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5.4 Docking your handcycle
The method for docking your handcycle will vary to some extent depending on factors such as your
physical strength, balance, and coordination. You may require help the first few times you attempt docking
until you learn the method that works best for you (see also our instructional videos located on YouTube).
Locate
Place the handcycle on its right side on the ground, either immediately in front of you or just to the right
of you, within reach. Ensuring that the batteries are not mounted on the frame, lift the end of the frame
so that the angled tip enters the docking tube that is mounted underneath your chair. The wheel of the
cycle should be pointing towards the left. You may decide to use either one or both hands to do this (try
grasping the steering tube underneath the handlebars with your right hand, with your left hand either
stabilizing you in the wheelchair or guiding the handcycle frame into the docking tube). You may find it
useful to engage your wheelchair brakes while locating the handcycle.
VIDEO
http://www.teamhybrid.co.uk/pages/videos-latest.php
PULL HOME
Slide the handcycle frame fully into the docking tube until the two clamps meet (the easiest way to do this
is to pull the frame towards you with your right hand grasping the frame underneath the handlebars).
Make sure no loose items of clothing are caught between the two clamps.
LIFT INTO THE UPRIGHT POSITION
Lift the cycle into position make sure that the right hand side brake of your wheelchair is on and the left
hand brake is off. Place your right hand onto the handle bar of the cycle and your left hand onto the left
wheel of your chair. In one smooth movement lift the cycle into the upright position and at the same time
wheel back with the left wheel of your chair. You will hear an audible click, which tells you that the two
clamps have locked together.
SECURE THE QUICK-RELEASE LEVERS
Tighten the two quick-release levers on either side of the frame to lock the clamps together. Ensure that
both levers close securely, without any play or looseness. If there is any play, tighten them.
ATTACH THE BATTERY/BATTERIES
Slide the batteries into their holders above the front wheel (the battery closest to you is the active battery,
and is connected to the controller; the front battery is inactive, and is used only when the first battery is
depleted). Ensure that the batteries are oriented correctly, with the male and female electrical contacts of
the active battery and its holder oriented in the same direction. Lock both batteries into their holders with
the supplied keys (this prevents battery movement during operation). Do not turn on the batteries or
attempt to start the motor until you have run through the safety checklist below.
5.5 Undocking your handcycle
Undocking your Cougar™ follows the steps outlined for docking above, only in reverse. Begin by turning
off the power switch on the battery, unlock the battery from the holder, and remove it. Then release the
two quick-release levers on either side of the frame. With your right hand grasping the handlebar, push
down on the large sprung release lever with your left hand until the lock releases and rotate the Cougar™
to the right until your wheelchair casters rest on the ground. Now pull the Cougar™ out of the docking
tube and lay it flat on the ground (the easiest way to do this is with your right hand grasping the frame
just underneath the handlebars).
