REI Novara User manual

NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
THIS MANUAL CONTAINS IMPORTANT SAFETY,
PERFORMANCE AND SERVICE INFORMATION.
Read it before you take the rst ride on your new bicycle, and keep it for reference.
WARNING

NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
USE OF THIS MANUAL
Novara Bicycle Owner’s Manual
This manual contains important information
aecting your safety and the proper use of bicycles.
It is an important document for every bicycle owner.
It is organized into two parts:
PART I
This is a generic guide to the proper function and
use of bicycles. This information is licensed to us and
is used by many bike companies. Many aspects of
bicycles and their operation are common or “generic”
and this section covers many of them.
PART II
This portion of the manual contains information
specic to Novara bicycles and topics we feel you
need to be informed about.
A manual cannot teach you how to ride, and a manual
the size of an encyclopedia could not cover every
combination of bicycle, rider and conditions. The
Novara manuals and supplements focus mainly on
the bicycle and do not teach you to ride. REI and other
companies oer great varieties of online, printed and
person-to-person learning opportunities. Please take
the time to appropriately inform yourself if you have
a curiosity, question or concern.
This manual is not intended as a comprehensive use,
service, repair or maintenance manual. It contains no
thorough assembly instructions. Nor is this manual
a detailed service guide for any part of your bike.
Please contact your local REI store or a reputable
bicycle dealer for all service, repairs or maintenance.
REI or your other service provider should also be able
to refer you to online materials, classes or books on
bicycle use and maintenance.
Other Manuals and Instructions
Many of the components on your bike were not
made by Novara or REI. When available from the
manufacturer, Novara packages these manuals and/
or instructions with our bikes for delivery to you. We
strongly recommend that you read and follow all the
manufacturer’s specic instructions included with
your bike.
Service Locations
REI would like to be your primary contact for service
and adjustment of your bicycle, instruction in its use
and any other questions. Please contact your local
REI store. In those locations where there is no REI
store, please contact your local bicycle shop. If you
choose another service location, all Novara-brand
service parts will come from REI. Please contact us
with questions.
1

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PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
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NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
CONTENTS
USE OF THIS MANUAL .................................1
PART I
GENERAL WARNING .....................................4
A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS ..................4
SECTION 1. FIRST STEPS .........................5–8
1.A Bike Fit ...............................................................................5
1.B Safety First........................................................................5
1.C Mechanical Safety Check ...........................................6
1.D First Ride ..........................................................................8
SECTION 2. SAFETY .............................. 8–14
2.A The Basics .........................................................................9
2.B Riding Safety .................................................................10
2.C O-Road Safety ............................................................11
2.D Wet-Weather Riding ...................................................11
2.E Night Riding .................................................................12
2.F Extreme, Stunt or Competition Riding ...............13
2.G Changing Components or
Adding Accessories ....................................................14
SECTION 3. FIT ................................... 15–19
3.A Stand-Over Height .....................................................15
3.B Saddle Position ............................................................16
3.C Handlebar Height and Angle ..................................18
3.D Control Position Adjustments ................................19
3.E Brake Reach ...................................................................19
SECTION 4. TECH ................................ 20–37
4.A Wheels .............................................................................20
4.B Seatpost Quick-Release Clamp ..............................26
4.C Brakes ..............................................................................27
4.D Shifting Gears ...............................................................31
4.E Pedals ...............................................................................33
4.F Bicycle Suspension......................................................34
4.G Tires and Tubes ............................................................35
SECTION 5. SERVICE ........................... 38–40
5.A Service Intervals ..........................................................39
5.B If Your Bicycle Sustains an Impact .........................40
PART II
SECTION A.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFO ................. 42–48
A.1 Bicycling-Inherent Risk .............................................42
A.2 Warning Label ..............................................................43
A.3 Riding in Trac, Commuting ..................................43
A.4 Riding at Night, Dusk, Dawn ...................................44
A.5 Renishing .....................................................................45
A.6 Physical Modications ...............................................45
A.7 Bicycles Have Sharp Surfaces .................................46
A.8 Installing Accessories ................................................46
A.9 Bicycle Racks .................................................................46
A.10 Tire Size ........................................................................47
A.11 Toe-Clip Overlap .......................................................47
A.12 Aftermarket Brake Systems ...................................48
A.13 Aftermarket Power Systems .................................48
SECTION B.
