Bakcou Flatlander - User Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

Summary

Foreword on Safety

Introduction

Bakcou eBike Models

Storm

Full-suspension mid-drive eBike with 750W/1000W Bafang motor and 120mm travel.

Mule ST 26

Hard-tail mid-drive eBike with 750W/1000W Bafang motor and 100mm travel.

Flatlander

Hard-tail hub drive eBike with 750W/1000W Bafang motor and 100mm travel.

Mule

Hard-tail mid-drive eBike with 750W/1000W Bafang motor and 100mm travel.

Mule ST 24

Hard-tail mid-drive eBike with 750W/1000W Bafang motor and 100mm travel.

Flatlander ST 24

Hard-tail hub drive eBike with 750W/1000W Bafang motor and 100mm travel.

Tire Pressure, Power, and Battery

Tire Pressure

Guidance on recommended tire pressure ranges for different terrains and conditions.

Powering the Unit On

Step-by-step instructions for turning on the eBike and operating power levels.

Display Interfaces

Storm and Mule Keypad & Display

Details on the five-button keypad and analyst display for Storm and Mule models.

Flatlander Keypad & Display

Details on the four-button keypad and analyst display for Flatlander models.

Lithium Ion Battery Care

Riding Tips and Suspension Adjustment

Riding Tips to Maximize Battery

Advice on optimizing battery life and component wear through riding techniques.

Adjusting the Front Suspension Fork

Instructions on how to lock out suspension travel and adjust air pressure.

Important Safety Information

Accident Protection and Limits

Information on eBike limitations in accidents, knowing rider and eBike limits, and handling.

Lifespan and Modifications

Understanding eBike lifespan, factors affecting it, and safety risks of modifications.

Think Safety

Guidance on staying aware of surroundings and avoiding dangerous situations or stunts.

Get to Know Your eBike

Before Every Ride

Performing a safety check on level ground away from traffic before riding.

Handlebar and Stem Checks

Ensuring handlebar is properly aligned, tightened, and cables are clear.

Saddle and Seat Post Checks

Verifying saddle alignment and seat post tightness for proper fit and safety.

Wheels and Tires Checks

Inspecting wheels for damage, axle seating, and tire inflation and condition.

Brakes Checks

Checking brake lever function, front/rear brake operation, and brake pad wear.

Chain and Cables Checks

Ensuring proper chain tension and condition, and securing cables and housings.

Battery, Controller, and Accessories Checks

Verifying secure accessories, charged battery, and functioning controller.

Suspension and Pedal Checks

Adjusting suspension and checking pedals for security and smooth rotation.

Safety Precautions

Gear Up Safely

Recommendations on wearing helmets, appropriate clothing, and reflective gear.

Ride Smart and Responsibly

Guidelines for riding within skill limits, avoiding distractions, and obeying laws.

Safeguard Your eBike

Keep Your eBike Clean

Instructions on proper cleaning methods to maintain eBike condition.

Part Replacement and Maintenance

Guidance on using genuine parts and the importance of professional maintenance.

Parking, Storing, and Transporting

Advice on securing the eBike against theft and proper storage practices.

Inspection Procedures

Tightness and Torque Specs

Ensuring all bolts and connections are properly tightened according to torque specifications.

Handlebar, Frame, and Fork

Inspecting handlebar grips, frame junctions, and fork for signs of fatigue or damage.

Brakes and Rotors

Checking brake pads for wear and rotors for thickness and condition.

Wheels, Tires, and Fenders

Examining wheels, tires for wear/damage, and securing fenders properly.

Derailleurs, Pedals, Chain, and Cables

Verifying smooth operation of derailleurs, secure pedals, and condition of chain/cables.

Accessory Security

Ensuring all accessories are correctly and securely attached.

Easy Rider Fixes and Maintenance

Check and Inflate Tires

Importance of checking tire pressure and wear for optimal performance.

Wash Your eBike

Proper methods for cleaning the eBike to maintain its condition and lifespan.

