The Most Common Campagnolo Chorus 12s Disc Brake Problems and How to Solve Them

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The Campagnolo Chorus 12s Disc Brake [paid link] system offers exceptional performance and smooth braking, designed to meet the needs of competitive cyclists and serious enthusiasts alike. However, like all precision components, it’s important to recognize and address issues as they arise to maintain optimal braking performance. In this article, we will walk you through some of the most common problems associated with the Campagnolo Chorus 12s Disc Brake [paid link] system and how to troubleshoot and solve them.

1. Poor Braking Performance

Cause: Poor braking performance is one of the most common issues cyclists experience with their Campagnolo Chorus 12s [paid link] Disc Brakes. This issue could be caused by several factors, including worn-out brake pads, contamination of the brake surface, or incorrect brake rotor alignment.

Solution:

  • Check Brake Pads: Inspect the brake pads for wear. If the pads are worn down to the indicators, it’s time to replace them. Worn pads will not provide adequate braking power and can damage the rotor.
  • Clean the Brake Surface: If you notice oily residue or debris on the rotor or pads, clean them with rubbing alcohol or a specific disc brake cleaner. Contaminants can significantly reduce braking efficiency.
  • Align the Rotor: Check the alignment of the brake rotor. A rotor that is bent or misaligned can cause uneven braking. You can use a rotor truing tool to straighten a slightly warped rotor.

2. Brake Fade

Cause: Brake fade is a gradual loss of braking power, often occurring during long descents or after extended use. The main causes of brake fade are overheating of the brake pads or rotor or improper brake pad material selection.

Solution:

  • Allow Brakes to Cool: If you are descending for an extended period, it’s essential to allow your brakes to cool down to prevent overheating. Avoid continuous heavy braking and try to brake intermittently to give the system time to cool.
  • Upgrade Brake Pads: If you frequently ride in conditions that cause brake fade, consider upgrading to heat-resistant brake pads designed to perform better in high temperatures.
  • Ensure Proper Brake Pad Bedding: Proper bedding-in of new pads ensures that the surface of the pads and rotors form an optimal contact patch. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the bedding-in process to prevent premature fade.

3. Squeaky Brakes

Cause: A squeaking noise from the brakes can be annoying and is typically caused by dirty or glazed brake pads, an improperly aligned rotor, or insufficient lubrication on the brake pad backing plate.

Solution:

  • Clean the Brake Pads and Rotors: Use rubbing alcohol to clean both the brake pads and the rotor. If the pads are glazed (shiny appearance), lightly sand the pad surface to restore a proper braking texture.
  • Check Rotor Alignment: Ensure the rotor is correctly aligned. A misaligned rotor can lead to uneven pad contact and cause squeaking.
  • Lubricate the Pad Backing Plate: Apply a small amount of brake grease to the brake pad’s backing plate to reduce noise. Do not apply grease to the braking surface itself.

4. Inconsistent Brake Lever Feel

Cause: If the brake lever feels inconsistent, with either a spongy or overly stiff action, it can be a sign of air in the hydraulic system, improper brake pad adjustment, or an issue with the brake fluid level [paid link].

Solution:

  • Bleed the Brakes: If the brake lever feels spongy, it’s likely due to air trapped in the hydraulic lines. Perform a brake bleed to remove the air and restore the proper brake lever feel. Use the correct Campagnolo brake fluid and follow the procedure outlined in the manual.
  • Check Fluid Levels: Low brake fluid levels can cause inconsistent lever feel. Check the brake fluid level [paid link] and top it up as necessary, ensuring you use the recommended fluid for your system.
  • Adjust Brake Pads: Ensure the brake pads are correctly adjusted, with even contact across the entire braking surface. If the pads are too far from the rotor, it could lead to a soft lever feel.

5. Rotor Warping

Cause: Rotor warping can result from excessive heat buildup, an impact during riding, or improper rotor installation. When the rotor warps, it may cause inconsistent braking and create a pulsing feeling in the brake lever.

Solution:

  • Inspect Rotor Condition: Carefully inspect the rotor for visible warping or cracks. A warped rotor can often be straightened using a rotor truing tool if the warping is minor. If the rotor is severely damaged or cracked, it should be replaced.
  • Check Rotor Mounting: Ensure that the rotor is mounted correctly, with no loose bolts or misalignment that could cause issues. Always torque the rotor bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.

6. Hydraulic Leaks

Cause: Hydraulic brake systems are sealed, but sometimes, a leak can develop due to damage to the brake lines or improper installation. A hydraulic leak will result in a loss of braking power and an inconsistent lever feel.

Solution:

  • Inspect the Brake Lines: Look for any visible cracks, punctures, or abrasions in the hydraulic lines. If any are found, the brake line will need to be replaced.
  • Check the Fittings: Inspect the fittings and connectors for signs of leakage. Tighten any loose connections or replace any damaged fittings.
  • Perform a Full Bleed: If there is a loss of hydraulic pressure, you will need to perform a brake bleed to remove any air and replace any lost brake fluid. Always ensure that the hydraulic fluid is at the proper level [paid link] after the bleed.

7. Brake Pad Wear Unevenly Across the Rotor

Cause: Uneven pad wear can be caused by improperly adjusted brake pads, dirt on the braking surface, or the use of low-quality brake pads.

Solution:

  • Inspect and Adjust the Brake Pads: Ensure the brake pads are properly centered on the rotor. Uneven wear often occurs if the pads are not aligned correctly. Adjust the position of the pads so they make even contact with the rotor.
  • Clean the Brake Surface: Dirt or contaminants on the brake surface can cause uneven pad wear. Clean both the rotor and pads thoroughly to prevent this issue.
  • Replace Worn Pads: If the pads are excessively worn on one side, they should be replaced. Uneven wear often indicates that the pads were not aligned correctly from the start.

By addressing these common issues with your Campagnolo Chorus 12s Disc Brake [paid link] system, you can maintain optimal performance and avoid unnecessary disruptions to your rides. Regular maintenance, correct installation, and troubleshooting can ensure that your braking system works effectively, providing reliable stopping power in all conditions.