CRUZBIKE Sofrider Instruction Manual
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Cruzbike Owner’s Instruction & Safety Manual
Congratulations!
You have made a smart choice in selecting a Cruzbike front-wheel drive recumbent. Your new
recumbent has been engineered to provide years of top quality performance, comfort and enjoyment.
Critical Safety Information
Caution: The Cruzbike riding position, rider’s weight distribution and the weight of the steering
function are each quite different to any other bicycle, including average “up right” bicycles and
including other recumbent bicycles of any kind.
Warning: Be ready to explore the unique handling characteristics of the Cruzbike with
appropriate due care and in a safe, car and hazard free riding environment.
Caution: The Cruzbike has a drive system that is unlike and other bicycle on the market. Like
a child’s tricycle, the pedaling and steering system are unified and create a unique set of handling
characteristics. Starting up from a standstill, turning at low and high speeds, and cornering and
braking in wet weather, even riding in a straight line are handled differently to all other bicycles.
Warning: Make sure you are practiced in the handling skills required for this bicycle
before you ride among automobile traffic or other cyclists.
Warning: Do not ride this bicycle among automobile traffic or other cyclists before you
are thoroughly familiar with its handling characteristics. Failure to do so could result in
accident and serious injury or death.
Read and make sure that you understand each point in the safety related sections (Sections 5, 6 and
7) and refer to the cited sections on any issue that you don’t completely understand.
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1. 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 that 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 that 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 that, 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 that 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 fitted 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 traffic 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.
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2. Contents
Cruzbike Owner’s Instruction & Safety Manual................................................................................. 1
Critical Safety Information .............................................................................................................................1
1. General Warning:....................................................................................................................... 2
2. Contents .................................................................................................................................... 3
3. Cruzbike Sofrider and Freerider Overview ................................................................................ 5
4. Sizing Adjustments .................................................................................................................... 6
5. Pre-riding Safety Checks...........................................................................................................9
Safety first......................................................................................................................................................9
Mechanical Safety Check..............................................................................................................................9
6. Your First “Hazard-Free” Cruzbike Ride.................................................................................. 11
7. Riding Safety ........................................................................................................................... 13
The Basics...................................................................................................................................................13
Riding Safety ...............................................................................................................................................13
Off Road Safety...........................................................................................................................................14
Wet Weather Riding.....................................................................................................................................15
Night Riding.................................................................................................................................................15
Extreme, stunt or competition riding............................................................................................................16
Changing Components or Adding Accessories...........................................................................................17
8. Technical Information .............................................................................................................. 18
A. Wheels ....................................................................................................................................................18
B. Seatpost Quick Release..........................................................................................................................21
C. Brakes.....................................................................................................................................................22
D. Shifting gears..........................................................................................................................................23
E. Pedals .....................................................................................................................................................25
F. Bicycle Suspension .................................................................................................................................26
G. Tires and Tubes......................................................................................................................................26
9. Service..................................................................................................................................... 28
A. Service Intervals......................................................................................................................................28
B. If your bicycle sustains an impact: ..........................................................................................................29
10. Assembly Instructions.......................................................................................................... 30
Safety Bolt ...................................................................................................................................................34
11. Cruzbike Conversion Kit Instructions................................................................................... 35
Description of Parts – Cruzbike Kit..............................................................................................................35
Now get started............................................................................................................................................37
12. Warranty............................................................................................................................... 42
Cruzbike Bicycle Limited Warranty..............................................................................................................42
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Important
This manual contains important safety, performance and service information. Read it before you take
the first ride on your new bicycle, and keep it for reference.
CHECK THAT YOUR BRAKES WORK! Before getting on the bike, make a habit of pulling the front
and rear brake levers to ensure the brakes engage properly. This is important because a brake failure
could result in an accident and serious injury or death. If you have questions or concerns about your
brake cables, brake adjustment, or any other part of your bike’s braking systems, contact your local
dealer or local bike shop for assistance.
Additional safety, performance and service information for specific components such as suspension
or pedals on your bicycle, or for accessories such as helmets or lights that you purchase, may also
be available. Make sure that your dealer or local bike shop has given you all the manufacturers’
literature that was included with your bicycle or accessories.
If you have any questions or do not understand something, take responsibility for your safety and
consult with your dealer or local bike shop or the bicycle’s manufacturer.
