Cannondale Synapse Carbon User manual

1
USE OF THIS MANUAL
Cannondale Bicycle Owner’s Manual
This manual contains important information aecting
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 9th
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, the
Cannondale manuals and supplements 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 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
and Lefty 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
derailleurs.
This manual meets EN standards
14764, 14766, and 14781.
125289 CUSA EN

2
PART I
CONTENTS
USE OF THIS MANUAL .................................1
PART I
GENERAL WARNING.....................................4
A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS..................4
SECTION 1. FIRST .................................... 58
1.A Bike Fit............................................................................... 5
1.B Safety First........................................................................ 5
1.C Mechanical Safety Check ...........................................6
1.D First Ride .......................................................................... 8
SECTION 2. SAFETY............................... 814
2.A The Basics......................................................................... 9
2.B Riding Safety.................................................................10
2.C O-Road Safety............................................................11
2.D Wet Weather Riding ...................................................11
2.E Night Riding .................................................................12
2.F Extreme, Stunt, or Competition Riding ..............13
2.G Changing Components
Adding Accessories ....................................................14
SECTION 3. FIT .................................... 1519
3.A Stand Over Height......................................................15
3.B Saddle Position ............................................................16
3.C. Handlebar Height and Angle..................................18
3.D Control Position Adjustments................................19
3.E Brake Reach ...................................................................19
SECTION 4. TECH ............................... 20  37
4.A Wheels.............................................................................20
4.B Seat Post Cam Action Clamp...................................26
4.C Brakes ..............................................................................27
4.D Shifting Gears...............................................................30
4.E Pedals...............................................................................32
4.F Bicycle Suspension......................................................33
4.G Tires and Tubes ............................................................34
SECTION 5. SERVICE............................ 3841
5.A Service Intervals ..........................................................39
5.B If Your Bicycle Sustains an Impact.........................41
PART II
SECTION A.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFO .................. 4250
A Wide Range of Injuries Are Possible .........................42
Bicycles Cannot Protect You ............................................42
Bicycling Inherent Risk ......................................................42
Warning Label.......................................................................43
Riding in Trac, Commuting...........................................43
Riding at Night, Dusk, Dawn ...........................................44
Renishing.............................................................................45
Modications ........................................................................45
Child Carriers.........................................................................46
Children and Stationary Bike Trainers..........................45
Bicycles Have Sharp Surfaces..........................................46
Bar Ends ..................................................................................46
Installing Accessories.........................................................46
Tire Size ...................................................................................47
Aerodynamic Handlebars.................................................47
About Shimmy .....................................................................48
Toe Clip Overlap...................................................................48
Brake Power Modulators...................................................49
Aftermarket Brake Systems..............................................49
Aftermarket Power Systems ............................................50
SECTION B. INTENDED USE................. 5159
This section also includes weight limit
information.
High Performance Road....................................................52
General Purpose Riding ....................................................53
Cross-Country, Marathon, Hardtails .............................54
All Mountain..........................................................................55
Gravity, Freeride, Downhill...............................................56
Dirt Jump................................................................................57
Cyclocross ..............................................................................58
Road Tandems ......................................................................58
Mountain Tandems.............................................................59

3
SECTION C.
MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDING..................... 6063
O-Road Riding ...................................................................60
Bike Types...............................................................................60
Inspection and Maintenance Routines........................60
Suspension ............................................................................61
Jumping..................................................................................61
Stay In Control......................................................................61
Downhill and Lift-Serviced Riding ................................61
Shifting Gears While Pedaling ........................................61
Freeride and Downhill Riding.........................................64
SECTION D.
INSPECT FOR SAFETY.......................... 6676
1. Understanding Metals ..................................................67
2. Understanding Composites (Carbon Fiber) ........72
3. Understanding Components ..........................74
Bicycle Lifespan....................................................................76
Useful Life of Lightweight Frames.................................76
SECTION E.
MAINTENANCE..................................... 7781
30 Day Service......................................................................77
Cleaning..................................................................................77
Preventing Corrosion.........................................................77
Lubrication.............................................................................78
Tightening Torques.............................................................78
Repair/Work Stands............................................................79
Protect From Extreme Temperatures ...........................79
RIding Through Water........................................................79
Applying Frame Protection..............................................80
SECTION F.
CANNONDALE LIMITED WARRANTY .......82
Warranty Registration........................................................83
Serial Number.......................................................................83
SECTION G.
PRERIDE CHECKLIST.............................95-96
CANNONDALE
AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORS...................84
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A.
Cannondale BB30 Bicycle Frames .................................86
APPENDIX B.
Maximum Fork Length......................................................87
APPENDIX C.
Carbon Fiber Seat Posts ....................................................88
APPENDIX D.
Carbon Fiber Forks and Stems........................................90
APPENDIX E.
Bicycle Racks .........................................................................92
APPENDIX F.
Bicycle Trainers.....................................................................94

