When it comes to high-performance cycling, the Ekar 13s Disc Brake [paid link] system from Campagnolo stands out as a premium option for gravel and road bike enthusiasts. However, the performance of this disc brake system hinges on proper installation and adjustment. Any mistakes made during installation can not only impact shifting performance but also compromise overall braking and bike safety.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common installation mistakes that can ruin your shifting with the Campagnolo Ekar 13s Disc Brake [paid link] system and how to avoid them.
1. Incorrect Brake Pad Alignment
One of the most crucial aspects of the Ekar 13s Disc Brake [paid link] system’s performance is brake pad alignment. Misalignment of the brake pads can result in uneven braking, noise, and a lack of stopping power.
How to Avoid:
- Ensure the brake pads are centered over the rotor.
- Adjust the pad height and position so that they sit parallel to the rotor, avoiding rubbing.
- If the pads are too far from the rotor or angled incorrectly, it will affect braking efficiency and shifting performance.
2. Using the Wrong Brake Rotors
The Ekar 13s [paid link] Disc Brake system is designed to work with specific rotor sizes and materials. Installing the wrong rotor can lead to poor braking performance and could even cause damage to the brake calipers.
How to Avoid:
- Always use Campagnolo-approved rotors for the Ekar 13s [paid link] system.
- Double-check rotor size (160mm or 140mm) to match your bike’s requirements.
- Be sure the rotor thickness is within the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid issues with brake pad wear.
3. Improper Cable Routing
The brake cables must be routed correctly to ensure smooth and responsive braking. Incorrect cable routing can result in unnecessary friction, which not only impedes braking performance but can also impact shifting precision.
How to Avoid:
- Route the cables along their designed paths without any sharp bends.
- Ensure that there is no excessive slack in the cables, as this can lead to inconsistent braking response.
- Secure the cables using cable ties or guides, but avoid over-tightening, which could create too much friction.
4. Incorrect Lever Adjustment
Brake lever adjustment is key to a comfortable and efficient braking setup. If the brake lever is too far from the handlebars, it could result in less modulation, leading to poor control of your braking.
How to Avoid:
- Adjust the brake lever reach to suit your hand size, ensuring you can apply the brakes with minimal effort.
- Test the lever feel and ensure it provides adequate feedback when squeezed. A lack of engagement could mean the lever is positioned incorrectly.
5. Not Bleeding the Brakes Properly
Campagnolo’s Ekar 13s [paid link] Disc Brake system uses a hydraulic braking mechanism, which requires proper bleeding to remove air bubbles from the brake lines. Failing to bleed the brakes properly can lead to soft or inconsistent braking and, in turn, affect shifting performance due to brake drag.
How to Avoid:
- Follow Campagnolo’s recommended bleeding procedure carefully.
- Always use the correct fluid specified for the Ekar 13s system.
- After bleeding, ensure that the brake lever feels firm and responsive.
6. Installing the Brake Caliper on the Wrong Side
Installing the brake caliper on the wrong side of the bike is a common mistake that can prevent the proper functioning of your disc brakes. This can lead to misaligned braking surfaces, reduced power, and inconsistent braking.
How to Avoid:
- Double-check that the brake caliper is mounted on the correct side of the fork or frame.
- Pay attention to the brake pad direction, as incorrectly mounted pads can reduce braking effectiveness.
7. Failing to Secure the Brake Rotor Bolts
Brake rotor bolts must be secured to the appropriate torque specifications to avoid rotor warping or loosening during rides. If the bolts are too tight or too loose, it can cause rotor deformation, negatively affecting both braking and shifting performance.
How to Avoid:
- Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the rotor bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.
- Apply a small amount of threadlocker to the rotor bolts to prevent loosening over time, but ensure not to over-tighten.
8. Over-tightening the Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts
While it’s essential to ensure that the brake caliper is securely mounted, over-tightening the caliper bolts can strip the threads or damage the frame, leading to poor braking performance and potential shifting issues due to frame flex.
How to Avoid:
- Use the proper torque values for mounting the brake calipers.
- Avoid excessive force when tightening bolts to prevent damage.
9. Ignoring the Brake Pad Bed-In Process
After installation, it’s vital to bed in the brake pads to ensure proper contact with the rotor surface. Skipping this process can lead to reduced braking power, excessive noise, and uneven rotor wear.
How to Avoid:
- Follow the recommended bedding-in procedure by Campagnolo, which involves gradually applying the brakes at various speeds.
- Avoid heavy braking during the first few rides to ensure proper pad and rotor contact.
10. Neglecting to Check for Rotor Warping
Before installing the rotor, it is essential to check for any warping or damage. Even a slight warp can lead to uneven braking and negatively impact shifting performance due to the brakes dragging.
How to Avoid:
- Inspect the rotor for any visible warping before installation.
- Use a rotor truing tool to straighten any minor bends.
- If the rotor is beyond repair, replace it to ensure optimal braking performance.
Conclusion
Installing the Campagnolo Ekar 13s Disc Brake system may seem straightforward, but attention to detail is critical to ensure optimal performance. By avoiding common installation mistakes, such as improper brake pad alignment, incorrect lever adjustment, and failing to properly bleed the brakes, you’ll ensure that your bike is ready for smooth, efficient braking and shifting. Proper installation not only enhances performance but also improves the longevity of your components, keeping your setup in top shape for years to come.