OHM bicycle User Manual
THANK YOU FOR PURCHASING AN OHM.
We welcome you to the exciting and revolutionary world of alternative transportation. Your high quality, power on demand OHM bicycle
offers a new form of environmentally friendly transportation and recreation. Throughout this Manual you will find useful tips and important
safety, performance and maintenance information to ensure you enjoy all features OHM bicycles have to offer for your riding enjoyment.
IMPORTANT: Please read this Manual before taking your first ride on your OHM bicycle. It is very important to familiarize yourself with
the product to ensure you experience the bike’s full performance potential, all the while ensuring your safety and riding pleasure. We also
recommend that you keep the Manual on hand for future reference.
NOTE: It is important to understand that this is not a comprehensive use, repair or service Manual. Please contact your local OHM dealer
for all service, repair and maintenance. Your local dealer will also be able to refer you to additional books, DVDs, websites or cycling clinics/
classes available in your community to broaden your skills and knowledge in bicycle use, repair and maintenance.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL: The main purpose of producing this owner’s Manual is to ensure your safety at all times while enjoying our product.
Along with many others in the cycling community, we constantly strive to reduce possible risks associated with our products. We also recognize
the importance of you, the rider, to clearly understand that with proper instruction of bicycle use and maintenance, the risk of cycling-related
accidents can be reduced. It is within this context we created the following Manual and invite you to take responsibility to learn about how to
reduce inherent risks while bicycling and enjoying your OHM bicycle. We also wrote the Manual to ensure readability and ease in efficiently
finding information. We strongly recommend that you read the entire Manual and look for the WARNINGS or CAUTIONS we have included
throughout to alert you to potential risks of injury and/or damage.
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THANK YOU
3
CONTENTS
4
>> CONTENTS
GENERAL WARNING.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
ONE > BEFORE YOU RIDE ..................................................................................................................................7
1.1 BIKE FIT ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................7
1.2 SAFETY FIRST! ..............................................................................................................................................................................................7
1.3 MECHANICAL SAFETY CHECK ....................................................................................................................................................................8
1.4 SOME ADDITIONAL PREPARATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................10
1.5 FIRST RIDE ...................................................................................................................................................................................................10
TWO > SAFETY .................................................................................................................................................. 12
2.1 THE BASICS ..................................................................................................................................................................................................12
2.2 RIDING SAFETY ...........................................................................................................................................................................................12
2.3 OFF ROAD SAFETY .....................................................................................................................................................................................14
2.4 WET WEATHER RIDING ..............................................................................................................................................................................15
2.5 NIGHT RIDING ..............................................................................................................................................................................................15
2.6 EFFICIENT RIDING TECHNIQUE ................................................................................................................................................................16
2.7 CHANGING COMPONENTS OR ADDING ACCESSORIES .......................................................................................................................17
THREE > FIT ........................................................................................................................................................ 18
3.1 STANDOVER HEIGHT ..................................................................................................................................................................................18
3.2 OHM FRAME FIT ..........................................................................................................................................................................................19
3.3 SADDLE POSITION ......................................................................................................................................................................................19
3.4 HANDLEBAR HEIGHT AND ANGLE ...........................................................................................................................................................20
3.5 CONTROL POSITION ADJUSTMENTS .......................................................................................................................................................21
3.6 BRAKE REACH .............................................................................................................................................................................................21
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CONTENTS
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FOUR > TECHNICAL INFORMATION ................................................................................................................ 22
4.1 WHEELS ........................................................................................................................................................................................................22
4.1.1 FRONT WHEEL QUICK RELEASE ......................................................................................................................................................22
4.1.2 REMOVING AND INSTALLING A QUICK RELEASE FRONT WHEEL ..............................................................................................23