4
PART I
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 consequences of failure 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
As a parent or guardian, you are responsible for the
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 tra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.

5
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
SECTION 3.B. If you adjust your saddle height,
follow the Minimum Insertion instructions in
SECTION 3.B.
3. Are saddle and seat post securely clamped? A
correctly tightened saddle will allow no saddle
movement in any direction. See SECTION 3.B.
4. Are the stem and handlebars at the 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 wheel to
wobble or disengage from the 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.

6
PART I
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, often
diering by model and component, the correct
tightening force or torque cannot be generalized.
To make sure that the many fasteners on your bicycle
are correctly tightened. See page 78.
Always refer to the torque specications in the
instructions provided by the manufacturer of a
component in question.
Correctly tightening a fastener requires a calibrated
torque wrench. A professional bicycle mechanic with
a torque wrench should torque the fasteners on you
bicycle. If you choose to work on your own bicycle,
you must use a torque wrench and the 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 o 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.
Tiresingoodshape?Spineachwheelslowlyandlookfor
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
eectively. 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.

7
Wheel rims clean and undamaged? Make sure the
rims are clean and undamaged at the tire bead and,
if you have rim brakes, along the braking surface.
Check to make sure that any rim wear indicator
marking is not visible at any point on the wheel rim.
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
wears. A visible 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 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.
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 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.

8
PART I
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).
Remember to never move the shifter while pedaling
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 bicycle lighting,
licensing of bicycles, riding on sidewalks, laws
regulating bike path and trail use, helmet laws,
child carrier laws, special bicycle trac laws.
It’s your responsibility to know and obey the
laws.

9
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. Be careful to keep body parts and other objects
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.
• Protective eye wear, to protect against airborne
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.

10
PART I
2.B  RIDING SAFETY
Obey all rules of the road and all local trac laws.
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,
expansion joints, road or sidewalk construction,
debris and other obstructions that could cause
you to swerve into tra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 trac ow or as
directed by local governing laws.
5. Stop at stop signs and tra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 tra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 child
wearing an approved helmet and 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’t do stunts, wheelies or jumps. If you intend
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 tra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.

11
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 o-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 di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.
Ride in a way that does not frighten or endanger
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 o-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.
O-Road Respect
Obey the local laws regulating where and how you
can ride o-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.

12
PART I
2.E  NIGHT RIDING
Riding a bicycle at night is many times more
dangerous than riding during the day. A bicyclist
is very di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
REFLECTORS ARE NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR
REQUIRED LIGHTS. RIDING AT DAWN, AT
DUSK, AT NIGHT OR AT OTHER TIMES OF
POOR VISIBILITY WITHOUT AN ADEQUATE
BICYCLE LIGHTING SYSTEM AND 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 requirements and provide adequate
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 tra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.

13
WHILE RIDING AT DAWN, AT DUSK OR AT
NIGHT:
• Ride slowly.
• Avoid dark areas, areas of heavy or fast-
moving tra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 trac often, ask your
dealer about trac safety classes or a good
book on bicycle tra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: if you engage in this sort of extreme,
aggressive riding you will get hurt, and you voluntarily
assume a greatly increased risk of injury or death.
Not all bicycles are designed for these types of riding,
and those that are may not be suitable for 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
achieved by 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 o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
always wear a helmet and other appropriate
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.
WARNING
Bicycles and bicycle parts have limitations with
regard to strength and integrity, and this type of
riding can exceed those limitations.

