8
C. PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST
For proper function as well as safety, the Shadow Mach 2 must be adjusted for
your body. Here are some guidelines for proper fit.
1. Wheels
Tires should be inflated to pressure listed on side walls. Low pressure may
result in a pinch flat or loss of control while riding. Rims should run straight
and true, with spokes having even tensions with no loose spokes. Quick-release
rear axles should be fully inserted with the quick-release pin in locked position.
Front axle nut should be tight with wheel centered in fork.
2. Headset
Push/pull on the front wheel.There should be no “play” felt. Push the front
wheel side to side, it should move freely and stop near center.
3. Seat & Slide Rails
Inspect seat and slide rail mounting bolts. A total of eight nylock nuts hold the
seat to the slide rails and the slide rails to the frame. Rocking the seat should
not produce any play at these connections.
4. Shifting
Do not shift while pedaling. Make sure you can easily shift through all gears. If
you cannot shift into all of the gears, then the cables may need to be adjusted.
5. Brakes
To activate the brake rotate handles in reverse direction. Remember to stop
pedaling when your hands are close to your chest - begin braking from this
point.
Important Note:
Check for any slack in the brake cable. The brake cable should not have
any slack.
V . R I D I N G S A F E L Y - R E A D B E F O R E U S E
9
RULES OF THE ROAD
Know the rules of the road before you go out riding. Laws can vary from state to
state so contact your local highway department for more information. Many local
bicycle clubs offer bicycle safety courses.
A.ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET
Whether going down the street or out all day, a helmet is essential to your
safety.We recommend those that meet SNELL or ANSI testing standard.
B. RIDING TECHNIQUE
Start out riding slowly on a level surface. As you turn, lean into the turn.That
is, lean in the same direction that you are turning. Remember, it will take some
time to feel comfortable on the Shadow Mach 2. During this time, ride on
streets with little traffic, on sidewalks (watch out for steeply-slanted drive-
ways), or in parks. If you feel uncomfortable, or lose confidence, stop and start
again after a rest.
Carry water when you are on a longer ride and take frequent water breaks.
Your body is losing fluids while you exercise. It is essential that you replace
them as you go along. A good rule of thumb is to drink before you are thirsty.
Ride often, starting with shorter trips and, as your endurance builds, ride for
longer periods of time. Don’t get discouraged. Learning plateaus or times of no
progress are common when learning a complicated new skill. Keep riding and
you will soon be covering miles at a time. Sometimes, keeping a log of your
time and distance helps get through a “slump”.
C. SHIFTING
The multiple gearing allows you to maintain a good pedaling cadence of up to
70 to 80 revolutions per minute.This will put less strain on your muscles and
improve your efficiency as well. Anticipate your shifts when coming to hills
and stops, trying to shift while under extreme pedal pressure is difficult at
best and can cause premature wear.
D. BRAKING
Pedaling in a reverse direction will apply the stock hub brake. Only a light to
medium pressure is necessary. Find the handle position that gives you the best
balance while applying the brake.The chest strap will help your balance when
applying the brake. A good position to begin braking is when your hands are
closest to your chest.
V I . W A R N I N G S F O R S A F E U S E
