Cannondale 120027.PDF Owner's Manual Supplement page 5

120027.PDF
Product Limitations
Problems of pilot error aside, hard-core riding also beats the heck out of your equip-
ment. Although we build and test our bikes to make them tough, there's no way that
we can guarantee they'll survive your umpteenth six-foot drop. For starters, there is no
industry "jumping" standard. The many circumstances of takeoff, landing, speed, rider
technique, etc. are unique. The judgment, lack of judgment or insanity of a rider who
may ride a Cannondale bicycle cannot be completely predicted, so it's flat-out impos-
sible to predict how anyone's equipment is going to hold up.
Let's get another thing straight. Buying a Freeride bike does not make you any better.
Do not confuse the built-in capabilities of equipment with your own capabilities, which
must be learned.
Keeping your bike and all its components in good working order is critical, and it's up
to you to maintain and inspect it. Even so, your sweet rig isn't going to last forever.
Nothing does, particularly bikes and parts that are built to minimize weight and then
are subjected to abuse. Cannondale frames carry a warranty, but that's to cover issues
with workmanship and/or materials. (See the Cannondale Warranties section of the
Owner's Manual.) The warranty doesn't mean that they're going to last forever. They're
not. The warranty certainly doesn't mean that the bicycle can in any way protect you
from injury.
In Conclusion
If you're going hard-core, be smart about it. Always wear a full face helmet, body armor,
full-finger gloves and protective clothing. Choose a bike that's right for you, your riding
and terrain, and check it often for signs of fatigue or other trouble. (Your dealer can help
you on both fronts.) Read the Mountain Bike Riding section of the Cannondale Bicycle
Owner's Manual. And most importantly, know your limitations. Practice. Stay in control,
and carefully, gradually expand your limits – but ride within them.
5