Cannondale Chase Series User manual

cannondale
121014
english
WARNING
THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT SAFETY, PERFORMANCE
AND SERVICE INFORMATION.
ride on your new bicycle, and keep it for reference.
bicycle owner’s manual

N 95-937 du 24 août 1995 norme NFR030

1
USE OF THIS MANUAL
Cannondale Bicycle Owner’s Manual
This manual contains important information
affecting your safety and the proper use of
bicycles. It is a very important manual for every
bike we make. It is organized into two parts:
PART I
Is a generic guide to the proper function and use
of bicycles. This generic information is used by
many bike companies. Most aspects of bicycles
are common or “generic.” PART I of this manual is
the 8th edition of the generic manual.
PART II
Contains Information specic to Cannondale
bicycles and topics we feel you need to know and
understand about our bikes.
A manual alone cannot teach you how to ride,
and a manual the size of an encyclopedia could
not cover every combination of bicycle, rider and
conditions. Thus, as a reasonable person would
expect,theCannondalemanualsandsupplements
focus on the bicycle, not teaching you to ride.
This manual is not intended as a comprehensive
use, service, repair or maintenance manual. It
contains no assembly instructions. This manual
is not a service manual for any parts of your bike.
Please see your dealer for all service, repairs or
maintenance. Your dealer may also be able to
refer you to classes or books on bicycle use, and
maintenance.
Owner’s Manual Supplements
Cannondale Owner’s Manual Supplements are
“supplements” to this manual providing important
additional model specic safety, maintenance,
and technical information. Cannondale Owner’s
Manual Supplements are not replacements for
this or any other manual for your bike.
You can download Adobe Acrobat PDF versions
of any Cannondale Owner’s Manual or Owner’s
Manual Supplements or Tech Notes from our
website. Go to: http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/
tech/.
Other Manuals & Instructions
Many of the components on your bike were not
made by Cannondale. When available from
the manufacturer, Cannondale packages these
manuals and/or instructions with our bikes for
delivery to you. We strongly recommend that you
read and follow all the manufacturer’s specic
instructions included with your bike.
Authorized Cannondale Retailers
Your local Authorized Cannondale Retailer is your
primary contact for service and adjustment of your
bicycle, instruction in its use, and any warranty
questions.
Your new bike is to be delivered by a Authorized
Cannondale Retailer to you in a completely
assembled and properly adjusted condition,
complete with all required safety equipment,
Owner’s Manuals, any Cannondale Owner’s
Manual Supplements, and the available
manufacturer’s instructions (shipped by
Cannondale) for parts and components for your
bike.
To nd the Cannondale retailer closest to you,
call 1-800-BIKE-USA, or use our website’s dealer
locator at www.cannondale.com.
Use Only Genuine Replacement Parts
It is important to your safety and the performance
of your Cannondale bicycle that you use only
genuine Cannondale replacement parts in
Headshok forks, Cannondale swingarms and
rear suspension assemblies, derailleur hangers
and other frame hardware. These parts are
described in Owners Manual Supplements. This
note does not apply to widely used generic bicycle
components such as derailluers.

