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CAUTION: Be sure the reflector is vertical to the ground. If the reflector is aimed up or down, oncoming
headlights may not reflect properly in the reflector.
MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
Correct routine maintenance of your new bike will ensure a longer life for your bike and a safer ride for
you. Every time you ride your bike, its condition changes. The more you ride, the more frequently
maintenance will be required. We recommend you spend a little time on regular maintenance tasks.
WHEELS AND TIRES
Wheel Inspection
It is most important that wheels are kept in top condition. Properly maintaining your bicycle’s wheels
will help braking performance and stability when riding. Be aware of the following potential problems:
• Dirty or greasy rims:
Caution: These can render your brakes ineffective. Do not clean them with oily or greasy materials.
When cleaning, use a clean rag or wash with soapy water, rinse and air dry. Don’t ride while they’re wet.
When lubricating your bicycle, don’t get oil on the rim braking surfaces.
• Wheels not straight:
Lift each wheel off the ground and spin them to see if they are crooked or out of true. If wheels are not
straight, they will need to be adjusted. This is quite difficult and is best left to a professional bicycle
mechanic.
• Broken or loose spokes:
Check that all spokes are tight and that none are missing or damaged.
Caution: Such damage can result in severe instability and possibly an accident if not corrected. Again,
spoke repairs are best handled by a mechanic.
• Loose hub bearings:
Lift each wheel off the ground and try to move the wheel from side to side. Caution: If there is
movement between the axle and the hub, do not ride the bicycle. Adjustment is required.
• Axle nuts: Check that these are tight before each ride.
• Quick release: Check that these are set to the closed position and are properly tensioned before each
ride.
Caution: Maintain the closed position and the correct adjustment. Failure to do so may result in serious
injury.
Tire Inspection
Tires must be maintained properly to ensure road holding and stability. Check the following areas:
Inflation: Ensure tires are inflated to the pressure indicated on the sidewall of the tire. Improper
inflation is the biggest cause of tire failure. Due to the slightly porous nature of bicycle inner tubes, it is
normal for your tires to lose pressure over time. For this reason, it is critically important to maintain the
proper tire inflation on your bike.