INTENDED USE .................................... 50–53
This section also includes weight limit
information.
B.1 Children's Sidewalk .....................................................51
B.2 Sport and Performance Road .................................51
B.3 General-Purpose Riding ............................................52
B.4 Cross-Country Riding .................................................52
B.5 Advanced Cross-Country ..........................................53
B.6 All-Mountain .................................................................53
SECTION C.
OFF-ROAD RIDING .............................. 54–55
C.1 Inspection and Maintenance Routines ...............54
C.2 Suspension ....................................................................54
C.3 Jumping .........................................................................55
C.4 Downhill and Lift-Serviced Riding ........................55
C.5 Fixed-Gear Riding and Conversion .......................55
SECTION D.
MATERIALS AND INSPECTION ........... 56–64
D.1 Understanding Metal as a Material ......................56
D.2 Understanding Carbon Fiber ..................................60
D.3 Understanding Components..................................62
D.4 Riding Through Water ...............................................63
D.5 Bicycle Lifespan ...........................................................64
SECTION E.
MAINTENANCE .................................... 64–67
E.1 Warranty Tune ...............................................................64
E.2 Cleaning ..........................................................................65
E.3 Preventing Corrosion .................................................65
E.4 Lubrication .....................................................................65
E.5 Tightening Torques .....................................................66
E.6 Bicycle Repair/Work Stands .....................................66
E.7 Serial Number ...............................................................67
SECTION F.
BICYCLE TRAINERS ....................................67
SECTION G.
PRE-RIDE CHECKLIST .................................68

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PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
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NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
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.
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 that cannot be predicted
or avoided and that are the sole responsibility of
the rider.
A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS
As a parent or guardian, you are responsible for the
activities and safety of your minor child, and that
includes making sure that the bicycle is properly
tted to the child; that it is in good repair and safe
operating condition; that you and your child have
learned and understand the safe operation of the
bicycle; and that you and your child have learned,
understand and obey not only the applicable local
motor vehicle, bicycle and trac laws, but also
the common sense rules of safe and responsible
bicycling. As a parent, you should read this manual
and its warnings and review 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.
Failure to follow this warning could result in
serious injury or death.
SECTION 1. FIRST STEPS
NOTE: We strongly urge you to read this Manual in its
entirety before your rst ride. At the very least, read
and make sure that you understand each point in this
section, and refer to the cited sections on any issue
that you don’t completely understand. Please note
that not all bicycles have all of the features described
in this manual. Ask your local REI store to point out
the features of your bicycle.
1.A - BIKE FIT
1. Is your bike the right size? To check, see Section
3.A. If your bicycle is too large or too small for
you, you may lose control and fall. If your new
bike is not the right size, ask your local REI store
to adjust or exchange it before you ride it.
2. Is the saddle at the right height? To check, see
Section 3.B. If you adjust your saddle height,
follow the Minimum Insertion instructions in
Section 3.B.
3. Are saddle and seatpost securely clamped? A
correctly tightened saddle will allow no saddle
movement in any direction. See Section 3.B.
4. Are the stem and handlebars at the right height
for you? If not, see Section 3.C.
5. Can you comfortably operate the brakes? If not,
you may be able to adjust their angle and reach.
See Section 3.D and 3.E.
6. Do you fully understand how to operate your
new bicycle? If not, before your rst ride, have
your local REI store explain any functions or
features that you do not understand.
1.B - SAFETY FIRST
1. Always wear an approved helmet when riding
your bike, and follow the helmet manufacturer’s
instructions for t, use and care.
2. Do you have all the other required and
recommended safety equipment? See Section 2.
It’s your responsibility to familiarize yourself
with the laws of the areas where you ride, and to
comply with all applicable laws.
3. Do you know how to correctly operate your
wheel quick-releases? Check Section 4.A 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 4.E). These pedals require
special techniques and skills. Follow the pedal
manufacturer’s instructions for use, adjustment
and care.
5. Do you have “toe overlap”? On smaller framed
bicycles your toe or toe-clip may be able to
contact the front wheel when a pedal is all the
way forward and the wheel is turned. Read
Section 4.E and Part II Section A.11 if you have
toe-clip overlap.
