5
wheel rim within an inch of brake lever movement? Can you apply full braking
force at the levers without having them touch the handlebar? If not, your
brakes need adjustment. Do not ride the bike until the brakes are properly
adjusted by a professional bicycle mechanic.
Quick Releases: Make sure the front wheel, rear wheel and seat post quick
releases are properly adjusted and in the locked position. See Section 4.A
and 4.B.
Handlebar and saddle alignment: Make sure the saddle and handlebar
stem are parallel to the bike’s center line and clamped tight enough so that
you can’t twist them out of alignment. See Sections 3.B and 3.C.
Handlebar ends: Make sure the handlebar grips are secure and in good
condition. If not, have your dealer replace them. Make sure the handlebar
ends and extensions are plugged. If not, have your dealer plug them before
you ride. If the handlebars have bar end extensions, make sure they are
clamped tight enough so you can’t twist them.
WARNING: Loose or damaged handlebar grips or extensions can cause
you to lose control and fall. Unplugged handlebars or extensions can cut
you and cause serious injury in an otherwise minor accident.
VERY IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE:
Please also read and become thoroughly familiar with the important
information on the lifespan of your bicycle and its components in Appendix
A on Page 33.
D. First ride
When you buckle on your helmet and go for your rst familiarization ride
on your new bicycle, be sure to pick a controlled environment, away from
cars, other cyclists, obstacles or other hazards. Ride to become familiar with
the controls, features and performance of your new bike.
Familiarize yourself with the braking action of the bike (see Section 4.C).
Test the brakes at slow speed, putting your weight toward the rear and gently
applying the brakes, rear brake rst. Sudden or excessive application of the
front brake could pitch you over the handlebars. Applying brakes too hard
can lock up a wheel, which could cause you to lose control and fall. Skidding
is an example of what can happen when a wheel locks up.
If your bicycle has toeclips or clipless pedals, practice getting in and out
of the pedals. See paragraph B.4 above and Section 4.E.4.
If your bike has suspension, familiarize yourself with how the suspension
responds to brake application and rider weight shifts. See paragraph B.6
above and Section 4.F.
Practice shifting the gears (see Section 4.D). Remember to never move
the shifter while pedaling backward, nor pedal backwards immediately
after having moved the shifter. This could jam the chain and cause serious
damage to the bicycle.
Check out the handling and response of the bike; and check the comfort.
If you have any questions, or if you feel anything about the bike is not as it
should be, consult your dealer before your next ride.
To Next Page
Loading...
