Exero Spike Kneeled User manual

User Manual for Spike by Exero
(Kneeled)
1

Safety
●Use of Spike beyond what is presented in this manual
may result in a risk and is not recommended.
●Wear a helmet and reflective vest when using Spike.
●Pay particular attention to any traffic around you and be
aware that drivers may have difficulty seeing you. If
possible, avoid traffic on busy motorways for your own
safety.
●Riding in traffic is considered to be the greatest risk when
using Spike.
●Be aware of your roller ski pole usage near other people
and the danger of hitting bypassers with your poles..
●Take into account your own skill level when planning your
Spike rides.
●Ensure that screws and nuts are tightened in accordance
with chapter 4.1 before use.
●Be aware of the risk of clamping your fingers, especially
during assembly / disassembly, see chapter 6.4.
2

USER MANUAL
Spike Kneeled by Exero
3

Index
1 INTRODUCTION 7
1.1 Safety warning 8
1.2 Intended use 9
1.2.1 Target audience 9
1.2.2 Application and usage 9
1.2.3 User requirements 9
1.2.4 Disclaimer 10
1.3 Main components 11
1.4 Shipping and handling 12
1.5 Warranty 12
2 SAFETY 13
2.1 General safety instructions 13
2.2 Special safety instructions 14
2.2.1 Especially important - Speed wobbles 14
2.2.2 Especially important - Riding in traffic 18
2.2.3 Especially important - pressure ulcers 18
2.2.4 Especially important - Use of poles 19
2.3 Nuts and bolts 19
2.4 Marking 20
3 BEFORE FIRST USE 20
3.1 Tools 20
3.2 Braking 21
3.3 Steering 22
3.4 Spike adjustments 23
3.4.1 Adjusting seating 24
3.4.1.1 Seat width 24
3.4.1.2 Seat length 24
3.4.1.3 Seat angle 27
3.4.1.4 Knee support 28
3.4.1.5 Calf support 30
3.4.1.6 Seat cushion 33
3.4.2 Adjusting steering 35
3.4.2.1 Steering system 35
3.4.2.2 Wheels 37
4

3.4.3 Adjusting brakes 37
3.4.4 Adjusting straps 37
3.4.4.1 Hip strap 38
3.4.4.2 Thigh strap 39
3.4.4.3 Foot strap 39
3.4.5 Adjusting poles 40
3.5 Boarding and disembarking 40
3.5.1 Standing position 40
3.5.2 Wheelchair 41
3.6 Recommended equipment 42
3.7 Additional equipment 43
4 CHECKLIST BEFORE EACH USE 46
4.1 Checking nuts and bolts 46
4.1.1 Wheel nuts 46
4.1.2 Nuts and bolts for steering 46
4.1.3 Nuts and bolts for seat arm and seat post 47
4.1.4 Screws for front slider 47
4.2 Checking brakes 48
4.3 Checking straps and strapping 48
4.4 Checking air pressure 48
4.5 Checking steering system 49
5 GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR SPIKE 50
5.1 - Seat angle 50
5.2 - Adjusting steering setting 51
5.3 - Adjusting pole lengths 52
5.4 - Drain tire air for higher resistance 52
5.5 - Terrain variations 53
6 STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE 54
6.1 Self maintenance 54
6.1.1 Bearing maintenance 57
6.1.2 Axle maintenance 57
6.1.3 Brake maintenance 58
6.1.4 Cushion maintenance 59
6.1.5 Flat tires 59
6.1.6 Maintenance of mudguards 60
6.2 Authorised maintenance 61
5

6.2.1 Damaged parts 61
6.2.2 Steering maintenance 61
6.3 Storage and transport 61
6.4 Disassembly and reassembly 63
7 WASTE MANAGEMENT 67
7.2 Waste management 67
6

1 INTRODUCTION
Read User Manual Spike before using Spike. This will ensure safe use of the
product. Read especially chapters 1, 2 and 3 before using the product for the
first time. Use procedures in chapter 4 every time the product is to be used.
Especially important information in this manual is marked with:
7