6. Does your bike have suspension? If so, check
Section 4.F. Suspension can change the way
a bicycle performs. Follow the suspension
manufacturer’s instructions for use, adjustment
and care.

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PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
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NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
1.C - MECHANICAL SAFETY CHECK
Routinely check the condition of your bicycle before
every ride.
Nuts, Bolts, Screws and Other Fasteners
Because manufacturers use a wide variety of fastener
sizes and shapes made in a variety of materials, often
diering by model and component, the correct
tightening force or torque cannot be generalized.
To make sure that the many fasteners on your bicycle
are correctly tightened. See page PART II, Section E.
Always refer to the torque specications in the
instructions provided by the manufacturer of a
component in question.
Correctly tightening a fastener requires a calibrated
torque wrench. A professional bicycle mechanic with
a torque wrench should torque the fasteners on your
bicycle. If you choose to work on your own bicycle,
you must use a torque wrench and the correct
tightening torque specications from the bicycle
or component manufacturer or from your local REI
store. If you need to make an adjustment at home or
in the eld, we urge you to exercise care and to have
the fasteners you worked on checked by your local
REI store as soon as possible.
WARNING
CORRECT TIGHTENING FORCE ON FASTENERS
—NUTS, BOLTS, SCREWS—ON YOUR BICYCLE
IS IMPORTANT.
TOO LITTLE FORCE, AND THE FASTENER MAY
NOT HOLD SECURELY. TOO MUCH FORCE,
AND THE FASTENER CAN STRIP THREADS,
STRETCH, DEFORM OR BREAK. EITHER
WAY, INCORRECT TIGHTENING FORCE CAN
RESULT IN COMPONENT FAILURE, WHICH
CAN CAUSE YOU TO LOSE CONTROL AND
FALL WITH RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR
DEATH.
Make sure nothing is loose. Lift the front wheel o the
ground by two or three inches, then let it bounce on
the ground. Anything sound, feel or look loose? Do a
visual and tactile inspection of the whole bike. Any
loose parts or accessories? If so, secure them. If you’re
not sure, ask someone with experience to check.
Tires and Wheels
Make sure tires are correctly inated (see Section
4.G.1). Check by putting one hand on the saddle, one
on the intersection of the handlebars and stem, then
bouncing your weight on the bike while looking at
tire deection. Compare what you see with how it
looks when you know the tires are correctly inated;
and adjust if necessary.
Tires in good shape? Spin each wheel slowly and look
for cuts in the tread and sidewall. Replace damaged
tires before riding the bike.
Wheels true? Spin each wheel and check for brake
clearance and side-to-side wobble. If a wheel wobbles
side-to-side even slightly, or rubs against or hits the
brake pads, take the bike to a qualied bike shop to
have the wheel trued.
CAUTION
On many bicycles, the wheels must be true for
the brakes to work properly. Wheel trueing
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.
Improper wheel trueing could result in injury.
Wheel rims clean and undamaged? Make sure the
rims are clean and undamaged at the tire bead and,
if you have rim brakes, along the braking surface.
WARNING
BICYCLE WHEEL RIMS ARE SUBJECT TO WEAR.
ASK YOUR LOCAL REI STORE ABOUT WHEEL
RIM WEAR. SOME WHEEL RIMS HAVE A RIM
WEAR INDICATOR THAT BECOMES VISIBLE
OR INVISIBLE AS THE RIM’S BRAKING
SURFACE WEARS. EITHER INDICATOR WILL
SHOW YOU THAT THE RIM HAS REACHED ITS
MAXIMUM USABLE LIFE. RIDING A WHEEL
THAT IS AT THE END OF ITS USABLE LIFE
CAN RESULT IN WHEEL FAILURE, WHICH CAN
CAUSE YOU TO LOSE CONTROL AND FALL
WITH RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Brakes
Check the brakes for proper operation (see Section
4.C). Squeeze the brake levers. Are the brake quick-
releases closed? Are all control cables seated and
securely engaged? Do the brake pads contact the
wheel rim squarely and make full contact with the
rim? Do the brake pads touch the wheel rim within
an inch of brake lever movement? Can you apply full
braking force at the levers without having them touch
the handlebar? If not, your brakes need adjustment.
