MONTAGUE M-E1 User manual

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Even if you have ridden a bike for years, it is important for you and every
rider to read this manual before riding this bicycle. Keep for reference.
E-Bike Owner’s Manual

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HELMETS
SAVE
LIVES!
Always wear a properly tted
helmet that complies with CPSC or
CE safety standards when you ride
your bicycle.
Great care should be taken when
locking the quick release levers on the
bicycle. If you do not fully understand
how to operate the quick release
levers, ask a bicycle dealer for
assistance, or call Montague’s
Customer Support Team at
[phone].
DO NOT RIDE YOUR BICYCLE
WITHOUT ALL QUICK RELEASES
SECURELY LOCKED.
WARNING
In this manual, the WARNING sign
shows a hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could cause death or
serious injury.
WARNING
In this manual, the CAUTION sign
shows a hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could cause minor or
moderate injury.
CAUTION
As with all mechanical components, the bicycle is subjected to wear and high
stresses. Di󰀨erent materials and components may react to wear or fatigue in
di󰀨erent ways. If the design life of a component has been exceeded, it may
suddenly fail possibly causing injuries to the rider. Any form of crack, scratch or
change of colouring in highly stressed areas indicate that the life of the component
has been reached and it should be replaced. Do not ride in an abusive manner.
WARNING
Correct Fitting - Make sure
your helmet covers your
forehead.
Incorrect Fitting - Forehead
is exposed and vulnerable to
serious injury.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warnings 2
Introduction 4
Record Your Serial Number 4
Register Your Bicycle 4
Owner’s Responsibility 5
Bicycle Type and Use Conditions 6
E-Bike Classes 7
Product Symbols 7
Introduction to E-Bikes 8
Di󰀨erence Between E-Bikes and
Conventional Bikes 8
Kickstand and Cargo Rack 10
Child Seats and Trailers 10
Supplementary Manuals 10
Parts of your Bicycle 11
Before your First Ride 12
Sizing and Weight Limit 12
Electric Assist Operation 12
Check your Brakes, Steering,
and Quick Releases 13
Prevent Toe Overlap 13
Moving Parts and Pinch Points 14
Frame or Fork Problem 14
Life Span of a Bicycle 14
Before Every Ride 15
Mechanical Checklist 15
Drive-Assist System Checklist 15
Carbon Fiber Composite 15
Examine the Frame, Fork, & Wheels 17
Tire Ination 17
Examine the Brakes and Steering 18
Saddle and Seatpost 19
Suspension and Quick Releases 19
Lights and Reectors 19
Riding Safely 20
Caution: Wet Weather Riding 21
Be Seen (Especially at Night) 21
Think Safety 22
Riding Instructions 23
Using your Brakes 23
Changing Gears Correctly 23
Descending 24
Obstacles and Impacts 25
Assembling your Bicycle 26
Packing List 26
Installing Front Wheel QR 26
Installing Front Wheel 27
Rotating Stem 28
Installing the Handlebars 30
Installing Front Fender 31
Attaching Steering Damper Spring 32
Installing the Seatpost 32
Installing Pedals 33
Inating Tires 34
Folding your Bicycle 35
Folding the Pedals 37
Rolling the Bike 38
Unfolding your Bicycle 39
Adjusting the Frame Quick Release 40
Drive Assist System 42
Rechargeable Battery 42
Charger and Power Supply 43
Tips for Getting the Most Range 45
Cleaning, Storing, and Transporting 46
Keys 48
Disposal 48
Proper Maintenance
and Adjustment 49
Torque Specications 49
Handlebars 49
Stem 50
Seat (Saddle) Adjustments 51
Pedals 52
Control Cables 52
Rear Derailleur Adjustment 52
Front Derailleur Adjustment 53
Brakes 54
Wheels 55
Fitted Accessories 57
Bearing Adjustments 58
Lubrication 58
Maintenance Schedule 61
Warranty 62
Registration Card Insert
Section One
Section Two
Section Three