2
CONTENTS
USE OF THIS MANUAL ....................................1
PART I
GENERAL WARNING........................................3
A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS...................3
SECTION 1. FIRST........................................4-7
1.A Bike Fit ...................................................................4
1.B Safety First.............................................................4
1.C Mechanical Safety Check ......................................5
1.D First Ride................................................................7
SECTION 2. SAFETY ..................................7-13
2.A The Basics..............................................................8
2.B Riding Safety..........................................................9
2.C Off-Road Safety...................................................10
2.D Wet Weather Riding.............................................10
2.E Night Riding.........................................................11
2.F Extreme, Stunt, or Competition Riding................12
2.G Changing Components /Adding Accessories.......13
SECTION 3. FIT ........................................14-18
3.A Stand Over Height................................................14
3.B Saddle Position....................................................15
3.C. Handlebar Height and Angle................................17
3.D Control Position Adjustments...............................17
3.E Brake Reach .......................................................18
SECTION 4. TECH...................................18 - 35
4.A Wheels, Quick Release........................................18
4.B Seatpost Quick Release.......................................24
4.C Brakes..................................................................26
4.D Shifting Gears......................................................29
4.E Pedals..................................................................31
4.F Bicycle Suspension..............................................32
4.G Tires and Tubes...................................................33
SECTION 5. SERVICE...............................36-39
5.A Service Intervals...................................................36
5.B If Your Bicycle Sustains an Impact.......................39
PART II
SECTION A.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFO.......................40-48
A Wide Range of Injuries Are Possible........................40
Bicycles Cannot Protect You .......................................40
Bicycling Inherent Risk................................................40
Warning Label .............................................................41
Riding in Trafc, Commuting .......................................41
Riding at Night, Dusk, Dawn........................................42
Renishing...................................................................43
Modications................................................................43
Child Carriers...............................................................44
Children and Stationary Bike Trainers.........................44
Bicycles Have Sharp Surfaces....................................44
Installing Accessories..................................................45
Aerodynamic Handlebars............................................45
Bar Ends......................................................................45
About Shimmy.............................................................46
Toe Clip Overlap..........................................................46
Brake Power Modulators.............................................47
Aftermarket Brake Systems.........................................47
Aftermarket Power Systems........................................48
SECTION B. INTENDED USE....................48-56
This section also includes weight limit information.
High Purpose Road.....................................................49
General Purpose Riding..............................................50
Cross-Country, Marathon, Hardtails............................51
All Mountain.................................................................52
Gravity, Freeride, Downhill ..........................................53
Dirt Jump.....................................................................54
Cyclocross...................................................................55
Road Tandems ............................................................55
Mountain Tandems......................................................56
SECTION C. MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDING.....57-61
Off-Road Riding...........................................................57
Bike Types...................................................................57
Inspection and Maintenance Routines ........................57
Suspension..................................................................58
Jumping.......................................................................58
Stay In Control.............................................................58
Downhill and Lift-Serviced Riding................................58
Riding Through Water..................................................59
Shifting Gears While Pedaling.....................................59
Freeride and Downhill Riding .................................60-61
SECTION D. INSPECT FOR SAFETY........62-72
1. Understanding Metals..............................................63
2. Understanding Composites (Carbon Fiber).............68
3. Understanding Components....................................69
Bicycle Lifespan...........................................................72
Useful Life of Lightweight Frames...............................72
SECTION E. MAINTENANCE.....................73-75
30 Day Service............................................................73
Cleaning ......................................................................73
Preventing Corrosion...................................................73
Lubrication...................................................................74
Tightening Torques......................................................74
Repair/Work Stands ....................................................75
Auto Racks..................................................................75
SECTION F.
CANNONDALE LIMITED WARRANTY......76-77
Warranty Registration..................................................77
Serial Number..............................................................77
CANNONDALE
AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORS.................78-80

3
GENERAL WARNING
Like any sport, bicycling involves risk of injury
and damage. By choosing to ride a bicycle, you
assume the responsibility for that risk, so you
need to know — and to practice — the rules of
safe and responsible riding and of proper use and
maintenance. Proper use and maintenance of
your bicycle reduces risk of injury.
This Manual contains many “Warnings” and
“Cautions”concerning the consequencesoffailure
to maintain or inspect your bicycle and of failure to
follow safe cycling practices.
The combination of the safety alert symbol
and the word WARNING indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in serious injury or death.
The combination of the safety alert symbol
and the word CAUTION indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury, or is an alert
against unsafe practices.
The word CAUTION used without the safety alert
symbol indicates a situation which, if not avoided,
could result in serious damage to the bicycle or
the voiding of your warranty.
Many of the Warnings and Cautions say “you may
lose control and fall”. Because any fall can result
in serious injury or even death, we do not always
repeat the warning of possible injury or death.
Because it is impossible to anticipate every
situation or condition which can occur while riding,
this Manual makes no representation about the
safe use of the bicycle under all conditions. There
are risks associated with the use of any bicycle
which cannot be predicted or avoided, and which
are the sole responsibility of the rider.
A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS
Asaparentorguardian,youareresponsibleforthe
activities and safety of your minor child, and that
includes making sure that the bicycle is properly
tted to the child; that it is in good repair and safe
operating condition; that you and your child have
learned and understand the safe operation of the
bicycle; and that you and your child have learned,
understand and obey not only the applicable local
motor vehicle, bicycle and trafc laws, but also
the common sense rules of safe and responsible
bicycling. As a parent, you should read this
manual, as well as review its warnings and the
bicycle’s functions and operating procedures
with your child, before letting your child ride the
bicycle.
WARNING
MAKE SURE THAT YOUR CHILD ALWAYS
WEARS AN APPROVED BICYCLE HELMET
WHEN RIDING; BUT ALSO MAKE SURE
THAT YOUR CHILD UNDERSTANDS THAT
A BICYCLE HELMET IS FOR BICYCLING
ONLY,AND MUST BE REMOVED WHEN NOT
RIDING.
A helmet must not be worn while playing, in
play areas, on playground equipment, while
climbing trees, or at any time while not riding
a bicycle. Failure to follow this warning could
result in serious injury or death.

