SM-BB5700 Compatibility Secrets: What Works, What Fails, and What to Avoid

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The Shimano SM-BB5700 [paid link] bottom bracket is part of the 105 series and designed for Hollowtech II cranksets. Although it’s built for dependable performance in Shimano’s mid-tier groupsets, compatibility with frames and drivetrain components can be confusing. This guide explores what works seamlessly with the SM-BB5700 [paid link], what commonly fails, and what should be avoided to ensure peak drivetrain efficiency.

Understanding the SM-BB5700: Design and Purpose

The SM-BB5700 [paid link] bottom bracket is designed for English-threaded (BSA) 68 mm road bike bottom bracket shells. It’s specifically tailored to interface with Shimano Hollowtech II cranksets, using outboard bearing cups and a 24 mm spindle diameter.

This model is optimized for road cycling under moderate to high load and offers durability through high-quality seals and bearing construction. Its external cup design offers easy access for installation and servicing.

What Works: Proven Compatible Components and Set-Ups

For best performance, use the SM-BB5700 with its intended drivetrain components. The bottom bracket works efficiently when matched correctly.

Crankset Compatibility

  • Fully compatible with Shimano Hollowtech II road cranksets across 10-speed series:
    • Shimano 105 (5700, 5800)
    • Shimano Ultegra (6700)
    • Shimano Tiagra (4600/4700, though axle spacing must be double-checked)
  • Compatible with Shimano compact, standard, and mid-compact cranksets using a 24 mm spindle.

Frame Compatibility

  • Designed specifically for BSA-threaded 68 mm road frames.
  • Compatible with metal and carbon frames as long as they have the correct threading and shell width.
  • Works well with threaded BB adaptors for certain press-fit frames, if tolerances are correct and installation is done precisely.

Bottom Bracket Tools

  • Use Shimano TL-FC32 [paid link] or any Hollowtech II-compatible BB tool for correct installation.
  • Bearings match standard service kits, making replacement straightforward.

What Fails: Common Compatibility Issues to Avoid

Using the SM-BB5700 with the wrong components or frame specifications can lead to poor performance, creaking noises, or even damage.

Non-Compatible Cranksets

  • BB30 and SRAM GXP [paid link] cranksets are not compatible with the SM-BB5700 due to differing spindle diameters and system designs.
  • FSA MegaExo or BB386EVO cranks also require different bottom bracket systems or proprietary adaptors, which can cause misalignment.

Incorrect Frame Types

  • Not suitable for Press Fit frames (BB86, BB90, BB92, BB30, PF30 [paid link], BBRight) without a high-quality conversion kit. Even with adaptors, alignment issues and creaking are common.
  • Not compatible with Italian-threaded shells, which use a different thread direction and pitch.

Mismatch in Shell Width

  • Avoid installation in MTB frames or other shell widths that differ from 68 mm, unless using specialized spacers (which Shimano does not officially recommend for SM-BB5700 in road applications).

What to Avoid: Missteps That Undermine Performance

Even with seemingly compatible components, setup mistakes can lead to premature wear or degraded drivetrain efficiency.

Low-Quality Conversion Kits

  • Avoid cheap adaptors to fit the SM-BB5700 into press-fit shells. These often introduce slight misalignments that cause persistent creaking and bearing wear.

Mixing Grease Types or Lack of Grease

  • Using incompatible greases or failing to lubricate threads and bearings during installation can lead to seizing or corrosion over time.

Improper Torque During Installation

  • Over-tightening the cups or incorrectly spacing the crankset can result in drag on the bearings, reducing efficiency and shortening lifespan.

Neglecting Regular Inspection

  • Even if installed correctly, failing to check for bearing play or thread integrity can lead to hidden damage that escalates into more serious drivetrain issues.

Optimizing Your Drivetrain with the SM-BB5700

To make the most of the SM-BB5700 bottom bracket:

  • Stick with Shimano 10-speed Hollowtech II cranksets.
  • Confirm your frame is a BSA-threaded 68 mm road shell before purchase.
  • Ensure regular maintenance: clean, re-grease, and inspect every 2,000–3,000 km.
  • Replace bearings or cups at the first sign of grinding or play.
  • Use torque wrenches to avoid over-tightening and maintain structural integrity.

These practices will preserve performance and maximize compatibility, letting the SM-BB5700 deliver long-lasting efficiency on your road bike.

Conclusion

The Shimano SM-BB5700 is a well-built, reliable bottom bracket that performs best when paired with its intended 10-speed Hollowtech II cranksets and BSA-threaded frames. Compatibility issues typically arise when using it with press-fit adaptors or non-Shimano cranks. Avoiding these pitfalls ensures smoother rides and longer component life.

For riders committed to precision and performance, understanding and applying compatibility rules around the SM-BB5700 is essential.