???? What it is
The Shimano Tiagra ST-4700 is a left-side STI (Shimano Total Integration) lever used on road bikes.
It controls:
- ???? Front derailleur shifting (2-speed cranksets)
- ???? Front brake lever (rim or mechanical disc depending on setup)
⚙️ Key specs explained
???? DUAL CONTROL LEVER (STI)
- One lever does two jobs:
- Shift gears (thumb/finger paddle action)
- Brake (squeeze lever like normal brake)
???? Standard road bike system = clean, efficient cockpit
⚙️ Front speeds: 2
- Designed for 2x chainring setups
- Common example:
- 50/34T (compact crank)
- 52/36T (semi-compact)
???? Not compatible with 1x or triple systems
???? Cables: OT-SP41
- Shimano’s pre-lubricated housing system
- Benefits:
- Smoother shifting
- Less friction
- Better durability in wet conditions
???? OPTISLICK inner cable
- Special coated stainless cable
- Reduces friction inside housing
- Improves:
- Shift smoothness
- Cable lifespan
???? Clamp band: 23.8–24.2 mm
- This is the handlebar clamp size
- Fits standard road drop bars
???? Reach adjust (screw type)
- Lets you move the lever closer or further from the bar
- Useful for:
- Smaller hands
- Comfort tuning
⚙️ SLR-EV brake system
- Shimano’s road brake cable pull design
- Improves:
- Brake modulation
- Lever efficiency
- Control feel
???? Strengths
- Smooth, reliable Shimano shifting
- Good cable system (SP41 + Optislick)
- Comfortable ergonomics for long rides
- Solid mid-range performance
- Durable for training and commuting
???? Limitations
- Not electronic (like Di2)
- Not lightweight like Ultegra/Dura-Ace
- Only supports 2x front shifting
- Mid-range braking feel (depends on calipers)
???? Real-world verdict
This is:
???? A reliable mid-range road bike STI lever designed for smooth shifting, good braking control, and long-term durability.
It’s commonly used on:
- Training bikes
- Entry-to-mid road bikes
- Commuter road builds
???? Bottom line
The Shimano Tiagra ST-4700 is:
- ✔ Smooth and dependable
- ✔ Great for road cycling
- ✔ Good value mid-range system
- ❗ Not performance racing level, but very capable