Degrease and Lube Your Chain

Steps for cleaning and lubricating the chain for smooth operation and longevity.

Remove & Replace Wheels and Tires

Remove and Replace Rear Wheel

Detailed steps for removing and reinstalling the rear wheel.

Remove and Replace Tire

Instructions for safely removing and installing tires and inner tubes.

Warranty and Claims

Warranty Coverage Periods

Details on coverage for the first 30 days and the first year of ownership.

Warranty Exclusions and Limitations

Information on what is not covered by the warranty and owner responsibilities.

Warranty Claims Process

How to submit a warranty claim, including contact information and required proof.

Shipping Damage Claims

Procedure for reporting damage incurred during shipping, including time limits.

Return Policy

Bafang Mid Motor Error Code Definitions

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features
5. Safety Precautions

The Bakcou eBike is an electric bicycle designed for backcountry access, offering a blend of power, durability, and efficiency for outdoor enthusiasts. It is built to navigate challenging terrain with minimal disturbance to wildlife and their habitats, providing a quiet and non-pollutant mode of transport.

Function Description:

The Bakcou eBike serves as an electric-assisted bicycle, allowing riders to cover greater distances and climb steeper inclines than traditional bicycles, thanks to its integrated electric motor and pedal-assist system. It is equipped with gearing optimized for both steep climbing (larger cogs on the rear cassette) and higher speeds on flatter ground (smaller cogs). The eBike features shift and brake sensors that cut power to the motor when brakes are applied or gears are shifted, ensuring smooth transitions and preventing drivetrain stress. Riders can choose between pedal assist levels (0-5) and utilize a throttle for additional power. The eBike is designed for versatile use, from off-road adventures to pavement riding, with adjustable tire pressures to suit different terrains.

Important Technical Specifications:

Bakcou offers several models, including the Storm, Mule ST 26", Flatlander, Mule, Mule ST 24", and Flatlander ST 24", each with specific configurations:

• Motor: All models feature a 750 W / 1000 W Bafang Ultra Motor (or Bafang Mid Motor for some models).
• Battery: Lithium-Ion batteries are standard, with capacities ranging from 14.5ah, 17.4ah, to 21ah, depending on the model.
• Frame: All models utilize a 6061 Aluminum Alloy Frame.
• Gearing: Shimano Alivio 9 Speed / SRAM XS (Storm) or Shimano Alivio 9 Speed (other models).
• Brakes: 203mm Hydraulic Quad Piston Disc Brakes (Storm, Mule ST 26", Mule, Mule ST 24") or 203mm Hydraulic Dual Piston Disc Brakes (Flatlander, Flatlander ST 24").
• Tires: 26x4 Traction & Control Maxxis 120 TPI (Storm, Mule ST 26", Flatlander, Mule) or 24x4 Traction & Control CST BFT Tires (Mule ST 24", Flatlander ST 24").
• Suspension Fork Travel: 120mm (Storm) or 100mm (Mule ST 26", Flatlander, Mule, Mule ST 24", Flatlander ST 24"). The Storm model also includes a Rockshox Monarch full-suspension mid-drive system.

Usage Features:

• Powering On/Off: The eBike is powered on by turning the battery switch and then pressing and holding the power button on the keypad. To turn off, press and hold the power button again.
• Pedal Assist Levels: Riders can adjust pedal assist from 0 (no assistance) to 5 (maximum assistance) using the '+' and '-' keys on the keypad.
• Walk-Assist Mode: Press and hold the '-' key for walk-assist mode.
• Sport/Eco Mode: Hold the '+' key for 2 seconds to engage Sport Mode (more aggressive torque sensor) or again for Eco Mode (increased battery efficiency).
• Display Screens: The eBikes feature an Analyst Display that shows current speed, trip distance, total distance, power level, battery level, and watts output. Some models have a five-button keypad (Storm and Mule) while others have a four-button keypad (Flatlander).
• Headlight Control: A light button on the keypad (five-button models) or pressing and holding the '+' key (four-button models) turns the headlight on/off if installed.
• Battery Charging: The battery can be charged on or off the bike. A circular rubber plug on the left side of the bike covers the charging port. The charger light indicates charging status (red for charging, green for full).
• Front Suspension Adjustment: The right fork dial locks out suspension travel (clockwise) or unlocks it (counter-clockwise). The left fork cap covers a valve for adjusting air pressure with a high-pressure shock pump (recommended 140 psi, adjustable to rider preference).
• Shifting: Proper shifting is crucial. Riders should start in 1st or 2nd gear and shift into higher gears as speed increases, downshifting before stopping to reduce drivetrain stress. Pedal assist is encouraged over throttle from a standstill.

