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GEAR OPERATION

Mul speed bicycles can have internal or derailleur gear systems.

WARNING: Improper shiing can result in the chain jamming,

or becoming derailed resulng in loss of control or a crash.

Always be sure the chain is fully engaged in the desired gear

before pedaling hard.

Avoid shiing while standing up on the pedals or under load.

To shi properly, pedal the bicycle with lile pressure on the pedals, and

move the shier (1) gear at a me, ensuring that the chain is fully engaged

in that gear before applying more pressure on the pedals. For bicycles with 3

front chain rings; avoid “Cross Chaining”, which is the posion when the chain

is in the smallest cog in the rear combined with the inner or smallest chain

ring in the front, or the largest cog in the rear and the outer or largest chain

ring in the front. These gear posions put the chain at the most extreme angle

and can cause premature wear to the drivetrain. Bicycles with 3 front chain

rings have enough gear “overlaps” that these gears are not needed. (Fig. 2.13)

Internal Gears (no derailleur)

An internal gear system is one where the gears are housed within the rear hub of the

bicycle. With internally geared bicycles, it is recommended to STOP pedaling while you

shi gears. The bike may be sing sll or rolling to shi. Shier designs vary, you will

either twist or operate a push buon to change gears. The shier will indicate either

“low to “high” or a series of numbers from 1 up. Low or “1” is the lowest gear. This is

used for slower riding, hill climbing, or to allow for easier pedaling. It is recommended

to start o in this gear and move through the gears as speed increases as needed,

or comfortable. It is OK to ride the whole me in only one gear if this is comfortable.

Backpedaling should have no eect on an internally geared bicycle (unless it is equipped

with foot acvated brakes), however, backpedaling should not be necessary when

riding, and invites the possibility of clothing being caught in the chain, and should

be avoided. See Assembly and Maintenance for further informaon on proper

gear adjustment. (Fig. 2.14)

BEFORE YOU RIDE

AVOID THESE GEARS!

2.13

2.14

Schwinn Midi Mesa 24 User Manual

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