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IMPORTANT: KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
This manual is designed to give you
the information you need for the safe
operation and maintenance of your new
bicycle. Please read it thoroughly before
riding your bicycle.
Section One of this manual involves
safety and bicycle care. Understanding
and following this information will help
you and your Montague bicycle avoid
injury or damage.
Section Two of this manual covers
specic operating instructions for your
Montague bicycle. Even if you’re an
experienced rider, you should review this
section before your rst ride.
Section Three of this manual gives
basic instructions for making small
adjustments to your bicycle and
performing regular maintenance.
Record Your Serial Number
Your bicycle’s serial number is stamped
on the seat tube of the frame, on the
drive side of the bike (Fig. 1). Record
the serial number in this manual below
in the event that your bicycle is lost or
stolen. You may also want to register
your serial number with your local police
department.
Register Your Bicycle
Bicycle
registration is
the only record
we have of who
owns this bicycle.
Registration and
proof of purchase
are necessary to
make a warranty
claim. There are
two easy procedures to complete the
registration (mail or email):
• Fill in the registration form in the
back of this manual and mail it to us.
• Go to www.montaguebikes.com/
register and submit the registration
form to us via the internet.
Model Name:
Serial Number:
Key Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Place of Purchase:
INTRODUCTION
Serial Number
Location
Fig. 1: The serial number is
located on the seat tube of
the frame on the drive-side.
WARNING
Make sure to read this complete manual
before riding your bike. Failure to do
so, or failure to follow its guidelines,
could lead to serious injury or death.

5
The frequently updated website also
gives you a link to new instructions. If
you make a decision not to complete
the registration, make sure you visit the
website frequently.
Since the components on your
Montague are industry standard, repairs
or replacements may be performed at
virtually any retail bicycle dealer.
If you have any questions about your
Montague after reading this manual, or
encounter any problems when folding
or unfolding your bike, please visit the
support section of our website at
www.montaguebikes.com/support or call
Montague’s Customer Support Team
at [phone]. A knowledgeable
representative will be happy to answer
any questions and help you to fully enjoy
your new Montague.
Owner’s Responsibility
Before riding your Montague, carefully
follow all assembly instructions.
Ensure your bike is the correct size for
your comfort and safety. When standing
over the frame (straddle frame) you
should have a minimum of 1.0” clearance
between the top tube and your body. See
page 12 for more information.
Note: Montague does not make
bicycles intended for children. Please
make sure all riders are adults.
Bicycle riding can be a hazardous
activity even under the best of
circumstances. Proper maintenance of
your bicycle is your responsibility as it
helps reduce the risk of injury.
All quick releases must be securely
fastened before riding any Montague
bicycle. The quick releases are pictured
on page 11 in Fig. 2. They are: the front
wheel quick release (#25), the seat
post quick release (#8), the frame quick
release (#9), the rear wheel quick release
(#32), and the stem quick release (#4).
For instructions on operating the quick
release levers, read Assembling Your
Montague Bicycle and Folding Your
Montague Bicycle on pages 26-37.
Double check to ensure all bolts and
screws are tightened to the correct
torque specications.
Make sure anyone to whom you loan
your Montague understands how to work
the quick release levers and how to fold
and unfold your Montague bike properly.
The owner is responsible for required
normal maintenance services, such
as those listed in the “Maintenance
Schedule” section of this booklet (page
61) in order to keep the bicycle in good
operating condition.
INTRODUCTION CONTINUED
Make sure to read this complete manual
before riding your bike. Failure to do
so, or failure to follow its guidelines
could lead to serious injury or death.
WARNING

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Damage or injury resulting from
negligence, improper operation, improper
or unauthorized repair or maintenance,
environmental inuences, or improper
use are not warranted by Montague
Corporation. Montague Corporation
excludes incidental and consequential
damages.
Bicycle Type and Use
Conditions
There are many types of bicycles. Each
bicycle type is made for a specied use
or use condition. If your use of a bicycle
applies more stress than its condition
limit species, this could cause a failure
of the bicycle (or a part of the bicycle).
This section shows the use condition for
di󰀨erent types of bicycles. If you are not
sure of what condition(s) apply to your
bike, consult your Montague dealer or
call Montague for more information.
Condition 1
These bicycles are made to ride on a
paved surface where the tires are always
on the ground.
Condition 1 bicycles typically feature
at or drop style handlebars and 700c
wheels and smooth tires. These bicycles
may have accessories such as a rack,
fenders, or kickstand attached.
Condition 2
Condition 2 bicycles are made to cover
all the riding conditions expressed by
condition 1 with the addition of gravel
roads and groomed o󰀨-pavement trails.
Condition 2 bicycles typically feature
at handlebars and 700c or 26” wheels.
These bicycles have “semi slick” tires
with light knobs on them and direct pull
brakes.
Condition 3
Condition 3 bicycles are made to cover
all the riding conditions expressed by
conditions 1 and 2 with the addition of
rough trails, small obstacles, smooth
technical areas, and areas where tires
are momentarily not on the ground;
NOT FOR JUMPS. These bicycles are
typically referred to as Mountain Bicycles
or Cross Country Mountain Bicycles.
Condition 3 bicycles typically feature
at handlebars and 26” or 27.5” wheels.
These bicycles have wider tires with
large knobs on them and direct pull or
disc brakes.
If your use of a bicycle applies more
stress than the specied use condition
of the bicycle, the bicycle or its parts
can be broken or damaged. Riding
a bicycle that is damaged could
decrease your control and cause you
to fall. Do not ride in use conditions
that apply more stress than the limits
of the bicycle. If you are not sure of
the limits of the bicycle, consult your
dealer.
WARNING
INTRODUCTION CONTINUED