Do not ride the bike until the brakes are properly
adjusted by a professional bicycle mechanic.
Wheel Retention System
Make sure the front and rear wheels are correctly
secured. See Section 4.A.
Seatpost
If your seatpost has a quick-release for easy height
adjustment, check that it is properly adjusted and in
the locked position. See Section 4.B.
Handlebar and Saddle Alignment
Make sure the saddle and handlebar stem are parallel
to the bike’s center line and clamped tight enough
so that you can’t twist them out of alignment. See
Section 3.B and 3.C.
Handlebar Ends
Make sure the handlebar grips are secure and in
good condition. Also be sure the handlebar ends and
extensions are plugged. If the handlebars have bar
end extensions, make sure they are clamped tight
enough so you can’t twist them.
WARNING
LOOSE OR DAMAGED HANDLEBAR GRIPS
OR EXTENSIONS CAN CAUSE YOU TO
LOSE CONTROL AND FALL. UNPLUGGED
HANDLEBARS OR EXTENSIONS CAN CUT
YOU AND CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY IN AN
OTHERWISE MINOR ACCIDENT.
VERY IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE:
Please also read and become thoroughly familiar
with the important information on the lifespan
of your bicycle and its components in PART II,
Section D. Materials and Inspection.

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PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
9
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
1.D - FIRST RIDE
When you buckle on your helmet and go for your rst
familiarization ride on your new bicycle, be sure to
pick a controlled environment, away from cars, other
cyclists, obstacles or other hazards. Ride to become
familiar with the controls, features and performance
of your new bike.
Familiarize yourself with the braking action of the
bike (see Section 4.C). Test the brakes at slow speed,
putting your weight toward the rear and gently
applying the brakes, rear brake rst. Sudden or
excessive application of the front brake could pitch
you over the handlebars. Applying brakes too hard
can lock up a wheel, which could cause you to lose
control and fall. Skidding is an example of what can
happen when a wheel locks up.
If your bicycle has toe-clips or clipless pedals,
practice getting in and out of the pedals.
See Section 1.B.4 above and Section 4.E.
If your bike has suspension, familiarize yourself with
how the suspension responds to brake application
and rider weight shifts. See Section 1.B.6 above and
Section 4.F.
Practice shifting the gears (see Section 4.D).
Remember never to 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
local REI store before you ride.
SECTION 2. SAFETY
WARNING
MANY STATES REQUIRE SPECIFIC SAFETY
DEVICES. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO
FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE LAWS OF
THE STATE WHERE YOU RIDE AND TO COMPLY
WITH ALL APPLICABLE LAWS, INCLUDING
PROPERLY EQUIPPING YOURSELF AND
YOUR BIKE AS THE LAW REQUIRES. FAILURE
TO FOLLOW THE LAWS COULD RESULT IN
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Observe all local bicycle laws and regulations.
Observe regulations about bicycle lighting, licensing
of bicycles, riding on sidewalks, laws regulating bike
path and trail use, helmet laws, child carrier laws,
special bicycle trac laws.
It’s your responsibility to know and obey the laws.
2.A - THE BASICS
1. Always wear a cycling helmet that meets the
latest certication standards and is appropriate
for the type of riding you do. Always follow the
helmet manufacturer’s instructions for t, use
and care of your helmet. Most serious bicycle
injuries involve head injuries that can be avoided
if the rider wears an appropriate helmet.
Figure 1. Bicycle Helmet
Your helmet should be:
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
certied (look for the label on the helmet)
• Properly sized for you
• Properly tted to you
• Properly attached to your head!
• Undamaged
ASK YOUR LOCAL REI STORE FOR HELP
WARNING
FAILURE TO WEAR A HELMET WHEN RIDING
UNNECESSARILY EXPOSES YOU TO THE RISK
OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
2. Always do the Mechanical Safety Check (Section
1.C) before you get on a bike.
3. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls of your
bicycle: brakes (Section 4.C.); pedals (Section
4.E.); shifting (Section 4.D.)
