The Shimano FD-6700 [paid link] front derailleur, part of the Ultegra 6700 10-speed groupset, is designed for crisp, reliable front shifting. However, riders often report that their set-up feels slightly off. This can manifest as chain rub, sluggish shifting, or inconsistent gear changes. In most cases, the derailleur itself is not the problem. Instead, the issue lies in the installation and adjustment process. Understanding the key factors behind a poor set-up and how to correct them ensures the FD-6700 [paid link] performs at its best.

Understanding the Shimano FD-6700 Design

The FD-6700 [paid link] uses a wide-link design for increased stiffness, which improves power transfer during shifts. It is optimized for Shimano’s 10-speed chainrings with a recommended maximum capacity of 16 teeth and a large chainring size of up to 53T. Unlike newer models, the FD-6700 requires careful fine-tuning because it lacks the more forgiving trim function of electronic derailleurs. This makes precision alignment critical.

Common Reasons the FD-6700 Feels Off

Several small factors contribute to a poor set-up. The most frequent issues include:

• Incorrect mounting height: If the derailleur sits too high above the large chainring, shifts become slow and imprecise. If mounted too low, the cage can rub against the teeth.
• Improper cage angle: A slight misalignment in the angle of the cage relative to the chainrings can cause rubbing, especially in cross-chained positions.
• Cable tension problems: Too little tension results in hesitant shifts to the big ring. Too much tension can cause overshifting and constant rub on the cage.
• Limit screw misadjustment: Incorrectly set limit screws either restrict the derailleur’s movement or allow the chain to overshoot.
• Worn or contaminated components: Frayed cables, corroded housing, or a stretched chain reduce shifting accuracy even with correct set-up.

Correcting Mounting Height and Angle

To ensure smooth operation, the derailleur cage should clear the tallest tooth on the big chainring by 1–3 mm. A feeler gauge or a simple visual check can confirm this spacing. The outer plate of the cage must also align parallel to the chainrings. Even a few degrees off can create noise and inefficiency. Adjust the derailleur’s position before tightening the clamp bolt, as this alignment sets the foundation for all further adjustments.

Fine-Tuning Cable Tension

Cable tension is critical on the FD-6700. After securing the cable with the anchor bolt, shift through the front gears to check responsiveness. If the chain struggles to move to the large ring, gradually increase tension using the barrel adjuster. If the chain overshoots or rubs excessively in the small ring, reduce the tension slightly. Small incremental adjustments deliver the best results.

Setting the Limit Screws Accurately

The limit screws define the derailleur’s range of movement. The low limit screw should prevent the chain from dropping inside onto the bottom bracket when in the small ring. The high limit screw stops the derailleur from pushing the chain off the large chainring. For the FD-6700, precision here is essential, as the derailleur’s geometry allows little margin for error.

Eliminating Chain Rub Across the Gear Range

Chain rub often indicates a misaligned derailleur or poorly set limits. After initial adjustments, shift through all gear combinations, including cross-chaining scenarios, to identify rubbing points. On the FD-6700, some minor rub in extreme cross-chaining positions is unavoidable. However, consistent noise in the middle gears signals that re-checking cage angle and cable tension is necessary.

Optimizing Performance Through Maintenance

Even with a perfect set-up, dirt and wear can make the derailleur feel off. Regular cleaning of the cage plates prevents build-up that interferes with chain movement. Lubricating the pivot points with a light oil ensures smooth spring action. Replacing cables and housing every season maintains crisp, responsive shifting.

Compatibility Considerations

The FD-6700 is engineered for Shimano 10-speed systems and pairs best with Ultegra 6700, 105 5700, or Dura-Ace 7900 chainsets. Using it with mismatched chainrings, such as those outside Shimano’s recommended range, can cause shifting inconsistencies. Riders upgrading to compact chainsets (50/34) or standard double chainsets (53/39) must verify that the derailleur’s capacity suits their choice.

Conclusion

When the Shimano FD-6700 front derailleur feels off, the issue almost always lies in set-up rather than design flaws. Correct mounting height, precise cage angle, proper cable tension, and accurately set limit screws are essential for flawless operation. Regular maintenance further ensures consistent performance. By following these steps, riders can eliminate shifting issues and enjoy the reliable performance the FD-6700 was built to deliver.