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E-Bike Classes
In the US, e-bikes can be categorized
by a three-class system based upon
their speed, wattage, and operation. In
some regions, the class of your e-bike
can determine which types of bicycle
infrastructure it can be ridden on.
Class 1: E-bikes that are
pedal-assist only, with no
throttle, and have a maximum
assisted speed of 20 mph.
Your Montague e-bike falls
under Class 1.
For reference:
Class 2: E-bikes that also have a
maximum speed of 20 mph, but are
throttle-assisted.
Class 3: E-bikes that are pedal-assist
only, with no throttle, and a maximum
assisted speed of 28 mph.
Product Symbols
The following symbols are shown on
packaging, the rechargeable battery, or
the charger.
Marking for electrical devices
that must not be disposed of in
household or non-recyclable
waste. Dispose of electrical devices with
this marking at suitable collection points
for environmentally friendly recycling.
Marking for single-use and
rechargeable batteries that
must not be disposed of in
household or non-recyclable waste.
Dispose of single-use and rechargeable
batteries with this marking at suitable
collection points for environmentally
friendly recycling.
Marking for materials that are
hazardous to the environment.
Take particular care when
handing products with this marking.
Observe disposal regulations.
Marking for recyclable
materials. Sort packaging and
dispose of separately. Dispose
of cardboard along with waste paper and
lm in your recycling collection.
Marking for products that must
only be used indoors.
Europe: The 230 V~/50 Hz
mains power supply has a class
II protection rating.
USA: The 120 V~/60 Hz mains power
supply has a class II protection rating.
Symbol for direct current (DC).
Symbol for alternating current
(AC)
Only applicable for Europe:
Products marked with this
symbol meet all applicable
European Economic Community
regulations.
INTRODUCTION CONTINUED

8
Introduction to E-bikes
Electric bikes, known as “e-bikes” or
Pedelecs, are electric power-assisted
bicycles (EPACs) which have an electric
motor and battery operated drive system
to provide pedal assistance up to a
maximum of 20 mph (25 km/h) when
the rider is pedaling and the bicycle is in
motion.
The Montague ME-1 is a Class-1
e-bike which has a power rating of 250
Watts and provides assistance up to
a maximum speed of 20 mph. In most
countries, Class-1 e-bikes are legally
classed as bicycles. Please familiarize
yourself with the legal regulations and
laws regarding e-bikes in your country,
state and/or city and maintain a current
knowledge as these regulations and laws
are subject to change.
Di󰀨erences between E-bikes
and Conventional Bicycles
E-bikes ride di󰀨erently from
conventional bikes due to increased
weight and speed. In addition to the
list below, please review the Sections
Before Your First Ride and the Riding
Instructions in this manual.
The electric drive and increased speed
requires practice and care while braking.
Braking while steering may reduce the
ability to control your bicycle.
Due to the increased speed, braking
may require more distance to stop. Pay
attention to road conditions as sand,
leaves, rain or other materials on the
road may impact your ability to brake
quickly.
• E-bikes require more braking force.
This can increase wear on the
brakes.
• Reduce pedal force before initiating
a gear shift to reduce drivetrain
wear.
• Pay attention to your speed going
into a corner and be sure to stop
pedaling before entering the corner.
Otherwise, you may carry too much
speed when entering a corner.
• Shift gears regularly to stay in
an optimal cadence range and
downshift before coming to a stop.
• Always keep both hands on the
handlebars when riding the e-bike.
Failure to do so may cause you to
lose control of the e-bike and crash.
• Due to the greater acceleration of
an electric bicycle, you should also
pay particular attention to terrain
conditions as you may approach
obstacles faster than expected.
Riding faster increases the risks of
serious accidents. Watch out for other
vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, and
animals where you ride. Always operate
under control and at a safe speed.
INTRODUCTION CONTINUED
WARNING
Please read all warnings carefully.
Failure to operate the e-bike safely may
result in serious injury or death to you
and others.