4. Be careful to keep body parts and other objects
away from the sharp teeth of chainrings, the
moving chain, the turning pedals and cranks, and
the spinning wheels of your bicycle.
5. Always wear:
• Shoes that will stay on your feet and will grip the
pedals. Never ride barefoot or in sandals.
• Bright, visible clothing that is not so loose that it
can become tangled in the bicycle or snagged by
objects at the side of the road or trail.
• Protective eye wear, to protect against airborne
dirt, dust and bugs—tinted when the sun is
bright, clear when it’s not.
6. Don’t jump with your bike. Jumping a bike,
particularly a BMX or mountain bike, can be fun;
but it can put huge and unpredictable stress on
the bicycle and its components. Riders who insist
on jumping their bikes risk serious damage to
their bicycles as well as to themselves. Before
you attempt to jump, do stunt riding or race with
your bike, read and understand Section 2.F.
7. Ride at a speed appropriate for conditions.
Increased speed means higher risk.

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PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
11
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
2.B - RIDING SAFETY
Obey all rules of the road and all local trac laws.
1. You are sharing the road or path with others—
motorists, pedestrians and other cyclists. Respect
their rights.
2. Ride defensively. Always assume that others do
not see you.
3. Look ahead, and be ready to avoid:
• Vehicles slowing or turning, entering the road
or your lane ahead of you, or coming up behind
you.
• Parked car doors opening.
• Pedestrians stepping out.
• Children or pets playing near the road.
• Pot holes, sewer grating, railroad tracks,
expansion joints, road or sidewalk construction,
debris and other obstructions that could cause
you to swerve into trac, catch your wheel or
otherwise cause you to lose control and have an
accident.
• The many other hazards and distractions which
can occur on a bicycle ride.
4. Ride in designated bike lanes, on designated
bike paths or as close to the edge of the road
as possible, in the direction of trac ow or as
directed by local governing laws.
5. Stop at stop signs and trac lights; slow down
and look both ways at street intersections.
Remember that a bicycle always loses in a
collision with a motor vehicle, so be prepared to
yield even if you have the right of way.
6. Use approved hand signals for turning and
stopping.
7. Never ride with headphones. They mask trac
sounds and emergency vehicle sirens, distract
you from concentrating on what’s going on
around you, and their wires can tangle in the
moving parts of the bicycle, causing you to lose
control.
8. Never carry a passenger, unless it is a small child
wearing an approved helmet and secured in a
correctly mounted child carrier or a child-carrying
trailer.
9. Never carry anything that 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 now. Think carefully about your skills before
deciding to take the large risks that go with this
kind of riding.
12. Don’t weave through trac or make any moves
that may surprise people with whom you are
sharing the road.
13. Observe and yield the right of way.
14. Never ride your bicycle while under the inuence
of alcohol or drugs.
15. If possible, avoid riding in bad weather, when
visibility is obscured, at dawn, dusk or in the dark,
or when extremely tired. Each of these conditions
increases the risk of accident.
2.C - OFF-ROAD SAFETY
We recommend that children not ride on rough
terrain unless they are accompanied by an adult.
1. The variable conditions and hazards of o-road
riding require close attention and specic skills.
Start slowly on easier terrain and build up your
skills. If your bike has suspension, the increased
speed you may develop also increases your risk
of losing control and falling. Get to know how to
handle your bike safely before trying increased
speed or more dicult terrain.
2. Wear safety gear appropriate to the kind of riding
you plan to do.
3. Don’t ride alone in remote areas. Even when
riding with others, make sure that someone
knows where you’re going and when you expect
to be back.
4. Always take along some kind of identication,
so that people know who you are in case of an
accident; and take along a couple of dollars in
cash for a candy bar, a cool drink or an emergency
phone call.
5. Yield right of way to pedestrians and animals.
Ride in a way that does not frighten or endanger
them, and give them enough room so that their
unexpected moves don’t endanger you.
6. Be prepared. If something goes wrong while
you’re riding o-road, help may not be close.
7. Before you attempt to jump, do stunt riding or
race with your bike, read and understand Section
2.F.
O-Road Respect
Obey the local laws regulating where and how you
can ride o-road, and respect private property.
