Schwinn Rascal Plus - User Manual

The Schwinn Rascal Plus Pet Trailer is a pet trailer designed to be towed by a bicycle, offering a safe and comfortable way to transport pets during rides. It comes with an owner's manual that provides detailed instructions on its assembly, use, and maintenance, emphasizing safety as a top priority.

Function Description

The primary function of the Schwinn Rascal Plus Pet Trailer is to provide a secure and enjoyable mode of transport for pets alongside a bicycle. It allows pet owners to include their furry companions in outdoor activities, such as cycling, without compromising the pet's safety or comfort. The trailer is designed to accommodate pets up to 100 lbs, with features aimed at keeping them secure and comfortable during transit. It attaches to the rear wheel of most bicycles, converting a standard bike into a pet-friendly transport system.

Usage Features

The trailer is equipped with several features to enhance its usability and ensure pet safety and comfort.

Pet Safety Strap: A crucial safety feature, the trailer includes a pet safety strap that should be properly adjusted to the pet's size, keeping them secure within the trailer while allowing enough room for adjustment. This helps prevent the pet from jumping out or becoming agitated during the ride. It is recommended to attach this strap to a pet harness rather than a collar to reduce stress on the pet's neck.
Zippered Pet Door and Screens: The trailer features a zippered pet door for easy entry and exit. It also includes zippered bug screens and a weather shield. The bug screens can be zipped shut to keep insects out, while the weather shield offers protection from precipitation. Both screens can be rolled up and fastened with elastic bands, allowing for ventilation and adaptability to different weather conditions.
Head Opening: A zippered head opening allows pets to peek out, enhancing their experience and providing ventilation. The rider can choose to keep this opening zipped shut or open, depending on the pet's size and comfort.
Loading Brake: For safe loading and unloading of pets, the trailer is equipped with a loading brake. This brake should be engaged to prevent the trailer from moving while the pet enters or exits. It is essential to disengage the brake before starting to ride.
Tow Bar and Coupler: The trailer connects to the bicycle via a tow bar and a coupler. The tow bar extends from the front of the trailer and attaches to the bicycle's rear axle using a coupler plate. The design ensures that the coupler is in line with the tow bar to reduce stress on the connection. The attachment mechanism is compatible with both hub nut and quick release lever axles, making it versatile for most bicycles.
Safety Flag: An important safety feature, a safety flag with a pole is included to increase the trailer's visibility to others on the road, warning them of its presence. The flag pole is inserted into a sleeve on the trailer.
Wheels: The trailer has two wheels that are securely locked in place with locking pins. These wheels provide stability and smooth rolling.
Interior Storage Pocket: For convenience, the trailer includes an interior storage pocket, though it has a weight limit of 1lb and is not recommended for valuable items due to potential bouncing on uneven terrain.
Corner Flaps: Corner flaps are designed to be folded over and fastened with hook and loop fasteners, likely contributing to the trailer's structural integrity or weather protection.

Maintenance Features

To ensure the longevity and safe operation of the Schwinn Rascal Plus Pet Trailer, regular maintenance is recommended.

Cleaning: The trailer can be cleaned using only mild soap and water. It is advised against using cleaning solvents to avoid damaging the material.
Fastener and Equipment Checks: Users should routinely check all fasteners and equipment, including wheels, reflectors, and the flag, to ensure they are tight and properly assembled. This helps prevent parts from becoming loose or falling off during use.
Tire Pressure: The tire pressure should be checked often, adhering to the PSI recommendations printed on the tires. Only a foot or hand pump should be used for inflation, and over-inflation must be avoided to prevent tire failure.
Removable/Washable Liner: The trailer includes a removable and washable liner. This feature allows for easy cleaning and helps maintain hygiene within the pet compartment, while also assisting with the pet's traction.
Bicycle Safety Checks: Before using the trailer, it is recommended to have a qualified bicycle mechanic perform routine safety checks on the towing bicycle. Additionally, routine bicycle maintenance is suggested annually.
Storage: After use, the trailer should not be left outside, as inclement weather and harsh elements can stress the fabric. The trailer is designed for disassembly and storage, allowing users to fold down the side walls, remove the wheels, and retract the tow bar, making it more compact for storage. The flag pole can also be separated into sections.

The manual also provides important warnings, such as not carrying an excitable pet, ensuring the pet safety strap is properly adjusted, and never towing the trailer with a motorized vehicle. It emphasizes practicing with the trailer, both empty and with the pet, in less trafficked areas to get accustomed to the increased turning radius and braking distance.

Schwinn Rascal Plus Specifications

General

Weight Capacity	Up to 25 lbs
Frame Material	Steel
Material	Polyester
Closure Type	Zipper
Harness Compatible	Yes
Wheels	3
Safety Features	Safety tether
Folding Mechanism	Yes
Color Options	Black

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26 pages

Schwinn Rascal Plus - User Manual

Table of Contents

Summary

Safety

Assembly Safety

Safe Riding Warnings

Trailer Use Warnings

Care and Usage Guidelines

Assembly

Remove Crossbar Bracket

Unfold the Frame

Attach Crossbar Latch

Connect Crossbar to Frame

Attach Corner Flaps

Extend Tow Bar

Attach Axle

Attach Wheels

Insert Safety Flag

Trailer Attachment

Attachment with Hub Nut

Attachment with Quick Release

Attach Safety Strap

Using the Pet Trailer

Secure Pet with Harness

Loading and Securing Pet

Zip Pet Door and Screens

Disassembly and Storage

Remove Safety Flag

Release Crossbar

Fold Trailer Walls

Remove Wheels

Store Tow Bar

Maintenance and Parts

Trailer Care

Available Accessories

Warranty