Note
This manual is not intended as a comprehensive use, service, repair or maintenance manual. Please
see your dealer or local bike shop for all service, repairs or maintenance. Your dealer or local bike
shop may also be able to refer you to classes, clinics or books on bicycle use, service, repair or
maintenance.
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3. Cruzbike Sofrider and Freerider Overview
The Cruzbike is distinguished by a drive triangle mounted forward of the front forks and which turns in
unison with the front fork. This added structure increases the turning inertia of the steering function
and so calls for the rider to become familiar with its feel and its responsiveness.
Front Triangle and Fork
The front triangle takes the form of a tetrahedron and is pivoted at each corner to allow the
suspension fork to operate. These same pivots also allow the length of the telescoping front tube
(TFT) to be varied to accommodate riders of differing leg lengths.
Fits Short Riders and Tall Riders
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4. Sizing Adjustments
Important Sizing Information for Proper Riding Position
Cruzbike bicycle sizing and fitting criteria are different from upright bicycles. It is very important to
carry out the necessary adjustments to be sure your recumbent fits you properly. A bike that does not
fit properly is unsafe, will be uncomfortable and will be difficult to control and potentially dangerous to
the rider.
See also Section 10 Assembly Instructions for other details on seat position and adjustments.
WARNING: Fit and size are important; if your bicycle does not fit properly, you may lose
control and fall. If your new bike doesn’t fit, ask your dealer or local bike shop to size it
properly before you ride, or you may have an accident resulting in serious injury or death.
Refer to the photo above for the proper cycling position. Pedal position and handle bar position affect
your comfort, safety and ability to control the bike.
CLOSE QUICK-RELEASE MECHANISMS AND ADJUST PROPERLY: Riding your bicycle with seat
quick-release mechanisms open or improperly adjusted can cause you to lose control, resulting in
serious injury or death.
Step over height
Step over height is the basic element of whether you are suitable to ride a particular Cruzbike. It is
the distance from the ground to the top of the seat pan cushion.
You need to be comfortable that you can swing your leg over the seatback, or lift your leg over the
seat pan. Or you need to be comfortable that you can lie the bike over, step over it and lift it up
between your straddling legs. If you cannot comfortably use at least one of these mounting and
dismounting techniques, then you are not recommended to ride the bike.
WARNING: If you plan to use your bike for jumping or stunt riding, read Section 2.F again.
Seat position
Correct seat adjustment is an important factor in getting the most performance and comfort from your
bicycle. If the seat position is not comfortable for you, see your dealer or local bike shop.
The seat can be adjusted in three directions:
1. Fore and aft adjustment
See paragraphs 8 and 9 in Section 10 Assembly Instructions.
2. Seat pan angle adjustment
See paragraphs 10 in Section 10 Assembly Instructions.
3. Seat back adjustment.
The seat back recline is adjustable to several different position settings. Newer riders may prefer a
more upright setting. Experienced and performance-oriented riders may prefer a more reclined seat
back.
The seat back can be adjusted by loosening the seat-binding bolt behind the backrest as well as the
seat post quick release. Slide the binding bolt down the seat back rails to further recline the angle.
Pedal Position Adjustment
Rotate the crank until the pedal is forward as far as possible. Sitting on the bike place the heel of your
foot on the center of the forward pedal. Release the Quick Release lever and adjust the telescoping
tube until your leg is absolutely straight. Tighten the Quick Release. This technique should provide a
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slight bend at the knee when the ball of your foot is centered on the pedal. Note where the TFT is
positioned on the ruler that is marked on the smaller tube.
WARNING: After any seat adjustment, be sure that the seat adjusting mechanism is
properly tightened before riding. Loose fixings on the seat post, seat back, seat pan or seat
mount can cause damage to the components, or can cause you to lose control and fall. A
correctly tightened seat will allow no seat movement in any direction. Periodically check to
make sure that the seat adjusting mechanism is properly tightened.
Handlebar height and angle
Your bike is equipped either with a “threadless” stem, which clamps on to the outside of the steerer
tube.
The steering assembly features a stem with 90 degrees of adjustment that allows you to set the
handlebars at the appropriate height and distance from your body. Taller riders will have the stem
angled forward around 45 degrees; shorter riders will have the stem almost vertical.
The handlebars should be high enough to clear the knees, the grips should be pointed down and the
levers should point forward and be in a comfortably reached position and orientation. See paragraphs
20 and 21 in Section 10 Assembly Instructions.
The angle of the brake and shift control levers and their position on the handlebars can be changed
with the use of an Allen wrench. If you are not confident in making these adjustments, ask your dealer
or local bike shop or local bicycle shop mechanic to make the adjustments for you.
Many bikes have brake levers that can be adjusted for reach. If you have small hands or find it
difficult to squeeze the brake levers, your dealer or local bike shop or local bicycle shop can either
adjust the reach or fit 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 the available brake lever
travel. Brake lever travel insufficient to apply full braking power can result in loss of control,
which may result in serious injury or death.
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 insufficiently tightened.
Fitment Checklist
1. Rider height: The Cruzbike Sofrider and Freerider are designed to fit most riders with a height
between 5’1” (155 cm) and 6’4” (193 cm). If your bike is not the right size for you, you may
lose control and fall. If your new bike is not the right size, there may be other options such as
using a Cruzbike kit to modify a bicycle with a smaller or larger frame. An in-depth discussion
of the Cruzbike kit is outside the realm of this Owner’s Manual, but there is more information
about kit-built Cruzbikes on the Cruzbike.com “wiki” pages and the Cruzbike yahoo group.
2. Rider weight: The Cruzbike frame, like most adult bicycle frames, is designed for riders up to
250 pounds (114 kg). While there are many Cruzbike enthusiasts whose weight exceeds 250
lbs., we cannot officially endorse its use for riders above this weight and we recommend
caution and frequent examination of the frame and other components for signs of structural
fatigue.
3. Seat and backrest adjustment: Are seat, backrest, and backrest-post securely fastened? A
correctly tightened seat/backrest will allow no seat movement in any direction.
4. Handlebar position: Are the stem and handlebars at the right height and distance for you?
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5. Brake levers: Can you comfortably operate the brakes? If not, you may be able to adjust their
angle and reach.
6. Do you fully understand how to operate your new bicycle? If after reading this entire manual
you still have questions, call Cruzbike, Inc. at 888-225-2789 for an explanation of any
functions or features which you do not understand. Information and assistance is also
may also be a good resource.
NOTE: Correct fit is an essential element of bicycling safety, performance and comfort.
Making the adjustments to your bicycle that result in correct fit for your body and riding
conditions requires experience, skill and special tools. Always have your dealer or local bike
shop make the adjustments on your bicycle; or, if you have the experience, skill and tools,
have your dealer or local bike shop 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 fit, ask your dealer or local bike shop to exchange it before you ride it.
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5. Pre-riding Safety Checks
Safety first
1. Always wear an approved helmet when riding your bike, and follow the helmet manufacturer’s
instructions for fit, use and care.
2. Do you have all the other required and recommended safety equipment? See Section 7. 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 8.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 toe clips and straps or clipless (“step-in”) pedals, make sure you know how they
work (see Section 8.E). These pedals require special techniques and skills. Follow the pedal
manufacturer’s instructions for use, adjustment and care.
5. Does your bike have suspension? If so, check Section 8.F. Suspension can change the way a
bicycle performs. Follow the suspension manufacturer’s instructions for use, adjustment and care.
Mechanical Safety Check
Routinely check the condition of your bicycle before every ride.
Nuts, bolts & straps: Make sure nothing is loose. Lift the front wheel off the ground by two or three
inches then let it bounce on the ground.
Does 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 inflated (see Section 8.G.1).
Check by putting one hand on the seat, one on the intersection of the handlebars and stem, then
bouncing your weight on the bike while looking at tire deflection. Compare what you see with how it
looks when you know the tires are correctly inflated; 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 qualified
bike shop to have the wheel trued.
CAUTION: Wheels must be true for the brakes to work effectively. Wheel truing is a skill
that 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.
Brakes: Check the brakes for proper operation (see Sections 8.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 a professional bicycle mechanic properly adjusts the brakes.
Quick Releases: Make sure the front wheel, rear wheel and seat post quick releases are properly
adjusted and in the locked position. See Section 8.A and 8.B.
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Handlebar and seat alignment: Make sure the seat and handlebar stem are parallel to the bike’s
centerline and clamped tight enough so that you can’t twist them out of alignment. See Section 4.
Handlebar ends: Make sure the handlebar grips are secure and in good condition. If not, have your
dealer or local bike shop 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.
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6. Your First “Hazard-Free” Cruzbike Ride
Picking the spot: When you buckle on your helmet and go for your first familiarization ride on your
new bicycle, be sure to pick a controlled environment, away from cars, other cyclists, obstacles or
other hazards. A wide area, such as a parking lot or cul-de-sac is ideal because new riders often
need extra space to the left and right as they get used to the pedal-steer effect. New riders are
steering with their feet on their very first ride, which may be an unexpected experience.
Mounting the bike
There are three recommended ways to get on (mount) a Cruzbike. Choose one that fits your style
and degree of flexibility.
If you have been riding a regular upright bicycle, you may be used to a leg swing technique, and
some tall and/or flexible Cruzbike riders still prefer this technique. It requires swinging one leg over
the top of the backrest, which is approximately 41 inches (104 cm) above the ground.
The most popular way to mount a Cruzbike is to step over the seat while holding the handlebar with
one hand and the top of the backrest with the other hand. This requires your foot to clear the seat
cushion, which sits approximately 26 inches (66 cm) above the ground. If you have difficulty stepping
over the seat, it may help to tilt the bike toward you slightly before stepping over.
If you prefer or need an even lower vertical clearance, use the lay down technique. Simply, lay the
bike gently on its left side on the ground. The top edge of the seat will be only 14.5 inches (37 cm)
above the ground. Step over the seat so that you are straddling the bike. Reach down and gently
bring the bike to a fully upright position as you sidle to the right. Dismounting is simply the reverse of
mounting.
Adjusting the Telescopic Front Tube (TFT): Once you are comfortably sitting on the bike, you will
need to adjust the distance of the pedals for your leg length. Loosen the quick release clamp on the
TFT and firmly grip the outer TFT. Keeping at least one foot on the ground, push or pull the tube until
the pedals are at a distance where you can reach them with only a slight bend in your knees when
they are farthest from you. Now tighten the quick release clamp securely once the TFT length is right
for you.
WARNING: Failure to tightly secure the clamp on the Telescopic Front Tube (TFT) could
result in a serious injury by allowing the tube to separate while pedaling.
Getting used to the feel
Because the Cruzbike has front-wheel drive, the front-end weighs more than you are probably used
to. While sitting on the seat, walk the bike around in circles or figure-8’s, and practice turning the front
wheel side-to-side. Note how the steering feels heavier than you are used to. Now push the bike a
little faster with you feet on the ground and then sit on the seat and “coast” with your feet barely
above the ground. Do this a few times, trying to coast a little faster each time.
Pedaling for the first time
Once you can coast comfortably, you are ready to pedal. This is best done for the first time on either
flat or slightly downhill terrain. While straddling the bike, get the bike rolling, sit on the seat, and gently
bring your feet up to the pedals and begin pedaling. Accurate placement of the feet squarely on the
pedals seems to help with the balance. As you pedal, do not be surprised if you veer off to the left or
right. You have a lifetime of riding rear-wheel drive bicycles. It will take a little time for your brain to
adapt. If you feel you are about to fall, simply apply your brakes and put your feet down (you will
probably do this instinctively). If you are like most people, it will only be a matter of minutes before
you can ride in a reasonably straight line without putting your feet down. Once you are doing this, you
are on the way to gaining the experience you need to ride safely and competently.
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Knee clearance
In the event that the handlebars do not clear your knees when pedaling, it will be necessary to adjust
the handlebar position and/or seat position. There is a combination of settings that will accommodate
almost everyone. Experiment until you have found the settings best for you. In general, to give more
knee clearance you must do one or both of
a) move the seat forward (either move the seat pan more forward on the seat mount, or move the
seat mount more forward on the frame), or
b) rotate the handle bar up by lifting the adjustable stem to a higher position.
For further details, consult items 8, 9 and 10 in Section 10 Assembly Instructions.
Parking the bike
To park a Cruzbike with the kickstand, dismount, turn the front wheel all the way to the right (about
120°), and lean the bike onto the stand. The kickstand is intended for use on level surfaces only.
More practice
Ride to become familiar with the controls, features and performance of your new Cruzbike.
Familiarize yourself with the braking action of the bike (see Section 8.C). Test the brakes at slow
speed, by straightening your arms and moving your head back. Then gently applying the brakes, rear
brake first. Sudden or excessive application of the front brake could pitch you over the handlebars.
CAUTION: Do not, ever, lean forward while applying the brakes or the rear wheel could lift
off the ground, the bike rotate forward and tip you over the handlebars, causing serious
injury.
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. Practice turning, and straight-line
riding.
