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ENGLISH
2. Before Riding
Wheels true? Spin each wheel and check for brake clearance and side-to-side wobble.
If a wheel wobbles side to side even slightly, or rubs against or hits the brake pads,
take the bike to a qualified bike shop to have the wheel trued.
CAUTION: Wheels must be true for the brakes to work effectively.
Wheel truing is a skill which requires special tools and experience. Do not attempt
to true a wheel unless you have the knowledge, experience and tools needed to
do the job correctly.
Brakes:
Check the brakes for proper operation (see Sections 7.3). Squeeze the brake
levers. Are the brake quick-releases closed? All control cables seated and securely
engaged? Do the brake pads touch the wheel rim within an inch of brake lever
movement? Can you apply full braking force at the levers without having them touch
the handlebar? If not, your brakes need adjustment.
Do not ride the bike until the brakes are properly adjusted.
Quick Releases:
Make sure the front wheel, rear wheel and seat post quick releases
are properly adjusted and in the locked position. See Section 7.2.
Handlebar and saddle alignment:
Make sure the saddle and handlebar stem
are parallel to the bike’s center line and clamped tight enough so that you can’t
twist them out of alignment. See Sections 4.2 & 4.3. If not, align and tighten them.
Handlebar ends:
Make sure the handlebar grips are secure and in good condition. If
not, replace them. Make sure the handlebar ends and extensions are plugged. If not,
plug them before you ride.
If the handlebars have bar end extensions, make sure they are clamped tight enough
so you can’t twist them. If not, tighten them.
WARNING: Loose or damaged handlebar grips or extensions can cause you to lose
control and fall. Unplugged handlebars or extensions can cut your body and can
cause serious injury in an otherwise minor accident.
D. First ride
When you buckle on your helmet and go for your first familiarization ride on your
new bicycle, be sure to pick a controlled environment, away from cars, other cyclists,
obstacles or other hazards. Ride to become familiar with the controls, features and
performance of your new bike.
Familiarize yourself with the
braking action
of the bike (see Section 7.3). Test the
brakes at slow speed, putting your weight toward the rear and gently applying the
brakes, rear brake first.
Sudden or excessive application of the front brake could pitch you over the handlebars.
Applying brakes too hard can lock up a wheel, which could cause you to lose control
and fall.
