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Chapter 1: Guide to safe on- and off-road operation
We recommend you have your bicycle serviced by your
retailer. Your safety depends on the correct maintenance
of your bicycle, and your retailer has special training and
knowledge.
Incorrect mechanical work can make
your bicycle unsafe
The instructions in this manual are written for
a person familiar with bicycle mechanics and
who has proper tools. Something as simple as
an under-tightened bolt can, over time, cause a
part to break, leading to a loss of control and an
accident.
After any repair, or after installing an accessory,
check your bicycle as shown in the
Pre ride
checklist
in Chapter 1.
Initial assembly
Special tools and skills are necessary for the
assembly and the first adjustment of your
bicycle. Only your retailer should do this.
If a repair or adjustment is not specifically listed
in this manual, for your safety only your retailer
should make that repair.
Modifications to your bicycle
can make it unsafe
Each and every part of your new bicycle has
been carefully chosen and approved. The
safety of accessory or replacement parts, and
especially how those parts attach and interface
with other parts of the bicycle, is not always
apparent. For this reason, you should only
replace parts with original equipment or parts
that are approved. If you are not sure what parts
are approved, ask your retailer. Examples of
modifications include this partial list:
• Physically altering existing parts (sanding,
filing, drilling, etc.)
• Removing safety equipment such as reflectors
or secondary retention devices
• Using adapters for brake systems
• Adding a motor or engine
• Installing accessories
• Changing parts
Only install compatible parts
and accessories
Not all parts and accessories are compatible
or safe, so only add a part or accessory that
has the approval of Electra. As an example, a
child carrier puts weight high on the bicycle,
which can make your bicycle less stable (some
child carriers are compatible with some Electra
bicycles). Always check with your retailer before
adding an accessory or making any change to
your bicycle.
Some parts are safe when used correctly, but
can present a hazard if incorrect. For example,
any item attached to the handlebar has the
possibility of falling into the front wheel,
immediately stopping the front wheel and
causing a crash. This presents a special hazard
if the part has a cable or strap that attaches it to
another item on the bicycle.
WARNING:
Any modification can make
your frame, fork, or part unsafe. A component
that is not approved or assembly that is not
correct can put high stress on your bicycle
or components. A frame, fork, or component
with modifications could decrease your
control and cause you to fall. Do not sand,
drill, file, remove secondary retention devices,
install incompatible forks, or make other
modifications. Before you add an accessory to
your bicycle or change a part of your bicycle,
consult your retailer to confirm that it is
compatible and safe.
Warning about mechanical work