First Ride - Specialized BICYCLE Owner's Manual

WARNING: Bicycle wheel rims are subject to wear. Ask your dealer
about wheel rim wear. Some wheel rims have a rim wear indicator
which becomes visible as the rim's braking surface
rim wear indicator on the side of the wheel rim is an indication that the
wheel rim has reached its maximum usable life. Riding a wheel that is at the
end of its usable life can result in wheel failure, which can cause you to
loose control and fall.
� Brakes: Check the brakes for proper operation (see Sections 4.C).
Squeeze the brake levers. Are the brake quick-releases closed? All control
cables seated and securely engaged? If you have rim brakes, do the brake
pads contact the wheel rim squarely and make full contact with the rim? Do the
brakes begin to engage within an inch of brake lever movement? Can you apply
full braking force at the levers without having them touch the handlebar? If not,
your brakes need adjustment. Do not ride the bike until the brakes are properly
adjusted by a professional bicycle mechanic.
� Wheel retention system: Make sure the front and rear wheels are correctly
secured. See Section 4.A
� Seat post: If your seat post has an over-center cam action fastener for
easy height adjustment, check that it is properly adjusted and in the locked
position. See Section
� Handlebar and saddle alignment: Make sure the saddle and handlebar
stem are parallel to the bike's center line and clamped tight enough so that you
can't twist them out of alignment. See Sections 3.B and 3.C.
� Handlebar ends: Make sure the handlebar grips are secure and in good
condition. If not, have your dealer replace them. Make sure the handlebar ends
and extensions are plugged. If not, have your dealer plug them before you ride.
If the handlebars have bar end extensions, make sure they are clamped tight
enough so you can't twist them.
WARNING: Loose or damaged handlebar grips or extensions can
cause you to lose control and fall. Unplugged handlebars or
extensions can cut you and cause serious injury in an otherwise
minor accident.
VERY IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE:
Please also read and become thoroughly familiar with the important
information on the lifespan of your bicycle and its components in Appendix
B on Page 42.
D. First ride
When you buckle on your helmet and go for your first familiarization ride on
your new bicycle, be sure to pick a controlled environment, away from cars, other
cyclists, obstacles or other hazards. Ride to become familiar with the controls,
features and performance of your new bike.
Familiarize yourself with the braking action of the bike (see Section 4.C). Test
the brakes at slow speed, putting your weight toward the rear and gently applying
the brakes, rear brake first. Sudden or excessive application of the front brake
4.B.
5
wears. A visible