· Do not carry packages or passengers that will interfere with your visibility or diminish
control of the bicycle.
· Do not use items that may restrict your hearing.
· When braking, always apply the rear brake first, then the front. The front brake is more
powerful and if it is not correctly applied, you may lose control. Never lock up the brakes.
· Maintain a safe stopping distance from all other riders, vehicles, and objects. Safe braking
Distances are subject to the prevailing weather conditions.
Wet Weather Riding
CAUTION: Riding in wet weather is not recommended. Follow these precautions:
· Brake earlier and provide yourself with a longer stopping distance.
· Decrease your riding speed, avoid sudden braking and take corners with additional
caution.
· Wear reflective clothing and use safety lights for greater visibility when riding.
· Take extra care around potholes and slippery surfaces, such as line markings and train
tracks.
Riding At Night
CAUTION: Ride at night only when necessary. Follow these precautions:
· Ensure the bicycle is equipped with a full set of clean, correctly positioned reflectors.
· Use properly functioning lights, with a white headlight and a red taillight.
· If the lights are battery powered, make sure the batteries are well charged.
· Certain taillights have a flashing mechanism, which enhances visibility.
· Always wear reflective or light colored clothing.
· Slow down and use familiar roads with street lighting, whenever possible.
Hill Technique
· Gear down before a climb and continue gearing down as required to maintain pedaling
speed.
· If you reach the lowest gear and are struggling, stand up on your pedals. This will give you
more power from each pedal revolution.
· When descending, use the high gears to avoid rapid pedaling.
· Do not exceed a comfortable speed; maintain control and take additional care.
Cornering Technique
· Brake slightly before cornering and prepare to lean your body into the corner.
· Keep the inside pedal at the 12 o'clock position and slightly point the inside knee in the
direction you are turning. Keep the other leg straight; don't pedal through fast or tight
corners.
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Every time you ride your bicycle, its condition changes. The more you ride, the more
frequently maintenance will be required. We recommend you spend a little time on regular
maintenance tasks. The following schedules are a useful guide. You should be able to
accomplish most tasks. For additional assistance we recommend you see a bicycle
technician.
Brakes
The correct adjustment and operation of your bicycle's brakes is extremely important for
safe operation. Brakes should be checked for effective operation before every ride.
Frequent checking for adjustments is necessary as the control cable will stretch and the
brake pads will become worn with use.
WARNING: Never ride a bicycle unless the brakes are functioning properly.
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