DIY Guide to Replacing Derailleur Cables for Apex 1 (11-speed)

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Replacing the derailleur cables on your SRAM Apex 1 (11-speed) drivetrain is an essential maintenance task that ensures smooth shifting and optimal performance. Over time, cables can stretch, fray, or become contaminated with dirt and grime, leading to poor shifting performance. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process, from the tools you’ll need to the final adjustments.

Tools Required

  • SRAM Apex 1 derailleur cable (11-speed)
  • Cable cutters
  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • 2.5mm Allen wrench (if needed for derailleur)
  • 4mm Allen wrench
  • Adjustable spanner (for cable tension adjustment)
  • Lubricant (for cable and housing)
  • New cable housing (if replacing)
  • End caps for cable housing
  • Torque wrench (optional but recommended)

Preparing Your Bike for Cable Replacement

Before starting the replacement process, make sure your bike is securely positioned in a bike stand, ensuring stability during the entire procedure. This will give you better access to the drivetrain components and make the replacement smoother.

Step 1: Remove the Old Derailleur Cable

  1. Shift the Derailleur to the Smallest Cog: This will relieve the tension on the cable, making it easier to remove.
  2. Release the Rear Derailleur: Use the 5mm Allen wrench to loosen the bolt securing the derailleur to the derailleur hanger. This will allow the derailleur to hang freely.
  3. Unclamp the Cable from the Derailleur: Find the bolt that secures the derailleur cable to the derailleur. Loosen this bolt and remove the cable from the derailleur arm.
  4. Remove the Cable from the Shifter: Shift to the smallest chainring, then locate the derailleur cable entry point in the shifter. You may need to open the shifter by removing any covers or access points.
  5. Remove the Cable from the Housing: If the cable housing is in poor condition or you are replacing it, slide the cable out of the housing and remove the cable from the bike frame.

Step 2: Inspect and Prepare the New Cable and Housing

If you’re replacing the cable housing along with the cable, measure the required lengths. Ensure the new housing matches the path of the old one and avoid sharp bends that can impede smooth cable movement.

  1. Cut the New Cable Housing: Use a sharp cable cutter to trim the new housing to the necessary lengths, ensuring clean, straight cuts.
  2. Lubricate the Cable: Apply a light layer of lubricant to the new derailleur cable. This will reduce friction and enhance shifting performance.
  3. Install the End Caps: Attach the end caps to the cable housing. This will protect the housing from damage and ensure smooth insertion into the cable stops on the bike frame.

Installing the New Derailleur Cable

Step 3: Feed the New Cable Through the Frame

  1. Insert the Cable Into the Housing: Start by feeding the derailleur cable into the new housing. Begin at the shifter side and move towards the derailleur side.
  2. Align the Housing with the Cable Stops: Ensure that the cable housing fits snugly into the frame’s cable stops without any sharp bends. The housing should lay smoothly along the frame for maximum efficiency.
  3. Route the Cable Through the Derailleur: Slide the cable through the derailleur’s cable guide and clamp the cable to the derailleur using the appropriate bolt. Make sure it is securely fastened, but avoid overtightening the bolt.

Step 4: Attach the Cable to the Shifter

  1. Feed the Cable into the Shifter: Insert the cable into the shifter’s cable entry point, ensuring it is correctly seated inside. Be mindful of the position of the cable to avoid friction and ensure smooth shifting.
  2. Tighten the Cable: With the cable in place, pull it taut and tighten the cable clamp on the shifter. This step is crucial to ensure that the shifter can apply adequate tension to the cable for proper gear indexing.

Adjusting the Cable Tension

After installing the new cable, you will need to adjust the cable tension to ensure smooth and precise shifting performance.

  1. Shift to the Smallest Cog: Shift the chain to the smallest cog in the rear to relieve tension on the cable.
  2. Adjust Tension Using the Barrel Adjuster: Start by adjusting the barrel adjuster located on the rear derailleur. Turn the adjuster clockwise to reduce cable tension and counterclockwise to increase it. Fine-tuning this adjustment will help prevent chain skipping or poor shifting.
  3. Test the Shifting: Shift through all the gears, checking if each gear shifts smoothly. If you notice hesitation or skipping, further fine-tuning of the cable tension may be necessary.

Step 5: Final Checks and Derailleur Alignment

Once you’ve completed the cable installation and tension adjustment, check for any derailleur misalignment. The derailleur should move smoothly across the cogs without hesitation. Adjust the limit screws on the derailleur to ensure the chain doesn’t overshift or fall off the cog in either direction.

  1. Check for Correct Alignment: Make sure the derailleur is aligned with the cogs and can move freely. If there’s any resistance or rubbing, realign the derailleur or adjust the limit screws accordingly.
  2. Test All Gear Shifts: Shift through all gears to ensure that each gear is shifting properly. If you experience any issues, you may need to revisit the cable tension or derailleur alignment.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

1. Poor Shifting Performance

  • Cause: Insufficient cable tension or incorrectly installed derailleur.
  • Solution: Check the cable tension, ensure the derailleur is properly installed, and re-align the derailleur if necessary.

2. Chain Skipping or Hesitation

  • Cause: Dirty cables or worn-out components.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the derailleur cable, or replace it if it is excessively worn. Additionally, inspect the cassette and chain for wear.

3. Gear Won’t Shift to the Smallest or Largest Cog

  • Cause: Incorrect derailleur limit screw settings.
  • Solution: Adjust the limit screws on the derailleur to ensure proper range of motion for the derailleur.

Optimizing Performance for Apex 1 (11-speed)

To get the best performance from your SRAM Apex 1 (11-speed) drivetrain, ensure the following:

  • Use High-Quality Components: Always use high-quality cables and housing from SRAM for smooth performance.
  • Regular Maintenance: Clean and lubricate the derailleur and cables regularly to reduce friction and wear.
  • Keep the Drivetrain Clean: A clean drivetrain prevents dirt buildup in the cables and housing, improving longevity and shifting performance.

Comparison with Similar Models

The SRAM Apex 1 (11-speed) offers a solid, single-chainring setup ideal for gravel and road bikes. When compared to other models in SRAM’s lineup, such as the Rival or Force 1, the Apex 1 stands out for its affordability while still delivering reliable performance.

  • SRAM Rival 1 (11-speed): Offers slightly better shifting precision and durability due to higher-end materials but comes at a higher price.
  • SRAM Force 1 (11-speed): A lighter and more durable option for riders seeking maximum performance, but at a significantly higher cost.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Apex 1 (11-speed) is compatible with a range of SRAM components, including other 11-speed drivetrains. However, when mixing with higher-end SRAM drivetrains like Force or Red, slight adjustments may be needed to account for differences in weight, materials, and tolerances. Ensure that the derailleur, shifter, and cassette are compatible before replacing or upgrading parts.