How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Apex Front Derailleur

Posted on
in Apex, Front Derailleur, SRAM

The Apex front derailleur [paid link] is a key component of your road bike’s drivetrain, ensuring smooth shifting between chainrings. Proper installation and adjustment are essential for peak performance, while regular maintenance helps extend its lifespan. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing, adjusting, and maintaining your Apex front derailleur [paid link], ensuring optimal shifting performance.

Tools Required

Before beginning the installation process, gather the necessary tools:

  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Chain checker tool
  • Cable cutters
  • Bike grease
  • Rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth

Installing the Apex Front Derailleur

Proper installation of the Apex front derailleur [paid link] is crucial to avoid shifting issues. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Positioning the Front Derailleur

  • Start by mounting the front derailleur onto the braze-on mount or using a clamp adapter if your frame requires it.
  • Ensure the derailleur cage sits parallel to the chainrings.
  • There should be about 1-3mm clearance between the outer cage and the largest chainring.

2. Securing the Front Derailleur

  • Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to tighten the mounting bolt, ensuring the derailleur is firmly attached.
  • Check the alignment again before fully tightening the bolt to the recommended torque (typically 5-7Nm).

3. Attaching the Shift Cable

  • Shift the derailleur to the smallest chainring position.
  • Route the cable through the cable guide and secure it in the clamp using a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link].
  • Pull the cable taut before tightening the clamp bolt to prevent slack.

Adjusting the Apex Front Derailleur

Once installed, precise adjustments are necessary for smooth shifting.

1. Setting the Low Limit Screw

  • Shift to the small chainring and the largest rear cog.
  • Turn the low limit screw clockwise or counterclockwise until the inner plate of the derailleur cage is about 1mm from the chain.
  • This prevents the chain from dropping off the small chainring.

2. Indexing the Front Derailleur

  • Shift the derailleur to the big chainring while pedaling.
  • If the chain struggles to move up, add cable tension using the barrel adjuster.
  • If it shifts too aggressively, reduce tension slightly.

3. Setting the High Limit Screw

  • Shift to the big chainring and the smallest rear cog.
  • Adjust the high limit screw so that the outer plate of the derailleur cage is about 1mm away from the chain.
  • This ensures the chain does not shift past the large chainring.

4. Final Test and Fine-Tuning

  • Shift through the gears multiple times to confirm smooth transitions.
  • Make small tweaks with the barrel adjuster if necessary.

Maintaining the Apex Front Derailleur

Regular maintenance ensures your Apex front derailleur stays in top condition.

1. Cleaning the Derailleur

  • Use a clean cloth and rubbing alcohol to wipe away dirt and grime.
  • For deeper cleaning, remove the derailleur and soak it in a degreaser before scrubbing with a brush.

2. Lubricating the Moving Parts

  • Apply a small amount of bike-specific lubricant to the pivot points.
  • Avoid over-lubrication, as excess oil attracts dirt.

3. Checking for Wear and Tear

  • Inspect the cage plates for any bending or damage.
  • Check the cable tension and replace any frayed cables immediately.
  • Use a chain checker tool to ensure the chain is not excessively worn, as this affects shifting performance.

Common Set-Up Issues and Troubleshooting

Even with correct installation, some issues may arise. Here’s how to fix them:

1. Chain Rub on the Derailleur Cage

  • If you hear chain rub in the small chainring, adjust the low limit screw slightly outward.
  • If rubbing occurs in the big chainring, adjust the high limit screw inward.

2. Slow or Incomplete Shifts

  • Increase cable tension using the barrel adjuster until shifts become crisp.
  • Ensure the derailleur cage is parallel to the chainrings.

3. Chain Dropping Off the Chainrings

  • If the chain falls to the inside, adjust the low limit screw outward.
  • If it falls off the outside, adjust the high limit screw inward.

Comparing the Apex Front Derailleur to Similar Models

The Apex front derailleur is often compared to Rival and Force models in SRAM’s lineup. Here’s how they differ:

FeatureApex Front DerailleurRival Front Derailleur [paid link]Force Front Derailleur [paid link]
WeightModerateLighterLightest
MaterialAluminumAluminum/CompositeCarbon Fiber
Compatibility10-speed drivetrains11-speed drivetrains11-12 speed drivetrains
PriceMost AffordableMid-RangeMost Expensive

For budget-conscious riders, Apex offers excellent performance, while Rival and Force provide weight savings and better material quality.

Conclusion

The Apex front derailleur is a reliable component that, when properly installed and maintained, delivers smooth and precise shifting. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can optimize its performance and extend its lifespan.