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Zize Bikes. Bikes with Attitude!
B.
Using the Gears
Use Good Shifting Techniques
Shifting gears allows you to choose the gear combination most comfort-
able for riding conditions, one that allows you to maintain a constant rate
of pedaling. Shifting systems are of two types: derailleur (external) and
internal.
Shifting with internal gearing is best performed
when coasting, stopped, or back pedaling.
Twist the shifter to the gear you want by number
–
the lower the number the lower the gear. As in
a car , use the lower gears to go uphill or start off
in.
Always try to have a leg rpm of 50 or more as this
will keep you from pushing too hard and hurting
your knees.
C.
Wet weather riding
In wet weather maintain a slower speed and be cautious
when riding around corners.
Ride carefully in wet weather. No brakes, whatever their design,
work as effectively in wet weather as they do in dry. Even properly
aligned, lubricated, and maintained brakes require greater lever pres-
sure and longer stopping distances in wet weather.
Watch for cars, pedestrians, and other obstacles. Watch for and
avoid potholes, drain grates, soft or low shoulders, and other devia-
tions which could impact your wheels or cause them to slip. When
crossing railroad tracks or drain grates, do so carefully at a 90° angle.
If you are not sure of riding surface conditions, walk your bike.
Anticipate the extra distance it will take to stop. Wet weather causes
reduced traction. Use slower cornering when traction is reduced,
such as when riding over wet leaves, painted crosswalks, or manhole
covers.
When wet weather cools to below freezing, traction is reduced even
further. In addition, brakes may not work as well. Adjust your riding
speed accordingly, or use other forms of transportation.
Strong winds can make a bicycle steer or turn unexpectedly. In windy
conditions, slow down or use other forms of transportation.
When riding in wet weather, a dynamo (generator light) may not work
properly
.
Avoid riding in wet weather when visibility is reduced. Be
sure to use a taillight when you ride in poorly lighted or low visibility
conditions. The important thing is to see and be seen.
Zize Bikes. Bikes with Attitude!
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These are a few of the more important rules of riding:
Use proper hand signals.
Ride single file when riding with other cyclists.
Ride on the correct side of the road; never go against traffic.
Ride defensively; expect the unexpected. A cyclist is hard to see,
and many drivers simply are not trained to recognize the rights and
special considerations of a bicycle rider.
Wear protective clothing including helmet, eye protection, and gloves.
Avoid loose-fitting pants that could get caught in the chain.
Wear light, bright, and reflective clothing to make yourself more visi-
ble, especially at night.
Whether you are riding on the road or off road , always be aware of
your surroundings.
Make sure that you are comfortable and feel confidant on your bike.
If you are riding for an extended period of time, bring water with you.
Always ride with both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the
pedals.
If riding off road, know your limits and walk your bike if the terrain
gets to be more than you can handle.
When riding with other riders always maintain a safe distance and
stay in single file as much as possible
Do not use unsafe riding practices
Many cycling accidents could be avoided by using common sense.
Here are a few examples:
Do not ride ‘no hands’.
Do not ride with loose objects attached to the handlebar or any other
part of the bicycle.
Do not ride while intoxicated or while using medications which might
make you drowsy.
Zize Bikes
are designed to withstand amazing
amounts of force yet they are not a bike that is
designed for vigorous off road riding.
Please limit the riding of these bikes to roads, dirt
roads, smooth fields or gentle walking paths are
perfect for riding your Zize Bike.