Top Reasons Gravel Riders Choose Ekar 13 RD Rear Derailleurs

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The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD [paid link] rear derailleur has rapidly become a top choice for gravel riders seeking reliability, performance, and versatility. This dedicated gravel drivetrain component offers several unique features that set it apart from other derailleur options in the market. In this guide, we will explore the key reasons why gravel riders prefer the Ekar 13 RD and provide a comprehensive look at its installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Key Features of the Ekar 13 RD Rear Derailleur

The Ekar 13 RD is part of Campagnolo’s groundbreaking 13-speed gravel drivetrain system. Designed specifically for gravel riding, it combines Campagnolo’s renowned engineering with gravel-specific demands. Here are some of the standout features of the Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur:

  • 13-Speed Compatibility: The Ekar 13 RD is designed exclusively for a 13-speed setup, offering riders more gear options for varied terrain, from steep climbs to fast gravel roads.
  • Wide Range of Gear Ratios: With its large gear capacity, it allows for a wide spread of gear ratios, which is essential for gravel and mixed-terrain riding. This ensures smooth shifting across the entire range of the cassette.
  • Solid Construction: The derailleur’s robust construction is built to handle the rough conditions encountered in gravel riding. It’s made from durable materials to withstand impacts, dirt, and the constant vibrations typical of off-road cycling.
  • Optimized for Gravel Riding: Campagnolo designed the Ekar 13 RD with gravel-specific geometry, providing stable and efficient shifting even when the bike is under load, which is common during gravel races or long rides.

Installation of the Ekar 13 RD Rear Derailleur

Installing the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur requires precision and attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure correct installation:

Tools Required:

  • 5mm Allen wrench
  • 2.5mm Allen wrench
  • Torque wrench (for precise tightening)
  • Chain tool
  • Chain checker tool (for correct chain length)
  • 13-speed compatible cassette
  • 10-speed compatible chain (Campagnolo recommends their specific chain)
  • Rear wheel (with compatible hub)

Installation Steps:

  1. Prepare the Bike: Remove the rear wheel and ensure the bike is secure on a work stand.
  2. Install the Rear Derailleur Hanger: Ensure that your derailleur hanger is properly aligned. This is crucial for smooth shifting and derailleur function.
  3. Mount the Derailleur: Attach the Ekar 13 RD to the derailleur hanger using the 5mm Allen wrench. Tighten the bolt to the recommended torque setting (usually 5-7Nm).
  4. Install the Cassette: Install the 13-speed cassette on the rear wheel, ensuring that it is properly seated and tightened.
  5. Install the Chain: Use a chain tool to install the Campagnolo-compatible chain. Make sure the chain length is appropriate for your drivetrain setup. Use the chain checker tool to verify chain length.
  6. Adjust the B-Screw: Adjust the B-screw to ensure the derailleur is positioned at the right distance from the cassette. This helps maintain smooth shifting performance.
  7. Connect the Shifter Cable: Route the shifter cable through the derailleur and tighten it at the derailleur’s cable anchor.
  8. Test Shifting: Use the shifter to test the derailleur’s movement across all gears. Fine-tune the barrel adjuster for precise shifting.

Adjustment and Maintenance of the Ekar 13 RD

To ensure that your Ekar 13 RD rear derailleur performs optimally, regular maintenance and fine-tuning are essential. Here are some tips for keeping the derailleur in peak condition:

Adjusting the Derailleur

  • Limit Screws: The Ekar 13 RD features adjustable limit screws to control the derailleur’s range of motion. If shifting becomes inconsistent or you experience dropping chains, check the limit screws and adjust them as needed.
  • Cable Tension: If shifting is sluggish, it may be due to incorrect cable tension. Adjust the barrel adjuster on the shifter to increase or decrease tension. Aim for smooth transitions between gears, particularly on the larger cogs.
  • B-Screw Tension: For proper derailleur positioning, periodically check the B-screw. If the derailleur feels too close to the cassette or is not shifting properly, adjust this screw until the derailleur clears the cassette and moves smoothly.

Cleaning and Lubrication

  • Regular Cleaning: Gravel rides can subject your drivetrain to dirt and debris. Clean the derailleur regularly with a degreaser and a soft brush. After cleaning, apply a light layer of lubricant to moving parts to prevent rust and maintain smooth operation.
  • Inspect for Wear: Periodically inspect the derailleur hanger, jockey wheels, and derailleur cage for signs of wear. Replace these parts as necessary to maintain shifting performance.

Troubleshooting Common Ekar 13 RD Issues

While the Ekar 13 RD is designed for rugged conditions, occasional issues may arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

  • Skipping Gears or Poor Shifting: This could be a result of incorrect chain length, misalignment, or dirty components. Check the chain length, inspect the derailleur hanger alignment, and clean the drivetrain. Re-adjust cable tension if necessary.
  • Chain Drop: A misaligned derailleur hanger, too much derailleur movement, or a worn chain can cause the chain to drop. Check your derailleur alignment and chain condition, and replace any worn-out parts.
  • Inconsistent Shifting Under Load: If the derailleur struggles to shift under load, it could be due to improper B-screw tension or a stretched shifter cable. Recheck the B-screw adjustment and ensure the cable tension is adequate.

Customization and Optimization for Gravel Riding

The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD is designed to provide a solid foundation for gravel-specific customization. Here are a few tips to optimize performance:

  • Gear Ratio Adjustments: Gravel riders often need a wide range of gears for varied terrain. Consider pairing the Ekar 13 RD with a wide-range cassette to increase climbing ability without sacrificing top-end speed.
  • Jockey Wheels: For smoother performance, upgrade to high-quality ceramic jockey wheels. These will reduce friction and improve chain efficiency, especially during long gravel rides.
  • Chainring Selection: Opt for a chainring size that suits your typical riding terrain. Larger chainrings are better for faster gravel rides, while smaller ones help with steep climbs.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD is part of the complete Campagnolo Ekar gravel drivetrain system. When considering compatibility with other components, keep the following in mind:

  • Shifters: The Ekar 13 RD is designed to work seamlessly with the Campagnolo Ekar 13-speed shifters. Mixing with shifters from other brands or drivetrains may result in poor performance.
  • Cassette Compatibility: The Ekar 13 RD is compatible with Campagnolo’s 13-speed cassettes. It is not compatible with Shimano or SRAM cassettes due to the unique spacing of Campagnolo’s freehub body.
  • Cranksets and Chainrings: The Ekar system includes specific cranksets designed for gravel use, offering optimal gear ratios and strength. The Ekar 13 RD is designed to work efficiently with these cranks, ensuring smooth shifting across all gears.

Comparison with Other Gravel Derailleurs

When compared to other gravel-specific rear derailleurs on the market, the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD offers several distinct advantages. It provides precise shifting, even under load, and its design is tailored for the unique demands of gravel and mixed-terrain riding. In contrast, some competing models may offer broader compatibility with other drivetrain systems but often lack the gravel-specific features that the Ekar 13 RD excels in, such as ruggedness and stability on rough terrain.

Overall, the Campagnolo Ekar 13 RD stands out as a reliable, high-performance choice for serious gravel riders who prioritize smooth, precise shifting across diverse conditions.