
( Brand: Shimano ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: FC-4700/4703 ), ( Part Type: Bcd ), ( Set Includes: Crankset ), ( Crankarm Length: 170 Mm ), ( Color: Gray ), ( Number Of Chainrings: Double ), ( Material: Aluminum, Steel ), ( Compatible Bike Type: Road Bike )
The **Shimano FC-4700/4703 Tiagra Hollowtech II Crankset (Model 170110, 170mm BCD, Asymmetric 4-Bolt)** is a refined yet capable entry into Shimano s Tiagra lineup, designed to deliver a harmonious blend of performance, reliability, and ergonomic efficiency for road cyclists seeking a balance between affordability and quality. Engineered with Shimano s Hollowtech II technology, this crankset features a lightweight yet robust construction, utilizing a forged aluminum spider and a forged steel bottom bracket shell for optimal durability and power transfer. The asymmetric 4-bolt design ensures compatibility with a wide range of road and gravel frames, accommodating both 105 and Tiagra-specific bottom bracket shells, while the 170mm BCD (Bolt Circle Diameter) standard guarantees seamless integration with Shimano s broader group-set ecosystem, including the FC-4700/4703 derailleurs and shifters. The crank arms, crafted from high-grade aluminum, are precision-machined to minimize weight without compromising stiffness, contributing to a responsive and efficient pedal stroke. This crankset is particularly well-suited for riders who prioritize smooth shifting, consistent performance, and a comfortable riding experience, making it an excellent choice for both urban commuters and weekend warriors exploring varied terrain. Whether paired with a lightweight road bike or a versatile gravel rig, the FC-4700/4703 Hollowtech II crankset embodies Shimano s commitment to delivering a premium riding experience at an accessible price point, ensuring that every pedal stroke is both efficient and enjoyable.
The Shimano Tiagra 4700/4703 crankset (model 170110, asymmetric 4-bolt, Hollowtech II) is a mid-range entry into Shimano s Tiagra group, offering a balance of performance and affordability. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros**
**1. Reliability and Durability**
The Tiagra 4700/4703 series is built on Shimano s proven Hollowtech II bottom bracket design, which is known for its robustness and longevity. The asymmetric 4-bolt spindle (170110) is compatible with a wide range of frames and forks, reducing the need for custom modifications. The crankset is also designed to handle moderate stress, making it suitable for daily riding and light touring.
**2. Weight Efficiency**
While not as lightweight as higher-end groupsets like Ultegra or Dura-Ace, the Tiagra 4700/4703 is significantly lighter than entry-level groupsets like Sora or Tourney. The use of aluminum for the crank arms and spider contributes to a more responsive feel, especially in the higher gears. The overall weight is competitive for its price point, making it a practical choice for commuters or recreational riders who want a smoother ride without the cost of premium components.
**3. Compatibility and Versatility**
The 4-bolt asymmetric spindle is widely compatible with most modern road frames and forks, including those designed for 11-speed groupsets. This means you can pair it with a variety of Shimano or third-party components (e.g., wheels, derailleurs) without major frame or fork modifications. The crankset is also backward-compatible with 10-speed systems, though performance may not be optimal in lower gears.
**4. Performance and Gear Range**
The Tiagra 4700/4703 offers a 50/34 tooth chainring setup (common for road applications), providing a balanced gear range for climbing and cruising. The 11-speed cassette compatibility allows for tighter spacing in the mid-range gears, which can improve shifting precision and efficiency compared to older 9- or 10-speed setups. The crankset s design minimizes chain slap, contributing to a quieter and more efficient ride.
**5. Value for Money**
Tiagra is Shimano s mid-tier offering, positioning it above entry-level groupsets like Sora and below Ultegra. The 4700/4703 series represents a slight upgrade in materials and performance over older Tiagra models (e.g., 4600) while remaining significantly cheaper than Ultegra or Dura-Ace. For riders who want Shimano s reliability without the premium price, this crankset offers excellent value.
**6. Maintenance and Serviceability**
Shimano components are widely serviced by bike shops worldwide, and parts (e.g., chainrings, spiders, bottom brackets) are readily available. The Hollowtech II bottom bracket is straightforward to service, and the crankset s design allows for easy chainring replacement if needed. This makes the Tiagra 4700/4703 a practical choice for riders who may not want to invest in high-end maintenance.
**7. Aesthetics and Build Quality**
The Tiagra 4700/4703 features a sleek, modern design with a matte black finish on the crank arms and spider, which complements many bike frames. The build quality is solid, with tight tolerances and minimal play, contributing to a premium feel relative to its price.
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### **Cons**
**1. Limited Performance Gains Over Lower-Tier Groupsets**
While the Tiagra 4700/4703 is an upgrade over Sora or Tourney, the performance differences are subtle. The crankset s weight and stiffness are only marginally better than entry-level options, and the shifting quality may not be as precise as higher-end groupsets. If you re coming from a very basic setup, you may not notice a dramatic improvement.
