3-13
Safety Quick start Riding Maintenance Resources
Starting
WARNING (Rear cargo): When starting
to ride, be aware of your foot position in
relation to the rear footrests and panniers
(if tted). If your feet remain planted as
the bike starts to move or you take a long
push-off stride to start, the footrest or pan-
niers may come in contact with your leg or
foot, resulting in an injury or fall. Always
utilize the bike’s assistance to start. Start
off with the left or right pedal between
the 9 and 11 o’clock position and use the
pedals and assist system to get moving.
As soon as you start moving, lift your other
foot off the ground and place on the pedal
once stable.
Stopping
Always ride with a safe distance between
you and other vehicles or objects to give
yourself adequate room to stop. Adjust
distances and brake forces to suit riding
conditions, speeds, cargo load, and low
light or nighttime situations.
For safest braking, use your brakes
smoothly and evenly. Look ahead and
adjust your speed in advance to avoid
hard braking.
Be aware of your bicycle’s braking power
and don’t ride beyond it. If you want more
or less braking power without modifying
the brake system, consult your bike shop.
Wet, debris-strewn, or uneven pavement
will affect how your bike reacts to braking.
Take extra care when braking under
less-than-ideal road conditions. Keep it
smooth, and allow more time and distance
for stopping.
Stopping distances increase with heavier
loads, particularly when riding on sloping
roads or cornering. So brake more gently
and earlier when loaded with cargo/
children.