Toe clips or clipless pedals are not recommended until you are fully comfortable and adept on the
Cruzbike, which usually takes several weeks or months (depending on how much you practice). They
can add significantly to the performance of your Cruzbike by allowing you to use the powerful
hamstring muscles for propulsion. If you use them, practice getting in and out of the pedals.
CAUTION: Use of toe clips or “clipless” pedals can lead to a serious accident by delaying
getting your feet off the pedals and onto the ground. Do not use them until you consider
yourself an “advanced” Cruzbike rider.
If your bike has suspension, familiarize yourself with how the suspension responds to brake
application and rider weight shifts. See Section 8.
Practice shifting the gears see Section 8. 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 or local bike shop before riding.
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7. Riding Safety
The Basics
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 traffic laws, and so on. It’s your
responsibility to know and obey the laws.
1. Always wear a cycling helmet that meets the latest certification
standards and is appropriate for the type of riding you do. Always
follow the helmet manufacturer’s instructions for fit, use and care of
your helmet. Most serious bicycle injuries involve head injuries that
might have been avoided if the rider had worn an appropriate
helmet.
WARNING: Failure to wear a helmet when riding may result
in serious injury or death.
2. Always do the Mechanical Safety Check (Section 5) before you
get on a bike.
3. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls of your bicycle: brakes (Section 8.C.); pedals (Section
8.E.); shifting (Section 8.D.)
4. Be careful to keep body parts and other objects away from the sharp teeth of chain rings, 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 eyewear, 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.
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.
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• 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 traffic, catch your wheel or cause you to 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 traffic flow or as directed by local governing laws.
5. Stop at stop signs and traffic 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 traffic 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.
CAUTION: Note, most mountain bike style racks that connect solely to the seat post are
not rated to take the weight of a child.
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 traffic 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 influence 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.
Off Road Safety
1. The variable conditions and hazards of off-road riding require close attention and specific 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 difficult 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 identification, 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 off-road, help may not be close.
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7. Before you attempt to jump, do stunt riding or race with your bike, read and understand Section 8
F.
8. We recommend that children not ride on rough terrain unless an adult accompanies them.
Off Road respect
Obey the local laws regulating where and how you can ride offroad, 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.
Wet Weather Riding
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.
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. 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 8.C.
Night Riding
Riding a bicycle at night is many times more dangerous than riding during the day. A cyclist is very
difficult 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 that helps reduce that risk. Consult
your dealer or local bike shop 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 reflectors are designed to pick up and reflect streetlights and car lights in a way that may help
you to be seen and recognized as a moving cyclist.
CAUTION: Check reflectors and their mounting brackets regularly to make sure that they
are clean, straight, unbroken and securely mounted.
Have your dealer or local bike shop replace damaged reflectors and straighten or tighten any
that are bent or loose.
The mounting brackets of front and rear reflectors are often designed as brake straddle cable safety
catches that 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.
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The reflector 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 taillights that meet all regulatory
requirements and provide adequate visibility.
• Wear light colored, reflective clothing and accessories, such as a reflective vest, reflective arm and
leg bands, reflective stripes on your helmet, flashing lights attached to your body and/or your bicycle
... any reflective device or light source that moves will help you get the attention of approaching
motorists, pedestrians and other traffic.
• Make sure your clothing or anything you may be carrying on the bicycle does not obstruct a reflector
or light.
• Make sure that your bicycle is equipped with correctly positioned and securely mounted reflectors.
While riding at dawn, at dusk or at night:
• Ride slowly.
• Avoid dark areas and areas of heavy or fast-moving traffic.
• 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 traffic often, ask your dealer or local bike shop about traffic safety classes or a
good book on bicycle traffic safety.
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.
The Cruzbike is not designed for this type of riding, being intended for road and groomed trail touring,
commuting, and recreational/fitness 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 qualified mechanic and
be sure it is in perfect condition before descending steep hills. Use Caution and consult with expert
riders and race officials on conditions and equipment advisable before riding at a new site.
Wear appropriate safety gear, including an approved full-face helmet, full finger gloves, and body
armor. Ultimately, it is your responsibility to have proper equipment and to be familiar with road or
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 professionals with
many years of training and experience are performing the action depicted.
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, and riding downhill at speed or in competition.
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CAUTION: Bicycles and bicycle parts have limitations with regard to strength and
integrity, and this type of riding can exceed those limitations.