4
SECTION 1. FIRST
NOTE: We strongly urge you to read this Manual
in its entirety before your rst ride. At the very
least, read and make sure that you understand
each point in this section, and refer to the cited
sections on any issue which you don’t completely
understand. Please note that not all bicycles
have all of the features described in this manual.
Ask your dealer to point out the features of your
bicycle.
1.A - BIKE FIT
1. Is your bike the right size? To check, see
SECTION 3.A. If your bicycle is too large or
too small for you, you may lose control and
fall. If your new bike is not the right size, ask
your dealer to exchange it before you ride it.
2. Is the saddle at the right height? To check, see
SECTION3.B.Ifyouadjustyoursaddleheight,
follow the Minimum Insertion instructions in
SECTION 3.B.
3. Are saddle and seatpost securely clamped? A
correctly tightened saddle will allow no saddle
movement in any direction. See SECTION
3.B.
4. Arethe stem andhandlebars atthe right height
for you? If not, see SECTION 3.C.
5. Can you comfortably operate the brakes? If
not, you may be able to adjust their angle and
reach. See SECTION 3.D and 3.E.
6. Do you fully understand how to operate your
new bicycle? If not, before your rst ride, have
your dealer explain any functions or features
which you do not understand.
1.B - SAFETY FIRST
1. Always wear an approved helmet
when riding your bike, and follow the
helmet manufacturer’s instructions
for t, use and care.
2. Do you have all the other required
and recommended safety
equipment? See SECTION 2.
It’s your responsibility to familiarize yourself
with the laws of the areas where you ride, and
to comply with all applicable laws.
3. Do you know how to correctly operate your
wheel quick releases? Check SECTION 4.A.1
to make sure. Riding with an improperly
adjusted wheel quick release can cause the
wheelto wobbleordisengagefromthe bicycle,
and cause serious injury or death.
4. If your bike has toeclips and straps or clipless
(“step-in”) pedals, make sure you know how
they work (see SECTION 4.E). These pedals
require special techniques and skills. Follow
the pedal manufacturer’s instructions for use,
adjustment and care.
5. Do you have “toe overlap”? On smaller framed
bicycles your toe or toeclip may be able to
contact the front wheel when a pedal is all
the way forward and the wheel is turned. Read
SECTION 4.E. if you have toeclip overlap.
6. Does your bike have suspension? If so,
check SECTION 4.F. Suspension can change
the way a bicycle performs. Follow the
suspension manufacturer’s instructions for
use, adjustment and care.

5
1.C - MECHANICAL
SAFETY CHECK
Routinely check the condition of your bicycle
before every ride.
Nuts, Bolts Screws & Other Fasteners
Because manufacturers use a wide variety of
fastener sizes and shapes made in a variety of
materials,oftendifferingbymodeland component,
it is not possible for this Manual to specify correct
torque (tightening force) for the fasteners on your
bicycle. We can tell you the importance of correct
torque, but not the specic torque required for
each fastener on your bicycle. To correctly torque
a fastener, a torque wrench must be used. A
professionalbicyclemechanicwithatorquewrench
should torque the fasteners on you bicycle. If you
choose to work on your own bicycle you must get
correct tightening torque specications from the
bicycle or component manufacturer or from your
dealer. If you need to make an adjustment at
home or in the eld, we urge you to exercise care,
and to have the fasteners you worked on checked
by your dealer as soon as possible.
WARNING
CORRECT TIGHTENING FORCE ON
FASTENERS –NUTS, BOLTS, SCREWS– ON
YOUR BICYCLE IS IMPORTANT.
Too little force, and the fastener may not hold
securely. Too much force, and the fastener can
strip threads, stretch, deform or break. Either
way, incorrect tightening force can result in
component failure, which can cause you to
loose control and fall.
Make sure nothing is loose. Lift the front wheel
off the ground by two or three inches, then let it
bounce on the ground. Anything sound, feel or
look loose? Do a visual and tactile inspection of
the whole bike. Any loose parts or accessories? If
so, secure them. If you’re not sure, ask someone
with experience to check.
Tires & Wheels
Make sure tires are correctly inated (see SECTION
4.G.1). Check by putting one hand on the saddle,
one on the intersection of the handlebars and
stem, then bouncing your weight on the bike while
looking at tire deection. Compare what you see
with how it looks when you know the tires are
correctly inated; and adjust if necessary.
Tires in good shape? Spin each wheel
slowly and look for cuts in the tread
and sidewall. Replace damaged tires
before riding the bike.
Wheels true? Spin each wheel and check for
brake clearance and side-to-side wobble. If a
wheel wobbles side-to-side even slightly, or rubs
against or hits the brake pads, take the bike to a
qualied bike shop to have the wheel trued.
CAUTION
Wheels must be true for the brakes to work
effectively. Wheel trueing is a skill which
requires special tools and experience. Do not
attempt to true a wheel unless you have the
knowledge, experience and tools needed to do
the job correctly.
Wheel rims clean and undamaged? Make sure the
rims are clean and undamaged along the braking
surface, and check for excess rim wear.

6
Brakes
Check the brakes for proper operation (see
SECTION 4.C). Squeeze the brake levers. Are
the brake quick-releases closed? All control
cables seated and securely engaged? Do the
brake pads contact the wheel rim squarely and
make full contact with the rim? Do the brake pads
touch the wheel rim 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.
Quick Releases
Make sure the front wheel, rear wheel
and seat post quick releases are properly
adjusted and in the locked position.
See SECTION 4.A and 4.B.
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 SECTION 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, 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
PART II, SECTION D. INSPECT FOR SAFETY.