You may be sharing the trail with others—hikers,
equestrians, other cyclists. Respect their rights. Stay
on the designated trail. Don’t contribute to erosion
by riding in mud or with unnecessary sliding. Don’t
disturb the ecosystem by cutting your own trail
or shortcut through vegetation or streams. It is
your responsibility to minimize your impact on the
environment. Leave things as you found them, and
always take out everything you brought in.
2.D - WET-WEATHER RIDING
Under wet conditions, the stopping power of your
brakes (as well as the brakes of other vehicles sharing
the road) is dramatically reduced and your tires don’t
grip nearly as well. This makes it harder to control
speed and easier to lose control.
WARNING
WET WEATHER IMPAIRS TRACTION, BRAKING
AND VISIBILITY, BOTH FOR THE BICYCLIST
AND FOR OTHER VEHICLES SHARING THE
ROAD AND MAY INCREASE RISK OF SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH.
The risk of an accident is dramatically increased in
wet conditions. To make sure that you can slow down
and stop safely in wet conditions, ride more slowly
and apply your brakes earlier and more gradually
than you would under normal, dry conditions. See
also Section 4.C.

12
PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
13
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
2.E - NIGHT RIDING
Riding a bicycle at night is many times more
dangerous than riding during the day. A bicyclist is
very dicult for motorists and pedestrians to see.
Therefore, children should never ride at dawn, at dusk
or at night. Adults who chose to accept the greatly
increased risk of riding at dawn, at dusk or at night
need to take extra care both riding and choosing
specialized equipment that helps reduce that risk.
Consult your local REI store about night riding
safety equipment.
WARNING
REFLECTORS ARE NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR
LIGHTS. RIDING AT DAWN, AT DUSK, AT NIGHT
OR AT OTHER TIMES OF POOR VISIBILITY
WITHOUT AN ADEQUATE BICYCLE LIGHTING
SYSTEM AND WITHOUT REFLECTORS IS
DANGEROUS AND MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH.
Bicycle reectors are designed to pick up and reect
street lights and car lights in a way that may help you
to be seen and recognized as a moving bicyclist.
CAUTION
Check reectors and their mounting brackets
regularly to make sure that they are clean,
straight, unbroken and securely mounted.
Have your local REI store replace damaged
reectors and straighten or tighten any that
are bent or loose.
WARNING
REMOVING THE REFLECTORS MAY REDUCE
YOUR VISIBILITY TO OTHERS USING THE
ROADWAY. BEING STRUCK BY OTHER
VEHICLES MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY
OR DEATH.
If you choose to ride under conditions of poor
visibility, check and be sure you comply with
all local laws about night riding, and take the
following strongly recommended additional
precautions:
• Purchase and install battery- or generator-
powered head and tail lights which meet all
regulatory requirements and provide adequate
visibility.
• Wear light colored, reective clothing and
accessories, such as a reective vest, reective
arm and leg bands, reective stripes on your
helmet, ashing lights attached to your body
and/or your bicycle ... any reective device or
light source that moves will help you get the
attention of approaching motorists, pedestrians
and other trac.
• Make sure your clothing or anything you
may be carrying on the bicycle does not
obstruct a reector or light.
• Make sure that your bicycle is equipped with
correctly positioned and securely mounted
reectors.
WHILE RIDING AT DAWN, AT DUSK OR AT
NIGHT:
• Ride slowly.
• Avoid dark areas, areas of heavy or
fast-moving trac.
• Avoid road hazards.
• If possible, ride on familiar routes.
IF RIDING IN TRAFFIC :
• Be predictable. Ride so that drivers can see
you and predict your movements.
• Be alert. Ride defensively and expect the
unexpected.
• If you plan to ride in trac often, ask your
local REI store about trac safety classes or a
good book on bicycle trac safety.
2.F - EXTREME, STUNT OR
COMPETITION RIDING
Whether you call it Aggro, Hucking, Freeride, North
Shore, Downhill, Jumping, Stunt Riding, Racing
or something else: If you engage in this sort of
extreme, aggressive riding you will get hurt, and you
voluntarily assume a greatly increased risk of injury
or death.
Not all bicycles are designed for these types of riding,
and those that are may not be suitable for all types
of aggressive riding. Check with your local REI store
or the bicycle’s manufacturer about the suitability of
your bicycle before engaging in extreme riding.
