How to Install Your Apex XPLR Rear Derailleur at Home

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Installing the SRAM Apex XPLR [paid link] Rear Derailleur requires precision and attention to detail to ensure smooth shifting and optimal performance. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process for installing, adjusting, and maintaining this rear derailleur, as well as troubleshooting common issues that may arise during set-up. We will also discuss how to customize your setup for better performance and ensure compatibility with other drivetrain components.

Tools Required

To install the Apex XPLR Rear Derailleur, you will need the following tools:

  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • 3mm Allen wrench
  • Chain checker tool
  • Torque wrench
  • Screwdriver (flathead)
  • Cable cutter
  • A set of hex keys
  • Small container for holding bolts
  • Lubricant (optional for the derailleur hanger)

Installing the Apex XPLR Rear Derailleur

Before beginning the installation, make sure your bike is properly set up in a workstand and that the rear wheel is removed. The Apex XPLR rear derailleur is designed for gravel and mixed-terrain riding, and it features SRAM’s X-Range technology, providing a wide gear range for your bike. Here’s how to install it:

1. Prepare the Rear Derailleur Hanger

  • Check for straightness: Make sure the rear derailleur hanger is aligned correctly. If it’s bent, straighten it using a derailleur hanger alignment tool. A misaligned hanger can cause shifting issues.
  • Lubricate the hanger: It’s good practice to apply a small amount of lubricant to the threads of the derailleur hanger to prevent rust and ensure smooth attachment.

2. Mount the Rear Derailleur

  • Attach the derailleur: Use a 5mm Allen wrench to fasten the rear derailleur to the derailleur hanger. Tighten the bolt securely, but be cautious not to overtighten and strip the threads. If your derailleur includes a B-screw (for adjusting the derailleur’s position relative to the cassette), make sure it’s in place.
  • Set the derailleur’s position: Position the derailleur so that it hangs straight and perpendicular to the bike frame.

3. Install the Chain

  • Route the chain through the derailleur: Begin by feeding the chain through the jockey wheels of the derailleur. Make sure it moves smoothly through the guide and tension wheels. Pay attention to the direction of the chain links so that it moves without resistance.
  • Check chain length: If necessary, use a chain checker tool to ensure your chain length is correct. The Apex XPLR derailleur is compatible with 1×11 or 1×12 setups. Ensure the chain is long enough to accommodate the largest cog and the smallest cog.

4. Install the Rear Shifter Cable

  • Thread the cable through the shifter: Using a 3mm Allen wrench, loosen the bolt on the derailleur’s cable anchor and feed the cable through the shifter. Be sure to thread the cable smoothly to avoid kinks.
  • Connect to the derailleur: Pull the cable taut and tighten the anchor bolt on the derailleur. Use the torque wrench to ensure the bolt is tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.

5. Adjust the Derailleur for Optimal Performance

  • Set the limit screws: The Apex XPLR derailleur includes limit screws to set the range of the derailleur’s movement. Use a flathead screwdriver to adjust the high and low limit screws, ensuring the derailleur can shift cleanly across the entire cassette without overshooting.
  • Adjust cable tension: Fine-tune the derailleur’s position by adjusting the cable tension. Use the barrel adjuster to make small tweaks, ensuring the derailleur shifts smoothly from the smallest to the largest cog without hesitation.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Despite careful installation, a few issues may arise that affect shifting performance. Here are common problems and how to resolve them:

1. Skipping or Hesitation During Shifting

  • Check cable tension: If shifting is erratic or hesitant, the cable tension may be too loose or too tight. Adjust the barrel adjuster on the derailleur or shifter to fine-tune the tension.
  • Inspect the derailleur hanger: A bent or misaligned derailleur hanger can also cause skipping. Use a derailleur hanger alignment tool to verify its straightness and make any necessary adjustments.

2. Chain Rub or Noise

  • Check derailleur position: Ensure that the derailleur is aligned properly and that the jockey wheels are clear of the cassette. Adjust the B-screw if necessary to provide adequate clearance.
  • Lubricate the chain: A dry or improperly lubricated chain can create noise and increase friction. Regularly apply chain lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

3. Inaccurate Shifting

  • Adjust the limit screws: If the derailleur overshoots the cassette or fails to shift into certain gears, the limit screws may need adjustment. Loosen or tighten the screws to prevent the derailleur from overshooting the high or low gears.

Customizing and Optimizing the Apex XPLR Rear Derailleur

To achieve the best performance from your Apex XPLR Rear Derailleur, consider the following customization options:

1. Change the Cassette

  • Upgrade to a wider-range cassette: The Apex XPLR system works well with a wide variety of cassettes, particularly those designed for gravel and off-road riding. Consider switching to a larger-range cassette to improve your gear ratios for mixed terrain.

2. Optimize Cable Routing

  • Clean, smooth cable routing: Ensure that the shift cables are routed cleanly along the frame and free of any obstructions. This reduces friction and improves shifting performance. Using high-quality cables or cable housing can further enhance the responsiveness.

3. Fine-Tuning the B-Screw

  • Adjust the B-screw for clearance: The B-screw controls the distance between the derailleur and the cassette. For optimal shifting, adjust the B-screw to ensure that the derailleur doesn’t rub against the cogs, particularly when shifting to the largest cogs.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The SRAM Apex XPLR Rear Derailleur is designed for use with 1×11 or 1×12 drivetrains. To ensure seamless operation, compatibility with other drivetrain components is crucial.

1. Shifters

  • SRAM 1x Shifters: The Apex XPLR is best paired with SRAM 1×11 or 1×12 shifters, as these are designed to work together for optimal shifting performance.

2. Crankset and Chainring

  • SRAM 1x Cranksets: The Apex XPLR works well with SRAM 1x cranksets and chainrings, especially those with wide range options designed for gravel riding. Make sure the chainring size matches your riding style and terrain.

3. Chain and Cassette Compatibility

  • Wide-Range Cassettes: The Apex XPLR works with a variety of SRAM cassettes, including wide-range 11-speed and 12-speed options. Make sure your cassette choice complements your terrain and gear preferences.

Conclusion

Installing the SRAM Apex XPLR Rear Derailleur is a straightforward process if you follow the steps carefully. With the right tools and adjustments, you can ensure smooth shifting, long-term performance, and an optimized riding experience. By customizing the derailleur to suit your riding needs and ensuring compatibility with other components, you can elevate your gravel or mixed-terrain bike setup to the next level. Proper installation and maintenance will keep your bike shifting smoothly, allowing you to focus on the ride ahead.