7
1.D - FIRST RIDE
When you buckle on your helmet and go for your
rst 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 rst.
Sudden or excessive application of the front brake
could pitch you over the handlebars. Applying
brakes too hard can lock up a wheel, which could
cause you to lose control and fall. Skidding is an
example of what can happen when a wheel locks
up.
If your bicycle has toeclips or clipless pedals,
practice getting in and out of the pedals.
See paragraph B.4 above and SECTION 4.E.4.
If your bike has suspension, familiarize yourself
with how the suspension responds to brake
application and rider weight shifts. See paragraph
B.6 above and SECTION 4.F.
Practice shifting the gears (see SECTION 4.D).
Remembertonevermovetheshifterwhilepedaling
backward, nor pedal backwards immediately after
having moved the shifter. This could jam the chain
and cause serious damage to the bicycle.
Check out the handling and response of the bike;
and check the comfort.
If you have any questions, or if you feel
anything about the bike is not as it should be,
consult your dealer before you ride.
SECTION 2. SAFETY
WARNING
MANY STATES REQUIRE SPECIFIC SAFETY
DEVICES. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
TO FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE
LAWS OF THE STATE WHERE YOU RIDE
AND TO COMPLY WITH ALL APPLICABLE
LAWS, INCLUDING PROPERLY EQUIPPING
YOURSELF AND YOUR BIKE AS THE LAW
REQUIRES.
Observe all local bicycle laws and regulations.
Observe regulations about licensing of bicycles,
riding on sidewalks, laws regulating bike path
and trail use, helmet laws, child carrier laws,
special bicycle trafc laws, and so on.
It’s your responsibility to know and obey the
laws.

8
2.A - THE BASICS
1. Always wear a cycling helmet which meets the
latest certication standards and is appropriate
for the type of riding you do. Always follow
the helmet manufacturer’s instructions for t,
use and care of your helmet. Most serious
bicycle injuries involve head injuries which
might have been avoided if the rider had worn
an appropriate helmet.
Figure 1. Bicycle Helmet
Your helmet should be:
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
(CPSC) certied (look for the label on the
helmet)
• Properly Sized for You
• Properly Fitted to You
• Properly Attached to Your Head!
• Undamaged
ASK YOUR RETAILER FOR HELP
WARNING
FAILURE TO WEAR A HELMET WHEN
RIDING MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY
OR DEATH.
2. Always do the Mechanical Safety Check
(SECTION 1.C) before you get on a bike.
3. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls of
your bicycle: brakes (SECTION 4.C.); pedals
(SECTION 4.E.); shifting (SECTION 4.D.)
4. Becarefulto keepbodyparts andotherobjects
away from the sharp teeth of chainrings, the
moving chain, the turning pedals and cranks,
and the spinning wheels of your bicycle.
5. Always wear:
• Shoes that will stay on your feet and will grip
the pedals. Never ride barefoot or in sandals.
• Bright, visible clothing that is not so loose that
it can be tangled in the bicycle or snagged by
objects at the side of the road or trail.
• Protectiveeyewear,toprotect againstairborne
dirt, dust and bugs —tinted when the sun is
bright, clear when it’s not.
6. Don’t jump with your bike. Jumping a bike,
particularly a BMX or mountain bike, can be
fun; but it can put huge and unpredictable
stress on the bicycle and its components.
Riders who insist on jumping their bikes risk
serious damage, to their bicycles as well as to
themselves. Before you attempt to jump, do
stunt riding or race with your bike, read and
understand SECTION 2.F.
7. Ride at a speed appropriate for conditions.
Increased speed means higher risk.

9
2.B - RIDING SAFETY
1. You are sharing the road or the path with
others — motorists, pedestrians and other
cyclists. Respect their rights.
2. Ride defensively. Always assume that others
do not see you.
3. Look ahead, and be ready to avoid:
• Vehicles slowing or turning, entering the road
or your lane ahead of you, or coming up
behind you.
• Parked car doors opening.
• Pedestrians stepping out.
• Children or pets playing near the road.
• Pot holes, sewer grating, railroad tracks,
expansionjoints,roadorsidewalk construction,
debris and other obstructions that could cause
you to swerve into trafc, catch your wheel or
otherwise cause you to lose control and have
an accident.
• The many other hazards and distractions
which can occur on a bicycle ride.
4. Ride in designated bike lanes, on designated
bike paths or as close to the edge of the road
as possible, in the direction of trafc ow or as
directed by local governing laws.
5. Stop at stop signs and trafc lights; slow down
and look both ways at street intersections.
Remember that a bicycle always loses in a
collision with a motor vehicle, so be prepared
to yield even if you have the right of way.
6. Use approved hand signals for turning and
stopping.
7. Never ride with headphones. They mask trafc
sounds and emergency vehicle sirens, distract
you from concentrating on what’s going on
around you, and their wires can tangle in the
moving parts of the bicycle, causing you to
lose control.
8. Never carry a passenger, unless it is a small
childwearing anapproved helmetand secured
in a correctly mounted child carrier or a child-
carrying trailer.
9. Never carry anything which obstructs your
vision or your complete control of the bicycle,
or which could become entangled in the
moving parts of the bicycle.
10. Never hitch a ride by holding on to another
vehicle.
11.Don’tdostunts,wheeliesorjumps.Ifyouintend
to do stunts, wheelies, jumps or go racing
with your bike despite our advice not to, read
SECTION 2.F, Downhill, Stunt or Competition
Biking, now. Think carefully about your skills
before deciding to take the large risks that go
with this kind of riding.
12. Don’t weave through trafc or make any
moves that may surprise people with whom
you are sharing the road.
13. Observe and yield the right of way.
14. Never ride your bicycle while under the
inuence of alcohol or drugs.
15. If possible, avoid riding in bad weather, when
visibility is obscured, at dawn, dusk or in the
dark, or when extremely tired. Each of these
conditions increases the risk of accident.