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INTRODUCTION CONTINUED
Other road users such as drivers,
pedestrians and other cyclists may need
to adjust to the higher speed of the
e-bike and may not be aware of you. It is
your responsibility to anticipate and react
to avoid accidents.
E-bikes are Heavier than
Ordinary Bicycles
Always park the bike in a suitable safe
area away from children, cars or animals
that may come into contact with it. In
order to prevent possible injuries and
damage to the e-bike, park it so that
it cannot fall over. Use caution when
handling the e-bike (including, but not
limited to parking, lifting, pushing, loading
it into a car or onto a bicycle carrier and
unloading it).
Intended Use
Your Montague e-bike is intended,
designed, and tested for riding on paved
surfaces, smooth gravel roads and
improved trails with moderate grades
where the tires do not lose ground
contact.
Find out before your rst ride whether
your e-bike is equipped in accordance
with requirements for use on the
road. Note that national and regional
regulations may vary.
Items that may have special
requirements:
• Brakes
• Lighting and reectors
• Bell or other approved warning
device
Familiarize yourself with the legal
regulations and laws regarding e-bikes in
your country, state and/or city.
For example:
• Minimum rider age
• Compulsory insurance or if your
insurance policy must provide
coverage for accidents involving
use of this e-bike. You should
contact your insurance agent to
determine if you need additional
coverage.
• Operating licenses or whether
registration of your e-bike is
required
• Compulsory helmet use
• Use restrictions on public roads,
cycling paths and/or trails
IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO
OPERATE YOUR E-BIKE IN A SAFE
AND RESPONSIBLE MANNER.
Always ride your e-bike under
control and at a safe speed. Be
aware of all other users of the road
such as pedestrians, other cyclists,
motorcycle, scooter, automobile and
truck drivers and animals. Note that
they may not see you due to their line
of sight, or be expecting and able to
react to the increased speed of the
e-bike depending on the weight and
type of vehicle. Be especially cautious
while riding at night.
WARNING

10
Use of the Kickstand
The kickstand is not designed to
support the weight of a person sitting on
the e-bike. Make sure the kickstand is up
before riding. Park your e-bike on a level,
rm surface for the best support of your
e-bike.
Rear Cargo Rack
• The rear rack is designed to carry
cargo secured in panniers or other
containers.
• Never carry a passenger on the
rack.
• The maximum allowable cargo
weight for the rear rack is 55
pounds (25kg). Do not exceed this
weight as it could cause a weight
imbalance and could result in a loss
of control and injury.
INTRODUCTION CONTINUED
It is your responsibility to know and
follow all local laws and regulations
regarding use of your e-bike.
WARNING Child Seats and Trailers
Drive System and
Supplementary Manuals
Your e-bike includes additional user
manuals for the various components
on your bike. For full instructions on
the operation and conguration of the
drive-assist system and associated
electronics, please read the included
drive-assist manual.
Please familiarize yourself with the
manufacturer’s instruction for intended
use or limitation. You are required to use
your e-bike responsibly.
Understand your e-bike, drive-assist
system and the intended use of both.
Using your e-bike the wrong way is
dangerous and can lead to serious
injury or death to you and others.
WARNING
Do not ride the e-bike through deep
water or submerge any part of the
e-bike. If you do so, you could lose
control of the e-bike or the drive
system can become disabled or
damaged.
WARNING
No child seats or trailers are allowed
for use with your Montague electric
bicycle.
WARNING
The weight carried on your rack
can a󰀨ect the handling of a bicycle
by altering the center of gravity,
weight and balance. Using your rack
incorrectly can result in a loss of
control, resulting in serious injury and/
or death.
WARNING

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1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
10
10
11
12 12
13
13
14
15
17
16
19
18
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
31
32
33
PARTS OF YOUR BICYCLE
Fig 2. Parts of your e-bike and location of quick releases
1. shift levers 2. handlebar 3. brake lever 4. stem 5. saddle 6. head set 7. seat post 8. seat post quick release 9. frame quick release 10. reectors (front & rear) 11. down tube 12. spoke reectors (front & rear) 13. tire (front & rear) 14. rechargeable battery 15. seat tube 16. control unit 17. lights (front & rear) 18. rear disc brake 19. front disc brake 20. drive unit (motor) 21. crank arm 22. seat stay 23. cassette 24. chain guard 25. front wheel quick release 26. chain 27. chainstay 28. chain wheel 29. rear derailleur 30. pedal 31. rim (front & rear) 32. rear wheel quick release or nut 33. wheel spokes
17

