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Bicycle Suspension
Some Mountain Bikes come equipped with suspension systems that are designed to provide a smoother more comfortable riding
experience by lessening some of the shocks or jarring effects encountered when riding on roads with irregular surfaces such as
unsealed gravel, or those with undulating surfaces. There are many different types of suspension systems - too many to deal with
individually in this manual.
Suspension can increase the handling capabilities and comfort of your bicycle. This enhanced capability may allow you to ride
faster; but you must not confuse the enhanced capabilities of the bicycle with your own capabilities as a rider.
Bicycling can be a potentially hazardous activity. We recommend that you do not use your bicycle in the following manner;
competitive events, bicycle racing, dirt biking, ramp riding, jumping, stunt riding, downhill racing or similar activities or
training for such competitive activities or events.
Increasing your skill will take time and practice. Proceed carefully until you are sure you are competent to handle the full
capabilities of your bike.
If your bicycle has a suspension system of any kind, refer to the separate leaflet (where supplied) or ask your specialist dealer to
provide you with the appropriate adjustment and maintenance instructions.
Suspension systems may also include suspension seat posts and suspension handlebar stems that are designed to provide a more
comfortable ride.
WARNING: Failure to check and properly adjust the suspension system may result in suspension malfunction,
which may cause you to lose control and fall. Exposed moving portions of suspension system must be kept clean.
CAUTION: Changing suspension adjustment can change the handling and braking characteristics of your bicycle.
Never change suspension adjustment unless you are thoroughly familiar with the suspension system manufacturer’s
instructions and recommendations. Always check for changes in the handling and braking characteristics of
the bicycle after a suspension adjustment by taking a careful test ride in a hazard-free area.
CAUTION: Not all bicycles can be safely retrofitted with some types of suspension systems. Before retrofitting
a bicycle with any suspension, check with the bicycle’s manufacturer to make sure that what you want to do
is compatible with the bicycle’s design. Note that any change from makers specifications may void your bicycle warranty.
WARNING: If your bike has suspension, the increased speed you may develop also increases your risk. When
braking, the front of a suspended bike dips. You could lose control and fall if your skill is not up to
handling this system. Get to know how to handle your suspension system safely before trying any downhill
or very fast riding.
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