4.1.3 REMOVING AND INSTALLING BOLT-ON WHEELS ..........................................................................................................................25
4.2 SEATPOST QUICK RELEASE .....................................................................................................................................................................26
4.3 BRAKES ........................................................................................................................................................................................................27
4.4 SHIFTING GEARS ........................................................................................................................................................................................28
4.5 PEDALS .........................................................................................................................................................................................................30
4.6 BICYCLE SUSPENSION ...............................................................................................................................................................................32
4.7 TIRES AND TUBES .......................................................................................................................................................................................33
4.8 LIGHTS ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................35
4.9 POWER ASSIST DRIVE SYSTEM ...............................................................................................................................................................35
4.9.1 MOTOR-WHEEL /GENERATOR ..........................................................................................................................................................36
4.9.2 BATTERY ..............................................................................................................................................................................................36
4.9.3 COMMAND CONSOLE ........................................................................................................................................................................38
FIVE > SERVICE ................................................................................................................................................. 42
5.1 SERVICE INTERVALS ..................................................................................................................................................................................43
5.2 GETTING HOME WHEN SOMETHING BREAKS .......................................................................................................................................44
5.3 IF YOUR BICYCLE SUSTAINS AN IMPACT ................................................................................................................................................46
5.4 BATTERY CARE ...........................................................................................................................................................................................46
SIX > ABOUT YOUR OHM DEALER ..................................................................................................................48
6.1 ACCESSORIES .............................................................................................................................................................................................48
SEVEN > LIMITED WARRANTY ........................................................................................................................49
7.1 WARRANTY REGISTRATION ......................................................................................................................................................................50
GENERAL WARNING
6
GENERAL WARNING
Like many forms of transportation and recreation, bicycling involves the potential risk of injury and/or damage. By choosing to cycle, you
are assuming responsibility for these risks. In an attempt to reduce the risk, we believe you need to know and practice the rules of safe and
responsible riding and of proper use and maintenance, which will help to reduce the risk of injury or damage. Consequently, you will find many
“WARNINGS” and “CAUTIONS” throughout this Manual followed by discussions on the consequences in failing to inspect and maintain your
bicycle and/or following safe cycling protocol. Again, we recommend you familiarize yourself with this information since we are highlighting it
with your safety in mind.
It is impossible to anticipate or discuss all situations or conditions in this Manual, which may or may not lead to injury or damage while
riding this bicycle. We have taken the utmost care and attention in manufacturing a safe and reliable product and in providing you with this
informative Manual that will assist you in reducing risks associated while using your bicycle. However, there are risks that cannot be predicted
or avoided, and consequently, are the sole responsibility of you, the rider. Our intention here is not to cast fear in riding a bicycle, but instead
to recognize the potential dangers associated with traveling on two wheels and thereby ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
• The combination of the safety alert symbol and the word WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in serious injury or death.
• The combination of the safety alert symbol and the word CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury, or is an alert against unsafe practices.
• The word CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a situation which, if not avoided, could result in serious damage to the
bicycle or the voiding of your warranty.
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ONE > BEFORE YOU RIDE
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ONE > BEFORE YOU RIDE
>> NOTE: As already strongly recommended, please read
this Manual in its entirety. Here we explain the importance of
fitting the bike, safety and general maintenance. Be sure you
understand each point in this section before setting out on your
first ride. Refer to specific sections of the Manual for detailed
content to ensure you are prepared and ready for a safe and
enjoyable ride.
1.1 BIKE FIT
1 > The fit of your bicycle is extremely important. If the bicycle is
too large or too small, this may pose a danger in causing you to
lose control or fall. In addition, proper fit is essential for maximum
performance and comfort. To determine the right size of bike that
suits your body, go to Sections 3.1 and 3.2. Your dealer will also
be able to assist you in finding the right size. When referring to size,
bicycles are measured according to the frame size. This number
(e.g., 18,19,or 20 inches) signifies the size of the frame and the
overall size of the bike.