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BEFORE YOUR FIRST RIDE
Make Sure your Bicycle is the
Correct Size
For a safe and comfortable ride, it is
important to buy an e-bike with the right
height and length of frame for the rider.
The right frame height depends on the
rider’s inside leg (inseam) measurement.
It is important to take the inside leg
measurement into account so that it
is possible to quickly and safely stop
the cycle and dismount in dangerous
situations. Consult a dealer about the
right frame size.
The optimum seating position depends
on the size and shape of the cycle
frame, the size of the rider, and how the
handlebars and saddle are adjusted.
Optimum seating position adjustments
require expertise. The optimum seating
position can also depend on how the
cycle is used, e.g. primarily for sports.
The main characteristics of an optimum
seating position are:
• When one pedal is up, the arms
and the top knee are all at a 90°
angle.
• The lower leg is slightly bent.
• When one pedal is forward, the
knee is over the axle of the front
pedal.
• The arms are relaxed and bent
slightly outwards
• The back is leant slightly forward,
not vertical to the seat post.
You can adjust the saddle (pages
32 and 51) and handlebar (pages
30 and 50) to o󰀨er the best comfort
and performance. Before you make
these adjustments, refer to the Proper
Maintenance and Adjustments section
beginning on page 49.
Maximum Gross Weight Limit
Montague bicycles are designed for
a maximum total weight of rider plus
luggage of 250lbs or a maximum total
weight of rider plus luggage plus bicycle
of 300lbs.
Know How your Bike Operates
The elements of your e-bike, if not used
correctly, can decrease your control
of the e-bike. Before you ride fast or
outside a controlled environment, learn
the operation and performance of all the
mechanisms of your e-bike. Practice
using the various features of your e-bike
at slower speeds in a at, open area
before taking the bike on public roads.
If your e-bike does not operate correctly
or as expected, or if di󰀨erent parts are
necessary for the safe operation of
your e-bike, speak to your dealer or call
Montague Corporation [phone].
Electric Assist Operation
Familiarize yourself with all aspects
of the e-bike that are specic to electric
A bicycle that does not work properly
can cause you to lose control and fall.
Inspect the entire bicycle thoroughly
before every ride, and do not ride it
until any problem has been corrected.
WARNING

13
BEFORE YOUR FIRST RIDE CONTINUED
bicycles. Read the supplementary
manuals to understand the power-
assisted drive system and other
components.
Before your rst ride, you should
use the lowest power ECO mode and
become familiar with the operation of
the electric bicycle by practicing starting
and stopping, cornering and navigating
obstacles in a safe environment away
from other bicycles, pedestrians, and/
or vehicles. Learn about the e-bike’s
controls and digital data/messaging.
Check your Brakes, Steering,
and Quick Releases
Press each hand lever to ensure the
brakes are moving freely and stop the
bike. Braking performance changes with
riding conditions. Practice braking at low
speeds before taking your e-bike out into
high tra󰀩c areas or trails. If your brakes
are not working properly, DO NOT ride
your e-bike. Take the e-bike to your local
dealer for service.
Check that all quick releases (front
wheel, frame, stem, seatpost, and rear
wheel) are fastened. Nothing should
rattle or be loose.
Review Riding Safely on page 20 and
Riding Instructions on page 23 before
attempting to ride your Montague e-bike.
Check the steering as shown in Fig. 5,
page 18.
Prevent Toe Overlap
Some frame sizes, especially smaller
sizes, use a short-wheelbase design
with the front wheel close to the pedals.
Increasing the
distance between
the front wheel and
the pedals could
place the handlebar
too far away or
make the steering
unwieldy. On
bicycles where this
distance is short,
when the handlebar
is turned during very slow speeds your
foot or toe-clip could overlap or touch the
front wheel or fender (Fig. 3).
This overlap is a󰀨ected by the size of
your feet, the length of the crankarms,
and the pedals you choose. At usual
speeds, the handlebar does not turn
su󰀩ently for overlap to occur. When
you ride slowly, do not pedal when the
handelbar is turned.
Fig. 3. Toe overlap.
If your foot or toe-clip touches the front
wheel or fender, this could decrease
your control and cause a fall. Do not
pedal when you turn at slow speed.
WARNING
Failure to practice riding your e-bike
in a safe environment prior to riding
on a public road or pathway with other
users of the road may result in serious
injury or death to you or other users of
the road.
WARNING