1.1 Safety warning
Exero Technologies has the following introductory recommendations for users:
1) Use of Spike outside what is presented in the manual can lead to risk and
is not advised. Before use, note especially chapter 2 in this manual for
safety.
2) Use a helmet and reflectors when utilizing Spike.
3) Pay special attention in traffic, and be aware that motorists may have
difficulty seeing you. If possible, avoid riding in busy traffic for your own
safety.
4) Riding in traffic is considered the highest risk in using Spike.
5) Be alert when using poles around others, and be aware of the risk of
hitting pedestrians.
6) Be aware of your own capabilities and adapt to your activities.
7) Check that screws and bolts are securely tightened as referenced in
chapter 4.1 before use.
8) Pay attention to avoid trapping fingers, especially during
assembly/disassembly, see chapter 6.4.
8

1.2 Intended use
1.2.1 Target audience
The target audience for Spike are:
●people with permanent handicaps in the lower half of their body.
●people with temporary injuries in the lower half of their body.
●people looking for alternative ways to exercise.
Spike is firstly made for exercise and staying active where the duration of the
activity is dependent on the user’s physical capability. This product is not
considered a replacement for a wheelchair, prosthetics or similar equipment the
user relies on in everyday life.
1.2.2 Application and usage
Spike is designed to be used on off-road surfaces free from ice and snow, such
as asfalt, gravel, cobblestone and trails. The Spike user sits in a kneeling position
strapped over the hips, thighs and ankles. The upper body is used to create
momentum by using roller ski poles, as in cross country.
Steering Spike is done by transferring the weight of your upper body to the side
you wish to turn. The most comparable principle for this steering mechanism is
use of skateboards.
1.2.3 User requirements
In order to use Spike, the following user requirements are demanded:
●Spike must only be used by people who understand how mounting and
dismounting, steering and braking are executed.
●Spike has a maximum user weight of 110 kg or 240 lbs.
●The user must have adequate motor skills to properly use the brakes
whilst handling the roller ski poles.
●The user must have adequate motor skills in their upper body to handle
steering and maneuvering of Spike.
9

1.2.4 Disclaimer
As Spike is supplied today it is not intended, tested or approved for any of the
following uses. Exero Technologies can not be held responsible for use or
damage caused by the following activities or conditions:
●Riding down a slalom hill or similar steep declines, summer or winter, also
known as Downhill.
●Riding at speeds exceeding 25 km/t or 15.5 mph. This may lead to loss of
control over Spike and other dangerous situations.
●Used in relation to kiting or subsequent sails leading to excessive speed
and other dangerous situations.
●Equipping Spike with a motor of any kind. The product is only tested for
non-motorised riding.
●Making alterations from the original version or installing other equipment,
parts or components than those provided by Exero Technologies or
approved by Exero Technologies.
●Repairs or alterations on Spike that are not executed or approved by
Exero Technologies. All warranty repairs should be executed by Exero
Technologies or a service partner approved by Exero Technologies.
●Circumstances where Spike is used by someone other than the
owner/user, unless otherwise agreed upon with Exero Technologies.
●Usage under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs or other strong
medication, as this affects your responsiveness and focus which can
potentially harm the user or bystanders.
●Cleaning with products containing acid or alkaline, and cleaning with a
pressure cleaner or similar high powered equipment.
●Weight exceeding 110 kg or 240 lbs.
10

1.3 Main components
Figure 1.1 - Spike’s main components
1. Adjustable seat w/cushion
7. Knee support mounted front slider
2. Seat post
8. Straps for hips and thighs
3. Main fram profile
9. Seat arm
4. Mud guard
10. Hydraulic brakes
5. Wheel
11. Steering mechanism (trucks)
6. Calf support mounted rear slider
12. Poles w/asfalt-spikes*
11

* Associated extra equipment
1.4 Shipping and handling
The following is standard delivery:
●Spike including cushions, straps og screens
●Poles in desired length for user
●User manual
Chosen extra equipment based on personal price quote (see ch. 3.7)
Exero Technologies delivers Spike to the user fully assembled, and to the users
address unless otherwise agreed upon. Personal adjustments on Spike can be
made before delivery, upon delivery or after delivery, depending on the delivery
location. Deliveries in Norway are personally carried out by Exero and Spike will
be adjusted upon delivery. For international deliveries, Spike can be adjusted to
the user by Exero before shipment, or after by the user themselves through
Exero guidelines.
1.5 Warranty
Exero Technologies’ warranty is only valid if the product is used in accordance to
its intended use and the instructions listed in this manual.
Spike has a 2 year warranty and 5 year guarantee with the exception of
considered natural wear and tear from use. 5 year guarantee is assuming the
product has had at least 1 service according to the manual, within the 2 year
warranty period. Parts without a 2 year warranty and that are expected
consumables are:
●Brake pads
●Brake hoses
●Tires
●Poles (incl. asfalt-spikes)
12