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 first
• Start with easy learning exercises and slowly develop your skills before trying more difficult 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 or local bike shop 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.
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 different size tire, make sure that it is compatible with your bicycle by checking with your
dealer or local bike shop.
For example, rear mountain bike style touring racks that attach to the seat post may be used with
Cruzbike recumbents. Many standard mudguard designs will fit the Cruzbike. Follow the
manufacturers installation and usage directions in all cases.
WARNING: Failure to confirm compatibility, to properly install, or to properly 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 or local bike shop before changing the components on
your bike.
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8. Technical Information
It’s important to your safety, performance and enjoyment to understand how things work on your
bicycle. We urge you to ask your dealer or local bike shop how to do the things described in this
section before you attempt them yourself, and that you have your dealer or local bike shop 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 or local bike shop.
A. Wheels
NOTE: If you have a mountain bike equipped with through axle front or rear wheels, make sure
that your dealer or local bike shop has given you the manufacturer’s instructions, and follow
those when installing or removing a through axle wheel. If you don’t know what a through axle
is, ask your dealer or local bike shop.
1. Wheel Quick Release
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 or local bike shop 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.
The wheel quick release uses a cam action to clamp the bike’s wheel in place. Because of its
adjustable nature, it is critical that you understand how it works, how to use it properly, and how much
force you need to apply to secure the wheel.
WARNING: The full force of the cam action is needed to clamp the wheel securely. Holding
the nut with one hand and turning the lever like a wing nut with the other hand until everything
is as tight as you can get it will not clamp the wheel safely in the dropouts.
a. Adjusting the quick release mechanism
The wheel hub is clamped in place by the force of the quick release cam pushing against one dropout
and pulling the tension-adjusting nut, by way of the skewer, against the other dropout. The tension-
adjusting nut controls the amount of clamping force. Turning the tension-adjusting nut clockwise while
keeping the cam lever from rotating increases clamping force; turning it counterclockwise while
keeping the cam lever from rotating reduces clamping force. Less than half a turn of the tension-
adjusting nut can make the difference between safe clamping force and unsafe clamping force.
b. Front Wheel Secondary Retention Devices
Most bicycles have front forks that utilize a secondary wheel retention device to keep the wheel from
disengaging if the quick release is incorrectly adjusted. Secondary retention devices are not a
substitute for correct quick release adjustment.
Secondary retention devices fall into two basic categories:
(1) The clip-on type is a part that the manufacturer adds to the front wheel hub or front fork.
(2) The integral type is molded, cast or machined into the outer faces of the front fork dropouts.
Ask your dealer or local bike shop to explain the particular secondary retention device on your bike.
WARNING: Do not remove or disable the secondary retention device.
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As its name implies, it serves as a back up for a critical adjustment. If the quick release is not
adjusted correctly, the secondary retention device can reduce the risk of the wheel
disengaging from the fork. Removing or disabling the secondary retention device may also
void the warranty.
Secondary retention devices are not a substitute for correct quick release adjustment. Failure
to properly adjust the quick release mechanism can cause the wheel to wobble or disengage,
which could cause you to loose control and fall, resulting in serious injury or death.
2. Removing and Installing Quick Release Wheels
a. Removing a Quick Release Rear Wheel
(1) If your bike has rim brakes, disengage the brake’s quick-release mechanism to open the
clearance between the tire and the brake pads (See Section 4.C fig. 11 through 15).
(2) Move the wheel’s quick-release lever from the locked or CLOSED position to the OPEN position.
(3) If your rear fork does not have secondary retention devices go to step (5).
(4) If your rear fork has a clip-on type secondary retention device, disengage it and go to step (5). If
your front fork has an integral secondary retention device, loosen the tension-adjusting nut enough to
allow removing the wheel; then go to the next step.
(5) Raise the rear wheel a few inches off the ground and tap the top of the wheel with the palm of
your hand to knock the wheel out of the front fork.
b. Installing a Quick Release Rear Wheel
CAUTION: If your bike is equipped with disk brakes, be careful not to damage the disk,
caliper or brake pads when re-inserting the disk into the caliper. Never activate a disk brake’s
control lever unless the disk is correctly inserted in the caliper. See also Section 8.C.
(1) Move the quick-release lever so that it curves away from the wheel. This is the OPEN position.
(2) Insert the rear wheel between the dropouts of the rear triangle so that the axle seats firmly at the
top of the slots. The quick-release lever should be on the left side of the bicycle. If your bike has a
clip-on type secondary retention device, engage it.