14
PART I
We recommend against this type of riding 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 dicult or
dangerous riding
• Use only designated areas for stunts, jumping,
racing or fast downhill 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 change
components or add accessories, you do so 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 dierent 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. See also PART II, SECTION
D. INSPECT FOR SAFETY.
WARNING
FAILURE TO CONFIRM COMPATIBILITY,
PROPERLY INSTALL, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN
ANY COMPONENT OR ACCESSORY CAN
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
WARNING
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.

15
SECTION 3. FIT
NOTE: Correct t is an essential element of bicycling
safety, performance and comfort. 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 CONTROL AND FALL.
If your new bike doesn’t t, ask your dealer to
exchange it before you ride it.
3.A  STAND OVER HEIGHT
Stand over 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 stand
over 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 o-road should
give you a minimum stand over 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 stand over height clearance. And a bike
that you’ll use o 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.
2. Step-through frame bicycles
Standover height does not apply to bicycles with
step-through frames. Instead, the limiting dimension
is determined by saddle height range. You must be
able to adjust your saddle position as described in
3.B. SADDLE POSITION without exceeding the limits
set by the height of the top of the seat tube and the
”Minimum Insertion” or “Maximum Extension” mark
on the seat post.

16
PART I
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.
Figure 3. Saddle Position
Ask your dealer to set the saddle for your optimal
riding position and to show you how to make this
adjustment. If you choose to make your own saddle
height adjustment:
• loosen the seat post clamp
• raise or lower the seat post in the seat tube
• make sure the saddle is straight fore and aft
• re-tighten the seat post clamp to the
recommended torque (See manufacturer’s
instructions).
Once the saddle is at the correct height, make sure
that the seat post does not project from the frame
beyond its “Minimum Insertion” or “Maximum
Extension” mark (g. 4).
NOTE: Some bicycles have a sight hole in the seat
tube, the purpose of which is to make it easy to see
whether the seat post is inserted in the seat tube far
enough to be safe. If your bicycle has such a sight
hole, use it instead of the “Minimum Insertion” or
“Maximum Extension” mark to make sure the seat
post is inserted in the seat tube far enough to be
visible through the sight hole.
If your bike has an interrupted seat tube, as is the
case on some suspension bikes, 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.
Also see NOTE above and g. 5).
WARNING
If your seat post is not inserted in the seat tube as
described in B.1 above, the seat post may break,
which could cause you to lose control and fall.
Figure 4. Minimum Insertion Mark

17
Figure 5. Interrupted Seat Tube
2. Front and Back Adjustment
Thesaddle canbe adjustedforwardorbacktohelpyou
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.
If you choose to make your own front and back
adjustment, make sure that the clamp mechanism is
clamping on the straight part of the saddle rails and is
not touching the curved part of the rails, and that you
are using the recommended torque on the clamping
fastener(s) (See manufacturer’s instructions).
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.
If you choose to make your own saddle angle
adjustment and you have a single bolt saddle clamp
on your seat post, it is critical that you loosen the
clamp bolt suciently to allow any serrations on
the mechanism to disengage before changing the
saddle’s angle, and then that the serrations fully
re-engage before you tighten the clamp bolt to
the recommended torque (See manufacturer’s
instructions).
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 eect on performance and comfort.
To nd your best saddle position, make only one
adjustment at a time.
WARNING
When making saddle angle adjustments with a
single bolt saddle clamp, always check to make
sure that the serrations on the mating surfaces of
the clamp are not worn. Worn serrations on the
clamp can allow the saddle to move, causing you
to lose control and fall.
Always tighten fasteners to the correct torque.
Bolts that are too tight can stretch and deform.
Bolts that are too loose can move and fatigue.
Either mistake can lead to a sudden failure of the
bolt, causing you to lose control and fall.
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.

18
PART I
If, in spite of carefully adjusting the saddle height,
tilt and fore-and-aft position, your saddle is still
uncomfortable, you may need a dierent saddle
design. Saddles, like people, come in many dierent
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 with a 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 dierent saddle.
3.C  HANDLEBAR
HEIGHT AND ANGLE
Your bike is equipped either with a “threadless” stem,
which clamps on to the outside of the 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 dierent 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
QUILL STEMS: 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.