The Campagnolo Ekar 13-speed groupset represents a significant advancement in gravel cycling technology, offering a wide gear range and precise shifting tailored for diverse terrains. Proper installation, meticulous adjustment, and regular maintenance of the Ekar cassette are crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Installation of the Ekar 13-Speed Cassette
Compatibility and Tools Required
Before initiating the installation, ensure that your wheelset is equipped with Campagnolo’s N3W freehub body, specifically designed to accommodate the 13-speed Ekar cassette. The N3W freehub is shorter than traditional freehubs, aligning with the design requirements of the Ekar system.
Tools Required:
- Torque wrench [paid link] capable of measuring up to 45 Nm
- Campagnolo UT-BB080 lockring tool [paid link]
- Chain whip
- Protective gloves and safety glasses
Step-by-Step Installation Process
- Preparation:
- Ensure the bicycle is securely mounted on a stand. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses to prevent injuries.
- Freehub Inspection:
- Verify that the N3W freehub body is clean and free from debris. The Ekar cassette is designed exclusively for the N3W interface.
- Cassette Assembly:
- Align the largest sprocket assembly with the freehub body, ensuring the splines match correctly. The asymmetrical spline design ensures proper alignment.
- Slide the sprocket assembly onto the freehub, followed by the remaining sprockets in descending order.
- Lockring Installation:
- Thread the lockring onto the freehub by hand to prevent cross-threading.
- Using the Campagnolo UT-BB080 tool attached to a torque wrench [paid link], tighten the lockring to 45 Nm (398 in.lbs) for cassettes starting with a 9-tooth sprocket.
Common Installation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect Freehub Compatibility:
- Mistake: Attempting to install the Ekar cassette on a non-N3W freehub body.
- Solution: Always ensure the wheelset has the N3W freehub before installation.
- Improper Spline Alignment:
- Mistake: Misaligning the sprockets during assembly, leading to shifting issues.
- Solution: Carefully match the sprocket splines with the freehub splines, utilizing the unique asymmetrical design for guidance.
- Inadequate Torque Application:
- Mistake: Over-tightening or under-tightening the lockring, resulting in cassette movement or damage.
- Solution: Use a calibrated torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the lockring precisely to the manufacturer’s specified torque of 45 Nm.
- Neglecting Protective Gear:
- Mistake: Foregoing safety equipment, leading to potential injuries.
- Solution: Always wear protective gloves and safety glasses during installation.
Adjustment and Maintenance
Rear Derailleur Adjustment
Proper adjustment of the rear derailleur is vital for smooth shifting across all 13 gears.
- B-Screw Adjustment:
- Set the B-screw to position the upper jockey wheel as close to the cassette as possible without contact, ensuring optimal shifting performance.
- Cable Tension:
- Ensure the gear cable tension is appropriately set to facilitate precise shifts across the entire cassette range.
Regular Maintenance Practices
- Cleaning:
- After rides, especially in wet or muddy conditions, clean the cassette with mild soap and water. Avoid high-pressure water sources that can force debris into bearings.
- Lubrication:
- Regularly lubricate the chain and cassette interface to reduce wear and maintain smooth operation.
- Inspection:
- Periodically inspect the cassette for signs of wear, such as shark-fin shaped teeth, which indicate the need for replacement.
Conclusion
Proper installation, meticulous adjustment, and consistent maintenance of the Campagnolo Ekar 13-speed cassette are essential to harness the full potential of this advanced drivetrain system. By adhering to the guidelines outlined above, cyclists can ensure reliable performance and an extended lifespan for their components.
For a visual guide on installing and adjusting the Ekar 13S [paid link] rear derailleur, you can refer to Campagnolo’s official tutorial video: