DIY Guide to Replacing Derailleur Cables for Rival XPLR eTap AXS

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Replacing the derailleur cables on your SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS [paid link] is a crucial part of maintaining smooth and responsive shifting performance. This guide will walk you through the entire process of replacing your derailleur cables, including necessary tools, installation, adjustments, and troubleshooting.

Tools Required

  • New derailleur cables (both inner and outer)
  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • Cable cutters
  • Torque wrench
  • Small flathead screwdriver
  • 3mm Allen wrench
  • Chain whip (optional)
  • Rear derailleur hanger alignment tool (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Bike for Maintenance

Before you begin replacing the derailleur cables, it’s important to properly prepare the bike. Place the bike on a stable work stand, ensuring it’s secure. Shift the bike into the smallest cog on the rear cassette and the smallest chainring on the front.

2. Remove the Old Cables

To start, remove the old derailleur cables:

  • Loosen the derailleur’s cable anchor bolt using a 5mm Allen wrench. This will release the cable from the rear derailleur.
  • Carefully remove the cable from the shifter, which is located on the handlebars. On the eTap AXS shifters, you’ll need to carefully open the cable exit by releasing the clamp or cover that holds the cable in place.
  • Once the cable is free from both the rear derailleur and the shifter, discard it and any worn-out cable housing.

3. Prepare the New Cables

Now it’s time to prepare the new cables for installation:

  • Measure the length of the new cables against the old ones to ensure proper length. Cut the cables to size using cable cutters.
  • For smoother operation, trim the ends of the outer cable housing as well. If necessary, insert ferrules into the ends of the outer housing to ensure a clean finish and prevent fraying.

4. Install the New Cable into the Shifter

  • Start by inserting the new derailleur cable into the shifter. Carefully thread the cable through the shifter’s cable inlet and into the housing. Ensure the cable is properly seated inside the shifter mechanism.
  • Tighten the clamp or cover that secures the cable within the shifter. Be sure not to overtighten, as this could damage the shifter’s internal components.

5. Route the Cable through the Housing

Now, route the cable through the outer cable housing. Start from the shifter and route the housing down the frame, following the existing cable path. Be sure the housing is not kinked or bent in a way that would restrict smooth cable movement. The outer housing should reach from the shifter to the derailleur without any slack or tightness.

6. Install the Cable onto the Rear Derailleur

  • Pull the cable tight and insert it into the derailleur’s cable anchor bolt. The cable should pass through the derailleur’s cable guide and be secured by tightening the anchor bolt with a 5mm Allen wrench.
  • Be sure to pull the cable taut to avoid slack, but do not overtighten the anchor bolt.

7. Adjust the Cable Tension

With the cable installed, it’s time to adjust the cable tension for optimal shifting:

  • Use the barrel adjuster located on the rear derailleur or on the shifter to fine-tune the tension. Turn the barrel adjuster clockwise to increase tension or counterclockwise to decrease it.
  • Shift through the gears to check the cable tension. If the shifting is sluggish or doesn’t reach the highest or lowest gears, continue to adjust the tension until smooth, crisp shifting is achieved.

8. Fine-Tune the Shifting Performance

Once the cable is installed and tensioned, it’s time to fine-tune the shifting:

  • Shift through all the gears on the cassette to ensure smooth transitions. If you notice any skipping or hesitation, make further adjustments to the cable tension.
  • If your derailleur has a limit screw, use a 3mm Allen wrench to adjust the high and low limit screws. This will ensure the derailleur doesn’t overshift into the spokes or drop the chain off the cassette.

9. Trim Excess Cable

Once you are satisfied with the shifting performance, trim any excess derailleur cable. Use cable cutters to remove the extra cable, leaving just enough to prevent the cable from slipping out of the anchor bolt. Add a cable crimp or cap to the end of the cable to prevent fraying.

10. Test Ride and Final Adjustments

Take your bike for a short test ride, shifting through all the gears under load to ensure everything is functioning as expected. If the shifting isn’t quite right, recheck the cable tension and fine-tune the derailleur limits.

Troubleshooting Common Set-up Issues

1. Skipping or Hesitation in Gears

If your bike is skipping or hesitating while shifting, it may be due to incorrect cable tension. Start by adjusting the barrel adjuster and checking the cable’s path for any friction points. If the issue persists, recheck the cable installation for any mistakes.

2. Shifter Not Engaging Cable Properly

If the shifter is not properly engaging the cable, ensure that the cable is securely fastened within the shifter and that there is no debris or dirt preventing smooth operation. Additionally, check the shifter’s internal components to ensure they are functioning correctly.

3. Derailleur Not Reaching the Smallest or Largest Cog

If the derailleur isn’t shifting to the largest or smallest cog, there may be an issue with the cable tension or the derailleur limits. Check the cable tension and adjust the limit screws on the derailleur to correct this.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

1. Upgrading to Lighter Cables

For improved performance, consider upgrading to high-quality, lightweight cables. These cables reduce friction and improve shifting speed, providing smoother and more responsive gear changes, especially during long rides.

2. Lubrication

Regularly lubricating the derailleur cables can extend their lifespan and keep them functioning smoothly. Use a lubricant designed specifically for cables, applying it sparingly to the inner cable before installation.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Rival XPLR eTap AXS to other SRAM models, such as the Force eTap AXS, the Rival XPLR offers a more affordable option while maintaining high performance and durability. The primary difference lies in the gearing options and overall weight. The Force eTap AXS features lighter materials and a more refined shifting system, but the Rival XPLR offers excellent value for riders seeking performance without the high price tag.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Rival XPLR eTap AXS is compatible with SRAM’s AXS ecosystem, meaning it can be paired with AXS shifters, cranks, and derailleurs for optimal performance. However, compatibility with non-SRAM components may require adjustments and could lead to reduced performance. It’s recommended to pair the Rival XPLR with other SRAM AXS components for the best shifting experience.