**2. No Carbon Components**
Unlike higher-end Shimano groupsets (e.g., Ultegra Di2 or Dura-Ace), the Tiagra 4700/4703 does not include carbon fiber components. The crank arms and spider are aluminum, which is heavier than carbon but still adequate for most road applications. For riders prioritizing weight savings, this may be a minor drawback.
**3. Wear and Tear Over Time**
While durable, the Tiagra 4700/4703 is not built for extreme conditions or heavy use. The chainrings and spiders may wear faster if ridden in rough terrain or with a poorly maintained drivetrain. Regular maintenance (e.g., chain cleaning, derailleur adjustment) is necessary to ensure smooth operation and longevity.
**4. Limited Upgrade Path**
If you eventually decide to upgrade, the Tiagra 4700/4703 s spindle is not compatible with Shimano s newer 12-speed systems or some 11-speed components designed for higher-end groupsets (e.g., Ultegra s 11-speed chainrings). While the crankset itself can be retained, you may need to replace other components (e.g., derailleurs, cassette) to fully upgrade.
**5. No Electronic Shifting (Unless Paired with Di2)**
The Tiagra 4700/4703 is designed for mechanical shifting only. While Shimano offers a Di2 version of Tiagra (e.g., Tiagra Di2 4700), the standard mechanical version lacks electronic precision. For riders who prioritize electronic shifting, this may be a dealbreaker, as you would need to invest in a separate Di2 system.
**6. Price Sensitivity**
While the Tiagra 4700/4703 is more affordable than Ultegra or Dura-Ace, it is still more expensive than entry-level groupsets. For riders on a tight budget, the performance gains may not justify the cost over a Sora or Tourney crankset. However, if you re already investing in a higher-end frame or wheels, the Tiagra 4700/4703 provides a reasonable middle ground.
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### **Conclusion**
The Shimano Tiagra 4700/4703 crankset (170110, asymmetric 4-bolt, Hollowtech II) is a well-rounded choice for riders seeking a balance of performance, reliability, and value. It excels in compatibility, durability, and shifting precision for its price point, making it ideal for daily commuters, recreational riders, and those upgrading from entry-level groupsets. The crankset s aluminum construction and mechanical shifting are practical for most road applications, though it lacks the weight savings and electronic shifting options of higher-end Shimano groupsets.
For riders who prioritize Shimano s reputation for reliability and want to avoid the cost of Ultegra or Dura-Ace, the Tiagra 4700/4703 is a solid investment. It is particularly well-suited to riders who:
- Want a durable, low-maintenance crankset for daily use.
- Prefer mechanical shifting and don t need electronic precision.
- Are building a bike with a mix of mid-range components (e.g., wheels, derailleurs).
- Seek a slight upgrade in performance over entry-level groupsets without a significant price jump.
However, if you re targeting performance-critical riding (e.g., racing, time trials) or prioritize weight savings, you may find more value in Ultegra or Dura-Ace cranksets. Similarly, if your budget is tight, a Sora or Tourney crankset might suffice for basic needs.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Shimano Tiagra 4700/4703 crankset if:**- You re building a road bike with a mix of mid-range components and want Shimano s reliability.
- You prefer mechanical shifting and don t need electronic precision.
- You re upgrading from a lower-tier groupset (e.g., Sora, Tourney) and want incremental performance gains.
- You prioritize compatibility with a wide range of frames and forks.
- You re on a budget that allows for a reasonable investment in a durable, well-supported groupset.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You re targeting high-performance riding (e.g., racing) and want the weight savings of Ultegra or Dura-Ace.
- You prefer electronic shifting and are willing to invest in a Di2 system.
- You re building a budget bike and can achieve similar results with a Sora or Tourney crankset.
- You plan to upgrade to 12-speed in the future and want future-proofing (though the 4700/4703 is still compatible with 11-speed).
Overall, the Tiagra 4700/4703 is a pragmatic choice for riders who value Shimano s engineering without the premium cost. It delivers a smooth, reliable ride and serves as a strong foundation for a well-rounded road bike.
Only the parts shown in pictures are included. Color and materials: Dark grey anodized aluminum crank arms 4-arm spider with a steel integrated spindle. Chainring mounting faces show tool marks and exposed alloy from previous ring installation, the left-arm clamp area has earlier tightening. Asymmetrical.
Part type: Double crankset with integrated 24mm Hollowtech II spindle and matching left crank arm, designed for use external bottom brackets. Pedal threads and spindle splines are clean intact, arms remain structurally sound, the listing includes only right arm with integrated left no chainrings, bottom bracket, or extra hardware. Brand: Shimano. Model: Tiagra Hollowtech II road crankset arms from the FC-4700/4703 series, sold without chainrings.
Shimano Tiagra FC-4700/4703 Crankset 170110 BCD Asymmetric 4-Bolt Hollowtech II. Rulers, caliper, and scale visible in some photos are for measurement reference only not included.