Applying Brakes - Kogan FORTIS 700C User Manual

Applying Brakes

When you apply one or both brakes, the bike begins to slow, but your body wants to
continue at the speed at which it was going. This causes a transfer of weight to the front
wheel, or, under heavy braking, around the front wheel hub, which could harm you.
A wheel with more weight on it will accept greater brake pressure before lockup; a wheel
with less weight will lock up with less brake pressure.
Do the following as you apply brakes and your weight shi s forward:
• Shi your body toward the rear of the bike, to transfer weight back onto the rear wheel;
• At the same time, decrease rear braking and increase front braking force.
• This is important on steep descents, because descents shi weight forward.
The key to effective speed control and safe stopping are controlling wheel lockup and
weight transfer. Practice braking and weight transfer techniques where there is no traffic or
other hazards and distractions.
Everything changes when you ride on loose surfaces or in wet weather. Tire adhesion
reduces, so the wheels have less cornering and braking traction and can lock up with less
brake force. Moisture or dirt on the brake shoes reduces their ability to grip. The way to
maintain control on loose or wet surfaces is to go more slowly.
Adjusting Brakes
If either brake lever on your bike fails the Mechanical Safety Check you can restore brake
lever travel by turning the brake cable adjusting barrel counterclockwise, then lock the
adjustment in by turning the barrel's lock nut clockwise as far as it will go. If the lever still fails
the Mechanical Safety Check, or if you have any question about whether your brakes are
working properly have your brakes checked by a bicycle specialist or contact Kogan.com for
support.
CAUTION: The brake cable adjusting barrels are for minor adjustments only. For
major adjustments, see the "Step 9: Brakes" in the Assembly section of this user
guide.