Bicycle Suspension - Specialized BICYCLE Owner's Manual

engaged with the pedal. Do not use shoes which do not engage the pedals
correctly.
Practice is required to learn to engage and disengage the foot safely. Until
engaging and disengaging the foot becomes a reflex action, the technique
requires concentration which can distract your attention and cause you to lose
control and fall. Practice engaging and disengaging clipless pedals in a place
where there are no obstacles, hazards or traffic; and be sure to follow the
pedal manufacturer's setup and service instructions. If you do not have the
manufacturer's instructions, see your dealer or contact the manufacturer.
F. Bicycle Suspension
Many bicycles are equipped with suspension systems. There are many
different types of suspension systems — too many to deal with individually in
this Manual. If your bicycle has a suspension system of any kind, be sure to
read and follow the suspension manufacturer's setup and service instructions. If
you do not have the manufacturer's instructions, see your dealer or contact the
manufacturer.
WARNING: Failure to maintain, check and properly adjust the
suspension system may result in suspension malfunction, which may
cause you to lose control and fall.
If your bike has suspension, the increased speed you may develop also
increases your risk of injury. For example, when braking, the front of a suspended
bike dips. You could lose control and fall if you do not have experience with this
system. Learn to handle your suspension system safely. See also Section 4.C.
WARNING: Changing suspension adjustment can change the handling
and braking characteristics of your bicycle. Never change suspension
adjustment unless you are thoroughly familiar with the suspension
system manufacturer's instructions and recommendations, and always check
for changes in the handling and braking characteristics of the bicycle after a
suspension adjustment by taking a careful test ride in a hazard-free area.
Suspension can increase control and comfort by allowing the wheels to better
follow the terrain. This enhanced capability may allow you to ride faster; but
you must not confuse the enhanced capabilities of the bicycle with your own
capabilities as a rider. Increasing your skill will take time and practice. Proceed
carefully until you have learned to handle the full capabilities of your bike.
WARNING: Not all bicycles can be safely retrofitted with some types
of suspension systems. Before retrofitting a bicycle with any
suspension, check with the bicycle's manufacturer to make sure that
what you want to do is compatible with the bicycle's design. Failing to do
so can result in catastrophic frame failure.
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