21
3. Before you ride the bike, first check that the seatpost
is securely clamped.
Adjusting The Seatpost Quick Release Mechanism
The action of the quick release cam squeezes the seat
collar around the seat post to hold the seat post securely
in place. The amount of clamping force is controlled by
the tension adjusting nut. Turning the tension adjusting
nut clockwise while keeping the cam lever from rotating
increases clamping force; turning it counterclockwise
while keeping the cam lever from rotating reduces
clamping force. Less than half a turn of the tension
adjusting nut can make the difference between safe
and unsafe clamping force.
!
WARNING: The full force of the cam action is needed
to clamp the seatpost securely. Holding the nut with one
hand and turning the lever like a wing nut with the other
hand until everything is as tight as you can get it will not
clamp the seatpost safely.
!
WARNING: If you can fully close the quick release
without wrapping your fingers around the seat post or a
frame tube for leverage, and the lever does not leave
a clear imprint in the palm of your hand, the tension is
insufficient. Open the lever; turn the tension adjusting nut
clockwise a quarter turn; then try again.
C. Brakes
!
WARNING:
1. Riding with improperly adjusted brakes or worn
brake pads is dangerous and can result in serious injury
or death.
2. Applying brakes too hard or too suddenly can lock
up a wheel, which could cause you to lose control and
fall. Sudden or excessive application of the front brake
may pitch the rider over the handlebars, which may
result in serious injury or death.
3. Some bicycle brakes, such as disc brakes (fig. 11)
and linear-pull brakes (fig.12), are extremely powerful.
Take extra care in becoming familiar with these brakes
and exercise particular care when using them.
4. Disc brakes can get extremely hot with extended
use. Be careful not to touch a disc brake until it has had
plenty of time to cool.
5. See the brake manufacturer’s instructions for
installation, operation and care of your brakes. If you do
not have the manufacturer’s instructions, see your dealer
or contact the brake manufacturer.
1. Brake Controls And Features
It’s very important to your safety that you learn and
remember which brake lever controls which brake on
your bike.
Make sure that your hands can reach and squeeze
the brake levers comfortably. If your hands are too
small to operate the levers comfortably, consult your
dealer before riding the bike. The lever reach may
be adjustable; or you may need a different brake
lever design.
Most brakes have some form of quick-release
mechanism to allow the brake pads to clear the tire
when a wheel is removed or reinstalled. When the brake
quick release is in the open position, the brakes are