How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Athena EPS 11s Crankset

Posted on
in Athena, Campagnolo, Crankset

The Athena EPS 11s Crankset [paid link] is a high-performance component from Campagnolo’s EPS (Electronic Power Shift) groupset lineup, designed for precision shifting and power transfer. Proper installation and maintenance of this crankset are essential to ensuring efficiency, longevity, and smooth operation.

This guide will take you through the complete process of installing, adjusting, and maintaining the Athena EPS 11s Crankset [paid link], addressing common setup challenges, and providing expert tips for keeping it in peak condition.

Tools Required [paid links]

Step-by-Step Installation of the Athena EPS 11s Crankset

1. Preparing the Bottom Bracket Shell

Before installing the crankset, ensure the bottom bracket shell is clean and properly faced to prevent misalignment. If you’re using a Campagnolo Ultra-Torque bottom bracket [paid link], install the cups using the correct tool, torquing them to 35–40 Nm.

2. Installing the Drive-Side Crank Arm

  • Apply a thin layer of grease to the Ultra-Torque spindle to reduce friction and prevent creaking.
  • Insert the drive-side crank arm into the bottom bracket shell, ensuring the Hirth joint teeth align correctly.
  • Push it through until it fully engages with the non-drive-side interface.

3. Attaching the Non-Drive-Side Crank Arm

  • Align the non-drive-side crank arm with the Hirth joint and press them together.
  • Insert the central fixing bolt, then tighten it to 42–45 Nm using a torque wrench [paid link].
  • Check for smooth rotation by spinning the crankset—there should be no lateral play or excessive resistance.

4. Securing the Crankset with the Safety Clip

  • Install the safety clip on the spindle to prevent the crankset from detaching under load.
  • Double-check that the clip is fully engaged before riding.

Adjusting the Athena EPS 11s Crankset for Optimal Performance

1. Chainline and Front Derailleur Alignment

  • The Athena EPS 11s crankset [paid link] must align properly with the front derailleur for smooth electronic shifting.
  • Position the derailleur cage 1-3mm above the largest chainring.
  • Ensure the derailleur is parallel to the chainrings to prevent chain rub.

2. Torque Settings for Chainring Bolts

  • If you replace or adjust the chainrings, tighten the bolts evenly in a star pattern to 8–10 Nm.
  • Check for chainring flex or misalignment, as it may cause front shifting issues.

3. Pedal Installation and Torque

  • Apply anti-seize compound on the pedal threads to prevent seizure over time.
  • Tighten the pedals to 35–40 Nm using a pedal wrench [paid link] or hex key.

Routine Maintenance for Longevity

1. Cleaning the Crankset

  • Wipe down the crank arms, chainrings, and spindle regularly to remove dirt and debris.
  • Use a degreaser and a clean rag to remove built-up grime, then reapply a light coat of lubricant on moving parts.

2. Checking for Wear and Tear

  • Inspect the chainrings for worn-out teeth—shark-tooth-shaped teeth indicate replacement is needed.
  • Rotate the crankset while listening for creaks or grinding noises, which may indicate bearing wear.
  • Check the Hirth joint interface for play—looseness can lead to premature wear.

3. Bearing Maintenance and Lubrication

  • Campagnolo’s Ultra-Torque system uses ceramic or steel bearings, which should be cleaned and re-lubricated every 3,000–5,000 km.
  • If you hear clicking or rough rotation, disassemble the crankset, clean the bearings with isopropyl alcohol, and apply a small amount of bearing grease before reassembly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Crankset Creaking or Clicking Noises

  • Ensure the bottom bracket cups are torqued correctly (35–40 Nm).
  • Reapply grease to the spindle and Hirth joint to prevent metal-on-metal noise.
  • If the creaking persists, check the pedals and chainring bolts for tightness.

2. Front Shifting Feels Sluggish or Skips Gears

  • Verify that the EPS front derailleur is calibrated correctly through the system settings.
  • Inspect the chain and chainrings for wear—if they’re worn out, replace them.

3. Pedal Threads Feel Loose or Difficult to Remove

  • If pedals become loose frequently, apply Loctite 242 (blue thread locker) on the threads before installation.
  • If pedals are difficult to remove, use penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting removal.

Final Thoughts

The Athena EPS 11s [paid link] Crankset is a premium component that requires precise installation and maintenance to function at its best. By following this guide, you can ensure optimal power transfer, smooth shifting, and long-lasting performance.

FAQs

1. How often should I grease my Athena EPS 11s crankset?

Grease the spindle and bearings every 3,000–5,000 km or after riding in wet conditions.

2. Can I install an Athena EPS 11s crankset on a non-Campagnolo drivetrain?

It is not recommended due to potential compatibility issues with chainline and front shifting.

3. Why does my crankset feel loose even after tightening it?

Check that the Hirth joint is properly engaged and the fixing bolt is torqued to 42–45 Nm.

4. What should I do if my crank arms are creaking?

Disassemble the crankset, clean the spindle interface, and apply fresh grease before reinstallation.

5. When should I replace the chainrings?

Replace them when teeth appear worn or shifting performance declines significantly.