2 > With the right sized frame, you can now adjust accessories to
maximize safety, comfort and performance. Start with determining
whether your seat height is set correctly. To check this and/or make
adjustments, go to Section 3.3.
3 > Now check to ensure the saddle is securely fastened to the post
(see Section 3.3) and the post clamp is secured (see Section 4.2).
A securely fastened saddle does not move in any direction and a
secure post clamp prevents the post from sliding up or down.
4 > Check to see if the handlebars and stem are set at the right
height for you and are secure. To confirm, go to Section 3.4.
5 > Now check the brakes. Squeeze the brake levers. Can you
operate them with ease? Do you see the front brake pads grasping
the disc when you squeeze the brake levers? It is also a good idea to
lift your bicycle, spin each wheel, grasp the brake and ensure proper
function. If the brake does not function with ease have your local
dealer/mechanic adjust them.
6 > Lastly, ensure you fully understand how to operate your new
OHM bicycle (see Section 4.9). Your new bicycle offers features
unlike regular pedal operated bicycles. Contact your local dealer to
have any features or functions explained to you before your first ride.
1.2 SAFETY FIRST!
1 > ALWAYS WEAR AN APPROVED HELMET WHEN RIDING
YOUR OHM BICYCLE. Please refer to your helmet manufacturer’s
instructions for proper fit, use and care of the helmet. Helmets are
available from your dealer.
2 > Check to see that you have all required and recommended
safety equipment for your first and future rides. Also, be sure that
you know all laws pertaining to cycling in your region. The laws may
include where you can cycle, the use of hand signals or the need for
mandatory equipment while cycling.
3 > Next, are your wheels securely fastened to the frame/forks?
Wheels that are not safely secure can wobble and impede the bicycle
performance or worse, dislodge while riding and cause injury or
death. For your OHM bicycle, the front wheel has a quick release
ONE > BEFORE YOU RIDE
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mounting mechanism and the rear wheel has a bolted mounted
device. See Section 4.1 for an explanation on how to properly secure
both types of mounting devices.
4 > Now look at your pedals. Are they clipless or regular? The Urban
XU450 comes equipped with regular pedals while the Sport XS700
has clipless on one side of the pedal and regular on the other side.
Check to see that they are securely fastened and the pedals spin freely.
5 > Your OHM bicycle comes equipped with a suspension fork and
a suspension seat post. It is very important that you understand how
the suspension works because it will influence the performance and
handling of the bicycle. Either consult your local dealer to explain or
read Section 4.6.
6 > Check to see if you have “toe-overlap” – this can occur with
smaller sized frames when your toe(s) make contact with the
front wheel when the wheel is turned and the pedal is in a forward
position. This can cause injury or harm to you and/or your bicycle. If
you are rubbing the front wheel (or any other part of the bicycle while
pedaling) see Section 4.5 or contact your local dealer before you ride.
7 > Check to see that the lighting system is operating at peak
performance. To activate the lights, press the Mode button for three
seconds and check the rear and front fixture for strong light output.
It may be helpful to roll your bike up to a wall and turn the light on to
see the output level and angle of the light. Please refer to the lighting
system manufacturer’s Manual for more information about light
output and adjusting the fixture angles for peak performance.
8 > Check to see that the battery is fully charged and operating
properly. Look for a full battery charge level on the command
console. If this is not the case, refer to Section 5.4 on charging your
battery. Always make sure your battery container is well fastened to
the frame and locked.
1.3 MECHANICAL SAFETY CHECK
Always do a complete check of the condition of your bike
before every ride. We also recommend regular maintenance
of your bicycle to prolong the life of the components and
maximize safety.
✔ Nuts, Bolts and Straps: Ensure all are secure. An easy way to
test for this is to lift the front wheel off the ground by two or three
inches and then drop the wheel. Listen, watch and feel for anything
loose. Do the same for the rear wheel. Next, do a quick visual and
tactile inspection of the entire bicycle. If you find something loose,
tighten it before your ride. This is a good habit to develop before
each ride. Lastly, if you do discover something you are not sure
about, please consult your local dealer to ensure all is safe.