Maintenance Features:

• Pre-Ride Checklist: Before each ride, riders should perform a safety check, including inspecting the handlebar (alignment, tightness, cable interference), saddle and seat post (alignment, tightness, height), wheels (damage, spoke integrity, axle seating, quick-release security), tires (pressure, damage), brakes (lever force, functionality, pad wear, rotor thickness), reflectors, lights, accessories (attachment, functionality), battery and controller (locked, charged, functioning), and suspension (adjustment, no "bottoming out").
• Cleaning: The eBike should be cleaned with water or mild detergent and a non-abrasive sponge. High-pressure washers, harsh chemicals, or alcohol wipes should be avoided, especially near bearing points or electrical parts.
• Part Replacement: Only genuine replacement parts should be used to maintain safety and performance. Bakcou recommends consulting a local bike shop or their Accessories page for parts.
• Storage and Transport: To prevent theft, the eBike should be secured with a bike lock to a fixed object. The battery should be locked, and the controller removed if necessary. When using a bike rack, ensure it is rated for the eBike's increased weight. For long-term battery storage, maintain a 50%-80% charge in a cool place and cycle the battery every 4 months.
• Regular Servicing: Cables and system components may settle after the first 20 miles and require adjustment. Bakcou recommends a full check by a bike shop two months after purchase and annually thereafter.
• Chain Maintenance: The chain should be checked for stiff links, wear, and dirt, then cleaned (degreased) and lubricated regularly with bike-specific chain lubricant. Care should be taken to avoid getting lubricant on brake surfaces.
• Wheel and Tire Removal/Replacement: Instructions are provided for removing and replacing the rear wheel (shifting to smallest gear, loosening thru-axle, releasing derailleur) and tires (deflating tube, using tire levers, inserting new tube, inflating to recommended pressure).
• Torque Specs: Bolts and connections should be checked for tightness regularly. A torque wrench is recommended for accurate tightening to prevent damage or loosening of parts. If unsure, consult a bike shop or Bakcou customer service.

Safety Precautions:

• Gear: Always wear a DOT-rated helmet that fits properly. Dress appropriately, avoiding loose clothing or accessories that could get caught in moving parts. Secure all loose straps and accessories. Use front and rear lights day and night, and ensure reflectors are clean and properly positioned.
• Riding: Know your skill level and ride within it. Avoid distractions (mobile phones, music players). Do not ride too fast, as higher speeds increase risk. Always keep at least one hand on the handlebar. Do not ride while intoxicated or under the influence of medications that cause drowsiness. Obey all laws and regulations for electric-assisted bicycles.
• Accidents and Damage: The eBike does not offer protection in an accident. If an impact or crash occurs, inspect yourself for injuries and have the eBike thoroughly inspected by a professional before riding again. Misuse or riding outside normal conditions can damage the eBike. Handle with care, as sharp points (chainrings, pedals), hot parts (brakes), and rotating components (rotors) can cause injury. Electrical components are particularly vulnerable to mishandling.
• Lifespan: eBike parts are not indestructible. Any crack, scratch, or color change in a high-stress area indicates a part has reached the end of its life and should be replaced. Regular maintenance, frequent inspections, and timely replacement of parts are essential. Modifications to the eBike can make it unsafe; only original or approved replacement parts should be used.

Bakcou Flatlander Specifications