Yes, you are talking about the "cam quick release lever".

I got these used, and I have a feeling that they may need to be serviced by 0G. Possibly a new spring and some lube. Maybe the problem with the brake lever travel could be from the brake not being as "tight" as it should be. A little wear here and there I guess could it cause them to not operate as well.

Has anybody had 0G's wear out, or had experience with them after several years and thousands of miles?

Edit: I tinkered around with them some more, I think the rear bolt going through the brake was to tight, I loosened it up and regreased it. Seems like the bolt was causing the rear brake to bind, not allowing it to open completley. The rear seems to be working better now, but I called up 0G anyway and they said they could take a look at them. I think they may be worn a bit and that is making them especially difficult to get installed and working correctly.