✔ Tires and Wheels: Make sure your tires have the correct amount
of air pressure. Tires with too little or too much air pressure can
impede performance and be unsafe while riding your bike. To
ensure your tires are at the necessary air pressure (or psi), there
are two steps you can follow. First, if you have a tire gauge, apply
it to the tire valve and check the psi. Much like a tire on a car, the
recommended psi is stamped on the sidewall of the bicycle tire.
When you are sure the tire is set to the correct psi, squeeze the
tire to familiarize yourself with how the tire should feel to your
hand. With your tires ready to roll, slowly spin each wheel and
watch for any cuts in the tread and sidewall, or road debris lodged
in the tire such as wood, glass or nails. Remove any debris and
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ONE > BEFORE YOU RIDE
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ALWAYS replace any tires with cuts or visual damage before you
ride. Lastly, check to ensure your wheel (or rim) spins straight
or “true” – this means that when you spin the wheel, it does not
wobble side to side or rub against your brake pads. If you find your
wheel wobbles side to side or rubs against the brake pad even
slightly, take your bicycle to your local bicycle mechanic to have
the wheel trued.
CAUTION: For your brakes to work effectively, the wheel
(or rim) must be “true.” Do not attempt to true a wheel unless
you have the knowledge, tools and experience. Truing the
wheel is better left to your local bicycle mechanic to ensure your
wheel performs properly and safely.
✔ Brakes: Check to see the brakes are working correctly (see
Section 4.3). Squeeze the brake levers for both front and rear
brakes and look to see if the front wheel quick-release lever is
closed, all control cables are seated and securely engaged, and
that the brake discs are intact. Also, check that the brake levers,
when fully squeezed, do not touch the handle-bar. If you find a
problem, DO NOT RIDE THE BICYCLE and take the bicycle to
your local dealer for service.
✔ Quick Release: Check to see the front wheel and seat post quick-
release mounts are properly adjusted and securely fastened. (see
Sections 4.1.1 and 4.2, respectively)
✔ Handlebar and Saddle Adjustment: Check to see the handlebar
stem and suspension seat post are properly aligned and securely
fastened. Make sure the handlebar stem and suspension seat
post are parallel with the bicycle’s “centre line” (imagine a straight
line that runs from the rear tire to the front tire). Also, ensure the
stem and post are clamped securely so that neither can be twisted
or moved.
✔ Handlebar Ends: Check to see the handlebar grips are secure
and in good condition.
WARNING: Loose or damaged handlebar grips can
cause you to lose control of the bicycle and fall. Unplugged
handlebar ends can cut your body (handlebar ends are often
cut when the bicycle is assembled and may not be filed to
remove sharp edges or spurs) and can cause serious injury in
an otherwise minor accident.
✔ Bicycle Suspension: For your seat post suspension, check the
rail clamp plate screw for proper torque and that the seat post
quick-release is properly tightened (see Section 4.6 for more
details). For the front suspension fork, ensure that it is set correctly
for the terrain you have chosen for your ride.
✔ Batter y Container: Ensure the battery container is locked in
place and connected; check by depressing the mode button on
the command console to confirm digital control activation.
ONE > BEFORE YOU RIDE
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1.4 SOME ADDITIONAL PREPARATIONS
Here are some additional preparations we recommend to help in
ensuring you have a safe and comfortable ride:
✔ Carry a good quality hand pump, patch kit, spare tube and know
how to repair a tire (see Section 5.2 and Section 4.7). Take a
bicycle maintenance/repair course or access the many books/
DVDs that your OHM dealer can recommend.
✔ Carry suf ficient water (e.g., water bottles, water bladders, etc.)
and food to ensure your body is properly fueled. Although your
bicycle is equipped with power on demand, your body is also a
contributing engine – no fuel, no go!
