6
Internal hub brake
: Pull the lever to make sure
the brake moves freely and stops your bicycle.
If more than 15 mm (5/8”) of lever movement
is necessary to stop your bicycle, the brake is
too loose. If less than 7 mm of lever movement
stops your bicycle, the brake is too tight.
CAUTION:
An internal hub brake gets very
hot during use and could burn skin. Do not
touch the hub or cooling fins when hot.
Coaster brake
: The brake should engage before
the crankarms turn 60 degrees (1/6 turn). The
chain operates the brake, so make sure the
chain has the correct tension so that it can not
fall off. There should be between 1/4 to 1/2”
(6-12 mm) total vertical movement of the chain
(Figure 1.7).
✔
Check the lights and reflectors
Make sure all reflectors are clean and in their
correct position. Also make sure the reflectors
are not covered or obstructed by clothing or
anything on your bicycle.
Make sure any lights operate correctly and
that batteries are charged. If the lights use a
dynamo, make sure the dynamo is mounted
correctly and cannot move.
Some countries, localities, or governments have
specific requirements for lights, such as colors or
types. Check before traveling with your bicycle.
WARNING:
A bicycle without correct lights
and reflectors might be difficult for other
people to see, and you might not be able to
see. If you can not see, or other people can
not see you, you could have an accident. In
low visibility conditions, use a front light, a
rear light, and reflectors.
✔
Check your tandem
Check both saddles and handlebars as
explained earlier for ‘single’ bikes. Also check
the tension of the connecting chain, the chain
that connects the front and rear cranksets
(Figure 1.8). In the middle of the chain run
between the cranksets, there should be between
1/2 to 3/4” (12-18 mm) total vertical movement
of the chain.
FIGURE 1.7
Test for chain tension
FIGURE 1.8
Connecting chain
Chapter 1: Guide to safe on- and off-road operation
