How to Install A Road Bike Cassette

Written by : Mr Mamil
Last updated :

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Installing the cassette is yet another bike maintenance task every cyclist should know. It’s an easy task that only takes a few minutes to get done.

This article covers the step-by-step installation of Shimano cassettes. The same steps can be used for SRAM, Campagnolo, SunRace, and SunTour.

Tools needed :

Top to Bottom - Lockring tool for QR, lockring tool for thru axle, adjustable wrench, torque wrench
Top to Bottom – Lockring tool for QR, lockring tool for thru-axle, adjustable wrench, torque wrench
  • Lockring removal tool (cassette tool)
  • Adjustable wrench / 24mm wrench
  • Torque wrench with 40Nm setting

How to install a Shimano cassette

  1. Ensure the freehub body and cassette are clean.
  2. Apply a thin layer of grease to the freehub splines.
  3. Insert the cassette into the freehub body. Take note of the spline’s width and insert the cogs accordingly.
  4. As you continue to insert the cogs, don’t forget to insert spacers. If the cogs are touching each other, you’ll need a spacer to separate them.
  5. Gently screw the lockring in once all the cogs are inserted. Make sure the lockring is threaded properly, and don’t use excessive force.
  6. Handtight the lockring.
  7. Insert the lockring removal tool into the freehub.
  8. Set the torque wrench to 40Nm and continue to tighten until you hear a click.
  9. If you don’t have a torque wrench, an adjustable wrench will do the job. Tighten until you feel a click.
  10. Give it another slight push until you feel another 1 or 2 clicks.
  11. Visually inspect the cassette to make sure all the cogs are installed correctly. A common mistake is to have the cog facing the wrong way. The cog-size engraving should be facing you.