Replacing the derailleur cables on your Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD [paid link] is an essential part of maintaining smooth and precise shifting performance. Over time, cables can stretch, corrode, or wear out, resulting in sluggish or inaccurate shifting. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing the derailleur cables on your Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD, from preparation to installation and fine-tuning.

Tools Required

• New derailleur cables (compatible with Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD)
• Cable cutters
• 5mm Allen wrench
• 2mm or 3mm Allen wrench (depending on your model)
• Phillips or flat-head screwdriver (for cable anchor)
• Lubricant (optional but recommended)
• Cable housing (if needed)
• Frame protector (optional)
• Rags or towel for clean work environment

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Derailleur Cables

1. Prepare Your Work Area

Ensure your work area is clean and organized. It’s helpful to use a clean rag or towel to wipe off any grease or dirt that might interfere with your work. This also helps prevent contamination of the new cable and ensures smooth installation.

2. Shift to the Smallest Cog

Before you start removing the cable, shift your Ekar 13 RD to the smallest cog on the cassette. This helps relieve tension from the cable and derailleur, making the process smoother and less stressful for the components.

3. Remove the Old Cable

• Begin by locating the derailleur cable anchor bolt on the Ekar 13 RD.
• Use your 5mm Allen wrench to loosen the anchor bolt holding the derailleur cable.
• Once the bolt is loose, carefully pull the old cable out of the derailleur, then remove it from the frame and cable guides.
• If the cable is housed in any sections of the bike frame, remove and replace those sections of cable housing as needed.

4. Inspect the Cable Housing and Derailleur

Before installing the new cable, inspect the cable housing and the derailleur for wear or damage. If the cable housing shows signs of cracking or excessive wear, it’s a good idea to replace it as well. Make sure the derailleur pulley wheels are clean and in good condition for optimal performance.

5. Install the New Cable

• Take the new derailleur cable and lubricate it lightly if desired. This can help reduce friction and improve shifting performance over time.
• Begin threading the new cable into the derailleur, making sure it runs through the appropriate guides and sections of housing. The cable should smoothly pass through the frame and any cable stops.
• Insert the cable into the derailleur and pull it tight before securing it in place with the anchor bolt. Tighten the bolt with your Allen wrench, ensuring the cable is snug but not overtightened.

6. Cut the Excess Cable

Once the cable is secured, use your cable cutters to trim off any excess cable. Leave about 2-3 cm of extra cable, just in case you need to make adjustments later.

7. Adjust the Tension

With the cable installed, you’ll need to adjust the tension to ensure smooth shifting. Use the barrel adjuster, typically located on the derailleur or near the shifter, to fine-tune the cable tension.

• Turn the barrel adjuster clockwise to reduce tension (for better shifting into lower gears).
• Turn it counterclockwise to increase tension (for better shifting into higher gears).

8. Test the Shifting

After making the adjustments, manually shift through all the gears to check for smooth and precise shifting. If there are any issues with shifting, such as skipping gears or hesitation, further adjustments may be necessary.

• Check the derailleur alignment and make sure the chain moves smoothly through the cassette cogs.
• Ensure the chain does not rub on the derailleur cage when in extreme gear positions.

9. Fine-Tune the B-Screw

The B-screw on your Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD controls the distance between the derailleur pulley and the cassette cogs. If your chain rubs on the cog or derailleur, adjust the B-screw to fine-tune the derailleur positioning.

10. Reinstall Any Removed Components

If you removed any parts of the bike frame or cable guides during the process, now is the time to reinstall them. Ensure everything is properly secured and that the cable moves freely through the housing.

11. Final Check and Test Ride

Once you’ve finished all the adjustments, take your bike for a short test ride to ensure the shifting is smooth and responsive. Pay attention to how the bike shifts through the gears and listen for any unusual sounds. If needed, make any final tweaks to the tension or alignment.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

1. Skipping Gears

If your bike skips gears, it could indicate insufficient cable tension. Increase the tension slightly using the barrel adjuster. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, check the derailleur hanger for alignment, as a misaligned hanger can lead to poor shifting.

2. Jumpy or Hesitant Shifting

Hesitant or jumpy shifting may be caused by friction in the cable housing or a poorly lubricated cable. Re-lubricate the cable and check for any obstructions in the housing that may be causing excess friction.

3. Chain Rubbing on the Derailleur Cage

If the chain rubs on the derailleur cage, you may need to adjust the B-screw to create more clearance. Additionally, check the derailleur alignment to make sure it is parallel to the cassette.

4. Sticking Shifter

A sticky shifter can result from a dirty or damaged cable. Clean the shifter mechanism and inspect the cable for any kinks or frays. If necessary, replace the cable housing to ensure smooth operation.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

1. Use High-Quality Cables and Housing

Investing in high-quality cables and housing is one of the best ways to optimize the performance of your Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD. Stainless steel or coated cables reduce friction and improve shifting consistency. Similarly, using low-friction cable housing can make a noticeable difference in shifting smoothness.

2. Optimize Tension Regularly

Regularly check and adjust the derailleur cable tension, especially after long rides or extreme weather conditions. Proper tension ensures that shifting remains quick and accurate, which is essential for competitive riders and long-distance cyclists.

3. Lubrication

Always keep your cables well-lubricated to reduce wear and improve shifting precision. Use a light bicycle-specific lubricant, and apply it to the inner part of the cable and housing.

Comparison with Similar Models

While Campagnolo’s Ekar 13 RD is known for its precision and reliability, it’s always useful to compare it with other similar models in the market. Brands like Shimano and SRAM offer similar 1x drivetrains, but Campagnolo stands out with its unique cable management system and premium build quality, providing a more direct and fluid shifting experience.

When comparing the Ekar 13 RD with Shimano’s GRX 11-speed or SRAM’s Force 1x, the key difference lies in the overall feel of the shifting. Campagnolo’s cables are generally more responsive, making the system a great option for riders who prioritize fast, direct shifts.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD is specifically designed for Campagnolo’s Ekar 13-speed drivetrain, and while it offers excellent performance when paired with compatible components, it is not universally compatible with other brand components. For instance, Shimano or SRAM cassettes and shifters are not directly compatible with the Ekar system.

To ensure optimal performance, it is always best to pair the Ekar 13 RD with other Campagnolo Ekar components, including the Ekar shifters and chain. Mixing and matching drivetrain components from different brands can lead to inconsistent shifting performance and a less efficient system overall.