When riding fast downhill, you can reach speeds
achieved by motorcycles, and therefore face similar
hazards and risks. Have your bicycle and equipment
carefully inspected by a qualied mechanic and be
sure it is in perfect condition. Consult with expert
riders and race ocials on conditions and equipment
advisable at the site where you plan to ride. Wear
appropriate safety gear, including an approved
full-face helmet, full-nger gloves, and body armor.
Ultimately, it is your responsibility to have proper
equipment and to be familiar with course conditions.
WARNING
ALTHOUGH MANY CATALOGS, ADVERTISE-
MENTS AND ARTICLES ABOUT BICYCLING
DEPICT RIDERS ENGAGED IN EXTREME
RIDING, THIS ACTIVITY IS EXTREMELY
DANGEROUS AND INCREASES YOUR RISK OF
INJURY OR DEATH.
Remember that the action depicted is being
performed by professionals with many years of
training and experience. Know your limits and
always wear a helmet and other appropriate safety
gear. Even with state-of-the-art protective safety
gear, you could be seriously injured or killed when
jumping, stunt riding, riding downhill at speed or
in competition.

14
PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
15
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
We recommend against this type of riding because
of the increased risks; but if you choose to take the
risk, at least:
• Take lessons from a competent instructor rst
• Start with easy learning exercises and slowly
develop your skills before trying more dicult or
dangerous riding
• Use only designated areas for stunts, jumping,
racing or fast downhill riding
• Wear a full-face helmet, safety pads and other
safety gear
• Understand and recognize that the stresses
imposed on your bike by this kind of activity may
break or damage parts of the bicycle
• Take your bicycle to your local REI store if
anything breaks or bends. Do not ride your
bicycle when any part is damaged.
If you ride downhill at speed, do stunt riding or
ride in competition, know the limits of your skill
and experience. Ultimately, avoiding injury is
your responsibility.
2.G - CHANGING COMPONENTS
OR ADDING ACCESSORIES
There are many components and accessories
available to enhance the comfort, performance and
appearance of your bicycle. However, if you change
components or add accessories, you do so at your
own risk. The bicycle’s manufacturer may not have
tested that component or accessory for compatibility,
reliability or safety on your bicycle.
Before installing any component or accessory,
including a dierent size tire, make sure that it is
compatible with your bicycle by checking with your
local REI store. Be sure to read, understand and follow
the instructions that accompany the products you
purchase for your bicycle. See also PART II, Section D.
Materials and Inspection.
WARNING
FAILURE TO CONFIRM COMPATIBILITY,
PROPERLY INSTALL, OPERATE AND
MAINTAIN ANY COMPONENT OR ACCESSORY
CAN RESULT IN DIMINISHED PERFORMANCE
OR COMPROMISED CONTROL OF YOUR
BICYCLE. THIS CAN LEAD TO LOSS OF
CONTROL OR CRASHES RESULTING IN
SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
SECTION 3. FIT
NOTE: Correct t is an essential element of bicycling
safety, performance and comfort. Making the
adjustments to your bicycle that result in correct
t for your body and riding conditions requires
experience, skill and special tools. Always have your
local REI store make the adjustments on your bicycle;
or, if you have the experience, skill and tools, have
your local REI store check your work before riding. If
your new bike doesn’t t, ask your local REI store to
adjust or exchange it before you ride it.
CAUTION
A properly tting bicycle is essential to a
good cycling experience. A poorly tting
bicycle will, at best, make your experience
less enjoyable and at worst, be dicult to
operate and control safely.
3.A - STAND-OVER HEIGHT
Stand-over height is a primary element of a proper
bike t (see g. 2). It is the distance from the ground
to the top of the bicycle’s frame at that point where
your crotch is when straddling the bike. To check for
correct stand-over height, straddle the bike while
wearing the kind of shoes in which you’ll be riding,
and bounce vigorously on your heels. If your crotch
touches the frame, the bike is too big for you. Don’t
even ride the bike around the block. A bike which
you ride only on paved surfaces and never take o-
road should give you a minimum stand-over height
clearance of 2 inches (5cm). A bike that you’ll ride on
unpaved surfaces should give you a minimum of 3
inches (7.5cm) of stand-over height clearance. And a
bike that you’ll use o road should give you 4 inches
(10 cm) or more of clearance.
