How to Install Your Ekar WRL Rear Derailleur at Home

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The Campagnolo Ekar WRL rear derailleur [paid link] is a high-performance component designed for gravel and adventure bikes. Its precise shifting, durable construction, and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for riders looking to optimize their gear transitions in demanding terrain. Installing the Ekar WRL rear derailleur at home requires careful attention to detail, but with the right tools and a step-by-step approach, the process can be straightforward.

Tools Required

  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • 3mm Allen wrench
  • Torque wrench (preferably with a 6-8Nm range)
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • 10mm open-end wrench
  • Chain tool
  • Cable cutters
  • Small rag or cloth (for cleaning)
  • Bike stand (optional, but recommended)
  • Lubricant or grease for bolts

Step 1: Preparation and Removal of Old Derailleur

Before installing the new Ekar WRL rear derailleur, ensure your bike is securely mounted on a bike stand. This will provide a stable working position.

  1. Shift to the smallest gear: This helps in relieving tension from the chain and derailleur.
  2. Remove the rear wheel: Loosen the quick release or thru-axle to take out the rear wheel.
  3. Disconnect the derailleur: Using a 5mm Allen wrench, unscrew the derailleur mounting bolt and remove the old derailleur.
  4. Remove the derailleur hanger: If necessary, remove and inspect the derailleur hanger for any damage. Replace it if needed to ensure proper alignment with the new derailleur.
  5. Clean the area: Wipe down the derailleur mounting area and remove any debris or old grease.

Step 2: Install the Ekar WRL Rear Derailleur

  1. Attach the derailleur hanger: If you’ve removed it, install the new derailleur hanger onto the bike frame, ensuring it is securely tightened.
  2. Install the derailleur: Position the Ekar WRL rear derailleur onto the derailleur hanger and secure it with the derailleur mounting bolt. Tighten it with a 5mm Allen wrench to the specified torque (usually around 6-8Nm).
  3. Check alignment: Ensure the derailleur is aligned with the wheel, with no noticeable tilt or angle that could affect shifting performance.

Step 3: Install the Rear Derailleur Cable

  1. Route the derailleur cable: Begin by routing the derailleur cable through the appropriate cable housing, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted paths. Secure the housing with the provided cable clips.
  2. Install the cable into the derailleur: Insert the cable into the derailleur’s cable entry port, ensuring it is fully seated. Tighten the cable anchor bolt with a 3mm Allen wrench.
  3. Adjust cable tension: Using the barrel adjuster, fine-tune the tension on the derailleur cable. The correct tension ensures smooth and responsive shifting.
  4. Test cable movement: Move the derailleur manually to ensure smooth movement across the gear range.

Step 4: Install the Chain

  1. Check the chain length: The Ekar WRL rear derailleur is designed for wide-range 1×11 drivetrains. Ensure your chain is the correct length for the size of your cassette.
  2. Install the chain onto the cassette: Use the chain tool to fit the chain onto the cassette. The chain should pass smoothly through the derailleur without kinks or excessive slack.
  3. Check chain tension: Ensure the chain tension is correct, allowing it to move freely across the gears without being too loose.

Step 5: Adjusting the B-Screw and Limit Screws

  1. Adjust the B-screw: The B-screw controls the distance between the derailleur’s jockey wheels and the cassette. Adjust the screw so that the jockey wheels are positioned at an optimal distance from the largest cog in the cassette.
  2. Set the high and low limit screws: Using a Phillips screwdriver, adjust the high and low limit screws on the derailleur to ensure that the chain cannot fall off the top or bottom of the cassette. This will also prevent the derailleur from shifting too far and causing chain drop or damage.

Step 6: Fine-Tuning Shifting

  1. Shift through all gears: Slowly shift through the gears, checking for smooth transitions. Make sure the derailleur moves cleanly from one cog to the next.
  2. Adjust barrel adjusters: If shifting is not smooth, fine-tune the cable tension using the barrel adjusters at the derailleur or on the shifter. A small turn clockwise will increase tension, while a turn counterclockwise will release it.
  3. Test under load: Shift under load while pedaling to ensure the derailleur operates effectively even under pressure. If there’s hesitation or skipping, recheck cable tension and limit screw settings.

Step 7: Final Check and Reinstallation of the Rear Wheel

  1. Reinstall the rear wheel: Once all adjustments are complete, reinsert the rear wheel and secure it in place.
  2. Test ride: Perform a short test ride to check the overall performance. Pay attention to any skipping or misalignment in shifting and make adjustments as necessary.
  3. Recheck torque: After the test ride, recheck all bolts for proper torque, including the derailleur mounting bolt and the chainring bolts.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Shifting issues under load: If the derailleur hesitates or skips, check for proper cable tension and ensure the derailleur hanger is straight.
  • Chain drop: Improper limit screw adjustment can cause the chain to fall off the cassette. Recheck the limit screws to make sure they are properly set.
  • Noise while shifting: This could be caused by poor chain lubrication, misalignment, or improperly adjusted B-screw. Inspect all components to identify the source.

Customization and Optimization

For riders looking to optimize their Ekar WRL rear derailleur for better performance, consider the following options:

  • Upgrade the chain and cassette: For improved shifting and durability, upgrading to higher-end Campagnolo components or compatible brands can enhance the overall drivetrain performance.
  • Use a clutch-equipped derailleur: The Ekar WRL rear derailleur includes a clutch feature that helps reduce chain slap and improve chain retention, especially on rough terrain. Ensure the clutch is properly engaged for maximum performance.
  • Tune the derailleur for the type of riding: Adjust the B-screw and limit screws based on your riding terrain. For gravel or rough conditions, consider fine-tuning for quicker, more responsive shifting.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Campagnolo Ekar WRL rear derailleur is specifically designed for use with the Ekar 1×11 drivetrain. It is not compatible with other brands or 2x systems. To ensure optimal performance, pair it with the Campagnolo Ekar cassette, chain, and shifters. Mixing components from different manufacturers can lead to suboptimal shifting performance and compatibility issues.

By following these steps carefully, you can install and optimize your Ekar WRL rear derailleur for reliable and precise performance.