14
BEFORE YOUR FIRST RIDE CONTINUED
Hot Spots, Moving Parts, Sharp
Areas, and Pinch Points
Some parts of your e-bike can injure
you if mishandled. Sharp areas include
chainring teeth, pedals, and brake discs.
Brakes and their parts get hot. Moving
parts can cut skin and even break bones.
Clamps and pivoting parts such as brake
levers can pinch, as can the chain where
it runs over sprocket teeth.
Frame or Fork Problem
Frame problems are uncommon, but an
early warning sign can be the presence
of a shake or shimmy while riding at
some speeds. If you experience this,
or any other problem, decrease speed
immediately and do not ride the e-bike.
If your e-bike behaves in an unusual
manner or makes excessive noise, take
the e-bike to your dealer for service.
Life Span of an Electric Bicycle
E-bikes and the components that
comprise them are not indestructible.
Depending on the riding forces,
conditions, and mileage endured, you
should replace your e-bike or its parts at
an appropriate frequency.
The safe life of a part is determined
by its construction, materials, and wide
A frame or fork problem can decrease
control and cause a fall. If your e-bike
gets a shimmy or any other issue,
decrease speed immediately and take
it to your dealer for service.
WARNING
range of operating conditions, so it is not
possible to provide a precise schedule
for replacement. Any cracks, scratches,
or signicant color changes indicate that
a component’s life has been reached and
should be replaced. Consult your dealer
if you have any areas of concern.
Good maintenance practices and
frequent inspections will ensure that you
get the most out of your investment.
E-bikes are subjected to wear and
high stresses. Di󰀨erent components
react to these stresses di󰀨erently.
If the design life of a component is
exceeded, it may suddenly fail and
cause injury to the rider.
WARNING

15
Ensure that your e-bike is in proper
working condition each and every time
you ride. If a part of the e-bike does not
function correctly, consult this manual
and bring the e-bike to your local dealer
for repair.
Before Each Ride Mechanical
Checklist
• Frame and Fork
• Wheels
• Tire Ination
• Brakes
• Handlebar and Stem
• Saddle and Seatpost
• Suspension
• Quick Releases
• Lights & Reectors
• General
E-Bike Drive System and
Battery
It is important to thoroughly inspect
the drive-assist system and electronics
before each ride. Perform inspection
and review the items on the following
checklist.
Before Each Ride Drive Assist
System Checklist
• Check battery charge level
• Check the lock for the battery to
ensure it is secured in the dock
• Visually check the rechargeable
battery for damage
• Visually check the drive train for
damage and check the operation of
the system
• Visually check whether cables and
connectors are securely in place
and look for damage
• If you discover any missing or
damaged parts, do not use the
e-bike. Have an authorized dealer
repair your e-bike
Carbon Fiber Composite
Some models have carbon ber
components. Pound for pound,
carbon ber is stronger than steel or
aluminum. But it behaves di󰀨erently
when it is overloaded in an accident
or impact. An overloaded metal part
will bend or deform before it breaks,
showing evidence of the load (Fig. 4).
BEFORE EVERY RIDE
This is not a comprehensive maintenance program. Montague recommends that
you have your e-bike tuned and safety checked by a bicycle technician familiar with
e-bikes on a regular basis but no less than annually. If you notice any irregularities in
your bike and/or its performance take it to a bicycle dealer before attempting to ride.
Overuse of any brake system may cause loss of control resulting in personal injury.
WARNING
An e-bike that does not work properly
can cause you to lose control and fall.
Do not ride an e-bike with a part that
is damaged; replace the part before
riding.
WARNING

16
An overloaded carbon ber part will not
bend or deform, so a damaged carbon
part (with reduced strength due to the
damage) may look normal - even after
the same load that bent the metal part.
But when the sum of the forces nally
exceeds the strength limit of the carbon
ber, the carbon ber part breaks, it does
not deform (Fig. 4).
In an accident or impact that does not
break the carbon ber, the carbon ber
could have internal or hidden damage
but appear normal. If that occurs, please
carefully read these instructions and
examine the carbon ber. These tests
are not conclusive: If you are not sure a
part is safe, replace it.
Carbon Fiber Test
To examine for surface problems
1. Clean the part fully with a moist cloth.
2. Look carefully for problems. These
include scratches, gouges, cracks,
discoloration, loose bers, or other
surface imperfections.
To examine for a change of the rigidity
(ex test):
Do not ride, but use the part in the
usual manner while someone carefully
examines the part for movement or
unusual noise.
To examine for delamination (tap test):
1. Clean the part fully with a moist cloth.
2. With a coin, tap near the area you
suspect damage.
3. Listen carefully for variations in
sound. Tap on the part where it is
in good condition (or use a part that
is almost the same). Compare the
sound. Anything unusual, especially
a hollow sound, indicates a problem.
Protect from Extreme
Temperatures
Protect carbon composite components
from extreme temperatures when storing
or transporting your bike.
Allow carbon composite components to
cool o󰀨 or warm up before you ride. Do not
store a bike with carbon components in
places where the temperature will exceed
66.5°C (150°F). For example, do not
BEFORE EVERY RIDE CONTINUED
Fig. 4.
Overloaded forks:
• The metal fork
on the left bent
when overloaded
• The carbon ber
fork on the right
failed at a much
higher load, but
separated.
A carbon ber part that has damage
can break suddenly, causing serious
injury or death.
Carbon ber can conceal damage
from an impact or crash. If you
suspect your bicycle has had an
impact or crash, immediately stop
riding the bicycle. Replace the part
before riding, or take to your dealer for
service.
WARNING

