Shimano Ultegra CS-6700 10-Speed Cassette 11-28 - Lightweight Upgrade

Our review of the Shimano Ultegra CS-6700 10-Speed Cassette finds it best for riders who want a reliable, lighter alternative to entry-level cassettes without paying Dura-Ace prices. The single biggest reason to consider the CS-6700 is the weight-for-value tradeoff: Shimano rivets the tallest cogs to an aluminum carrier to shave grams while keeping shifting crisp, so racers and aggressive club riders can direct savings toward other upgrades. This cassette is a practical upgrade that improves climbing performance and maintains Shimano-level shifting quality.

Key Features

• 10-Speed compatibility: Works with standard 10-speed drivetrains for straightforward installation and dependable shifting on modern road bikes.
• 11-28 gearing: Provides a versatile range that balances low climbing gears and high top-end ratios for mixed terrain rides.
• Aluminum carrier: The tallest cogs are riveted to an aluminum carrier to reduce weight while retaining strength where it counts.
• Lighter than 6600: Designed to be lighter than the previous 6600 model, closing the gap toward higher-end cassettes for riders who watch grams.
• Shimano Ultegra construction: Built with Ultegra-level materials and design choices that deliver reliable, long-lasting performance under regular use.

Who It's For

The CS-6700 suits road cyclists and amateur racers who want a high-quality Shimano cassette without the premium Dura-Ace price, especially those who value weight savings and consistent shifting on climbs. It is an attractive choice for upgrading from 105-level parts when durability and smoother gear changes are needed.

Riders who need exotic materials for marginal weight reduction or those running non-standard freehub bodies should look elsewhere; the CS-6700 targets practical performance improvements rather than extreme race-only tweaks.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable Shimano shifting and build quality that customers report as smooth and quiet.
• Weight savings from the riveted aluminum carrier deliver a noticeable improvement over older 6600 cassettes.
• Good climbability and gear range with the 11-28 offering makes steep terrain more manageable.

Cons

• Not as light or as premium-finished as top-tier race-oriented cassettes, so racers seeking minimal grams may prefer higher-end options.

Specifications

Model	CS-6700 Ultegra
Speeds	10-Speed
Cog range	11-28
Construction detail	Tallest cogs riveted to aluminum carrier
Intended use	Road cycling / racing upgrade
Brand series	Ultegra (Shimano)

Our Verdict

The Shimano Ultegra CS-6700 10-Speed cassette is a smart, cost-effective upgrade for riders who want improved shifting, sensible weight savings, and better climbability without stepping up to the most expensive race-only cassettes. It represents good value for club racers and dedicated road cyclists who prioritize practical performance enhancements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CS-6700 compatible with 10-speed chains?
Yes. The cassette is designed for standard 10-speed drivetrains and works with 10-speed chains and Shimano 10-speed systems.

Does it save much weight compared with 6600?
Yes. The tallest cogs are riveted to an aluminum carrier for weight savings compared with the 6600 series, helping close the gap toward higher-end cassettes.

Is installation difficult?
Installation is the same as other Shimano 10-speed cassettes and is straightforward with a cassette tool and a torque wrench or chain whip.