How to Install Your Force eTap AXS (12-speed) Rear Derailleur at Home

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The SRAM Force eTap AXS 12-speed rear derailleur is a high-performance component designed to provide seamless shifting and enhanced durability for road cyclists. Installing this derailleur at home can save you time and money while ensuring you understand how to optimize its setup for peak performance. In this guide, we’ll cover the step-by-step process for installing your SRAM Force eTap AXS rear derailleur, along with adjustments, troubleshooting tips, and optimization suggestions to ensure your bike operates flawlessly.

Tools Required

  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • T25 Torx wrench
  • Chain tool
  • Torque wrench (for precise torque settings)
  • Screwdrivers (Philips and flat-head)
  • Bicycle stand (optional, but recommended)
  • SRAM eTap AXS battery charger
  • Cleaning cloth

Installing the Force eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Step 1: Prepare the Bike

Before beginning the installation, make sure your bike is on a stable stand. If you do not have a bike stand, position the bike upside down on a soft surface, ensuring the drivetrain is easily accessible. If you’re replacing an old derailleur, use a 5mm Allen wrench to remove the existing derailleur hanger bolt. Keep the derailleur hanger, as it will be used again with the new derailleur.

Step 2: Install the Derailleur Hanger

If you’re installing a new derailleur hanger, align it with the mounting hole on the bike frame. Tighten it with a 5mm Allen wrench to the specified torque setting (typically around 8-10 Nm). Ensure the hanger is straight to avoid any shifting issues.

Step 3: Attach the Rear Derailleur

Place the SRAM Force eTap AXS rear derailleur onto the derailleur hanger. The derailleur should align with the mounting hole on the derailleur hanger. Use a 5mm Allen wrench to tighten the derailleur bolt securely. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could strip the threads. Torque the bolt to the recommended 8-10 Nm.

Step 4: Install the Chain

The Force eTap AXS derailleur is designed for a 12-speed drivetrain. Install the chain by following these steps:

  1. Position the chain around the largest cog and the largest chainring.
  2. Use a chain tool to size the chain if necessary.
  3. Ensure that the chain is properly threaded through the jockey wheels on the derailleur, ensuring smooth engagement.

Step 5: Attach the eTap AXS Battery

The SRAM Force eTap AXS rear derailleur requires a wireless battery to function. Insert the eTap AXS battery into the derailleur’s battery mount. The battery should click securely into place. Make sure the battery is fully charged before proceeding with the setup. You can check the battery status via the SRAM AXS app.

Step 6: Set Up the eTap AXS System

Once the derailleur is securely attached, it’s time to link it to your SRAM eTap AXS system:

  1. Power on your bike computer (if you’re using one) and ensure that the eTap AXS system is in pairing mode.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the derailleur to your bike’s shifting system via Bluetooth.
  3. Use the SRAM AXS app to make sure the system is linked, and ensure the derailleur shifts through all gears smoothly.

Step 7: Fine-Tune the Derailleur

Once the eTap AXS system is set up and paired, you will need to fine-tune the derailleur for optimal performance:

  1. Shift through the entire range of gears to ensure smooth transitions from one gear to another.
  2. If there’s hesitation or skipping, adjust the B-limit screw (located near the derailleur hanger) to ensure the derailleur can shift across the entire cassette without issues.
  3. The Force eTap AXS rear derailleur also features automatic trim functionality to eliminate chain rub. You may need to adjust the limit screws for the small and large chainrings if chain rub persists in certain gears.

Step 8: Test Ride and Re-Adjust

After the installation, take your bike for a short test ride. Shift through all gears under load to check for smooth transitions and ensure the derailleur functions correctly. If you experience any issues such as shifting hesitation or poor chain alignment, stop and adjust the derailleur tension or the position of the derailleur hanger.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Issue 1: Skipping Gears or Hesitant Shifting

If you notice your bike skipping gears or having difficulty shifting smoothly, check the following:

  • Ensure the chain is properly sized and correctly installed.
  • Check the derailleur hanger alignment; if it’s bent, it can affect shifting performance.
  • Inspect the chain and cassette for wear, especially if the bike has seen significant use.
  • Revisit the limit screw adjustments on the derailleur to ensure proper positioning in the smallest and largest cog.

Issue 2: Chain Rub on the Front Chainring

Chain rub typically occurs when the derailleur cannot move far enough to shift cleanly onto the chainring. Adjust the B-limit screw on the rear derailleur to move it further out or in, depending on the chainring setup.

Issue 3: Inconsistent Shifting Across Cogs

Inconsistent shifting is often a sign of incorrect tension. Adjust the derailleur cable tension, using the barrel adjuster or fine-tuning the limit screws to achieve smooth shifts. The Force eTap AXS system is designed to make adjustments automatically, but these may need manual intervention after initial installation.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

Fine-Tune Your eTap AXS Settings

You can further optimize your shifting experience by using the SRAM AXS app. The app allows you to adjust settings like shift speed, derailleur position, and shift logic to match your riding style. Customizing your system can help improve response times or smoothness in transitions, especially on challenging terrain.

Upgrade the Chain and Cassette

For ultimate performance, consider upgrading to a higher-end SRAM chain or cassette. These components can significantly reduce friction and enhance overall shifting efficiency, especially under heavy loads or wet conditions. The Force eTap AXS system works seamlessly with SRAM’s high-performance cassettes, ensuring a faster and more reliable ride.

Ensure Battery Health

Regularly check your eTap AXS battery status through the AXS app. Replacing the battery every 2-3 years or when performance dips is crucial for maintaining smooth, responsive shifts. Always carry a spare battery during long rides to avoid unexpected failures.

Comparison with Similar Models

While the SRAM Force eTap AXS 12-speed rear derailleur is an excellent option for most road cyclists, it’s important to compare it with other models like the SRAM Red eTap AXS or the Shimano Ultegra Di2. Here’s a brief comparison:

  • SRAM Force eTap AXS: Offers great performance at a more affordable price compared to the Red model. It’s slightly heavier but provides a reliable, responsive shift performance in both dry and wet conditions.
  • SRAM Red eTap AXS: Designed for high-end performance with lighter materials, faster shifts, and more customizable options via the AXS app. Ideal for serious racers who need the best performance.
  • Shimano Ultegra Di2: Known for its smooth and precise shifting, Shimano’s Di2 system is a competitor in the electronic shifting space. However, it’s not as customizable as the SRAM AXS system and doesn’t offer wireless capabilities.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The SRAM Force eTap AXS 12-speed rear derailleur is compatible with SRAM’s 12-speed road cassettes and chainrings, as well as the AXS wireless system. It’s essential to pair it with compatible components, such as a 12-speed chain, to ensure smooth shifting. This derailleur is not designed to work with Shimano drivetrains, so mixing components across brands is not recommended.

When installing your derailleur, ensure all drivetrain components (chain, cassette, chainring) are compatible with 12-speed systems to avoid shifting issues.