How to Replace the Campagnolo Ekar 13s Cassette for Better Shifting and Performance

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The Campagnolo Ekar 13-speed cassette is a critical component of the world’s first 1×13 gravel-specific groupset. Designed for smooth shifting and durability, the cassette offers a wide range of gear ratios while maintaining a lightweight and efficient design. However, like any drivetrain component, the Ekar 13s [paid link] cassette wears out over time, leading to sluggish shifting, excessive noise, or uneven gear transitions.

Replacing your Campagnolo Ekar 13s [paid link] cassette at the right time is essential to maintaining optimal performance and preventing premature wear on your chain and derailleur. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of removing the old cassette, installing a new one, and ensuring it is set up correctly.

Tools Required

To replace the Campagnolo Ekar 13s [paid link] cassette, you will need the following tools:

  • Campagnolo-compatible cassette lockring tool [paid link]
  • Chain whip (or cassette pliers)
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (with appropriate socket)
  • Grease (for the freehub body)
  • Clean rag or shop towels

When to Replace Your Campagnolo Ekar 13s Cassette

Knowing when to replace your cassette is crucial for maintaining drivetrain efficiency. Signs that indicate it’s time for a new cassette include:

  • Slipping chain – If the chain skips under load, even after replacing it, the cassette may be worn.
  • Inconsistent shifting – Difficulty shifting smoothly between gears suggests worn teeth or uneven wear.
  • Visible wear – If the teeth appear hooked or excessively worn, the cassette needs replacement.
  • Chain wear indicator test – If the chain stretch exceeds 0.5% and a new chain still doesn’t engage smoothly, the cassette is likely worn.

Replacing the cassette in time can prevent further damage to your chainring and derailleur components, saving you from costly repairs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Campagnolo Ekar 13s Cassette

1. Removing the Old Cassette

Before installing a new cassette, you need to remove the old one from your freehub body. Follow these steps:

  1. Secure the bike – Use a bike repair stand to keep your bike stable and rear wheel accessible.
  2. Remove the rear wheel – Shift to the smallest cog and release the thru-axle or quick-release skewer to remove the wheel.
  3. Loosen the cassette lockring – Insert the Campagnolo-compatible lockring tool [paid link] into the lockring. Hold the cassette in place with a chain whip or cassette pliers, then turn the lockring tool [paid link] counterclockwise.
  4. Remove the cassette – Once the lockring is fully loosened, slide the cassette off the freehub body, keeping track of the individual sprockets and spacers.

2. Cleaning and Inspecting the Freehub Body

Before installing the new cassette, ensure that the freehub body is in good condition.

  • Wipe down the freehub body with a clean rag to remove dirt, grease, or debris.
  • Inspect for damage – Check for wear, grooves, or pitting that could affect cassette installation.
  • Apply a light coat of grease to prevent corrosion and make future removal easier.

3. Installing the New Campagnolo Ekar 13s Cassette

Now that the freehub body is clean and ready, follow these steps to install your new cassette:

  1. Align the largest cog – The Ekar 13s cassette is designed with specific spline patterns that align with the freehub. Find the correct position and slide the largest cog onto the freehub.
  2. Stack the sprockets in order – Follow the sequence provided in the Campagnolo instructions to ensure proper gear spacing and shifting performance.
  3. Insert spacers if needed – Some configurations may require spacers between specific cogs. Ensure they are positioned correctly.
  4. Tighten the lockring – Thread the lockring onto the cassette by hand, then use the lockring tool [paid link] to tighten it securely.
  5. Torque the lockring properly – Using a torque wrench [paid link], tighten the lockring to Campagnolo’s recommended torque specification (40-50 Nm). Over-tightening can cause damage, while under-tightening may lead to shifting issues.

Fine-Tuning the Cassette for Optimal Shifting

Once the cassette is installed, check the shifting performance and make necessary adjustments:

  1. Reinstall the rear wheel – Ensure the wheel is seated properly in the dropouts and secure the thru-axle or quick-release.
  2. Check derailleur alignment – The derailleur hanger should be straight to allow smooth shifting across all 13 gears.
  3. Adjust the B-tension screw – If shifting feels sluggish or the chain hesitates on smaller cogs, fine-tune the B-tension screw to set the correct derailleur gap.
  4. Test shifting performance – Shift through all gears while pedaling to ensure smooth and precise transitions. If necessary, make minor derailleur cable tension adjustments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing the Ekar 13s Cassette

  • Skipping freehub maintenance – A dirty or damaged freehub can cause poor engagement and premature wear.
  • Incorrect cassette alignment – Misaligning the cassette can lead to shifting issues and uneven wear.
  • Over-tightening or under-tightening the lockring – Always use a torque wrench [paid link] to apply the correct amount of force.
  • Using an incompatible chain – The Ekar 13s cassette is designed specifically for Campagnolo’s 13-speed chain. Using a different chain may cause shifting issues.

Extending the Life of Your New Campagnolo Ekar 13s Cassette

To maximize the longevity of your new cassette and maintain smooth shifting:

  • Keep it clean – Regularly remove dirt and grime with a degreaser and a soft brush.
  • Lubricate the chain properly – Avoid excessive lube, which attracts dirt and accelerates wear.
  • Monitor chain wear – Replace the chain before it stretches too much to prevent cassette damage.
  • Use the right gear combinations – Avoid cross-chaining to reduce stress on the drivetrain.

Conclusion

Replacing your Campagnolo Ekar 13s cassette is a straightforward process that can significantly improve shifting performance and drivetrain longevity. By following the correct removal, installation, and adjustment steps, you can ensure smooth and reliable gear transitions for all your rides. Regular maintenance and proper setup will keep your Ekar 13s drivetrain running like new for years to come.