69
e
f
g
h
Lockout
When taking long uphill rides involving hard pedaling
out of the saddle, a suspension fork is typically bobbing.
It is advisable to lock the damping, if the suspension
fork has a lockout mechanism
(e)
. For downhill rides on
uneven ground the lockout mechanism must be open
stringently
(f)
.
A
Do not actuate the lockout function when rid-
ing over rough terrain, but only when riding
over smooth terrain (such as roads or field
tracks).
Maintenance
Suspension forks are components of sophisticated de-
sign that require regular maintenance and care. This
has led almost all suspension fork manufacturers to es-
tablish service centers where you can have your forks
thoroughly checked and overhauled at regular intervals
according to use, e.g. once a year.
The following routines are essential for maintenance:
1. Make sure the sliding surfaces of the stanchion
tubes and the wiper rings are absolutely clean.
2. Clean the suspension fork, if it is soiled, directly after
the ride with plenty of water and a soft sponge
(g)
.
3. After washing your bike, spray the stanchion tubes
of the suspension fork with a little grease spray
(h)
or apply a very thin film of hydraulic oil. Compress
the fork several times and wipe off excess lubricant
with a clean rag before you set off for your next ride.
4. Do not use a steam jet or aggressive cleaning agents
for cleaning! Ask your MERIDA dealer for an appro-
priate cleaning agent.
5. If your suspension fork has coil springs, you should
regularly have the springs cleaned and lubricated
with a non-corrosive resin-free grease. Some fork
manufacturers supply special greases for fork main-
tenance. Strictly observe the recommendations of
the manufacturers. These are routines for the sus-
pension fork service center.
6. Suspension forks with air springs must be checked
regularly for air pressure, since the air escapes over
time.
Suspension elements are of sophisticated design. The
maintenance routines and above all the disassembly
of the suspension elements are jobs best left to your
MERIDA dealer or the fork manufacturer’s service center.
Suspension forks are constantly being sprayed with wa-
ter and dirt from the front wheel. Clean them with plenty
of water after every ride.
Summary of Contents for City Bikes
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