The Campagnolo Ekar 13-speed groupset represents a significant advancement in gravel cycling technology, offering precise shifting and durability. However, to fully benefit from its capabilities, meticulous attention during installation and maintenance is crucial. Avoiding common mistakes can prevent costly repairs and ensure optimal performance.

1. Neglecting Rear Derailleur Hanger Alignment

A misaligned derailleur hanger is a frequent culprit behind shifting issues. Even minor deviations can cause inaccurate gear changes or drivetrain noise. It’s imperative to check and, if necessary, adjust the hanger alignment using a proper alignment tool before installing the Ekar rear derailleur. This step ensures that the derailleur operates within its intended parameters, promoting smooth shifting across all gears.

2. Improper B-Screw Adjustment

The B-screw regulates the vertical distance between the derailleur’s upper jockey wheel and the cassette sprockets. An incorrect setting can lead to sluggish shifting or chain skipping, especially on the largest sprockets. For the Ekar 13s [paid link], the optimal gap is a maximum of 3 mm between the jockey wheel and the largest sprocket. Precise B-screw adjustment is essential for maintaining consistent shifting performance.

3. Using Non-Compatible Cables and Housings

The Ekar groupset is engineered to function with Campagnolo’s “The Maximum Smoothness” cables and housings. Substituting these with non-compatible components can introduce friction, resulting in impaired shifting quality. It’s essential to use the recommended cables and housings to maintain the system’s integrity and performance.

4. Overlooking Proper Torque Specifications

Each bolt and screw on the Ekar rear derailleur has a specified torque setting to ensure secure attachment without causing damage. For instance, the main mounting bolt should be tightened to 10-12 Nm, while the cable fixing bolt requires 5 Nm. Utilizing a calibrated torque wrench [paid link] during installation and maintenance is vital to adhere to these specifications, preventing potential mechanical failures. ​

5. Inadequate Cable Housing Length and Routing

Incorrect cable housing length or poor routing can lead to increased friction and compromised shifting performance. Ensuring that the housing is cut to the appropriate length, with clean and square ends, is essential. Additionally, avoiding sharp bends and ensuring smooth cable paths will minimize resistance, facilitating precise gear changes. ​

6. Ignoring Regular Maintenance and Lubrication

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of the Ekar rear derailleur. This includes cleaning the derailleur to remove dirt and debris and lubricating all pivot points to ensure smooth operation. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can lead to increased wear and suboptimal shifting performance. ​

7. Failing to Verify Cassette Lockring Torque

An improperly torqued cassette lockring can cause cassette movement, leading to shifting inconsistencies and potential drivetrain damage. The Ekar cassette lockring should be tightened to 55-65 Nm, with 65 Nm being the absolute maximum. Ensuring the correct torque setting is applied will maintain cassette stability and optimal shifting performance.

8. Overlooking Derailleur Hanger Bolt and Axle Alignment

Misalignment between the derailleur hanger bolt and the axle can result in shifting problems and drivetrain noise. It’s important to ensure that the hanger bolt and axle are properly aligned during installation. If misalignment is detected, adjustments should be made to correct it, ensuring smooth and accurate shifting.

9. Incorrect Chain Length

An improperly sized chain can cause shifting issues and increased wear on drivetrain components. It’s essential to determine the correct chain length for the specific setup, considering factors such as the largest chainring and cassette sprocket sizes. Following Campagnolo’s guidelines for chain sizing will ensure optimal performance and longevity of the drivetrain. ​

10. Neglecting to Stretch Shifting Cable at Setup

New cables can stretch after initial installation, leading to shifting inaccuracies. It’s advisable to pre-stretch the shifting cable during setup or use pre-stretched cables to maintain consistent shifting performance. This proactive step can prevent the need for frequent readjustments after the initial setup.

11. Using Full Housing Without Proper Stops

Implementing full housing without appropriate stops can lead to increased friction and compromised shifting performance. It’s recommended to use full-stop configurations where the cable housing is external to the frame, ensuring smooth cable movement and reliable shifting.

12. Overlooking Through-Axle Torque

The torque applied to the through-axle can influence derailleur hanger alignment and, consequently, shifting performance. Using a torque wrench [paid link] to set the through-axle tightness consistently ensures that the derailleur hanger remains properly aligned, maintaining optimal shifting accuracy.

13. Neglecting to Check for Wheel Bearing Play

Any play in the wheel bearings can affect the stability of the cassette and derailleur alignment, leading to shifting issues. Regularly checking for and addressing any wheel bearing play is essential for maintaining consistent shifting performance.