How to Install Your Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur at Home

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Installing the Campagnolo Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur requires careful attention to detail and a solid understanding of bike mechanics. This guide will walk you through the installation process, helping you to install, adjust, and maintain your rear derailleur for optimal performance.

Tools Required

Before starting the installation, ensure you have the following tools:

  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • 2mm Allen wrench
  • Chain tool
  • Torque wrench
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Cable cutter
  • Adjustable spanner
  • Lubricant (for the derailleur pivot points)

Step-by-Step Installation of the Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur

1. Prepare the Bike

Start by flipping your bike upside down or using a bike stand. This will provide easy access to the rear derailleur and drivetrain components.

2. Remove the Old Derailleur (If Applicable)

If you’re replacing an existing derailleur, begin by removing it:

  • Use a 5mm Allen wrench to unscrew the derailleur hanger bolt.
  • Carefully detach the chain from the derailleur using the chain tool.
  • Remove the derailleur from the hanger and set it aside.

3. Install the Ekar 1×13 Derailleur Hanger

Ensure that the derailleur hanger is compatible with the Campagnolo Ekar 1×13 system. It should be installed and properly aligned with the frame to avoid any misalignment during shifting.

  • Secure the hanger using a 5mm Allen wrench, tightening it to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification.

4. Attach the Rear Derailleur

Now, install the Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur:

  • Align the derailleur with the derailleur hanger.
  • Insert the derailleur’s mounting bolt through the hanger and tighten it using the 5mm Allen wrench.
  • Ensure the derailleur is parallel to the wheel to avoid shifting issues.

5. Install the Chain

If you haven’t already removed the chain, proceed with this step:

  • Route the chain through the derailleur, ensuring it passes through the jockey wheels and the correct chainring.
  • Use the chain tool to remove any excess length, ensuring that the chain is tight but not overly taut.
  • If necessary, use a 2mm Allen wrench to adjust the jockey wheel position for optimal chain tension.

6. Connect the Gear Cable

Now, it’s time to install the gear cable:

  • Insert the cable into the derailleur’s cable entry point.
  • Tighten the set screw using a Phillips screwdriver to secure the cable in place.
  • Route the cable along the frame, ensuring it follows the proper path and does not interfere with any moving parts.
  • Attach the cable to the shifter on the handlebar, ensuring it is correctly threaded and secured.

7. Adjust the Limit Screws

Before fine-tuning the shifting, adjust the limit screws to ensure the derailleur moves within the proper range:

  • Use a flat-head screwdriver to adjust the ‘H’ (high) and ‘L’ (low) limit screws on the derailleur.
  • The high screw controls the derailleur’s movement towards the smallest cog, while the low screw limits movement toward the largest cog.
  • Test the derailleur by shifting through all gears to ensure smooth transitions and correct stopping points.

8. Fine-Tune the Derailleur

After setting the limit screws, fine-tune the derailleur for precise shifting:

  • Shift to the smallest cog and use the barrel adjuster to ensure that the derailleur stays in position and does not overshoot or fall off.
  • Gradually shift through all cogs to test shifting performance. If the derailleur struggles to reach certain cogs or overshoots, use the barrel adjuster to make minor adjustments.

9. Set the B-Tension

The B-tension screw controls the derailleur’s position relative to the cassette:

  • Shift to the largest cog and adjust the B-tension screw so that the jockey wheel is approximately 5-6mm away from the largest cog.
  • Tighten or loosen the screw as necessary until smooth, efficient shifting is achieved.

10. Test Ride

Once the derailleur is installed and adjusted, take your bike for a test ride:

  • Shift through each gear while riding to check for smooth transitions.
  • Pay attention to any skipping, slipping, or misalignment during shifting.
  • If needed, make further adjustments to the limit screws, barrel adjuster, or B-tension screw.

Maintenance Tips for the Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur

To ensure your Campagnolo Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur performs optimally, regular maintenance is crucial:

  • Lubrication: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the derailleur pivot points every 6 months or after riding in wet conditions.
  • Cable Tension: Periodically check the gear cable tension. Tighten the barrel adjuster if shifting becomes sluggish.
  • Cleaning: Clean the derailleur, chain, and cassette regularly to remove dirt and grime that can affect performance.
  • Jockey Wheels: Inspect the jockey wheels for wear and replace them if necessary, as worn-out wheels can cause skipping or rough shifting.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

If you’re encountering problems during installation or while riding, consider these common issues:

  • Chain skipping or jumping: Check that the derailleur hanger is properly aligned and that the derailleur is securely mounted. Ensure the chain is the correct length and properly tensioned.
  • Shifting issues: If the derailleur isn’t shifting smoothly, adjust the barrel adjuster for better cable tension, and check the limit screws for proper settings.
  • Unresponsive derailleur: If the derailleur is unresponsive or sluggish, inspect the cable for fraying or damage and replace it if necessary. Also, check the jockey wheels for debris or wear.

Customization and Optimization

To get the best performance out of your Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur, consider the following customizations:

  • Chainring Selection: Pair your derailleur with an appropriate Campagnolo chainring to optimize gear ratios for your riding style.
  • Cassette Choice: The Ekar 1×13 system works well with cassettes that offer a wide gear range, such as the 9-42T. Choose a cassette that matches your terrain and riding needs for better performance.
  • Derailleur Hanger: Ensure your derailleur hanger is designed specifically for the Ekar 1×13 system to maintain proper alignment and avoid shifting issues.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Campagnolo Ekar 1×13 Rear Derailleur is part of a complete 1×13 drivetrain system. It is designed to work best with other Campagnolo Ekar components, including:

  • Campagnolo Ekar Shifters: Designed to offer precise, reliable shifting in all conditions.
  • Campagnolo Ekar Crankset: The crankset pairs perfectly with the Ekar rear derailleur, offering a lightweight and durable solution for road and gravel riding.

While the Ekar 1×13 derailleur can theoretically be used with other compatible cassettes and chainrings, it is highly recommended to use the full Ekar system for optimal performance. Mixing components from different brands or models may result in less efficient shifting and potential compatibility issues.