17
leave your bike lying at in a black pickup
truck bed in the desert sun or under the
glass of a hatchback auto.
Excessive heat, such as that used in
powder coating, or any open ame, may
damage the adhesive which joins carbon
composite parts. Do not exceed 180°F
(82°C) exposure to your frame.
Examine the Frame and Fork
Before and after each ride, examine
your e-bike for signs of fatigue and
stress. Such signs may manifest
themselves in the form of:
• Dents
• Cracks
• Scratches
• Deformation
• Discoloration
• Unusual Noises
If your bicycle receives a high force
load or impact, fully examine all the
parts of your bicycle. High force loads
include crashes and strong impacts that
do not cause you to crash. If you are
unsure whether or not to replace a part,
speak to your local dealer.
Examine the Wheels
Check the attachment of both wheels.
With the quick release lever in the
“close” position, pick the front wheel o󰀨
the ground and apply force to the wheel
in a downward motion (Fig. 9 page 28).
The wheel should remain securely in
place. Grab your wheel and try to move
it from side to side. Check the rims for
cracks, discoloration, and trueness. If
there is any movement or irregularity in
the wheel do not ride your bike. Take it to
your local dealer for service.
When the quick release lever is
properly adjusted and in closed position
you should not be able to rotate the lever
in a circular motion (parallel to wheel).
This is di󰀨erent from the “ipping”
motion, used to open and close the quick
release lever (Fig. 8 page 27). Repeat
the same steps to check the rear wheel.
Note that di󰀨erent systems attach
bicycle wheels to the frame: threaded
axle nuts, and multiple styles of a lever
actuated quick-release system.
Make sure the wheels are straight. Turn
each wheel and look at the rim when
it goes through the brake pads or the
frame. If the rim wobbles up and down or
from side to side, repair the wheel.
Examine Tire Ination
BEFORE EVERY RIDE CONTINUED
Excess air pressure can cause the tire
to explode o󰀨 the rim, causing hearing
loss or, if riding, a loss of control. Use
a hand pump with a reliable pressure
gauge and do not overinate.
WARNING
A wheel quick release that is not
properly adjusted or closed can cause
the wheel to loosen or come o󰀨,
suddenly stop its rotation, or decrease
your control, causing you to fall. Make
sure the wheels are correctly attached
before riding your bicycle.
WARNING

18
Pull the brake lever to make sure
the brake moves freely and stops the
bicycle. If the brake lever can be pulled
to the handlebar, the brake is too loose.
When brakes are not applied, the brake
pads should be .25-.75mm away from
the disc. If the pads are too near to the
disc, the brake is not in line or it is too
tight and the brake should be adjusted.
Examine the Steering
Make sure the stem is in line with the
front wheel and correctly attached to the
fork and handlebar.
To examine the connection to the
fork, try to turn the handlebar from side
to side while you hold the front wheel
between your knees (Fig. 5).To examine
Inate the tires to the air pressure
recommended on the sidewall of the
tire. Improper tire pressure will cause
excessive wear, causing premature
replacement. Pressurized, unregulated
pumps should not be used for this task.
The tire should be properly seated in
the rim and the tting of the tire bead and
rim bead should be checked. If the tube
is pinched between the tire and the rim,
it can explode when inated. Ensure that
the tire is not cracked or unevenly worn.
Check for bulges. Check that the valve is
straight in the rim. Irregular tires should
be replaced immediately.
Examine the Brakes
Your Montague e-bike is equipped with
disc brakes The hand lever causes
the brake to apply pressure to a
disc attached to the hub. Follow the
inspection instructions for disc brakes.
Never ride a bike with an improperly
adjusted handlebar or stem as this
can cause you to lose control of the
bike, leading to serious injury or death.
Also, handlebar ends that are not
plugged or covered can cut in a crash.
WARNING
Fig. 5:
Try to turn the
handlebars while
holding the front
wheel between
your knees.
Disc brakes and discs get very hot
during use and could burn skin. Also,
the disc edges can be sharp and could
cut skin. Do not touch the disc or disc
brake when it turns or when hot.
CAUTION
BEFORE EVERY RIDE CONTINUED
A brake system that has damage or is
not adjusted properly could decrease
your control and cause you to fall.
Inspect brakes fully before each ride,
and do not ride if brakes are not
operating correctly. Make adjustments
as needed or take to your local dealer
for service.
WARNING