10
2.C - OFF-ROAD SAFETY
We recommend that children not ride on rough
terrain unless they are accompanied by an adult.
1. The variable conditions and hazards of off-
road riding require close attention and specic
skills. Start slowly on easier terrain and build
up your skills. If your bike has suspension,
the increased speed you may develop also
increases your risk of losing control and
falling. Get to know how to handle your bike
safely before trying increased speed or more
difcult terrain.
2. Wear safety gear appropriate to the kind of
riding you plan to do.
3. Don’t ride alone in remote areas. Even when
riding with others, make sure that someone
knows where you’re going and when you
expect to be back.
4. Always take along some kind of identication,
so that people know who you are in case of an
accident; and take along a couple of dollars
in cash for a candy bar, a cool drink or an
emergency phone call.
5. Yield right of way to pedestrians and animals.
Rideinawaythatdoesnotfrightenorendanger
them, and give them enough room so that their
unexpected moves don’t endanger you.
6. Be prepared. If something goes wrong while
you’re riding off-road, help may not be close.
7. Before you attempt to jump, do stunt riding
or race with your bike, read and understand
SECTION 2.F.
Off-Road Respect
Obey the local laws regulating where and how you
can ride off-road, and respect private property.
You may be sharing the trail with others — hikers,
equestrians, other cyclists. Respect their rights.
Stay on the designated trail. Don’t contribute to
erosion by riding in mud or with unnecessary
sliding. Don’t disturb the ecosystem by cutting
your own trail or shortcut through vegetation or
streams. It is your responsibility to minimize your
impact on the environment. Leave things as you
found them; and always take out everything you
brought in.
2.D - WET WEATHER RIDING
Under wet conditions, the stopping power of your
brakes (as well as the brakes of other vehicles
sharing the road) is dramatically reduced and your
tires don’t grip nearly as well. This makes it harder
to control speed and easier to lose control.
WARNING
WET WEATHER IMPAIRS TRACTION,
BRAKING AND VISIBILITY, BOTH FOR THE
BICYCLIST AND FOR OTHER VEHICLES
SHARING THE ROAD.
The risk of an accident is dramatically
increased in wet conditions.
To make sure that you can slow down and stop
safely in wet conditions, ride more slowly and
apply your brakes earlier and more gradually than
you would under normal, dry conditions. See also
SECTION 4.C.

11
2.E - NIGHT RIDING
Riding a bicycle at night is many times more
dangerous than riding during the day. Abicyclist
is very difcult for motorists and pedestrians to
see. Therefore, children should never ride at
dawn, at dusk or at night. Adults who chose to
accept the greatly increased risk of riding at dawn,
at dusk or at night need to take extra care both
riding and choosing specialized equipment which
helps reduce that risk. Consult your dealer about
night riding safety equipment.
WARNING
REFLECTORSARENOTASUBSTITUTEFOR
REQUIRED LIGHTS. RIDING AT DAWN, AT
DUSK, AT NIGHT OR AT OTHER TIMES OF
POOR VISIBILITY WITHOUT AN ADEQUATE
BICYCLELIGHTINGSYSTEMAND WITHOUT
REFLECTORS IS DANGEROUS AND MAY
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Bicycle reectors are designed to pick up and
reect street lights and car lights in a way that may
help you to be seen and recognized as a moving
bicyclist.
CAUTION
Check reectors and their mounting brackets
regularly to make sure that they are clean,
straight, unbroken and securely mounted.
Have your dealer replace damaged reectors
and straighten or tighten any that are bent or
loose.
The mounting brackets of front and rear reectors
are often designed as brake straddle cable safety
catches which prevent the straddle cable from
catching on the tire tread if the cable jumps out of
its yoke or breaks.
WARNING
DO NOT REMOVE THE FRONT OR REAR
REFLECTORS OR REFLECTOR BRACKETS
FROM YOUR BICYCLE. They are an integral
part of the bicycle’s safety system.
REMOVING THE REFLECTORS
MAY REDUCE YOUR VISIBILITY TO
OTHERS USING THE ROADWAY.
BEING STRUCK BY OTHER VEHICLES MAY
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
The reector brackets may protect you from the
brake straddle cable catching on the tire in the
event of brake cable failure. If a brake straddle
cable catches on the tire, it can cause the wheel
to stop suddenly, causing you to loose control
and fall.
If you choose to ride under conditions of poor
visibility, check and be sure you comply with
all local laws about night riding, and take the
following strongly recommended additional
precautions:
• Purchase and install battery or generator
powered head and tail lights which meet all
regulatory requirementsandprovideadequate
visibility.
• Wear light colored, reective clothing and
accessories, such as a reective vest,
reective arm and leg bands, reective stripes
on your helmet, ashing lights attached to
your body and/or your bicycle ... any reective
device or light source that moves will help you
get the attention of approaching motorists,
pedestrians and other trafc.
• Make sure your clothing or anything you
may be carrying on the bicycle does not
obstruct a reector or light.
• Make sure that your bicycle is equipped with
correctly positioned and securely mounted
reectors.