✔ Dress appropriately. Wear form fitting yet comfortable clothing
designed for cycling. A good pair of shor ts, jacket, gloves and
glasses will ease wear and tear of long and short rides (see
Sections 2.1 (#5), 2.4 and 2.5 for more information).
✔ As with any activity in life, take a good attitude. Relax and enjoy
your ride – there is no hurry. Ride according to your athletic ability
but also know you have power on demand to assist you.
1.5 FIRST RIDE
It is time for your first ride. Before you strap on your helmet and
prepare to ride, take a moment to choose a location that is a
controlled environment to allow time to familiarize yourself with the
controls, features and performance of your bike. The location should
be clear of cars, other cyclists, obstacles or other hazards.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the braking system of the bike
(see Section 4.3). Start with riding at a slow speed and test the
brakes. Put your weight toward the rear and gently apply the rear
brakes first before engaging the front brakes. Sudden or excessive
application of the front breaks can cause your body to lunge forward
and could pitch you over the handlebars. Applying brakes too hard
at anytime when riding can lock up a wheel, which can cause you to
lose control and fall.
If your bicycle has clipless pedals, be sure to practice getting in and
out of them (see Section 4.5).
Your bicycle comes equipped with a suspension seat post and
front fork suspension. Familiarize yourself with how the suspension
systems respond to brake application and rider weight shifts (see
Section 4.6).
Next, practice shifting the gears (see Section 4.4) while pedaling
- do not attempt to shift gears when not pedaling. Also, remember
not to shift gears when pedaling backwards or pedal backwards after
shifting gears. This could jam the chain and cause serious damage
to the bicycle and drivetrain.
Familiarize yourself with the power assist drive system (see Section
4.9) in order to safely enjoy this feature. Take time to be comfortable
with the command console.
Finally, familiarize yourself with the overall handling and response of
the bike and ensure you are comfortable while riding the bicycle.
If you have any questions, please contact your local OHM
dealer for assistance. See Section 6.1 for contact information.
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ONE > BEFORE YOU RIDE
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First Name:
Last name:
Address:
City:
State/Province:
ZIP/postal code:
Country:
Phone: ( )
Email:
Model:
Serial number:
Date of sale (MM/DD/YY):
Dealer name:
Notes:
OWNER’S RECORD
Please fill out the following Warranty Registration for your records and mail a copy of the Warranty Card to OHM Cycles, or register on-line.
TWO > SAFETY
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TWO > SAFETY
2.1 THE BASICS
1 > Always wear a bicycling helmet that meets
the latest certification standards and follow the
helmet manufacturer’s instructions for proper
fit, use and care of your helmet. Most serious
bicycle injuries involve head injuries, which
may have been avoided if the rider had worn
a helmet.
WARNING: Failure to wear your helmet when riding
a bicycle may result in serious injury or death.
2 > Always do the Mechanical Safety Check before you get on your
bike (see Section 1.3).
3 > Be competent in operating the controls on your bicycle: brakes
(see Section 4.3); pedals (see Section 4.5), shifting (see Section
4.4) and power assist drive system (see Section 4.9).
4 > Be careful to keep body parts, clothing and other objects clear
from the sharp teeth of the chainrings, the moving chain, the turning
pedals and cranks, and the spinning wheels of your bicycle.
5 > Always wear:
✔ Shoes that fit your feet properly and grip the pedal securely. Do not
ride your bicycle barefoot or with loose fitting shoes such as sandals.
✔ Appropriate cycling clothing that is bright, visible and fit snugly to
your body. Loose clothing can tangle in your drivetrain or wheel or
be snagged by objects at the side of the road or trail.
✔ Protective eyewear to protect against airborne dirt, dust and bugs.
Also, if it is sunny, wear tinted lenses and, depending on your
riding preference, clear, yellow or orange lenses when not.
