Raleigh Bike, Owner'S Manual, Page: 6 / 44

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5. Wheel retention system: Make sure the front and rear wheels are correctly secured.
See Section 4.A
6. Seat post: If your seat post has an over-center cam action fastener for easy height adjustment,
check that it is properly adjusted and in the locked position. See Section 4.B.
7. Handlebar and saddle alignment: Make sure the saddle and handlebar stem are parallel to
the bike’s center line and clamped tight enough so that you can’t twist them out of alignment.
See Sections 3.B and 3.C.
8. Handlebar ends: Make sure the handlebar grips are secure and in good condition. If not, have
your dealer replace them. Make sure the handlebar ends and extensions are plugged. If not, plug
them before you ride. If the handlebars have bar end extensions, make sure they are clamped
tight enough so you can’t twist them.
WARNING: l
oose or damaged handlebar grips or extensions Can Cause you to lose Control and fall
.
u
nplugged handlebars or extensions Can Cut you and Cause serious injury in an otherwise minor aCCident
.
VERY IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE:
Please also read and become thoroughly familiar with the important information on the
lifespan of your bicycle and its components in Appendix B on Page 36.
D. First Ride
When you buckle on your helmet and go for your first familiarization ride on your new bicycle, be
sure to pick a controlled environment, away from cars, other cyclists, obstacles or other hazards.
Ride to become familiar with the controls, features and performance of your new bike.
Familiarize yourself with the braking action of the bike (see Section 4.C). Test the brakes at
slow speed, putting your weight toward the rear and gently applying the brakes, rear brake first.
Sudden or excessive application of the front brake could pitch you over the handlebars. Applying
brakes too hard can lock up a wheel, which could cause you to lose control and fall. Skidding is
an example of what can happen when a wheel locks up.
If your bicycle has toeclips or clipless pedals, practice getting in and out of the pedals. See
paragraph B.4 above, Section 4.E.3, and Section 4.E.4.
If your bike has suspension, familiarize yourself with how the suspension responds to brake
application and rider weight shifts. See paragraph B.6 above and Section 4.F.
Practice shifting the gears (see Section 4.D). Remember to never move the shifter while pedaling
backward, nor pedal backwards immediately after having moved the shifter. This could jam the
chain and cause serious damage to the bicycle.
Check out the handling and response of the bike; and check the comfort.
If you have any questions, or if you feel anything about the bike is not as it should be, consult your
dealer before you ride again.