48
49
SURFACE DAMAGE TO THE FRAME, SUCH AS SCRATCHES, GOUGES, OR
CHIPPING, MAY BE AN INDICATION OF DAMAGE WHICH MAY IMPAIR THE
STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE FRAME.
If you suspect a carbon fiber part
is damaged, replace the DAMAGED part before riding or take the
bike to your dealer for service.
MAINTENANCE, CHANGING COMPONENTS OR ADDING ACCESSORIES :
Bicycle components such as a handlebar, handlebar stem, seat post, saddle,
brakes, all must be compatible with each other, the frame, and the intended use.
Any doubt regarding compatibility should be discussed with your local authorized
Felt retailer.
WARNING: When placing the frame and/or bicycle in a repair stand,
clamp the stand to the seat post and not the frame. Clamping the
frame can cause damage to the frame that may or may not be visible,
which may impair the structural integrity of the frame. Failure to follow this
warning may result in serious personal injury or death.
Unlike metal parts, carbon composite parts that have been damaged may not
bend, bulge or deform; a damaged part may appear to be normal to a cursory
glance. After any high force load, like a crash, or other impact to your bicycle,
thoroughly inspect all the parts of your bike, and use the following procedures to
inspect carbon composite parts.
• Check for scratches, gouges, or other surface problems.
• Check the part for loss of rigidity.
• Check the part for delamination.
If you are in the slightest bit unsure... If you have any doubts about the integrity
of a part, do not ride the bicycle. Be very careful when handling carbon fiber parts
that are suspected of damage. When a composite part is damaged, there is a
possibility that individual fibers may be exposed. Carbon fibers are thinner than
a human hair, but quite stiff. If the point of one of these fibers is pressed against
your skin, it could pierce your skin like a needle.
WARNING: A damaged carbon fiber part can fail suddenly, causing
serious injury or death. Inspect a carbon fiber bicycle, or parts, for
damage frequently.
Appendix C
:
Coaster Brake
1. How the coaster brake works
The coaster brake is a sealed mechanism which is a part of the bicycle’s rear
wheel hub. The brake is activated by reversing the rotation of the pedal cranks
(see fig. 5). Start with the pedal cranks in a nearly horizontal position, with the
front pedal in about the 4 o’clock position, and apply downward foot pressure
on the pedal that is to the rear. About 1/8 turn rotation will activate the brake.
The more downward pressure you apply, the more braking force, up to the point
where the rear wheel stops rotating and begins to skid.
WARNING: Before riding, make sure that the brake is working
properly. If it is not working properly, have the bicycle checked by
your dealer before you ride it.
WARNING: If your bike has only a coaster brake, ride conservatively.
A single rear brake does not have the stopping power of front-and-
rear brake systems.
2. Adjusting your coaster brake
Coaster brake service and adjustment requires special tools and special
knowledge. Do not attempt to disassemble or service your coaster brake. Take
the bicycle to your dealer for coaster brake service.