Pacific Bicycle Owner's Manual page 20

11/99.bikemanual 11/24/99 3:50 PM
Drivetrain
Freewheel Front Derailleur
Cogs
Guide Pulley
Rear Derailleur
13
Page 20
Derailleur Control
Cable
Front Chainwheels
Crank Arm
Pedal
Most multi-speed bicycles today are equipped with what are known as
derailleur gears. They operate using a system of levers and mechanisms
to move the drive chain between different sized driving gears or cogs.
The purpose of gears is to let you maintain a constant, steady pedaling
pace under varying conditions. This means your riding will be less
tiring without unnecessary straining up hills or fast pedaling down hill.
Bicycles come with a variety of gear configurations from 5 to 24
speeds. A 5-6 speed bicycle will have a single front chainwheel, a
rear derailleur, and 5 or 6 cogs on the rear hub. Bicycles with more
gears will also have a front derailleur, a front chainwheel with
2-3 cogs, and up to 8 cogs on the rear hub.
No matter how many gears, the operating principles are the same.
The front derailleur is operated by the left shift lever and the rear
derailleur by the right. To operate you must be pedaling forward. You
can not shift derailleur gears when you are stopped or when pedaling
backwards. Before shifting ease up on your pedaling pressure. On
approaching a hill, shift to a lower gear before your pedaling speed
slows down too much for a smooth shift. When coming to a stop,
shift to a lower gear first so it will be easier when you start riding
again. If, after selecting a new gear position, you hear a slight
rubbing noise from the front or rear gears, gently adjust the appropriate
shifter until the noise goes away. For optimal performance and
extended chain life, it is recommended that you avoid using the
extreme combinations of gear positions (diagram p. 14) for extended
periods.