19
the connection of the handlebar, try to
twist it in the stem. The handlebar should
not move or be loose. Make sure that
no cables are pulled or caught on the
bicycle when you turn the handlebar.
If the handlebar or stem is loose to
turn, bring the bike to a local dealer for
inspection.
Saddle and Seatpost
Make sure the saddle is correctly
attached and the minimum insertion
line on the seatpost is not showing.
Try to turn the saddle and seatpost in
the frame, and try to move the front of
the saddle up and down. The saddle
should not move or be loose. If the
saddle is loose try adjusting it using the
instructions on pages 32 & 51.
Suspension
On select models, adjust your
suspension for your use, and make
sure that no suspension component can
“bottom-out”, or be fully compressed
while riding. Refer to the enclosed
supplementary manual for the
suspension fork equipped on your bike.
Quick Releases
Check that all quick releases (front
wheel, frame, seatpost, rear wheel,
stem) are fastened. Nothing should rattle
or be loose.
Lights & Reectors
Make sure lights operate correctly and
are turned on. Make sure all reectors
are clean and in their correct position.
BEFORE EVERY RIDE CONTINUED
Your Montague e-bike comes equipped
with front and rear lights powered from
the main e-bike battery. For additional
information regarding operation, please
refer to the supplemental drive system
manual.
General
Check to make sure nothing seems
loose or rattles. Check that both pedals
are properly threaded into the crank arm.
Without correct lights and reectors,
it will not be easy for you to see or for
other people to see you. If you cannot
see, or other people cannot see you,
you could have an accident. Use a
front light, a rear light, and reectors
when you ride in low visibility
conditions.
WARNING

20
The rst rule in safe e-bike riding is
to use common sense. An e-bike is
vulnerable; it cannot protect you in a
crash, impact, or loss of control the
way a car can. An e-bike can tip over
sideways or pitch you over the front
wheel. It does not have bumpers or
airbags as a car does. This section is
a guide of safe riding practices for on-
and o󰀨-road operation. Make sure you
are using your e-bike for the proper use
condition (page 6) as it relates to o󰀨-road
riding.
Di󰀨erent localities and countries have
di󰀨erent laws governing e-bike riding
on public roads, and you should check
with local o󰀩cials to make sure you are
complying with these laws.
• For your safety, always wear a
helmet that meets CPSE or CE
safety standards. In the event of
an accident a helmet can protect
you from serious injury and even
death. A bicycle dealer will be happy
to assist you in the selection of a
helmet and other useful accessories.
• Obey all local tra󰀩c laws. Obey red
and green lights, one-way streets,
stop signs, etc.
• Ride with the tra󰀩c, not against it.
Ride single le in a straight line.
• Have a satisfactory signaling
device (bell, horn, etc.), to warn of
approach. Ride defensively (expect
the unexpected).
• Give pedestrians the right of way.
Do not ride too close to pedestrians
and alert them if you intend to pass
from behind.
• Slow down at all street intersections
and look to the left and right before
crossing.
• Always use proper hand signals for
turning and stopping. Give signals
100 ft. before stopping or turning
and always return both hands to
the handlebars before stopping or
turning.
• Watch for cars pulling out into tra󰀩c
and for the sudden opening of car
doors.
• Avoid potholes, drainage grates or
other road surface hazards. Cross
railroad tracks at a right angle. Be
careful when riding on soft road
edges, gravel, sand and uneven
surfaces. Ride slowly and avoid quick
turns when riding on these surfaces.
RIDING SAFELY
Proper use of your front brake is vital
to ensure safe, e󰀩cient stopping. To
avoid misuse and potential injury, do
not apply sudden or excessive force to
your front brake. Doing so may cause
your rear wheel to lift o󰀨 the ground
and/or your front wheel to slip from
under you. Apply both brakes at the
same time and shift your weight back-
ward on the e-bike while braking.
WARNING