6 > Do not jump with your OHM bike. Jumping a bike can be fun, but
it puts you and your bike at risk of serious harm. Jumping causes
stress on everything from the spokes to your pedals, and if you lose
control, you can cause serious injury or death. If you insist on jumping
your bicycle, understand that you are doing this at your own risk.
7 > Ride your bicycle at a speed that is appropriate for the conditions
in which you are riding.
2.2 RIDING SAFETY
1 > Observe all local bicycle laws and regulations. Pertinent laws
include, but are not limited to, helmet laws, child carrier laws and
special bicycle traffic laws. Important regulations include, but are not
limited to, licensing of bicycles, riding on sidewalks, and regulations
concerning bike path and trail use. It is your responsibility to learn and
obey all laws and all regulations that pertain to cycling in your area.
2 > Always respect the rights of other road or path users such as
motorists, pedestrians and other cyclists.
3 > Ride defensively. Always assume that others do not see you.
Never underestimate the unpredictability and risks associated with
road riding.
Fig 2.1
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TWO > SAFETY
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4 > Some helpful defensive habits include looking ahead to avoid:
• Vehicles slowing or turning, entering the road or your lane ahead of
you, or coming up behind you.
• Parked car door opening – it is a good habit to scan parked cars
for people in the driver seat to alert you to the possibility of a door
opening.
• Pedestrians stepping out
• Children or pets playing near the road
• Hazardous road conditions: pot holes, gravel, sewer grates,
expansion joints, road or sidewalk construction, debris and other
obstructions that could cause you to swerve into traf fic, catch your
wheel or otherwise cause you to lose control and have an accident.
• The many other hazards and distractions, which can occur on a
bicycle ride.
5 > Whenever possible, ride within designated bike lanes, on
designated bike paths or if riding on the road, ride as close to the
edge as possible. If you feel uncomfortable with the riding conditions
(e.g., road with very narrow shoulder or no shoulder at all) seek out
alternative routes that are safe.
6 > Obey all traffic laws. Stop at all stop signs and traffic lights
and slow down to look both ways before proceeding through all
intersections regardless of whether you have the right of way or not.
Remember that a collision with a vehicle, whether the driver’s fault or
not, will likely cause you much more harm than the vehicle.
7 > Learn and use hand signals to let other users on the road know
where you are turning or changing your position while on the road.
8 > Never ride with headphones. They may mask important traffic
sounds and emergency vehicle sirens. The headphones, or the
sounds they are amplifying may distract you from concentrating on
what is happening around you.
9 > Never hitch a ride from vehicles or other cyclists.
10 > Never ride your bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or
drugs.
11 > Observe and yield the right of way at all times, especially for
vehicles.
12 > Always respect the road – do not weave in and out of traffic or
make any sudden moves that may surprise other people with whom
you are sharing the road.
13 > Do not perform jumps, stunts or wheelies -- they can cause
you to lose control of your bicycle and result in injury or death and/or
damage to your bicycle.
14 > Never carry a passenger unless it is a small child wearing a
certified bicycle helmet and who is secure in a certified and correctly
mounted child carrier or a child-carrying trailer.
15 > Never wear or carry anything that obstructs your vision or
impairs complete control of your bike or which can become entangled
in the moving parts of your bicycle.
16 > Whenever possible, avoid riding your bike in conditions with
poor visibility or are hazardous, such as in bad weather, riding at
dusk or in the dark, or when you are extremely tired. Each of these
conditions increases the risk of an accident.
17 > Your new OHM bicycle purchase will inevitably create much
excitement and the opportunity to ride with other people can also
be exhilarating. Do not get so carried away that you forget safety
precautions, traf fic laws and common sense – always ride safely and
defensively to enjoy many more rides to come!
2.3 OFF ROAD SAFETY
1 > Just as in road riding, never underestimate the unpredictability
and risks associated with off-road riding. The variable conditions and
hazards of off-road riding demand close attention and specific skills.
