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CHAPTER 1: GUIDE TO SAFE ON-AND-OFF ROAD OPERATION
Bicycle type and use classification
Riding a bicycle in a manner beyond, or more severe than, its intended use can cause
the bicycle or part of the bicycle to fail. The following information explains the type of
riding intended for different types of bikes. Read the safety information in Chapter 1 for
further details.
Condition 1
Bikes designed for riding on a paved surface where the tires do not lose ground
contact.
Condition 1 bike types
• Drop-type handlebars including touring bikes, but not cyclocross bikes
• Triathlon, time trial, or speed bikes
• Tandems of any design
• Cruisers with wide, 26" tires and swept-back handlebar
• Any bike that folds
• Weight limit: 275 lbs (125 kg); Tandems: 550 lb (250 kg)
C
ondition 2
Bikes designed for riding Condition 1, plus smooth gravel roads and improved trails
with moderate grades where the tires do not lose ground contact.
Condition 2 bike types
• Hybrid bikes with 700c wheels, tires wider than 28c, and flat handlebars
• City bikes- specially-equipped hybrids
• Cyclocross bikes- with drop-type handlebars, knobby 700c tires, and cantilever or
disc brakes
• Weight limit: 300 lbs (136 kg)