Is the Rival XPLR eTap AXS the Best Rear Derailleur for Gravel Bikes?

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The SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS [paid link] is a highly regarded rear derailleur designed specifically for gravel and adventure cycling. This model offers a host of features aimed at enhancing the performance, durability, and versatility of your gravel bike setup. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, customization, and performance optimization of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur. We will also compare it with other similar models to help you decide if it is the best choice for your gravel bike.

Installation of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Installing the SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is relatively straightforward, but attention to detail is essential to ensure optimal performance.

Tools Required:

  • Torque wrench
  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Chain tool
  • eTap AXS app (for setting up wireless connectivity)
  • 10mm or 11mm box wrench (depending on your axle type)

Installation Steps:

  1. Remove the old derailleur: If you’re replacing an existing derailleur, use a 5mm Allen wrench to remove it from the derailleur hanger. Make sure to take note of the position of any spacers or washers.
  2. Install the Rival XPLR eTap AXS derailleur: Position the derailleur on the derailleur hanger and secure it with a 5mm Allen bolt. Tighten the bolt to the recommended torque setting (usually 6-8Nm).
  3. Attach the chain: Using your chain tool, install the chain onto the jockey wheels. Make sure the chain is properly threaded through the derailleur.
  4. Set up the battery: If the derailleur uses a removable battery, attach it to the derailleur and ensure that it’s securely clipped in.
  5. Link with the eTap AXS app: Turn on your bike’s Bluetooth or ANT+ functionality and pair the derailleur with the SRAM eTap AXS app on your phone to configure your shifting preferences and updates.

Adjustment of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Proper adjustment is critical for smooth and reliable shifting performance, especially on gravel where shifts can be more challenging due to rough terrain.

Front and Rear Shifting:

  1. Set the B-tension: Adjust the B-tension screw to ensure the jockey wheels are positioned optimally for chain clearance. This prevents the derailleur from being too close to the cassette or too far away.
  2. Indexing: Using the eTap AXS app, calibrate the derailleur to ensure each gear position aligns perfectly with the cassette. This may require a few test shifts, adjusting the settings as needed for precision.
  3. Limit screws: Adjust the low and high limit screws on the derailleur to prevent the chain from overshooting the cassette in either direction. Ensure the derailleur can travel smoothly between the smallest and largest gears.
  4. Battery and Connectivity Check: Ensure the battery is fully charged and the wireless connection is stable. Use the eTap AXS app to check if there are any firmware updates available.

Maintenance of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

Maintaining the Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur will help prolong its lifespan and maintain performance, especially in harsh gravel environments.

Regular Cleaning:

  • Clean the derailleur regularly with a brush to remove dirt and debris that can affect performance.
  • Lubricate the jockey wheels lightly to keep them running smoothly, but avoid excessive lubrication that can attract dirt.

Battery Maintenance:

  • Always check the battery level regularly through the eTap AXS app. Depending on your usage, you may need to replace or recharge the battery every 300-500 miles.
  • In cold weather, battery life can be affected, so ensure the battery is well-protected if riding in sub-zero [paid link] temperatures.

Inspecting Cables and Connections:

  • Although the Rival XPLR eTap AXS uses wireless shifting, periodically check the connection between the derailleur and the eTap AXS system to ensure there are no dropouts.
  • Inspect the derailleur hanger to ensure it’s straight. A bent hanger can cause poor shifting and even derailment.

Troubleshooting Common Set-up Issues

Despite its advanced technology, there are some common issues that riders may face when setting up or using the SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur.

Poor Shifting Performance:

  • Solution: Check the B-tension screw setting to ensure proper clearance between the jockey wheels and cassette. Misalignment can cause skipping or sluggish shifting.
  • Solution: Ensure that the derailleur is correctly calibrated via the eTap AXS app, and perform a quick test to make sure each gear is indexed correctly.

Battery or Connectivity Issues:

  • Solution: Ensure the derailleur battery is fully charged and the wireless signal is strong. Reconnect the derailleur to the eTap AXS app if necessary.
  • Solution: If the connection drops, try re-pairing the derailleur or updating the firmware through the app to resolve any software bugs.

Chain Drop or Overshifting:

  • Solution: Inspect the limit screws on the derailleur. Improperly set screws can cause the chain to shift beyond the smallest or largest cog.
  • Solution: Check the chain length and ensure it’s not too short, as this can also contribute to improper shifting.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

One of the significant advantages of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is its customization options through the eTap AXS app.

Adjusting Shift Speed:

  • The app allows you to adjust the shift speed of the derailleur, which can be particularly useful on gravel rides. Slower shifts might be more beneficial when riding rough terrain to avoid missed shifts.

Chainring and Cassette Options:

  • Customize your gearing by pairing the Rival XPLR eTap AXS with different cassettes and chainrings to match your riding style. This drivetrain is optimized for wide-range gearing, ideal for gravel riding where steep climbs and fast descents are common.

Wireless Integration:

  • One of the standout features of the Rival XPLR eTap AXS is its full wireless integration, allowing for seamless control of the rear derailleur via the AXS app. This feature allows for adjustments on the fly, without needing to physically adjust cables.

Comparison with Similar Models

When choosing a rear derailleur for gravel bikes, it’s essential to consider how the Rival XPLR eTap AXS compares to other options in the market.

Rival XPLR eTap AXS vs. Shimano GRX Di2:

  • Shifting Performance: Both the SRAM and Shimano systems offer precise shifting, but SRAM’s Rival XPLR eTap AXS has a slight edge due to its wireless functionality, which eliminates cable maintenance.
  • Battery Life: Shimano’s GRX Di2 has a wired system, which can mean less worry about battery life but more complex cable management.
  • Price: The SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS tends to be priced more competitively, making it a good choice for riders looking for a high-tech wireless system at a lower price point.

Rival XPLR eTap AXS vs. SRAM Force eTap AXS:

  • Weight: The SRAM Force eTap AXS is lighter than the Rival XPLR, but the difference may not be significant for gravel riders who prioritize durability and ease of maintenance over weight savings.
  • Performance: Both perform similarly in terms of shifting precision, but the Rival XPLR eTap AXS is specifically tailored for gravel riding, making it a better choice for that discipline.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur is designed to work seamlessly with SRAM’s AXS ecosystem, offering excellent compatibility with a variety of cassettes, chainrings, and power meters.

  • Cassette Compatibility: It is compatible with cassettes ranging from 10 to 36 teeth, which is ideal for gravel setups where riders require wide gear ranges for varying terrain.
  • Chain Compatibility: The Rival XPLR eTap AXS works well with SRAM’s 12-speed chains, ensuring optimal performance with minimal chain wear.
  • Power Meter Compatibility: Riders who use power meters can integrate them with the AXS system to get real-time performance data on their rides, further enhancing the training experience.

By selecting the appropriate components, riders can optimize their gravel bike setup, ensuring that the Rival XPLR eTap AXS integrates smoothly with other parts of the drivetrain.