If you are riding off-road for the first time, consider riding with others
with experience or, if available, take an off-road riding course in your
community. Ask your local dealer for information. Regardless, start
slowly and choose a relatively flat and easy terrain to build up your
skills and confidence. Your OHM bicycle comes equipped with front
suspension and seatpost, which will take some time to get used to as
the suspension does soften the ride and may allow you to experience
increased speeds. The increased speed may cause you to lose
control of your bicycle and fall. Get to know how to handle your bike
safely before increasing speeds or advanced terrain.
2 > Always wear appropriate safety gear required for the type of
riding you are doing (see Sections 2.4 and 2.5). Ask your dealer for
more information.
3 > Do not perform jumps, stunts or wheelies -- they can cause you
to lose control of your bicycle and result in injury or death and/or
damage to your bicycle.
4 > Never ride alone when in remote areas. Even if riding with
other people, always ensure someone (e.g., friend, family member,
co-worker) knows where you are and when to expect your return.
5 > Ensure you ride on trails designated for or permit bicycling. Learn
and obey all laws regulating how and where you can ride off-road.
Always respect private property, which can be difficult to know in
remote areas.
6 > Be respectful of the rights of other trail users – motorists,
pedestrians, equestrians and other cyclists.
7 > Yield right of way to pedestrians and animals. Always ride in
a way that does not startle, surprise or endanger them. Stay far
enough away so that their unexpected moves do not endanger you.
Communicate with the person or animal before approaching to aler t
them of your presence, to reduce the chance of startling them.
8 > Always stay on the designated trail and respect the natural
environment. Do not contribute to erosion by riding in mud or with
unnecessary sliding or skidding. Avoid locking the wheels as much
as possible to prevent skidding and additional erosion. Do not
disturb the ecosystem by cutting your own trail or shortcut through
vegetation or streams. It is your responsibility to minimize your
impact on the environment. Always leave the natural environment
as you find it and always take out everything (e.g., food wrappers,
accessories) you brought in.
9 > BE PREPARED. Ensure you have adequate food/water, appropriate
clothing for a range of weather conditions and essential tools.
TWO > SAFETY
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TWO > SAFETY
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2.4 WET WEATHER RIDING
WARNING: Wet weather impairs traction, braking
performance and visibility for you and your bicycle and other
motorists or cyclists on the road. The risk of an accident is
dramatically increased while riding in wet weather.
Wet weather can make it harder to control your bicycle and easier
to lose control. Wet conditions can dramatically reduce the stopping
power of your braking system (and for those of other vehicles or
cyclists on the road). In addition, your tires will not grip as well as in
drier conditions, which can impair braking. Exercise extra caution
and safety when riding in wet weather by riding more slowly and
applying your brakes earlier and more gradually than you would in
drier conditions.
Comfort while riding your bike in wet weather can also be impaired.
Fortunately, there is a range of clothing available to help keep
you warm and dry, which will benefit you in terms of conserving
energy and ensuring you can remain focused on the road. Dress
appropriately for the weather conditions in which you are riding.
Check with your local dealer for a selection of clothing options and
accessories.
2.5 NIGHT RIDING
Riding a bicycle at night is many times more dangerous than
riding during daylight hours. It can be more difficult for motorists
and pedestrians to see you while riding your bicycle at night. Your
OHM bicycle does come equipped with a quality lighting system to
increase your visibility by motorists and pedestrians and to improve
your vision as you ride. However, a lighting system does not provide
the same amount of light as daylight and therefore we remind you to
ride at your own risk. We do advise that children should never ride at
dawn, at dusk or at night and adults ride at their own discretion.
WARNING: Please remember that riding at dusk,
dawn, at night or in conditions of poor visibility, without your
lighting system operating properly is dangerous and may
result in serious injury or death.
WARNING: Check to see that your lighting system
is operating properly and that the fixtures (front and back)
are clean, straight, unbroken and securely mounted.
