DIY Guide: Optimizing Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur for Gravel Racing

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The SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS [paid link] rear derailleur is specifically designed to meet the demands of gravel racing. This rear derailleur offers precision shifting, durability, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for riders who tackle mixed-terrain routes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS for gravel racing. We’ll also explore its compatibility with other drivetrain components and compare it with similar models to help you make the best decision.

Installation of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Installing the SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is straightforward, but ensuring it’s done correctly will enhance performance and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the installation process:

Tools Required:

  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • 2.5mm Allen wrench
  • Chain tool
  • Torque wrench (set to 6-8 Nm)
  • B-screw adjustment tool
  • Cable cutters
  • E-tap AXS wireless blip box

Steps to Install the Rear Derailleur:

  1. Remove the Old Derailleur:
    • Use a 5mm Allen wrench to remove the derailleur hanger bolt.
    • Carefully take off the old derailleur, ensuring no damage to the hanger or frame.
  2. Install the Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur:
    • Attach the new derailleur to the derailleur hanger. Tighten the hanger bolt securely using the torque wrench (6-8 Nm).
  3. Install the Chain:
    • Thread the chain through the jockey wheels, ensuring it runs smoothly through the derailleur. Use the chain tool to shorten or lengthen the chain to fit the bike’s specific needs.
  4. Set the B-Screw:
    • Adjust the B-screw using the B-screw tool to ensure proper clearance between the upper jockey wheel and the largest cog.
  5. Connect the eTap AXS System:
    • Pair the derailleur with the eTap AXS system following the manufacturer’s instructions. This wireless system requires syncing with the AXS blip box and ensures that the shifting system is correctly paired.
  6. Final Adjustments:
    • Perform initial testing to ensure smooth shifting across all gears. Fine-tune the indexing and B-screw adjustment to avoid chain rub and noise.

Adjusting the Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Proper adjustment ensures that the derailleur shifts smoothly and efficiently, crucial for gravel racing conditions where precise gear changes are needed. Here’s how to adjust the Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur:

1. Indexing the Gears:

  • Shift through the gears while the bike is stationary. If the derailleur is not moving through the gears smoothly, you may need to adjust the barrel adjuster on the derailleur or shifter.
  • Turn the barrel adjuster counterclockwise to tighten the tension and clockwise to loosen it, making small adjustments until the derailleur shifts crisply.

2. Fine-Tuning the B-Screw:

  • The B-screw controls the distance between the derailleur’s upper jockey wheel and the cassette. Make adjustments so that the jockey wheel maintains a proper distance from the largest cog while ensuring smooth operation.
  • Too much gap will cause slow shifting, while too little gap can cause rubbing or even derailleur damage.

3. Chain Length Adjustment:

  • Ensure the chain length is appropriate for your gear setup. A properly sized chain will prevent skipping or dropping gears, especially on rough gravel terrain. Use a chain tool to add or remove links as necessary.

Maintaining the Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Routine maintenance is essential to keep your Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur functioning smoothly. Regular cleaning and inspection will increase its lifespan and performance in gravel racing conditions.

1. Cleaning:

  • After every ride, especially on gravel, remove dirt, mud, and debris from the derailleur and chain. Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean the derailleur. Avoid using a high-pressure hose as it can force dirt into the bearings.

2. Lubrication:

  • Apply light oil to the derailleur pivot points to keep the moving parts lubricated. Avoid excess lubrication, as this can attract dirt and cause more friction.

3. Inspecting for Wear:

  • Regularly check the derailleur hanger for alignment and make sure that the derailleur is securely mounted. Misaligned hangers can cause shifting issues and derailleur damage.
  • Inspect the jockey wheels for any signs of wear or buildup of debris that might impede their movement.

4. Battery Maintenance:

  • The Rival XPLR eTap AXS derailleur is powered by a rechargeable battery. Ensure the battery is fully charged before long rides or races, and check the battery status through the AXS app regularly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Gravel racing can put a lot of stress on your bike’s components. If you’re experiencing issues with the Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur, here’s how to troubleshoot:

1. Skipping Gears:

  • Skipping or hesitation in shifting can be caused by improper chain length or an incorrectly adjusted derailleur.
  • Double-check the indexing adjustments, ensuring that the derailleur is aligned with the cassette and that the chain is properly tensioned.

2. Chain Rub or Noise:

  • If the derailleur is too close to the cassette, it may cause chain rub, especially when shifting to the larger cogs. Adjust the B-screw to provide sufficient clearance.
  • Also, check for debris in the derailleur or jockey wheels that could be causing unwanted noise.

3. Shifting Delays:

  • If there’s a delay when shifting, it may be due to poor battery power or weak signals between the components. Check the AXS battery status and ensure that the derailleur is properly paired with the AXS blip box.

Customization and Optimization for Gravel Racing

To get the best performance from your Rival XPLR eTap AXS derailleur, consider making a few adjustments and optimizations:

1. Tuning for Gravel Performance:

  • Adjust the derailleur to provide a wide gear range for optimal performance on mixed-terrain rides. Pair the derailleur with an appropriate cassette to ensure smooth transitions from tough climbs to fast descents.
  • A larger chainring paired with a wide-range cassette will give you a broader range of gears, making it easier to handle different gravel grades without compromising performance.

2. Cockpit and Handlebar Setup:

  • Fine-tune the position of your shifters and blip boxes for easy access during races. Position the blip boxes where they’re comfortable to use on the fly and ensure they’re securely mounted to avoid accidental shifts.

3. Durability Considerations:

  • Gravel racing exposes components to harsh conditions. Make sure to use high-quality chains and cassettes to match the demands of rough terrain. The Rival XPLR is optimized for this, but pairing it with the right drivetrain components enhances durability.

Comparing Rival XPLR eTap AXS to Similar Models

When considering the Rival XPLR eTap AXS for gravel racing, it’s essential to compare it with similar models like the Shimano GRX Di2 and the SRAM Force AXS. Here’s a brief comparison:

SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS vs Shimano GRX Di2:

  • Shifting Precision: The Rival XPLR eTap AXS provides quick, wireless shifting with less maintenance compared to the Shimano GRX Di2, which is wired and requires more setup.
  • Weight: The Rival XPLR is lighter than the Shimano GRX Di2, which can be beneficial for racers aiming to reduce overall bike weight.
  • Price: The Rival XPLR tends to be more affordable than the Shimano GRX Di2, making it a great choice for riders on a budget who still want high performance.

SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS vs SRAM Force AXS:

  • Performance: The Rival XPLR is designed for gravel racing, offering a wider gear range and better durability in rough conditions compared to the Force AXS, which is geared more towards road cycling.
  • Price and Value: The Rival XPLR is more affordable than the Force AXS, which offers a more advanced level of performance and weight savings but at a higher price point.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Rival XPLR eTap AXS is compatible with a wide range of SRAM and AXS components. When building a gravel-specific drivetrain, ensure that your cassette, chainring, and shifters are all designed for use with eTap AXS technology to ensure smooth and efficient operation. Also, ensure that your bike frame is compatible with the required mounting system for the derailleur.

The Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur works best with a SRAM 10-36t or 10-42t cassette and a compatible chain, providing excellent shifting performance in varied terrain.