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11. GENERAL NOTES ABOUT MAINTENANCE
The Epic WC is a high-performance bicycle. All regular maintenance,
troubleshooting, repair, and parts replacement must be performed by an
Authorized Specialized Retailer. For general information regarding the
maintenance of your bicycle, please refer to the Owner’s Manual. In addition,
routinely perform a mechanical safety check before each ride as described in
the Owner’s Manual.
Great care should be taken to not damage the frame material. Damage
may result in a loss of structural integrity, which may result in a
catastrophic failure. This damage may or may not be visible during
inspection. Before each ride, and after any crash, you should carefully
inspect your bicycle for any gouging, scratches through the paint,
chipping, bending, or any other signs of damage. Do not ride if your
bicycle shows any of these signs. After any crash, and before you ride
any further, take your bicycle to an Authorized Specialized Retailer for a
complete inspection.
While riding, listen for any creaks as a creak can be a sign of a problem
with one or more components. Periodically examine all surfaces in
bright sunlight to check for any small hairline cracks or fatigue at
stress points, such as welds, seams, holes, and points of contact
with other parts. If you hear any creaks, see signs of excessive wear,
discover any cracks, no matter how small, or any damage to the
bicycle, immediately stop riding the bicycle and have it inspected by
your Authorized Specialized Retailer.
Lifespan and the type and frequency of maintenance depends on
many factors, such as use, rider weight, riding conditions, and/or
impacts. Components may be subject to increased wear at different
rates, depending on the component. Drivetrain and brake components
are especially subject to wear. Periodically have your Authorized
Specialized Retailer inspect your bicycle and components for wear.
Exposure to harsh elements, especially salty air (such as riding near the
ocean or in the winter), can result in galvanic corrosion of components
such as the crank spindle and bolts, which can accelerate wear and
shorten the lifespan. Dirt can also accelerate wear of surfaces and
bearings. The surfaces of the bicycle should be cleaned before each
ride. The bicycle should also be maintained regularly by an Authorized
Specialized Retailer, which means it should be cleaned, lubricated, and
(partially) disassembled and inspected for signs of corrosion and/or
cracks. If you notice any signs of corrosion or cracking on the frame or any
component, the affected item must be replaced.
Regularly clean and lubricate the drivetrain according to the drivetrain
manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not use a high pressure water spray to wash your bicycle. Even
water from a garden hose can penetrate seals and water may seep
into components, such as cranks, bearings, or electrical components,
potentially causing damage. Use a clean, damp cloth and bicycle
cleaning agents (where appropriate) for cleaning.
Do not expose the bicycle to prolonged direct sunlight or excessive
heat, such as inside a car parked in the sun or near a heat source such
as a radiator.
WARNING! Failure to follow the instructions in this section may
result in damage to the components on your bicycle and will
void your warranty, but, most importantly, may result in serious
personal injury or death. If your bicycle exhibits any signs of
damage, do not use it and immediately bring it to your Authorized
Specialized Retailer for inspection.
WARNING! Use a high-quality repair stand to support the bicycle
during assembly or maintenance, and a high-quality bicycle rack
for transportation.
When placing the frame and/or bicycle in a repair stand, clamp
the stand to the seatpost and not the frame. Clamping the frame
can cause damage to the frame that may or may not be visible,
and you may lose control and fall.