If Spike’s functioning is not satisfactory and you live outside of Norway, contact
your relevant distributor or Exero directly. If you live in Norway, contact your
local NAV Hjelpemiddelsentral or Exero directly.
2 SAFETY
This chapter covers the general and special safety instructions. It is very
important that Spike users read the safety instructions before use to reduce risk
of accidents and injuries.
2.1 General safety instructions
As with other physical activity, there is a degree of risk when using Spike. It is
important for you, as the user, to familiarise yourself with the dangers and take
the correct precautions stated in this manual. Here are some general safety
instructions the user should be aware of on what can occur when using Spike:
●Spike must only be used in accordance with the instructions provided in
this manual.
●Spike can tip over. Familiarise yourself with the use of weight distribution,
and be especially aware of this when riding in rough terrain.
●Spike must only be used by one person at a time.
●Spike must not be used by anyone other than the user it was purchased
for, unless otherwise agreed upon with Exero Technologies.
●Spike must not be used in stairways.
●Spike must not drive over obstacles in steep declines. High speed and
running over obstacles can create stability changes and lead to tipping or
crashing.
●Avoid boarding and disembarking Spike in hills.
●Avoid parking in hills with an incline larger than 10 degrees despite the
handbrake being on.
13

●Seat cushions, knee- and calf supports are flammable, and must therefore
not be near open flame.
●If parts of Spike are damaged or worn out, they must be changed before
continuing use to avoid damages on people and material.
●Engaging in physical activity while strapped in can provoke spasms. We
therefore recommend people who often experience spasms to contact a
doctor, physical- or occupational therapist before use.
●Avoid storing Spike in direct sunlight, and be aware that use in direct
sunlight can lead to hot surfaces.
2.2 Special safety instructions
This chapter presents four special safety instructions that we ask you, as the
Spike user, to read carefully before use. These are instructions that may be new
to many and concern 1) Speed wobbles, 2) Riding in traffic, 3) Pressure ulcers,
and 4) Use of poles.
2.2.1 Especially important - Speed wobbles
Like with skateboards, uncontrolled swings in the steering mechanics- speed
wobbles- can occur with Spike. This is due to the steering mechanism’s principle,
with springs that rely in part on the speed and weight distribution of the
product. By speed wobbles we mean how the product can feel unstable in high
speeds. This can lead to the user losing control of Spike and in the worst case be
subject to an accident. It is therefore vital that the user reads this chapter on
speed wobbles before using Spike for the first time. Figure 2.2.1 shows how
Spike turns from side to side. Contact Exero Technologies for more information.
14

Figure 2.2.1 - Illustration showing the steering principle.
There are mainly three factors the user must be cautious of to avoid speed
wobbles; speed, setup of steering system, and sharp movements.
Speed
The most important factor to avoid speed wobbles is to limit your speed. The
higher the speed, the higher the likeliness of losing control. With this in mind
Exero Technologies has set a recommended maximum speed at 25 km/t or 15.5
mph, but beginners are cautioned to start slowly and feel it out. Should speed
wobbles occur it is vital to engage brakes and lower speed.
15

Setup of steering system (trucks)
Another factor that is customisable is the setup of the steering system. Spike has
four individual springs, two in front and two in the back which are adjustable. In
general, a tighter setup should reduce the likeliness of speed wobbles in lower
speeds. This can be done in the following two ways:
1. Tighten the springs by turning the adjustment bolts, see ch. 3.4.2
Adjusting steering. By turning adjustment bolts clockwise, the
springs will tighten and the setup of the steering system will be
harder. This reduces the swing radius, but increases control in
higher speed. You should therefore adjust this to fit the speeds you
intend on reaching. Higher speeds should have tighter springs.
Figure 2.2.2 - Adjustment bolts in tight (left) and loose (right) positions.
IMPORTANT! To avoid speed wobbles the rear springs on Spike should be tighter
than the front springs.
16