Have your local dealer replace or repair damaged fixtures and
straighten or tighten any that are bent or loose. Your dealer
can also assist you in repairing any problems with the lighting
system overall. It is a very good habit to regularly check to see
that your lighting system is operating at peak performance.
TWO > SAFETY
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If you choose to ride under conditions of poor visibility, always check
to ensure you comply with local laws pertaining to riding a bicycle
at night and take the following strongly recommended additional
precautions:
• Make sure your bicycle’s lighting system is operating properly, is
correctly positioned and securely mounted (see Section 4.8)
• Always wear reflective and brightly coloured clothing and
accessories such as reflective vest, reflective arm and leg bands,
and reflective strips on your helmet*. Any reflective device and
bright lighting systems will help attract attention from motorist,
pedestrians or other cyclists on the road.
• Ensure that none of your clothing or accessories are obstructing
light fixtures or reflective pieces.
* Note: Please check your certified helmet manufacturer’s warranty
details to ensure that adding a reflective strip does not void the
warranty before attaching anything to your helmet. If in doubt,
contact your local dealer for assistance.
While riding at dusk, dawn or in conditions of poor visibility, ride
safely and cautiously. Avoid dark areas or areas with heavy or fastmoving traffic. Avoid road hazards and if possible, ride on familiar
routes. If this is not possible, try to find well-lit routes with minimal
traffic.
2.6 EFFICIENT RIDING TECHNIQUE
Enjoying your ride is directly associated with ensuring you have
sufficient energy throughout the duration of your ride. It is important
to learn to ride efficiently. You may have noticed that experienced
bicycle riders look smooth and relaxed as they pedal, legs turning
circles, almost flowing, which is a good indicator that they are using
their energy efficiently. By riding smoothly, you will have more energy
and better control of your bike. Here are some tips to keep in mind or
even visualize while riding:
• Both road and off-road riders need to strive to keep their upper
body relaxed and relatively free of movement (e.g., hips should
not be rocking side to side) except if you dismount or stand on the
pedals to climb a hill.
• Remain on your seat as much as possible – standing on the pedals
can burn more energy than while remaining mounted on the saddle.
• Remember to breathe! Learn proper breathing techniques when
riding hard or climbing hills to help keep your muscles fresh and
your mind focused.
ohmcycles.com
TWO > SAFETY
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Your OHM bicycle comes equipped with an intelligent energy
management system that helps you maximize your riding efficiency
(see Section 4.9).
Your bike must be fitted correctly to your body. With a properly fitted
bike, you can then focus on your posture and pedal techniques to
develop a smooth, brisk, confident, and round pedaling stroke.
When practicing efficient cadence, concentrate and visualize
pedaling smooth, flowing circles - not squares. An efficient pedal
stroke flows through one complete revolution. Most riders will find
that their ideal cadence is around 90 revolutions per minute (rpm),
although it may be as low as 75 rpm.
By developing a basic bicycling technique from these tips, you will
be able to ensure efficient energy output when riding your OHM bike.
You may also want to contact your local dealer for additional
resources or courses available in your community.
2.7 CHANGING COMPONENTS OR ADDING
ACCESSORIES
There are a range of components and accessories available on the
market to enhance the comfort, performance and appearance of your
OHM bicycle. Please know that if you choose to change components
or add accessories on your bicycle, you are doing so at your own
risk. We are unable to test that all components or accessories
available on the market are compatible, reliable or safe on your
OHM bicycle. Before installing any component or accessory, please
consult your local dealer to ensure that it is compatible with your bike.
WARNING: Failure to confirm compatibility or to
properly install and maintain any component or accessory
can result in serious injur y or death or damage to your
bicycle.
WARNING: Changing components or accessories
on your bicycle may void the warranty. Please refer to your
warranty and check with your local dealer before making any
changes to your bicycle.
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