Gear Operation - Schwinn HYBRID BICYCLE Owner's Manual

5 Use

GEAR OPERATION

WARNING!
Improper shifting can result in the chain jamming, or becoming
derailed resulting in loss of control, serious injury or death
Always be sure the chain is fully engaged in the desired gear
before pedaling hard. Avoid shifting while standing up on the
pedals or under load.
Multi speed bicycles can have internal or derailleur gear systems.
Important! Best practices for proper shifting:
• Pedal the bicycle with little pressure on the pedals, and move
the shifter one gear at a time, ensuring that the chain is fully
engaged in that gear before applying more pressure on the
pedals.
• For bicycles with 3 front chain rings; avoid "Cross Chaining",
which is the position when the chain is in the smallest cog in
the rear combined with the inner or smallest chain ring in the
front, or the largest cog in the rear and the outer or largest
chain ring in the front. These gear positions put the chain at
the most extreme angle and can cause premature wear to
the drivetrain. Bicycles with 3 front chain rings have enough
gear "overlaps" that these gears are not needed. Figure 5.2
• It is OK to ride the whole time in only one gear if this is
comfortable.
• Shift only while pedaling forward and seated. When shifting,
lessen the pressure exerted on the pedals during the shift.
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• Once you have successfully shifted gears, it is OK to start to
pedal hard if desired.
• Pedaling hard while shifting can cause the chain to skip and
not engage the appropriate gear.
• Backpedaling should be avoided on derailleur bikes because
the chain can jam and cause the bike to become unstable.
See Assembly and Maintenance for further information on
proper gear adjustment.
Avoid these extreme angles of the chain
Three chain rings
Figure 5.2