(3) Holding the quick-release lever in the OPEN position with your right hand, tighten the tension
adjusting nut with your left hand until it is finger tight against the dropout.
(4) While pushing the wheel firmly to the top of the slots in the dropouts, and at the same time
centering the wheel rim in the fork, move the quick-release lever upwards and swing it into the
CLOSED position. The lever should now be parallel to one of the triangles tubes and curved toward
the wheel. To apply enough clamping force, you should have to wrap your fingers around the tube for
leverage, and the lever should leave a clear imprint in the palm of your hand.
WARNING: Securely clamping the wheel takes considerable force.
If you can fully close the quick release without wrapping your fingers around the tube for
leverage, and the lever does not leave a clear imprint in the palm of your hand, the tension is
insufficient. Open the lever; turn the tension-adjusting nut clockwise a quarter turn; then try
again.
(5) If the lever cannot be pushed all the way to a position parallel to the fork blade, return the lever to
the OPEN position. Then turn the tension-adjusting nut counterclockwise one-quarter turn and try
tightening the lever again.
(6) Re-engage the brake quick-release mechanism to restore correct brake pad-to-rim clearance;
spin the wheel to make sure that it is centered in the frame and clears the brake pads; then squeeze
the brake lever and make sure that the brakes are operating correctly.
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c. Removing a Quick Release Front Wheel
(1) Shift the rear derailleur to high gear (the smallest, outermost rear sprocket).
(2) If your bike has rim brakes, disengage the brake’s quick-release mechanism to open the
clearance between the wheel rim and the brake pads (see Section 4.C, figs. 11 through 15).
(3) Pull the derailleur body back with your right hand.
(4) Move the quick-release lever to the OPEN position (fig. 7b).
(5) Lift the front wheel off the ground a few inches and, with the derailleur still pulled back, push the
wheel forward and down until it comes out of the rear dropouts.
d. Installing a Quick Release Front Wheel
NOTE: If your bike is equipped with disk brakes, be careful not to damage the disk, caliper or
brake pads when re-inserting the disk into the caliper.
Never activate a disk brake’s control lever unless the disk is correctly inserted in the caliper.
18 (1) Make sure that the rear derailleur is still in its outermost, high gear, position
(2) Pull the deraileur body back with your right hand.
(3) Move the quick-release lever to the OPEN position (see fig. 6). The lever should be on the side of
the wheel opposite the derailleur and freewheel sprockets.
(4) Put the chain on top of the smallest freewheel sprocket. Then, insert the wheel into the frame
dropouts and pull it all the way in to the dropouts.
(5) Tighten the quick-release adjusting nut until it is finger tight against the frame dropout; then swing
the lever toward the front of the bike until it is parallel to the frame’s chainstay or fork leg and is
curved toward the wheel (fig. 7a & fig. 8). To apply enough clamping force, you should have to wrap
your fingers around a frame tube for leverage, and the lever should leave a clear imprint in the palm
of your hand.
WARNING: Securely clamping the wheel takes considerable force.
If you can fully close the quick release without wrapping your fingers around the seat stay or
chainstay for leverage, and the lever does not leave a clear imprint in the palm of your hand,
the tension is insufficient.
Open the lever; turn the tension-adjusting nut clockwise a quarter turn; then try again.
The front wheel must be secured to the bicycle frame with sufficient force so that the chain,
even under the greatest pedaling force, cannot pull it forward. If the wheel moves under
pedaling force, the tire can touch the frame, which can cause you to loose control and fall.
(6) If the lever cannot be pushed all the way to a position parallel to the chainstay or seat stay tube,
return the lever to the OPEN position. Then turn the adjusting nut counterclockwise one-quarter turn
and try tightening again.
(7) Push the rear derailleur back into position.
(8) Re-engage the brake quick-release mechanism to restore correct brake pad-to-rim clearance;
spin the wheel to make sure that it is centered in the frame and clears the brake pads; then squeeze
the brake lever and make sure that the brakes are operating correctly.
3. Removing and Installing Bolt-On Wheels
a. Removing a Bolt-On Rear Wheel
(1) If your bike has rim brakes, disengage the brake’s quick-release mechanism to open the
clearance between the tire and the brake pads (see Section 4.C, figs. 11 through 15).
(2) Using a correct size wrench, loosen the two axle nuts.
This manual suits for next models
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