38
a
b
c
d
G
Note that the bolted connections of stem,
handlebars, bar ends and brakes have to be
tightened to their specified torques. Use a
torque wrench and never exceed the maximum torque
values! You will find the prescribed values in the chap-
ter “Recommended torque settings”, directly on the
components and/or in the operating instructions of the
component manufacturers on this MERIDA CD-ROM.
Bar ends and multi-position handlebars give you addi-
tional ways of gripping the handlebars.
G
Be aware that the distance you need to stop
your bike increases, when you are riding with
your hands on bar ends
(a+b)
or on multi-po-
sition handlebars. The brake levers are not always with-
in easy reach.
G
Never fix bar ends in vertical position or with
their ends pointing rearwards as this would
increase the risk of injury in the event of an
accident.
A
If you want to mount multi-position handle-
bars or bar ends to the aluminum handle-
bars of your MERIDA bike, inform yourself in
advance whether these components are permitted on
your MERIDA bike. If necessary, contact your MERIDA
dealer before mounting.
The brake system
Brakes
(c+d)
are used to adjust your speed to the sur-
rounding terrain and traffic. In an emergency situation,
the brakes must bring your MERIDA bike to a halt as
quickly as possible.
In the event of such emergency brakings, the rider’s
weight shifts forward abruptly, thus reducing the load on
the rear wheel. The rate of deceleration is primarily lim-
ited by the danger of the rear wheel losing contact with
the ground, resulting in an overturning of the MERIDA
bike and, secondly, by the grip of the tires on the road.
This problem becomes particularly acute when riding
downhill. Therefore, in case of an emergency braking
you should try to shift your weight towards the rear and
the ground as far as possible.
Actuate both brakes simultaneously and bear in mind
that, due to the weight transfer, the front brakes can gen-
erate a far better braking effect on a surface with good
grip.
The braking conditions on unpaved surfaces differ, i.e.
overbraking the front wheel can make the wheel slip
away. Make yourself familiar with the operation before
you set off for the first time. Practice braking on different
kinds of surface in an area free of traffic.
Summary of Contents for City Bikes
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