12
WHILE RIDING AT DAWN, AT DUSK OR AT
NIGHT:
• Ride slowly.
• Avoid dark areas, areas of heavy or fast-
moving trafc.
• Avoid road hazards.
• If possible, ride on familiar routes.
IF RIDING IN TRAFFIC :
• Be predictable. Ride so that drivers can see
you and predict your movements.
• Be alert. Ride defensively and expect the
unexpected.
• If you plan to ride in trafc often, ask your
dealer about trafc safety classes or a good
book on bicycle trafc safety.
2.F - EXTREME, STUNT OR
COMPETITION RIDING
Whether you call it Aggro, Hucking, Freeride,
North Shore, Downhill, Jumping, Stunt Riding,
Racing or something else: by engaging in this
sort of extreme, aggressive riding you voluntarily
assume an increased risk of injury or death.
Not all bicycles are designed for these types of
riding,and thosethat aremay notbe suitablefor all
types of aggressive riding. Check with your dealer
or the bicycle’s manufacturer about the suitability
of your bicycle before engaging in extreme riding.
When riding fast down hill, you can reach
speeds seen on motorcycles, and therefore face
similar hazards and risks. Have your bicycle
and equipment carefully inspected by a qualied
mechanic and be sure it is in perfect condition.
Consult with expert riders and race ofcials on
conditions and equipment advisable at the site
where you plan to ride. Wear appropriate safety
gear, including an approved full face helmet, full
nger gloves, and body armor. Ultimately, it is your
responsibility to have proper equipment and to be
familiar with course conditions.
WARNING
ALTHOUGH MANY CATALOGS,
ADVERTISEMENTS AND ARTICLES ABOUT
BICYCLING DEPICT RIDERS ENGAGED
IN EXTREME RIDING, THIS ACTIVITY IS
EXTREMELY DANGEROUS, INCREASES
YOUR RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH, AND
INCREASES THE SEVERITY OF ANY
INJURY.
Remember that the action depicted is being
performed by professionals with many years of
training and experience. Know your limits and
alwaysweara helmet and otherappropriate safety
gear. Even with state-of-the-art protective safety
gear, you could be seriously injured or killed when
jumping, stunt riding, riding downhill at speed or
in competition.
CAUTION
Bicycles and bicycle parts have limitations with
regard to strength and integrity, and this type of
riding can exceed those limitations.

13
Werecommend againstthis type ofriding because
of the increased risks; but if you choose to take
the risk, at least:
• Take lessons from a competent instructor rst
• Start with easy learning exercises and slowly
develop your skills before trying more difcult
or dangerous riding
• Do stunts, jumping, racing or fast downhill
riding only in areas designated for this type of
riding
• Wear a full face helmet, safety pads and other
safety gear• Understand and recognize
that the stresses imposed on your bike by this
kind of activity may break or damage parts of
the bicycle and void the warranty
• Take your bicycle to your dealer if anything
breaks or bends. Do not ride your bicycle
when any part is damaged.
If you ride downhill at speed, do stunt riding or
ride in competition, know the limits of your skill
and experience. Ultimately, avoiding injury is your
responsibility.
2.G - CHANGING COMPONENTS
OR ADDING ACCESSORIES
There are many components and accessories
available to enhance the comfort, performance
and appearance of your bicycle. However, if you
changecomponentsoraddaccessories,youdoso
at your own risk. The bicycle’s manufacturer may
not have tested that component or accessory for
compatibility, reliability or safety on your bicycle.
Before installing any component or accessory,
including a different size tire, make sure that it is
compatible with your bicycle by checking with your
dealer. Be sure to read, understand and follow the
instructions that accompany the products you
purchase for your bicycle.
WARNING
FAILURE TO CONFIRM COMPATIBILITY,
PROPERLY INSTALL, OPERATE AND
MAINTAIN ANY COMPONENT OR
ACCESSORY CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH.
CAUTION
Changing the components on your bike may
void the warranty. Refer to your warranty, and
check with your dealer before changing the
components on your bike.

