The Shimano PD-5700[paid link] pedals, part of the 105 series, are known for their reliability, smooth engagement, and efficiency in power transfer. However, even the best clipless pedal systems can feel “off” if installation or adjustment isn’t done correctly. This guide explains in detail why your PD-5700[paid link] pedals might not feel right and how to correct common set-up issues. It covers installation alignment, cleat positioning, bearing inspection, and proper torque application to restore smooth and confident pedal engagement.
Tools Required
- 8mm hex wrench
- Torque wrench[paid link] (with 8mm bit)
- Grease (Shimano or equivalent)
- Clean cloth or paper towel
- Shimano cleat adjustment tool (optional)
- Threadlocker (medium strength, optional)
Understanding the PD-5700 Pedal Design
The Shimano PD-5700 pedals feature a wide stainless-steel body plate and adjustable spring tension. This design ensures efficient power transfer while minimizing flex under heavy load. The sealed cartridge bearings deliver smooth rotation, and the SPD-SL cleat interface provides a stable platform. Despite this, any deviation from factory alignment, incorrect cleat positioning, or insufficient lubrication can make the pedal feel unstable or noisy.
The most common signs of a poor set-up include:
- Excessive lateral float or side-to-side movement.
- Difficulty clipping in or releasing.
- A clicking or creaking noise during pedaling.
- Uneven resistance between left and right pedals.
Checking Pedal Installation
Improper installation torque or lack of lubrication can make the PD-5700 pedals feel rough or inconsistent. Before adjustment, inspect the crank interface.
- Remove the pedal using an 8mm hex wrench.
- Clean the crank threads thoroughly with a cloth.
- Apply a thin layer of grease to the pedal threads.
- Reinstall the pedal using a torque wrench[paid link], tightening to Shimano’s recommended 35–40 Nm.
Using a threadlocker can help prevent loosening, especially on alloy crank arms. Never overtighten—excess torque can distort the spindle alignment and lead to poor engagement.
Inspecting the Bearing Condition
A worn or dry bearing assembly can make the pedal feel stiff or gritty. The PD-5700 uses a sealed cartridge system, which should rotate freely without resistance.
Hold the spindle and spin the pedal body by hand. It should rotate smoothly with no play or grinding.
If there’s noticeable resistance or noise, remove the pedal, disassemble the bearing cartridge, clean all parts, and reapply a thin layer of grease before reassembly.
If pitting or corrosion is visible on the bearing surfaces, replacement is necessary to maintain proper feel.
Cleat Position and Float Adjustment
Incorrect cleat position is one of the most common reasons PD-5700 pedals feel off. Shimano SPD-SL cleats allow for limited float, depending on the model color (yellow = 6°, blue = 2°, red = fixed).
To ensure proper positioning:
- Align the cleats so the ball of your foot is centered over the pedal axle.
- Adjust the rotation angle to allow a natural knee tracking motion.
- Tighten cleat bolts evenly, ensuring no movement during testing.
After initial tightening, test-ride for a few minutes and fine-tune the cleat angle. Even a few degrees of misalignment can cause discomfort or an unstable feeling underfoot.
Adjusting Spring Tension
The PD-5700’s adjustable spring tension allows riders to control how easily they clip in and out. If your pedals feel inconsistent or too stiff, tension adjustment is likely required.
Locate the tension adjustment screw on the rear of each pedal. Turning clockwise increases tension; counterclockwise decreases it.
Shimano recommends setting both pedals to the same number of turns from the minimum tension point for balanced feel.
A medium setting suits most riders. Beginners may prefer lighter tension, while experienced riders often choose a firmer feel for sprinting stability.
Eliminating Noise and Creaks
Noise during pedaling can originate from several sources—pedal threads, cleats, or even shoe soles. The PD-5700’s steel contact plate can accumulate dirt or grit, creating a metallic clicking sound.
To fix:
- Clean the pedal surface and cleats with a dry cloth.
- Apply a light layer of silicone-based lubricant to the contact points.
- Ensure cleat bolts are torqued to 5–6 Nm.
If creaking persists, inspect the shoe sole interface. Over time, slight deformation around the cleat area can cause micro-movement, leading to unwanted noise.
Balancing Left and Right Pedal Feel
Uneven feel between left and right pedals is another symptom of uneven tension or bearing wear. Always adjust both sides equally. If one pedal feels looser, match its spring tension to the opposite pedal.
Additionally, ensure crank arms are clean and both pedals are torqued equally. Any imbalance can create an uneven pedaling sensation.
When to Service or Replace Components
The PD-5700 is durable, but periodic servicing extends lifespan. Shimano recommends re-greasing bearings every 3,000–5,000 km under normal riding conditions. For wet or dusty environments, reduce intervals to 2,000 km.
If the pedal still feels rough after adjustment, internal wear may be excessive, requiring a replacement spindle or full pedal assembly.
Optimization Tips for Better Feel
- Use Shimano’s original SPD-SL cleats to ensure correct engagement depth.
- Avoid over-lubricating; excess grease can attract dust and degrade engagement feel.
- Rotate pedal tension checks with chain lubrication schedules for consistency.
- Replace worn cleats promptly; a loose cleat interface can make the pedal feel vague or unstable.
Comparison Insight: PD-5700 vs PD-5800
The PD-5800[paid link], Shimano’s 105 successor, features improved sealing and a slightly wider body for enhanced stability. However, the PD-5700 remains a solid performer with similar power transfer. The difference in feel often comes down to bearing condition and cleat wear rather than inherent design. A properly set up PD-5700 can match or exceed the performance of newer models with careful adjustment.
Common Mistakes That Affect Set-Up Quality
- Installing pedals without grease, leading to creaking or galling.
- Ignoring cleat wear, which causes unstable engagement.
- Uneven spring tension adjustment between pedals.
- Using mismatched cleats (SPD vs SPD-SL).
Avoiding these errors ensures consistent engagement and efficient power transfer throughout your ride.
Conclusion
The Shimano PD-5700 pedals deliver reliable performance when correctly installed and adjusted. Most “off-feeling” pedal setups stem from simple alignment, torque, or cleat-position errors. Regular maintenance—especially lubrication and bearing inspection—prevents most engagement or stability issues.
With the correct setup, these pedals can provide years of smooth, efficient pedaling with confidence under every condition.