How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Rival eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

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in eTap, Rear Derailleur, Rival, SRAM

The SRAM Rival eTap AXS rear derailleur [paid link] is a high-performance wireless drivetrain component designed for smooth, precise electronic shifting. With a 12-speed compatibility and advanced chain management, this derailleur is built for both road and gravel riding. However, proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are crucial to ensuring optimal performance.

This guide covers every aspect of the Rival eTap AXS rear derailleur [paid link], from installation and limit screw adjustment to troubleshooting shifting issues and maintenance tips.

Tools Required [paid links]

Before starting, gather the following tools:

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Prepare the Bike

Before installing the Rival eTap AXS rear derailleur [paid link], make sure the drivetrain is clean. Remove any old derailleur and inspect the derailleur hanger for alignment. A bent hanger can cause shifting issues.

2. Mount the Derailleur

  • Position the derailleur onto the derailleur hanger.
  • Secure it using a 5mm hex wrench, tightening it to 35-40Nm of torque.
  • Ensure the B-gap adjustment screw is accessible for fine-tuning later.

3. Install the eTap AXS Battery

  • Fully charge the SRAM eTap AXS battery before installation.
  • Slide the battery into the rear derailleur and ensure it clicks into place.

4. Pair with the Shifters

  • Press and hold the pairing button on the derailleur until the LED blinks.
  • Press the pairing button on each AXS shifter to connect them.
  • Check shifting functionality using the SRAM AXS mobile app.

5. Set the Chain Length

  • Wrap the chain around the largest cassette cog and chainring, bypassing the derailleur.
  • Add two extra links to determine the correct length.
  • Use a chain tool to remove excess links and install the master link.

Adjusting the Rival eTap AXS Rear Derailleur

1. Limit Screw Adjustment

  • Shift into the smallest cassette cog.
  • Turn the H-limit screw to align the upper derailleur pulley with the cog.
  • Shift into the largest cassette cog and adjust the L-limit screw for perfect alignment.

2. B-Gap Adjustment

  • The B-gap determines how far the derailleur sits from the cassette.
  • Shift into the largest rear cog and adjust the B-gap screw until there is 10-12mm clearance between the upper pulley and the cog.

3. Fine-Tuning Shifting Performance

  • Use micro-adjustments in the AXS app to fine-tune the shifting.
  • Ride the bike and test each gear to ensure smooth transitions.

Routine Maintenance for Longevity

1. Cleaning the Derailleur

  • Wipe down the derailleur with a lint-free cloth after every ride.
  • Use a mild degreaser on the pulleys to prevent dirt buildup.

2. Lubricating the Chain

  • Apply a high-quality chain lubricant to reduce wear on the drivetrain.
  • Wipe off excess lube to prevent attracting dirt.

3. Checking for Firmware Updates

  • Open the SRAM AXS mobile app and check for firmware updates.
  • Keeping the derailleur updated ensures optimal performance and bug fixes.

4. Inspecting Battery Life

  • A fully charged eTap AXS battery lasts approximately 60 hours.
  • Always carry a spare battery for longer rides.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Shifting Delays or Hesitation

  • Ensure the AXS battery is fully charged.
  • Check for firmware updates in the SRAM AXS app.
  • Adjust the B-gap to improve chain engagement.

2. Inconsistent Shifting

  • Inspect the derailleur hanger for misalignment.
  • Use the micro-adjustment feature in the AXS app to refine gear indexing.

3. No Response from the Derailleur

  • Remove and reinstall the battery to reset the system.
  • Check for Bluetooth connection issues in the AXS app.

Comparison with Other Rear Derailleurs

The Rival eTap AXS [paid link] rear derailleur is a mid-tier wireless groupset option. Compared to Force eTap AXS, the Rival model uses more cost-effective materials, making it slightly heavier but more affordable.

When compared to Shimano’s Di2 system, Rival eTap AXS [paid link] offers fully wireless shifting, whereas Shimano requires wired connections for battery power.

Final Thoughts

The SRAM Rival eTap AXS [paid link] rear derailleur is a powerful wireless shifting solution that requires proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance to deliver peak performance. By following this guide, you can ensure smooth shifting, prevent mechanical failures, and extend the lifespan of your derailleur.