14
SECTION 3. FIT
NOTE: Correct t is an essential element of
bicyclingsafety,performanceandcomfort. Making
the adjustments to your bicycle which result in
correct t for your body and riding conditions
requires experience, skill and special tools.
Always have your dealer make the adjustments
on your bicycle; or, if you have the experience,
skill and tools, have your dealer check your work
before riding.
WARNING
IF YOUR BICYCLE DOES NOT FIT
PROPERLY, YOU MAY LOSE CONTROLAND
FALL.
If your new bike doesn’t t, ask your dealer to
exchange it before you ride it.
3.A - STAND OVER HEIGHT
Standover height is the basic element of bike t
(see g. 2). It is the distance from the ground to
the top of the bicycle’s frame at that point where
your crotch is when straddling the bike. To check
for correct standover height, straddle the bike
while wearing the kind of shoes in which you’ll
be riding, and bounce vigorously on your heels. If
your crotch touches the frame, the bike is too big
for you. Don’t even ride the bike around the block.
A bike which you ride only on paved surfaces and
never take off-road should give you a minimum
standover height clearance of two inches (5 cm).
A bike that you’ll ride on unpaved surfaces should
give you a minimum of three inches (7.5 cm) of
standover height clearance. And a bike that you’ll
use off road should give you four inches (10 cm)
or more of clearance.
Figure 2. Stand Over Height
WARNING
IF YOU PLAN TO USE YOUR BIKE
FOR JUMPING OR STUNT RIDING,
READ SECTION 2.F AGAIN.

15
3.B - SADDLE POSITION
Correct saddle adjustment is an important factor
in getting the most performance and comfort
from your bicycle. If the saddle position is not
comfortable for you, see your dealer.
The saddle can be adjusted in three directions:
1. Up and Down Adjustment
To check for correct saddle height (g. 3):
• Sit on the saddle;
• Place one heel on a pedal;
• Rotate the crank until the pedal with your heel
on it is in the down position and the crank arm is
parallel to the seat tube.
If your leg is not completely straight, your saddle
height needs to be adjusted. If your hips must rock
for the heel to reach the pedal, the saddle is too
high. If your leg is bent at the knee with your heel
on the pedal, the saddle is too low.
Oncethe saddleisat thecorrect height,make sure
that the seatpost does not project from the frame
beyond its “Minimum Insertion” or “Maximum
Extension” mark (g. 4).
Figure 3. Saddle Position
If your bike has an interrupted seat tube, as is
the case on some bikes with rear suspension,
you must also make sure that the seat post is
far enough into the frame so that you can touch
it through the bottom of the interrupted seat tube
with the tip of your nger without inserting your
nger beyond its rst knuckle (see g. 5).
WARNING
If your seat post projects from the frame beyond
the Minimum Insertion or Maximum Extension
mark (see g. 4) or you cannot touch the bottom
of the seat post through the bottom of the
interrupted seat tube with the tip of your nger
without inserting your nger beyond its rst
knuckle (see g. 5), the seat post may break,
which could cause you to lose control and fall.
Figure 4. Minimum Insertion Mark

16
Figure 5. Interrupted Seat Tube
2. Front and Back Adjustment
The saddle can be adjusted forward or back to
help you get the optimal position on the bike.
Ask your dealer to set the saddle for your optimal
riding position and to show you how to make this
adjustment.
3. Saddle Angle Adjustment
Most people prefer a horizontal saddle; but some
riders like the saddle nose angled up or down just
a little. Your dealer can adjust saddle angle or
teach you how to do it.
NOTE: If your bicycle is equipped with a
suspension seat post, periodically ask your dealer
to check it.
Small changes in saddle position can have a
substantial effect on performance and comfort.
To nd your best saddle position, make only one
adjustment at a time.
WARNING
AFTER ANY SADDLE ADJUSTMENT, BE
SURE THAT THE SADDLE ADJUSTING
MECHANISM IS PROPERLY TIGHTENED
BEFORE RIDING. A LOOSE SADDLE
CLAMP OR SEAT POST BINDER CAN
CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE SEAT POST, OR
CAN CAUSE YOU TO LOSE CONTROL AND
FALL.
A correctly tightened saddle adjusting
mechanism will allow no saddle movement in
any direction. Periodically check to make sure
that the saddle adjusting mechanism is properly
tightened.
If, in spite of carefully adjusting the saddle height,
tilt and fore-and-aft position, your saddle is still
uncomfortable, you may need a different saddle
design. Saddles, like people, come in many
different shapes, sizes and resilience. Your
dealer can help you select a saddle which, when
correctly adjusted for your body and riding style,
will be comfortable.
WARNING
SOME PEOPLE HAVE CLAIMED THAT
EXTENDED RIDING WITHA SADDLE WHICH
IS INCORRECTLY ADJUSTED OR WHICH
DOES NOT SUPPORT YOUR PELVIC AREA
CORRECTLY CAN CAUSE SHORT-TERM
OR LONG-TERM INJURY TO NERVES AND
BLOOD VESSELS, OR EVEN IMPOTENCE.
If your saddle causes you pain, numbness or
other discomfort, listen to your body and stop
riding until you see your dealer about saddle
adjustment or a different saddle.