2. To further stiffen the steering system, the rubber dampers can be
changed. These are designed to absorb vibrations in the steering
system and can be changed to accustom the riding style. They can
be found in five variations with differing resistance, yellow being the
lowest resistance and white the highest, see figure 2.2.3. Spike is
delivered with red shocks (medium), but this can be customised.
The lowest resistance (yellow and green) are usually best suited for
lighter users, beginners or those desiring a better swing radius. The
highest resistance (blue and white) are best suited for heavier and
more experienced users who desire higher speed and rigidity.
Figure 2.2.3 - Rubber dampers with varying resistance
Source: Trampaboards.com
IMPORTANT! Regardless of your setup, high enough speeds will cause speed
wobbles. Adjusting the setup of your steering system will not remove the risk of speed
wobbles entirely.
Avoid sharp movements in high speeds
The last factor concerning speed wobbles is the users movements at speed. The
user will obtain the best control with softer movements, especially when gaining
speed. Like with any activity, mastering Spike requires practice and experience.
We therefore encourage the user to start gently and try their way forward to
discover their own limitations as well as Spike’s.
17

2.2.2 Especially important - Riding in traffic
When using Spike you are sitting low, something that can make it difficult for
motorists to spot you. It is therefore vital to show diligence and caution when
using Spike in traffic. When used on public roads the user must follow
appropriate law.
If Spike is used in busy areas, it is recommended to utilise a reflective vest and
pennant for better visibility. It is recommended to use a helmet when using
Spike in any capacity. It is particularly important when riding in traffic to ride
according to the conditions, where weather can lead to weakened visibility.
2.2.3 Especially important - pressure ulcers
People who often experience getting pressure ulcers should consult with their
doctor or occupational therapist (OT) before using Spike. Factors that are likely
causes of pressure ulcers are listed below:
●Time is a deciding factor for the formation of pressure ulcers, and the
likeliness increases when sitting in the same position over an extended
period of time. Spike is equipped with pressure-easing cushions and pads,
but with people who have high risk of getting ulcers we recommend
consulting with an OT or doctor before use. Based on experience and user
testimonies for Spike, 20-180 min is considered to be a natural duration
per session.
●If Spike has been exposed to rain or moisture, we ask the user to make a
precautionary assessment of whether or not the product can be used.
Moisture can raise the risk for ulcers if the skin is exposed over longer
periods. The same applies to sweat or wet clothes, the user is therefore
recommended to use dry clothes when able.
●Friction can be a likely cause for ulcers developing. To avoid unnecessary
friction, Spike is equipped with strong straps that can be tightened well.
Meaning that the user can strap themselves in a way that creates minimal
18

movement between the body and Spike. This will contribute to reducing
the likeliness of ulcers developing.
2.2.4 Especially important - Use of poles
To create forward propulsion, the poles are planted in the ground
simultaneously on each side of Spike. The user should only use poles when safe
and responsible conditions. The poles have sharp asfalt-spikes for optimal
surface grip, which also demand caution to avoid injury, see figure 2.2.4. If the
user is riding in populated areas we recommend practicing caution and lowering
speed, as others can be struck. When braking the poles must be held backwards
to avoid injuring others. The user should not use poles where the spikes can
damage the surface, for example on an indoor course. When transporting Spike
it is recommended to blunt the spikes to avoid accidents.
Figure 2.2.4 - Asfalt spike
2.3 Nuts and bolts
As a safety precaution we recommend checking that nuts and bolts are securely
tightened. Over time it is natural that screws and bolts can loosen from
vibrations and during assembly/disassembly. Particularly important screws and
19

bolts are described in chapter 4.1 so the user can check these each time before
use.
2.4 Marking
Every Spike has an individual serial number which can be found underneath the
main frame profile, see figure 2.4.
Figure 2.4 - Location of serial number and CE-mark
3 BEFORE FIRST USE
Before using Spike it must be inspected and checked that it is complete. All
screws must be tightened and checked up against the safety instructions in
chapter 4.1 of this manual.
3.1 Tools
The following tools are necessary to adjust and maintain Spike as described in
the following chapters:
●Bike pump
●Pump for adjusting seat cushion
●Hex key 3 mm
●Hex key 4 mm
●Hex key 5 mm
20