The SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS [paid link] rear derailleur is a precision-engineered component designed for gravel and road cycling. To ensure this high-performance derailleur continues to deliver smooth shifting and reliable performance over the long term, proper installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting are essential. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about caring for your Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur, including installation, adjustments, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization for improved performance.

Installation of the Force XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Installing the Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail to ensure proper function. Below are the steps for correct installation:

1. Prepare Your Bike:
   • Make sure your bike is clean and stable, and the rear wheel is removed.
   • Verify that your bike is equipped with an eTap AXS compatible drivetrain.
2. Install the Derailleur Hanger:
   • Ensure the derailleur hanger is aligned properly with the frame. If misaligned, use an alignment tool to straighten it before proceeding.
3. Mount the Rear Derailleur:
   • Attach the rear derailleur to the derailleur hanger using the appropriate bolt. Tighten it to the manufacturer-recommended torque setting, typically around 6-8Nm.
   • Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the derailleur hanger or derailleur.
4. Connect the AXS Battery:
   • Position the AXS battery on the frame and connect it to the derailleur. Make sure the battery is fully charged to ensure proper communication.
5. Route the Cables and Chain:
   • Install the chain onto the drivetrain, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for chain length.
   • Route the eTap AXS shifting cables according to SRAM’s instructions, ensuring there is no interference with the frame or other components.
6. Test the Installation:
   • Shift through all the gears to verify proper installation. Make adjustments to the chain and derailleur if necessary.

Adjustment of the Force XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Proper adjustment of the Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is crucial for precise shifting performance. The eTap AXS system allows for electronic adjustments, but there are manual steps you can take to fine-tune the derailleur.

Indexing

1. Enter the Adjustment Mode:
   • To begin the adjustment, press the button on the eTap shifter to access the AXS App. From there, enter the “Adjust” menu.
2. Adjust the High and Low Limits:
   • The high and low limit screws control how far the derailleur moves on the cassette. Adjust them so that the derailleur doesn’t overshoot the smallest and largest cogs.
   • Use the AXS app to ensure the derailleur is in the correct position when shifting to the outermost gears.
3. Fine-Tune the Shifting:
   • Shift through the gears and observe the derailleur’s movement. If shifts are delayed or sloppy, make micro-adjustments to the indexing through the app.
4. Test Ride and Verify:
   • After making adjustments, take your bike for a test ride. Pay attention to any skipping, hesitation, or noisy shifting, and make any additional tweaks as needed.

Maintenance of the Force XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Regular maintenance is vital to extend the lifespan of your Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur. Here are some essential maintenance tasks to keep the derailleur running smoothly:

Cleaning

1. Wash the Derailleur:
   • Use a mild degreaser and a soft brush to remove dirt, grime, and chain oil from the derailleur. Be gentle, as aggressive cleaning can damage sensitive components.
2. Lubricate the Pivot Points:
   • Apply a small amount of lubrication to the pivot points and derailleur jockey wheels. This ensures smooth movement and reduces friction during shifting.
3. Clean the AXS Battery and Connectors:
   • Periodically clean the AXS battery and connectors to ensure proper communication with the derailleur. Use a soft cloth and avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the components.

Chain Care

1. Inspect Chain Wear:
   • Regularly inspect the chain for wear. A worn chain can cause poor shifting performance and may even damage the derailleur over time. Replace the chain if necessary.
2. Chain Lube:
   • Apply chain lube regularly to keep the drivetrain running smoothly. Wipe off any excess lube to prevent dirt from sticking to the chain.

Inspect for Damage

1. Check the Derailleur Hanger:
   • Ensure that the derailleur hanger remains straight and free from cracks. A bent or damaged hanger will affect shifting performance and could cause the derailleur to malfunction.
2. Check the Derailleur for Cracks:
   • Inspect the derailleur for any visible cracks or damage to the body. If you find any damage, consider replacing the derailleur to maintain optimal performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite its robust design, the Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur can occasionally present issues that may hinder its performance. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:

Poor Shifting Performance

1. Check Battery Charge:
   • Low battery levels can cause sluggish shifting or unresponsive shifts. Ensure that the AXS battery is charged fully.
2. Check the Derailleur Hanger Alignment:
   • A misaligned derailleur hanger can cause poor shifting or even prevent shifting altogether. Use a derailleur hanger alignment tool to straighten the hanger if necessary.
3. Adjust the Cable Tension:
   • Incorrect cable tension can cause poor indexing. Use the AXS app to check and adjust the cable tension for smoother shifts.
4. Examine the Chain:
   • A worn or damaged chain can cause skipping or rough shifts. Replace the chain if it shows signs of wear or damage.

No Shifting or Dead Buttons

1. Inspect the AXS Battery:
   • If the derailleur fails to shift, check the AXS battery’s charge level. A fully charged battery is essential for proper function. Recharging or replacing the battery should solve the problem.
2. Check the Wireless Connection:
   • Ensure that there is no interference between the eTap AXS components. If there are connection issues, try re-pairing the derailleur with the shifters via the AXS app.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur can be customized for specific riding styles, making it ideal for gravel or road cyclists looking to optimize their performance.

Adjusting the Shifting Speed

1. Customize Shifting Speed:
   • Through the AXS app, you can adjust the shifting speed to suit your preferences. For gravel or off-road riders, quicker shifts may be beneficial, while road cyclists may prefer a slower, more deliberate shift.

Gear Ratio Adjustments

1. Fine-tuning Gear Ratios:
   • Depending on your riding terrain, you may want to adjust your gear ratios. The Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is compatible with a variety of cassettes. Experiment with different gear ratios to find the optimal setup for your riding style.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is designed for use with SRAM’s AXS system. It is compatible with other eTap AXS components, including the front derailleur, AXS shifters, and AXS batteries. Additionally, it is designed to work with 12-speed cassettes, making it ideal for riders looking to upgrade their gravel or road bike drivetrain to 12-speed precision shifting.

Compatibility Considerations

• Compatibility with 12-Speed Drivetrains:
  The Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is optimized for 12-speed drivetrains, and it should be paired with compatible cassettes and chains to ensure optimal performance.
• Compatibility with Other SRAM AXS Components:
  As part of the AXS ecosystem, the Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur works seamlessly with other SRAM AXS components, including the wireless shifters and the AXS app for fine-tuning adjustments.

By following these installation, maintenance, adjustment, and troubleshooting guidelines, you can ensure that your Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur continues to provide top-tier performance for years to come.