette looks clean, replace both. If the cassette is visibly worn or shifts poorly with a new chain, it’s the culprit.
3. Is the CS-4700 compatible with 11-speed hubs?
Yes, with a 1.85 mm spacer, the CS-4700 cassette can fit on 11-speed Shimano freehubs.
4. Do I need to grease the cassette during installation?
Only lightly grease the freehub splines. Avoid greasing the cogs themselves to prevent debris attraction.
5. What’s the best way to clean the cassette before checking for wear?
Remove the cassette and use a degreaser with a brush. Dry it thoroughly before inspecting the teeth.
6. How often should I check cassette wear?
Inspect visually and test shifting performance every 1,000–2,000 kilometers, or more frequently if you ride in dirty conditions.
Conclusion
The Shimano CS-4700 cassette delivers dependable performance for road cyclists when properly maintained and replaced on time. Recognizing the signs of wear, understanding the correct removal and installation process, and syncing replacement with chain condition are all key to preserving drivetrain integrity. Timely replacement ensures your road bike continues to shift smoothly, perform consistently, and deliver the riding experience you expect.