Schwinn S5477D Owner's Manual page 48

5 Use
Hand Operated Brakes
WARNING!
If the front brake is applied too quickly or too hard, the front
wheel can stop turning resulting in a front pitch over or cause
the bicycle to lose steering function leading to a crash.
Hand operated brakes have a separate hand lever to operate
front and rear brakes. Front hand brake levers are located on
the left side of the handlebar, and rear hand brake levers are
located on the right side of the handlebar. Figure 5.2
Hand operated brakes may be used alone or on some models in
conjunction with foot operated brakes. It is OK to operate one
brake at a time, or all together, depending on your style,
comfort, and riding conditions. However, be careful to pay close
attention to front brakes locking up.
Left side brakes
the front wheel
46
To best avoid this:
• Apply the front and rear brakes simultaneously, while shifting
your body weight back slightly to compensate for braking
force.
• As terrain changes, the rider must practice and learn how the
bicycle will respond in a new terrain or weather change.
The same bicycle will react differently if it is wet, or if there is
gravel on the road etc.
• Always test the brakes and be sure you feel comfortable with
the reaction. If the riding conditions are too steep (off road
for example) and you are unsure, dismount the bicycle and
walk past the questionable terrain before riding again.
• Remember that as you apply the brakes your weight will want
to shift forward, and the wheels will want to stop.
Note: See Section 4: Adjusting the Brakes for information on
brake adjustment.
Right side brakes
the rear wheel
Figure 5.2