The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD [paid link] rear derailleur is a high-performance, precision-driven component designed specifically for gravel riding and racing. It is engineered to handle the challenges of mixed-terrain riding, providing reliable shifting and durability. This guide will walk you through the steps to install, adjust, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize the Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur for peak performance in gravel racing.
Tools Required
- 5mm Allen wrench
- 2.5mm Allen wrench
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Torque wrench
- Chain checker tool
- Chain tool
- B-screw adjuster tool (if necessary)
- Lube (bike-specific)
- Rag or towel for cleaning
Installation of the Ekar 13 RD Rear Derailleur
Step 1: Remove the Existing Rear Derailleur
If you are replacing an existing derailleur, begin by removing the chain and detaching the old rear derailleur using a 5mm Allen wrench. Use the chain tool to break the chain if necessary.
Step 2: Attach the Ekar 13 RD to the Hanger
Align the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD with the rear derailleur hanger, ensuring it sits flush. Tighten the derailleur onto the hanger using the appropriate 5mm Allen wrench. Torque it to the manufacturer’s recommended value (usually around 6-8 Nm).
Step 3: Install the Chain
Thread the chain through the derailleur’s jockey wheels, following the natural flow of the drivetrain. Ensure that the chain is properly routed through the guide and tension pulleys without crossing any part of the derailleur.
Step 4: Set the B-Screw and Chain Length
Use the B-screw adjuster tool to set the correct gap between the top jockey wheel and the cassette. Adjust the chain length by removing any excess links with a chain tool. The chain should be long enough to comfortably accommodate the largest cog on your cassette, while maintaining slight tension.
Step 5: Adjust the Limit Screws
Set the limit screws (marked as “H” for high and “L” for low) to ensure the derailleur doesn’t overshift beyond the largest or smallest cog. Start with the low limit screw first, ensuring that the derailleur stays aligned with the smallest cog. Repeat this for the high limit screw and the largest cog.
Adjusting the Ekar 13 RD Rear Derailleur for Optimal Performance
Fine-Tuning Shifting Performance
Once the derailleur is installed, fine-tune the shifting performance by adjusting the cable tension. Shift through each gear and make micro-adjustments to the barrel adjuster located on the derailleur or shifter. Proper tension ensures smooth transitions between gears, especially in the extreme conditions found in gravel racing.
Setting the Indexing
Shift through the entire range of cogs on the cassette to ensure the derailleur moves smoothly between each one. If the shifting is sluggish or the derailleur overshoots certain gears, adjust the barrel adjuster to either increase or decrease cable tension.
Chainline Adjustment
Ensure the chainline is straight. Misalignment can cause poor shifting performance and unnecessary wear on the drivetrain. The Ekar 13 RD is designed for optimal alignment with Campagnolo’s 1×13 gravel drivetrain, but verifying chainline integrity will further improve shifting consistency.
Maintaining the Ekar 13 RD for Gravel Racing
Regular Cleaning and Lubing
Gravel racing often exposes your drivetrain to dirt, mud, and grime. Clean your Ekar 13 RD derailleur regularly with a rag to remove any debris. Lubricate the derailleur pivots and jockey wheels to ensure smooth, consistent shifting. Apply a light layer of lubricant on the chain after each ride, especially after riding in wet or muddy conditions.
Check for Wear
Examine the jockey wheels for wear and replace them if needed. Use a chain checker tool to measure chain wear and replace the chain once it has stretched beyond the recommended limit (usually around 0.5% for gravel riders). Regular chain maintenance helps to prevent premature wear on the cassette and derailleur.
Periodic Adjustments
As the derailleur cables stretch over time, you may need to readjust the barrel adjuster to maintain optimal shifting performance. Make sure to re-check the derailleur alignment periodically, especially after rough rides or crashes, which may knock the derailleur out of position.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Problem 1: The Chain Skips or Hesitates During Shifting
This issue is typically caused by improper cable tension. Adjust the barrel adjuster to fine-tune the tension and ensure that the derailleur moves smoothly through each gear. If the problem persists, check for any kinked or damaged cables and replace them as needed.
Problem 2: The Derailleur Doesn’t Shift to the Smallest Cog
If the derailleur doesn’t reach the smallest cog, check the low limit screw setting. It may need to be adjusted to allow the derailleur to travel further inward. If the limit screw is correctly adjusted, check the cable tension and adjust it if needed.
Problem 3: The Derailleur Overshifts to the Largest Cog
If the derailleur overshoots the largest cog, the high limit screw may need to be adjusted. Tighten the high limit screw slightly to prevent the derailleur from overshooting. Also, check the cable tension to ensure the derailleur is not under too much strain.
Customizing the Ekar 13 RD for Gravel Racing
Adjusting the B-Screw for Different Cassette Sizes
The Ekar 13 RD is designed to accommodate a wide range of cassette sizes, but some riders may want to fine-tune the B-screw to optimize the derailleur’s performance based on their specific gearing. Adjust the B-screw to ensure that the derailleur’s top jockey wheel sits at the correct distance from the largest cog. This will ensure smooth shifting even when navigating steep gravel climbs.
Upgrading to a Larger Cog
If you plan to use a larger cassette for even more gear range, the Ekar 13 RD can accommodate cassettes up to 13-42T. Make sure to recheck the derailleur’s capacity, as a larger cassette may require a longer derailleur cage. Always verify that your rear dropout and chainstay can accommodate the increased size of the cog.
Comparing the Ekar 13 RD to Other Gravel-Specific Derailleurs
Ekar 13 RD vs Shimano GRX 11-Speed
While Shimano’s GRX 11-speed derailleur is a popular choice for gravel riding, the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD provides a more refined shifting experience, especially with its 13-speed drivetrain. The Ekar system is more precise, and the 13-speed range allows for better gearing options suited to gravel racing’s varied terrain. The additional gear also helps to fine-tune cadence for climbs and descents, making it a better option for competitive riders.
Ekar 13 RD vs SRAM Force 1
SRAM’s Force 1 is another contender in the gravel-specific drivetrain market. However, the Ekar 13 RD offers a smoother and more durable shifting system, especially in muddy or wet conditions. While both systems are excellent for gravel riding, Campagnolo’s 13-speed system is more suited for riders seeking a more customizable and performance-oriented drivetrain.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Ekar 13 RD is designed to work seamlessly with the rest of Campagnolo’s 13-speed gravel-specific components, including the Ekar crankset, cassette, and shifters. It can also be used in combination with other 1×13 drivetrains, but it’s important to ensure compatibility with the specific bottom bracket and chainring sizes.
When pairing with other brands, it’s essential to verify compatibility between the derailleur, shifters, and cassette. For instance, using Shimano or SRAM components with the Ekar RD may result in shifting inconsistencies due to differing cable pull ratios. Always ensure that the entire drivetrain system is optimized for smooth shifting performance.
Conclusion
Optimizing the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur for gravel racing requires careful attention to installation, adjustment, and ongoing maintenance. With proper setup and regular care, this derailleur can provide years of reliable performance, ensuring smooth, precise shifts throughout every gravel race. By following the steps outlined in this guide, riders can achieve peak performance from their Ekar 13 RD, making it an invaluable component for gravel racing.