Originally Posted by
Andrew R Stewart
Shimano is well known for claiming compatibility only with their same series/design products. So a chain made for a series that only has double cranks won't be claimed to be compatible for a triple crank. Andy.
Yes but the CN-5700 is a 105 level chain and there is a FC-5703 triple crank and RD-5700-GS and FD-5703 triple specified rear and front derailleurs are part of the current 105 group.
I've followed Shimano's recommendations and used CN-5600 and CN-6600 chains on my triple crank bikes but even Shimano's tech reps (I called and asked) don't know why the 5700/6700 chains aren't recommended for triple use.
Update: I just looked at Shimano's web site and the most recent CN-5701 and CN-6701 chains no longer have the "double chainring only" disclaimer on the web site description or their installation instruction sheet. I don't know if they really redesigned the chains or just found the limitation wasn't necessary.