How to Replace the Cable on Your Force eTap AXS for Better Performance

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SRAM’s Force eTap AXS is a fully wireless groupset, which means traditional derailleur cables are replaced by advanced electronic components. However, when we talk about “replacing the cable” in this context, we’re referring to two critical maintenance areas: brake cable housing (for mechanical braking systems) and internal routing cleanliness or electronic component maintenance for fully integrated cockpits. Whether you’re dealing with hydraulic hose updates or upgrading internal handlebar wiring, precision matters.

Understanding the nuances of Force eTap AXS cable management is crucial to keeping your setup responsive, sleek, and efficient. This guide covers when and how to replace or service the cabling components related to this high-performance wireless system.

Tools Required

  • 4mm and 5mm hex keys [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link] with appropriate bits
  • Cable routing tool (for integrated bars or frames)
  • Hydraulic hose cutter (for hydraulic brake line replacement)
  • DOT fluid bleed kit [paid link] (if dealing with hydraulic brakes)
  • Clean cloth and isopropyl alcohol
  • Replacement brake hoses or compression fittings (if required)
  • SRAM brake hose barbs and olive kit
  • Heat shrink tubing (for cockpit wiring re-routes, if needed)
  • Electrical tape or foam dampeners (for internal wire management)

Understanding the Role of Cables in Force eTap AXS

While the shifting is wireless, brake cable routing still plays a major role—especially if your setup uses SRAM’s hydraulic disc brakes. Most modern Force eTap AXS builds involve full internal cable routing, and maintenance requires a high degree of precision and planning.

Key distinctions include:

  • No traditional shift cable is required—shift signals are transmitted via secure AIREA wireless protocol.
  • Brake lines (hydraulic hoses) are routed internally and require routine checks and, eventually, replacement due to wear or frame changes.
  • Cockpit cabling, like brake hose routing through aero handlebars or stems, demands disassembly and potentially re-bleeding brakes post-installation.

When Should You Replace the Cable or Brake Hose?

Force eTap AXS systems don’t require cable replacement for shifting. However, the hydraulic brake hoses do wear out or may need replacing in these cases:

  • Spongy brake feel despite fresh fluid.
  • Kinked or damaged hydraulic line during a crash or handlebar change.
  • New frame or cockpit requiring a different hose length.
  • Leaking fluid at lever or caliper junction.
  • Upgrading to fully internal cable routing.

As a rule of thumb, inspect hydraulic hoses annually and replace every 2–3 years under heavy use.

Step-by-Step Process to Replace Brake Hose on Force eTap AXS

This guide assumes you’re replacing a hydraulic brake hose—common during a cockpit upgrade or re-routing project.

1. Prepare the Work Area and Bike

  • Mount the bike securely on a stand.
  • Remove wheels and brake pads to avoid contamination.
  • Cover the frame with cloth to catch fluid drips.

2. Disconnect the Brake Hose

  • Use a 5mm hex key [paid link] to loosen the brake line at the lever and caliper.
  • Let any residual DOT fluid drip into a tray.
  • Remove the old hose gently, avoiding abrupt pulls that could damage ports.

3. Measure and Cut the New Hose

  • Lay the new hose alongside the old one to match length.
  • Use a hydraulic hose cutter to ensure a clean, perpendicular cut.
  • Insert a new barb using SRAM’s press tool and slide on an olive for compression fitting.

4. Route the Hose Internally

  • Use a cable guide tool or fishing wire to route the new hose through integrated bars or frames.
  • Secure it with foam or tape inside to reduce rattle.

5. Reattach and Torque Connections

  • Connect the hose to both lever and caliper using the olive and compression nut.
  • Torque to SRAM’s recommended values (typically 5–6 Nm).

6. Bleed the Brakes

  • Use a DOT fluid bleed kit [paid link] per SRAM’s guidelines.
  • Bleed until the lever feels firm and responsive.

7. Test the System

  • Reinstall wheels and brake pads.
  • Spin the wheel and test braking power.
  • Wipe down any fluid residue with isopropyl alcohol.

Customizing Cable Routing for Better Performance

Modern bikes favor internal cable routing, and SRAM Force eTap AXS setups are no exception. Customizing the routing path can:

  • Improve aerodynamics.
  • Prevent cable rattle.
  • Reduce fluid pressure loss by minimizing hose kinks.

For optimized performance:

  • Use factory-recommended foam sleeves for internal cable stabilization.
  • Avoid sharp bends, especially at the lever or headset area.
  • Pair with compatible cockpit systems, like Zipp SL-70 Aero [paid link], for clean integration.

Troubleshooting Brake Hose Replacement Issues

Some issues may arise during or after replacement:

  • Spongy lever feel: Incomplete bleed or trapped air—repeat the bleeding process.
  • Hose leakage: Improper barb or olive installation—check fitting integrity.
  • Brake drag: Rotor misalignment or caliper centering required.
  • Inconsistent lever travel: Ensure hoses are cut cleanly and torqued to spec.

Force eTap AXS Compatibility Considerations

When replacing hydraulic hoses, ensure:

  • Use only SRAM DOT-compatible hoses and fluid (never mix with mineral oil [paid link] systems).
  • Match the hose length and routing style to your specific frame and handlebar setup.
  • SRAM’s proprietary Stealth-a-majig connectors are essential for lever-side installation and should be included in your replacement kit.

FAQs

Q1: Does SRAM Force eTap AXS require shift cable replacements?
No, it uses a fully wireless protocol for shifting, so there are no traditional shift cables to replace.

Q2: How do I know when to replace my hydraulic brake hose?
Look for signs like spongy braking, leaks, or hose damage—especially after component swaps or crashes.

Q3: Can I use mineral oil [paid link] in my Force eTap AXS hydraulic system?
No. SRAM systems require DOT fluid only. Using the wrong fluid can damage seals and void warranties.

Q4: Do I need to bleed the brakes every time I change the hose?
Yes. Every hose replacement introduces air into the system, requiring a full bleed for proper function.

Q5: Are third-party brake hoses compatible with Force eTap AXS?
Only use SRAM-approved hoses and fittings to ensure safety, compatibility, and warranty compliance.

Q6: What tools do I need to replace the brake hose?
You’ll need hex keys [paid link], torque wrench [paid link], hose cutter, barb press, and a SRAM-specific bleed kit [paid link].

Conclusion

While replacing the cable on SRAM Force eTap AXS isn’t about shift cables, managing your hydraulic brake lines is essential for optimal performance. A precise approach to hose replacement ensures consistent braking, long-term reliability, and a sleek cockpit. Always follow SRAM specifications, and when in doubt, consult a professional mechanic for complex internal routing jobs.