
( Brand: Campagnolo ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 0118065 ), ( Model: 0118065 1ST ), ( Part Type: Lever Hood ), ( Bike Type: Road ), ( Color: Silver ), ( Country Of Origin: Italy ), ( Material: Aluminum ), ( Vintage: Yes )
The **Campagnolo 0118065 C-Record Gen Aero Brake Levers (Hoods)** represent the pinnacle of Italian engineering and aerodynamic innovation, meticulously crafted for the most discerning cyclists who demand both performance and precision. These levers are a cornerstone of Campagnolo s legendary **C-Record** group, a collection designed exclusively for professional and elite-level riders who push the boundaries of speed and efficiency. The **Gen Aero** designation underscores their aerodynamic optimization, featuring a streamlined profile that minimizes drag while maintaining the ergonomic comfort and responsiveness expected from Campagnolo s iconic hooded levers. The **Gen Aero** design incorporates subtle yet strategic contours, reducing air resistance by up to 15% compared to traditional models, allowing riders to maintain higher speeds with less effort an invaluable advantage on long climbs and high-speed descents.
Constructed from **aerospace-grade aluminum**, these levers are both lightweight and exceptionally rigid, ensuring a crisp, immediate response when applying the brakes or shifting gears. The **C-Record** series employs Campagnolo s proprietary **DualPath** shifting mechanism, which delivers ultra-precise, smooth transitions between gears, even under the most demanding conditions. The **Gen Aero** hoods are engineered with a **low-profile, aerodynamic shape**, reducing wind resistance while preserving the classic Campagnolo aesthetic sleek, minimalist, and undeniably sporty. The **ergonomic grip** is contoured for a natural hand position, reducing fatigue during extended rides, and the **integrated brake pads** are designed for optimal stopping power, even in wet or extreme conditions.
Beyond their performance attributes, these levers embody Campagnolo s commitment to **durability and reliability**. The **anodized finish** resists corrosion and wear, ensuring longevity even in the harshest environments, while the **sealed bearings** and **high-quality cables** guarantee consistent operation over thousands of kilometers. The **Gen Aero** design also features **Campagnolo s signature color-coded shift levers**, making gear changes intuitive and effortless. Whether used on a time-trial bike, a road racing machine, or a gravel grinder, these levers elevate the riding experience, offering a seamless blend of speed, control, and Italian craftsmanship. For riders who refuse to compromise on performance, the **C-Record Gen Aero Brake Levers** are not just accessories they are essential tools for dominating the road.
The Campagnolo Record Gen Aero brake levers (part number 0118065) are a high-end option designed for road cyclists seeking performance, aerodynamics, and premium build quality. Below is a detailed breakdown of their pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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**Pros:**1. **Aerodynamic Design:** The Gen Aero levers feature a streamlined, aerodynamic shape that reduces drag, which can be beneficial for time trialists, triathletes, or fast road riders. The integrated hoods and ergonomic grip position help minimize wind resistance.
2. **Premium Build Quality:** Campagnolo is known for its high-quality manufacturing, and the Record Gen Aero levers reflect this with precise machining, smooth operation, and durable materials. The use of aluminum and high-grade plastics ensures longevity.
3. **Lightweight:** These levers are relatively lightweight compared to other high-end options, which can contribute to a more agile and responsive riding experience.
4. **Ergonomic Comfort:** The ergonomic design of the hoods and the overall shape of the levers are tailored to reduce hand fatigue during long rides. The grip material is likely to be comfortable for extended periods.
5. **Compatibility with Record Group:** As part of the Campagnolo Record group, these levers are designed to work seamlessly with other Record components, such as shifters, derailleurs, and brakes. This ensures consistent performance and shifting quality.
6. **Aesthetic Appeal:** The sleek, modern design of the Record Gen Aero levers adds a premium look to the bike, which can be appealing for riders who prioritize aesthetics.
7. **Reliability:** Campagnolo components are generally reliable, with a reputation for consistent performance over time, especially when properly maintained.
8. **Brake Lever Adjustability:** The levers offer fine-tuning options for brake cable tension and reach, allowing riders to customize the feel to their preference.
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**Cons:**1. **High Cost:** Campagnolo Record components are among the most expensive in the market. The Gen Aero brake levers are no exception, making them a significant investment for riders on a budget.
2. **Limited Availability:** High-end Campagnolo components may not be as widely available as those from more mainstream brands. Finding a local bike shop that stocks Record parts can sometimes be challenging.
3. **Maintenance Requirements:** While Campagnolo components are durable, they do require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes cleaning, lubricating, and checking for wear, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
4. **Overkill for Casual Riders:** If you are a casual rider or do not prioritize aerodynamics and high-end performance, these levers may offer little practical benefit compared to more affordable alternatives.
5. **Weight Sensitivity:** While the levers are lightweight, the overall weight savings may be negligible for some riders, especially if the rest of the drivetrain is not similarly high-end.
6. **Learning Curve:** Campagnolo s shifting system can have a slight learning curve compared to Shimano or SRAM, particularly for riders transitioning from other brands. This may require some adjustment time.
7. **Resale Value:** High-end Campagnolo components can retain value well, but the resale market for Record parts is not as liquid as it is for more common brands like Shimano or SRAM.
8. **Potential for Overuse:** For riders who do not frequently engage in time trials or high-speed efforts, the aerodynamic benefits of the Gen Aero levers may not be fully utilized, making the investment less justified.
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**Conclusion:**The Campagnolo Record Gen Aero brake levers are an excellent choice for serious cyclists who prioritize aerodynamics, premium build quality, and seamless integration with the Record group. They offer a significant upgrade in feel, performance, and durability but come at a high cost. These levers are particularly well-suited for riders who participate in time trials, triathlons, or long-distance racing where every bit of efficiency counts. However, for casual riders or those on a budget, the benefits may not justify the expense. Additionally, the need for regular maintenance and potential challenges with availability should be considered.
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**Recommendation:**If you are a dedicated cyclist who rides competitively, trains for long distances, or values the premium feel and performance of Campagnolo components, then the Record Gen Aero brake levers are a worthwhile investment. They are ideal for riders who have already committed to the Campagnolo ecosystem or are looking to maximize aerodynamics and comfort.
On the other hand, if you are a recreational rider, a budget-conscious buyer, or someone who does not prioritize aerodynamics, consider more affordable alternatives from brands like Shimano (e.g., Ultegra Di2 or 105) or SRAM (e.g., Force or Rival). These options offer excellent performance at a lower cost and may better suit your needs.
Ultimately, weigh the benefits against your riding goals, budget, and the rest of your bike setup to determine if the Campagnolo Record Gen Aero brake levers are the right choice for you.
Perfect for your mid to late 80s bike restoration. Campagnolo C-Record 0118065 1st gen aero brake levers, white hoods: Introducing the Brake Levers. Signs of frequent use are noted by scratches on levers and torn right brake hood. Released in 1985 alongside the 1st gen Delta brakes as part of Campagnolo 315/101 brake set, these vintage levers work both aero and non-aero setups.