The Campagnolo Athena 11s [paid link] rear derailleur is a high-performance component designed for smooth, precise shifting in an 11-speed drivetrain. Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are crucial to ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about setting up and maintaining the Athena 11s [paid link] rear derailleur to keep your shifting crisp and reliable.
Tools Required
Before you start, ensure you have the following tools:
- 5mm and 4mm hex keys [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Phillips screwdriver
- Chain breaker tool
- Cable cutters
- Needle-nose pliers
- Lubricant (Campagnolo-approved)
- Degreaser and clean cloth
Step 1: Installing the Athena 11s Rear Derailleur
1.1 Preparing the Frame and Hanger
- Ensure the rear derailleur hanger is properly aligned. A misaligned hanger can cause inconsistent shifting.
- Use a derailleur hanger alignment tool to check and adjust if necessary.
- Clean the mounting threads on the derailleur hanger with a degreaser and a clean cloth.
1.2 Attaching the Rear Derailleur
- Position the Athena 11s [paid link] rear derailleur on the hanger, aligning the mounting bolt with the threads.
- Tighten the mounting bolt using a 5mm hex key [paid link], ensuring it is secure but not overtightened.
- Campagnolo recommends a torque of 8–10 Nm for optimal security.
1.3 Installing the Chain
- Use a chain breaker to size the chain correctly. The chain should have enough length to allow full movement of the derailleur.
- Thread the chain through the jockey wheels, ensuring correct routing.
- Use a Campagnolo 11-speed chain link or pin to connect the chain securely.
1.4 Connecting the Shift Cable
- Shift the ergopower lever to the lowest gear to fully release cable tension.
- Insert the shift cable into the cable guide under the bottom bracket.
- Thread the cable through the derailleur’s clamp bolt and secure it with a 4mm hex key.
- Apply a small amount of lubricant to the cable to reduce friction.
Step 2: Adjusting the Athena 11s Rear Derailleur
2.1 Setting the High and Low Limit Screws
- The high limit screw (H) controls the smallest cog position. Turn the screw until the jockey wheel aligns directly under the smallest cog.
- The low limit screw (L) controls the largest cog position. Adjust it until the jockey wheel aligns properly with the largest cog without overshifting.
2.2 Fine-Tuning the B-Screw Adjustment
- The B-screw adjusts the derailleur’s distance from the cassette.
- For the Athena 11s, Campagnolo recommends 2–3mm of clearance between the upper jockey wheel and the largest cog.
- Turn the B-screw clockwise to increase clearance and counterclockwise to decrease it.
2.3 Indexing the Shifting
- Shift through the cassette and check for smooth transitions.
- If the shifting is slow to move to a larger cog, slightly increase cable tension by turning the barrel adjuster counterclockwise.
- If shifting is hesitant to move to a smaller cog, reduce cable tension by turning the barrel adjuster clockwise.
Step 3: Maintaining the Athena 11s Rear Derailleur
3.1 Cleaning and Lubrication
- Wipe down the derailleur weekly with a clean cloth and degreaser to remove grime.
- Apply a drop of lubricant to the pivot points and jockey wheel bearings to prevent wear.
- Avoid excessive lubrication, as it can attract dirt and lead to premature wear.
3.2 Inspecting for Wear
- Regularly check the jockey wheels for wear. If they appear worn or loose, replace them.
- Examine the cable and housing for fraying or corrosion. Replace them every 6–12 months for optimal performance.
3.3 Checking Hanger Alignment
- If you experience inconsistent shifting, inspect and realign the derailleur hanger as needed.
- A misaligned hanger can cause poor shifting and increased drivetrain wear.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Issue 1: Poor Shifting Performance
- Check cable tension. If shifting is slow, adjust the barrel adjuster.
- Ensure the limit screws are properly set.
- Clean and lubricate the derailleur pivot points.
Issue 2: Chain Skipping or Jumping Gears
- Inspect the cassette and chain for wear. A worn cassette can cause skipping.
- Ensure the B-screw is correctly adjusted to maintain proper clearance.
Issue 3: Noisy Shifting or Grinding Sounds
- Check if the chain is properly lubricated and not excessively dirty.
- Verify that the derailleur hanger is aligned correctly.
Athena 11s vs. Similar Rear Derailleurs
The Athena 11s rear derailleur is often compared to Chorus 11s [paid link] and Record 11s [paid link]. Here are the key differences:
| Feature | Athena 11s | Chorus 11s [paid link] | Record 11s [paid link] |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum | Carbon & Aluminum | Full Carbon |
| Weight | ~209g | ~183g | ~166g |
| Shift Feel | Crisp, Reliable | Smoother, Lighter | Ultra-Smooth |
| Price Point | Affordable | Mid-Range | High-End |
Final Thoughts
The Campagnolo Athena 11s rear derailleur is a durable and precise component, but proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are key to maximizing its performance. By following this guide, you’ll ensure smooth shifting, reduced wear, and long-term reliability.