Additional Information
cont’d
Brakes: Check the brakes for proper operation. Squeeze the brake levers. Are the
brake quick-releases closed? All control cables seated and securely engaged? If you
have rim brakes, do the brake pads contact the wheel rim squarely and make full
contact with the rim? Do the brakes begin to engage within an inch of brake lever
movement? Can you apply full braking force at the levers without having them touch
the handlebar? If not, your brakes need adjustment. Do not ride the bike until the
brakes are properly adjusted by a professional bike mechanic.
Wheel retention system: Make sure the front and rear wheels are correctly secured.
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
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 cannot twist
them out of alignment.
Handlebar ends: Make sure the handlebar grips are secure and in good condition. If
not, replace them as soon as possible. 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 cannot twist them.
VERY IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE:
Please also read and become thoroughly familiar with the important information on the
Lifespan of Your Bicycle & its Components section of this manual.
D. First Ride
When you buckle on your helmet and go for your first familiarization ride on your new bike,
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. 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 loose 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.
If your bike has suspension, familiarize yourself with how the suspension responds to
brake application and rider weight shifts.
Practice shifting the gears. 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 bike.
Checkout 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,
contact KETTLER’s Parts & Service Department, [email protected] / 866-804-0440, with
any questions and/or concerns that you may have before you ride again.
WARNING:
Loose or damaged handlebar grips or extensions can cause you to
loose control and fall. Unplugged handlebars or extensions can cut you and cause
injury in an otherwise minor accident.
14
Summary of Contents for KC720-220
Page 54: ...Notes 54...