17
3.C - HANDLEBAR
HEIGHT AND ANGLE
Your bike is equipped either with a “threadless”
stem,whichclamps ontothe outside ofthe steerer
tube, or with a “quill” stem, which clamps inside
the steerer tube by way of an expanding binder
bolt. If you aren’t absolutely sure which type of
stem your bike has, ask your dealer.
If your bike has a “threadless” stem, your dealer
may be able to change handlebar height by
moving height adjustment spacers from below the
stem to above the stem, or vice versa. Otherwise,
you’ll have to get a stem of different length or rise.
Consult your dealer. Do not attempt to do this
yourself, as it requires special knowledge.
If your bike has a “quill” stem, you can ask your
dealer to adjust the handlebar height a bit by
adjusting stem height.
A quill stem has an etched or stamped mark on
its shaft which designates the stem’s “Minimum
Insertion” or “Maximum Extension”. This mark
must not be visible above the headset.
WARNING
ON SOME BICYCLES, CHANGING THE
STEM OR STEM HEIGHT CAN AFFECT THE
TENSION OF THE FRONT BRAKE CABLE,
LOCKINGTHEFRONTBRAKEORCREATING
EXCESS CABLE SLACK WHICH CAN MAKE
THE FRONT BRAKE INOPERABLE.
If the front brake pads move in towards the
wheel rim or out away from the wheel rim when
the stem or stem height is changed, the brakes
must be correctly adjusted before you ride the
bicycle.
WARNING
THE STEM’S MINIMUM INSERTION MARK
MUST NOT BE VISIBLE ABOVE THE TOP OF
THE HEADSET.
If the stem is extended beyond the minimum
insertion mark the stem may break or damage
the fork’s steerer tube, which could cause you
to lose control and fall.
WARNING
AN INSUFFICIENTLY TIGHTENED STEM
BINDER BOLT, HANDLEBAR BINDER BOLT
OR BAR END EXTENSION CLAMPING BOLT
MAY COMPROMISE STEERING ACTION,
WHICH COULD CAUSE YOU TO LOSE
CONTROL AND FALL.
Place the front wheel of the bicycle between
your legs and attempt to twist the handlebar/
stem assembly. If you can twist the stem in
relation to the front wheel, turn the handlebars
in relation to the stem, or turn the bar end
extensions in relation to the handlebar, the bolts
are insufciently tightened.
Your dealer can also change the angle of the
handlebar or bar end extensions.
3.D - CONTROL POSITION
ADJUSTMENTS
The angle of the brake and shift control levers and
their position on the handlebars can be changed.
Ask your dealer to make the adjustments for you.

18
3.E - BRAKE REACH
Many bikes have brake levers which can be
adjusted for reach. If you have small hands or nd
it difcult to squeeze the brake levers, your dealer
can either adjust the reach or t shorter reach
brake levers.
WARNING
THE SHORTER THE BRAKE LEVER
REACH, THE MORE CRITICAL IT IS TO
HAVE CORRECTLY ADJUSTED BRAKES,
SO THAT FULL BRAKING POWER CAN
BE APPLIED WITHIN AVAILABLE BRAKE
LEVER TRAVEL.
Brake lever travel insufcient to apply full
braking power can result in loss of control,
which may result in serious injury or death.
SECTION 4. TECH
It’s important to your safety, performance and
enjoyment to understand how things work on your
bicycle.
We urge you to ask your dealer how to do the
things described in this section before you attempt
them yourself, and that you have your dealer
check your work before you ride the bike.
If you have even the slightest doubt as to whether
you understand something in this section of the
Manual, talk to your dealer. See also PART II,
SECTION D. INSPECT FOR SAFETY.
4.A - WHEELS / QUICK
RELEASES
1. Wheel Quick Releases
WARNING
RIDING WITH AN IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED
WHEEL QUICK RELEASE CAN ALLOW THE
WHEEL TO WOBBLE OR FALL OFF THE
BICYCLE, WHICH CAN CAUSE SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH. THEREFORE, IT IS
ESSENTIAL THAT YOU:
1. Ask your dealer to help you make sure
you know how to install and remove your
wheels safely.
2. Understand and apply the correct technique
for clamping your wheel in place with a
quick release.
3. Each time, before you ride the bike, check
that the wheel is securely clamped.