How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Campagnolo Chorus 11s Crankset

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in Campagnolo, Chorus, Crankset

The Campagnolo Chorus 11s Crankset [paid link] is a premium road bike component designed for smooth power transfer and efficiency. Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are essential to keep it running at peak performance. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of setting up your Chorus 11s Crankset [paid link], troubleshooting common issues, and ensuring longevity through proper care.

Tools Required [paid links]

Step-by-Step Installation of the Campagnolo Chorus 11s Crankset

1. Preparing the Bottom Bracket

Before installing the Chorus 11s Crankset [paid link], ensure your bottom bracket is compatible and correctly installed. The Ultra-Torque system requires either:

  • Italian-threaded bottom bracket cups (36x24TPI) or
  • English-threaded cups (BSA 1.37” x 24TPI)

If installing a new bottom bracket:

  1. Remove the old bottom bracket using a bottom bracket removal tool.
  2. Clean the bottom bracket shell thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol.
  3. Apply a thin layer of grease on the threads or press-fit area.
  4. Thread in the new bottom bracket cups and tighten them to 35–40 Nm.

2. Installing the Crank Arms and Spindle

  1. Align the Chorus 11s [paid link] Ultra-Torque crankset’s Hirth joint spindle halves.
  2. Insert the drive-side crank arm into the right bottom bracket cup.
  3. Insert the non-drive-side crank arm, ensuring the Hirth joint teeth fully engage.
  4. Apply Loctite 222 or equivalent low-strength threadlocker to the fixing bolt.
  5. Use a 10mm Allen key to tighten the central fixing bolt to 42 Nm torque.

3. Installing the Chainrings

If replacing or upgrading the chainrings:

  1. Position the Campagnolo Chorus 11-speed chainrings correctly on the spider.
  2. Torque the chainring bolts to 5–6 Nm using an 8mm Allen key.
  3. Ensure the chainring’s alignment with the front derailleur cage.

Adjusting the Campagnolo Chorus 11s Crankset for Optimal Performance

1. Chainline and Front Derailleur Setup

  • Ensure the chainline is straight by aligning the crankset’s chainrings with the rear cassette.
  • Adjust the front derailleur limit screws to prevent chain drop and shifting issues.
  • Set the front derailleur cage clearance to 1–2mm above the largest chainring.

2. Pedal Installation

  • Apply anti-seize compound to the pedal threads to prevent corrosion.
  • Tighten pedals to 40 Nm using an 8mm Allen key.

3. Checking Bearing Preload

  • The Ultra-Torque system self-adjusts bearing preload, but ensure the crankset spins freely without lateral play.
  • If excessive play is detected, recheck the Hirth joint bolt torque and inspect the bottom bracket cups.

Routine Maintenance for Longevity

1. Cleaning and Lubrication

  • Wipe down the crankset after every ride to remove dirt and moisture.
  • Every 3,000 km, remove the crankset and clean the Hirth joint and bottom bracket cups.
  • Apply a small amount of grease or anti-seize compound to the Hirth joint for smooth engagement.

2. Checking for Wear and Damage

  • Inspect chainrings for worn teeth or excessive wear patterns.
  • Check the crank arms for cracks or damage from impacts.
  • If you notice creaking noises, remove the crankset, clean the interfaces, and reapply grease.

3. Replacing Bearings

  • If the crankset develops rough spinning or lateral play, the Ultra-Torque bearings may need replacement.
  • Use a bearing puller to remove old bearings and press in new Campagnolo Ultra-Torque compatible bearings.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips

1. Creaking Noises

  • Ensure the bottom bracket cups are torqued correctly.
  • Clean the Hirth joint and reapply grease.
  • Inspect the crank arm fixing bolt and tighten to 42 Nm.

2. Loose or Wobbly Crankset

  • Ensure the fixing bolt is torqued correctly.
  • Check for worn bottom bracket bearings.

3. Chain Drops or Poor Shifting

  • Adjust the front derailleur limit screws.
  • Ensure the chainring bolts are tight.
  • Check the chain for wear and replace if necessary.

Conclusion

The Campagnolo Chorus 11s [paid link] Crankset is a high-performance component that, when installed and maintained correctly, offers smooth pedaling and durability. By following this guide, you can ensure proper installation, optimize performance, and keep your crankset running smoothly for years.