Comparing Ekar 13 RD Rear Derailleurs to Other Gravel Options

Posted on
in Uncategorized

The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD [paid link] rear derailleur is designed specifically for gravel riding, where durability, precision, and wide gear range are essential. This article will delve into the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Ekar 13 RD. We will also discuss how it compares to other gravel derailleur options, helping you make an informed decision on which model suits your riding needs.

Tools Required

Before you begin the installation, adjustment, or maintenance of the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur, gather the following tools:

  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • 2.5mm Allen wrench
  • Torque wrench (for accurate tensioning)
  • Chain checker tool
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Cable cutters
  • Grease
  • Torque-limiter tool (for specific Ekar configurations)
  • Clean rag for wiping down parts
  • Chain tool

Installation of the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD

Installing the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure optimal performance. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Mounting the Derailleur:
    • Start by removing your old derailleur (if applicable). Use a 5mm Allen wrench to unscrew the mounting bolt.
    • Align the Ekar 13 RD’s hanger mount to the rear derailleur hanger and tighten the mounting bolt using a torque wrench to the recommended specification.
  2. Attaching the Chain:
    • Ensure the chain is clean and free of debris before threading it through the derailleur. Use a chain tool to adjust the chain length if necessary.
    • Carefully route the chain through the jockey wheels of the derailleur, ensuring the chain moves freely.
  3. Installing the Rear Derailleur Cable:
    • Feed the derailleur cable through the cable entry point on the derailleur body. Secure it tightly with the cable anchor bolt, using a 2.5mm Allen wrench to tighten.
    • Route the cable through the frame’s cable housing, ensuring no kinks or sharp bends.
  4. Setting the Limits:
    • Adjust the high and low limit screws to ensure that the derailleur cannot over-shift and damage the cassette or chain.
    • Shift to the largest and smallest cogs to check that the derailleur moves smoothly and doesn’t overshoot the cog.

Adjusting the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD

Proper adjustment is crucial for smooth shifting and optimal performance. Here’s how to fine-tune your Ekar 13 RD:

  1. Cable Tension Adjustment:
    • Use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune the cable tension. Start by shifting into the smallest cog and adjust the barrel to eliminate any slack.
    • Test the shifting across the full range of gears, making sure each shift is crisp and precise.
  2. Fine-Tuning Limit Screws:
    • Adjust the high and low limit screws on the derailleur to ensure that it cannot overshoot into the spokes or fall off the cassette.
    • Shift through the entire range to check that the derailleur maintains smooth movement without making noise or skipping gears.
  3. B-Screw Adjustment:
    • The B-screw adjusts the distance between the derailleur’s jockey wheels and the cassette. Fine-tune this for optimal chain tension and to avoid excessive noise or chain wear.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD requires regular maintenance to keep it performing at its best, particularly in the harsh conditions typical of gravel riding.

  1. Cleaning and Lubing:
    • Regularly clean the derailleur and chain with degreaser to remove dirt and debris. A clean derailleur ensures smooth shifting and longevity.
    • Lubricate the jockey wheels and pivot points lightly with bike-specific grease to reduce friction and prevent rusting.
  2. Checking for Wear:
    • Inspect the derailleur’s jockey wheels for wear. Worn-out wheels can cause skipping and poor shifting performance.
    • Check the chain for stretch using a chain checker tool. A stretched chain can result in poor shifting and excessive wear on the derailleur.
  3. Common Issues and Troubleshooting:
    • Skipping gears: If the derailleur is skipping gears, check the cable tension and adjust the limit screws. Also, inspect the chain and cassette for wear.
    • Shifting noise: Noisy shifting can be caused by misaligned chainrings, worn chain, or improper B-screw adjustment.
    • Dropping the chain: If the chain is consistently dropping off the cassette, recheck the derailleur alignment, limit screws, and chain length.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

Customizing your Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur setup can significantly improve performance. Here are some ways to optimize it for better gravel riding:

  1. Wide-Range Cassettes:
    • The Ekar 13 RD is compatible with Campagnolo’s wide-range 13-speed cassettes. For more challenging gravel terrain, opting for a 9-42T or similar cassette will provide a better range for steep climbs and rapid descents.
  2. Upgrading the Chain:
    • While the stock chain on the Ekar system is robust, you can upgrade to a more durable, gravel-specific chain if you find yourself riding in extremely harsh conditions. This will reduce the chances of chain stretch and improve longevity.
  3. Using a Long Cage Option:
    • For even more gearing versatility, consider switching to a longer cage derailleur if your setup requires a larger gear range. However, the standard cage on the Ekar 13 RD should suffice for most gravel riding needs.

Comparing Ekar 13 RD to Other Gravel Rear Derailleurs

The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD competes in the gravel derailleur market with a number of other high-performance options, each with their own advantages.

SRAM Force 1X Rear Derailleur

  • Shifting Performance: Both the Ekar and the SRAM Force offer precise, 1x drivetrains. However, the Ekar has a distinct advantage in terms of smoothness, especially on rough terrain, due to its superior jockey wheel design and Campagnolo’s precision engineering.
  • Weight: The Force 1X derailleur is lighter, which may appeal to riders who prioritize weight savings, but the Ekar 13 RD offers better durability for gravel-focused riding.
  • Compatibility: The SRAM Force 1X is compatible with a range of other components, especially other SRAM groupsets. In contrast, the Campagnolo Ekar system is more proprietary, which might be limiting if you plan to mix and match components.

Shimano GRX RD

  • Shifting Performance: Shimano’s GRX RD offers excellent reliability, but it typically requires more frequent adjustments for perfect shifting performance compared to the Ekar 13 RD, which holds its tune for longer periods due to its robust construction.
  • Durability: Shimano GRX RD is built for gravel but lacks the long-term durability offered by the Ekar. The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD uses a material and design that is particularly suited for prolonged gravel use.
  • Range: The Shimano GRX is available in both 10- and 11-speed variants, offering slightly fewer gear options than the Ekar 13 RD, which comes with 13 gears, providing a smoother range of options for gravel cyclists.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD is part of a fully integrated gravel-specific drivetrain. While it can technically be paired with other components, such as a different brand’s crankset or bottom bracket, it performs best when paired with other Campagnolo Ekar parts. Here’s what you need to know about compatibility:

  1. Ekar Crankset: For the best performance, pairing the Ekar 13 RD with the Campagnolo Ekar crankset ensures smooth shifting and optimal gear ratios tailored to gravel riding.
  2. Brakes: The Ekar 13 RD works seamlessly with hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes. Ensure that your frame and fork can accommodate the necessary disc brake mounts.
  3. Cassette and Chain: It is recommended to use the Campagnolo Ekar-specific cassettes and chain for peak performance. While other brands’ cassettes may technically fit, shifting performance could degrade.

In conclusion, the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur is an excellent choice for gravel cyclists seeking precision, durability, and smooth shifting. By comparing it to other gravel derailleur options, it’s clear that while there are other quality models, the Ekar stands out in terms of long-term reliability and integration with its proprietary system. Whether you’re installing, maintaining, or troubleshooting your Ekar setup, following the steps outlined in this guide will help you get the most out of your gravel bike.