Figure 2. Stand-Over Height
WARNING
IF YOU PLAN TO USE YOUR BIKE FOR
JUMPING OR STUNT RIDING, READ
SECTION 2.F AGAIN.
Standover height does not apply to bicycles with
step-through frames. Instead, the limiting dimension
is determined by saddle height range. You must be
able to adjust your saddle position as described in
3.B. Saddle Position without exceeding the limits
set by the height of the top of the seat tube and the
”Minimum Insertion” or “Maximum Extension” mark
on the seatpost.

16
PART I
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
17
NOV8624.2 NovaraOwnersManual-PartI(generic) Black,Matchto144u CM/BH/CE OTD
3.B - SADDLE POSITION
Correct saddle adjustment is an important factor
in getting the most performance and comfort from
your bicycle. If the saddle position is not comfortable
for you, see your local REI store.
The saddle can be adjusted in three directions:
1. Up-and-Down Adjustment
To check for correct saddle height (g. 3):
• Sit on the saddle;
• Place one heel on a pedal;
• Rotate the crank until the pedal with your heel on it
is in the down position and the crank arm is parallel
to the seat tube.
If your leg is not completely straight, your saddle
height needs to be adjusted. If your hips must rock
for the heel to reach the pedal, the saddle is too high.
If your leg is bent at the knee with your heel on the
pedal, the saddle is too low.
Figure 3. Saddle Position
Ask your local REI store to set the saddle for your
optimal riding position and to show you how to
make this adjustment. If you choose to make your
own saddle height adjustment:
• loosen the seatpost clamp
• raise or lower the seatpost in the seat tube
• make sure the saddle is straight fore and aft
• re-tighten the seatpost clamp to the
recommended torque (See manufacturer’s
instructions).
Once the saddle is at the correct height, make sure
that the seatpost does not project from the frame
beyond its “Minimum Insertion” or “Maximum
Extension” mark (g. 4).
WARNING
IF YOUR SEATPOST IS NOT INSERTED IN THE
SEAT TUBE AS DESCRIBED IN B.1 ABOVE,
THE SEATPOST MAY BREAK, WHICH COULD
CAUSE YOU TO LOSE CONTROL AND FALL
WITH RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Figure 4. Minimum Insertion Mark
2. Front-and-Back Adjustment
The saddle can be adjusted forward or back to help
you get the optimal position on the bike. Ask your
local REI store to set the saddle for your optimal
riding position and to show you how to make
this adjustment.
If you choose to make your own front and back
adjustment, make sure that the clamp mechanism is
clamping on the straight part of the saddle rails and is
not touching the curved part of the rails, and that you
are using the recommended torque on the clamping
fastener(s) (See manufacturer’s instructions).
3. Saddle-Angle Adjustment
Most people prefer a horizontal saddle; but some
riders like the saddle nose angled up or down just a
little. Your local REI store can adjust saddle angle or
teach you how to do it.
If you choose to make your own saddle angle
adjustment and you have a single-bolt saddle
clamp on your seatpost, it is critical that you loosen
the clamp bolt suciently to allow any serrations
on the mechanism to disengage before changing
the saddle’s angle, and then that the serrations
fully re-engage before you tighten the clamp bolt
to the recommended torque (See manufacturer’s
instructions).
NOTE: If your bicycle is equipped with a suspension
seatpost, periodically ask your local REI store to check it.
Small changes in saddle position can have a
substantial eect on performance and comfort.
To nd your best saddle position, make only one
adjustment at a time.
A correctly tightened saddle adjusting mechanism
will not allow saddle movement in any direction.
Periodically check to make sure that the saddle
adjusting mechanism is properly tightened.
WARNING
AFTER ANY SADDLE ADJUSTMENT, BE SURE
THAT THE SADDLE ADJUSTING MECHANISM
IS PROPERLY TIGHTENED BEFORE RIDING.
A LOOSE SADDLE CLAMP OR SEATPOST
BINDER CAN CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE
SEATPOST, OR CAN CAUSE YOU TO LOSE
CONTROL AND FALL WITH RISK OF SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH.